Recording summary · October 2023
Why I Regret Buying the ROG Ally
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Overview
Daniel expresses regret over purchasing an ROG Ally for a Christmas trip to the UK from Thailand, noting issues with travel bulk from extra accessories, short battery life, and uncomfortable button ergonomics.
The ROG Ally's battery depletes rapidly in under an hour without specialized external power banks when running graphical games on ultra settings, and its chunky chassis makes reaching face buttons and triggers awkward during games like Rainbow Six.
Although the ROG Ally alone has a footprint about one-third to one-half that of a 17-inch gaming laptop, adding peripherals like a carry case, wireless keyboard, mouse, USB-C hub, and portable monitor negates its portability advantage while offering less convenience and performance.
Daniel compares the device to alternatives like the Nintendo Switch OLED, which lacks preferred PC games, and an older 17-inch Razer Blade laptop suffering from overheating, ultimately viewing the ROG Ally as a jack of all trades and master of none.
Themes
Comparison of travel portability between the ROG Ally, a 17-inch gaming laptop, and a Switch OLED for single-backpack plane travel.
Peripheral requirements, single USB-C port limitations, and physical ergonomics of the ROG Ally.
Battery life limitations of the ROG Ally during high-performance gaming.
Developments
Daniel purchased a tiny wireless keyboard to use with the ROG Ally for playing Rainbow Six.
Daniel received a carry case for the ROG Ally for free.
Uncertainties & gaps
Daniel will probably look into returning or selling the ROG Ally.