With the release of SteamOS 3.8, the landscape for handheld gaming devices has experienced a transformative shift, allowing non-Steam Deck devices to showcase their true potential. Among these devices, the ROG Ally X stands out as a formidable contender, showcasing impressive improvements when compared to the Steam Deck.
Performance enhancements have been spotlighted by ETA Prime, who explores the capabilities of the ROG Ally X utilizing SteamOS 3.8. Remarkably, this setup not only outperforms the Steam Deck but does so with a substantial margin. Where typically one might expect a modest 4-5% increase in power, the ROG Ally X delivers up to a 20% performance boost when compared directly to the Steam Deck under similar conditions.
One intriguing aspect of this performance leap is the utilization of a clever plugin known as “SimpleDeckyTDP,” which expands the power envelope of the ROG Ally X to a potential 40 watts—far exceeding the default capacity of 18 watts. Though the Steam Deck operates at a maximum of 15 watts, the ROG Ally X can reach astounding levels of efficiency, even when capped at the same wattage as the Steam Deck.
Game performance on ROG Ally X shines in popular titles, offering a glimpse into its capabilities. For instance, in Cyberpunk 2077, the device achieved 53 frames per second (FPS) versus the Steam Deck’s 44 FPS, highlighting a striking 20% improvement. Similarly, Black Myth: Wukong and Shadow of the Tomb Raider benefited from a 12% and 10% uplift, respectively.
Despite such impressive gains, not all games have achieved optimal performance on non-Steam Deck devices. For example, Monster Hunter Wilds still needs verification for seamless play on these platforms. Nevertheless, the introduction of SteamOS 3.8 marks the beginning of an exciting era of optimization and enhancement for these handhelds.
The potential for non-Deck handhelds only increases with higher thermal design power (TDP) settings. While ETA Prime did not explore the full extent of the ROG Ally X’s performance at the 40W setting, it is clear that this handheld is capable of impressive performance feats, including 60 FPS gaming with upscaling technologies. The ROG Ally X not only excels in performance but also boasts an enduring 80Wh battery, promising longer gaming sessions.
It’s anticipated that SteamOS 3.8 will continue to make its way to faster handhelds utilizing advanced APUs, unleashing even greater gaming experiences. The future of handheld gaming shines bright, with devices like the ROG Ally X leading the charge.
