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Geeky Gadgets
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
SteamOS ROG Ally vs Legion GO S vs Steam Deck OLED : Handheld Games Consoles Compared
What if your next gaming session didn't have to be tethered to a desk or console? The rise of handheld gaming consoles has transformed how we play, offering the freedom to take AAA titles or indie gems on the go. With Valve's bold move to extend official SteamOS support to third-party devices, the competition among portable gaming systems has never been fiercer—or more exciting. Enter the Steam Deck OLED, Lenovo Legion Go S, and ASUS ROG Ally: three distinct handhelds vying for your attention with their unique blend of power, design, and features. But which one truly delivers the best experience for your gaming style? In this comprehensive comparison, ETA Prime compares the specs, performance, battery life, and usability of these standout devices. Whether you're drawn to the vivid OLED display of the Steam Deck, the larger screen real estate of the Legion Go S, or the raw power and customization potential of the ROG Ally, this overview will help you navigate the intricate landscape of handheld gaming. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which console aligns with your gaming priorities—be it portability, performance, or immersive visuals. Let's explore what sets these devices apart and why your next gaming adventure might just fit in the palm of your hand. Handheld Gaming Console Comparison Steam Deck OLED: Balanced Efficiency and Seamless Compatibility The Steam Deck OLED represents an evolution of Valve's original Steam Deck, introducing a 7.4-inch OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. This upgrade enhances the visual experience with vibrant colors and deeper contrasts, making games more immersive. Powered by a custom AMD Zen 2 APU (4 cores, 8 threads) and an RDNA2 GPU, the device delivers a balanced performance suitable for a wide range of games. With pricing starting at $439 for refurbished models and reaching $649 for new units, it remains an accessible choice for many gamers. One of the Steam Deck OLED's standout features is its optimized SteamOS, which ensures smooth compatibility with an extensive library of games. Its battery life is another strong point, offering up to 5+ hours for indie games and approximately 2 hours for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. This makes it an excellent option for gamers who value energy efficiency, ease of use, and a robust game library. The device's compact design and seamless integration with Steam's ecosystem further enhance its appeal for casual and dedicated gamers alike. Lenovo Legion Go S: Bigger Screen, Enhanced Comfort The Lenovo Legion Go S differentiates itself with an 8-inch IPS display featuring a 120Hz variable refresh rate. This larger screen provides a more immersive gaming experience, particularly for players who prioritize screen real estate and smoother visuals. Under the hood, the device is powered by the Ryzen Z2 Go APU, which incorporates Zen 3+ architecture, 4 cores, 8 threads, and a 12-compute-unit RDNA2 GPU. Prices range from $580 for open-box models to $649 for new units, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Steam Deck OLED. Although the IPS display lacks the color depth and contrast of OLED technology, its larger size and higher refresh rate make it a compelling choice for gamers who value visual fluidity. The Legion Go S offers comparable battery life to the Steam Deck OLED, though it tends to drain faster during AAA gaming sessions. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended play, making it particularly suitable for users who engage in long gaming sessions. Additionally, the device's larger screen enhances its usability for multitasking or streaming content, adding versatility to its feature set. 2025 Handheld Games Consoles Compared Watch this video on YouTube. Below are more guides on SteamOS from our extensive range of articles. ASUS ROG Ally: High Performance with Customization Potential The ASUS ROG Ally stands out as the most powerful device in this comparison, designed for gamers who demand top-tier performance. It features the Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, built on Zen 4 architecture, with 8 cores, 16 threads, and a 12-compute-unit RDNA3 GPU. This advanced hardware enables the ROG Ally to handle demanding AAA titles with ease, delivering smooth gameplay and impressive graphical fidelity. The device includes a 7-inch IPS display with a 120Hz variable refresh rate and is priced between $440 for open-box models and $649 for new units. While the ROG Ally's stock 40Wh battery limits its runtime, upgrading to a 65Wh battery significantly improves its endurance, making it more suitable for extended gaming sessions. Its mod-friendly design appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their devices, whether through hardware upgrades or software tweaks. Performance benchmarks consistently place the ROG Ally ahead of its competitors, excelling in graphically intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. However, its shorter battery life and higher power consumption may require compromises for gamers prioritizing portability. Performance Benchmarks and Battery Life: Key Differences Performance and battery life are critical factors when comparing these handheld gaming devices. Each device offers unique strengths in these areas, catering to different gaming styles and preferences. Steam Deck OLED: Focuses on efficiency, offering the best runtime for indie games and steady performance for casual gaming sessions. Focuses on efficiency, offering the best runtime for indie games and steady performance for casual gaming sessions. Lenovo Legion Go S: Balances a larger screen and higher refresh rate with competitive performance, though its battery life may fall short during intensive gaming. Balances a larger screen and higher refresh rate with competitive performance, though its battery life may fall short during intensive gaming. ASUS ROG Ally: Delivers unmatched performance for AAA titles but requires a battery upgrade to sustain longer playtimes. The ROG Ally leads in raw performance, using its advanced Zen 4 architecture and RDNA3 GPU to handle demanding games effortlessly. The Legion Go S offers a middle ground, with its larger display and 120Hz refresh rate enhancing gameplay for visually demanding titles. Meanwhile, the Steam Deck OLED excels in indie game performance and energy efficiency, making it a reliable choice for casual gamers. Choosing the Right Handheld Gaming Console Selecting the ideal handheld gaming console depends on your individual gaming priorities and preferences. Each device in this comparison caters to specific needs, offering distinct advantages: Steam Deck OLED: Best suited for gamers who prioritize compatibility, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Its optimized SteamOS and extensive game library make it a versatile choice for casual and indie gaming. Best suited for gamers who prioritize compatibility, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Its optimized SteamOS and extensive game library make it a versatile choice for casual and indie gaming. Lenovo Legion Go S: Ideal for those who value a larger display and ergonomic design, making it perfect for extended gaming sessions and multitasking. Ideal for those who value a larger display and ergonomic design, making it perfect for extended gaming sessions and multitasking. ASUS ROG Ally: Tailored for performance enthusiasts who seek maximum capability and are willing to invest in upgrades for extended playtime and customization. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your gaming style and priorities. Whether you're drawn to performance, display quality, or battery life, these devices offer compelling options for handheld gaming enthusiasts. Carefully evaluate your needs to determine which device aligns best with your gaming preferences and lifestyle. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gadgets News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Lenovo Legion Go S Official SteamOS Review : OLED Steam Deck Killer or Risky Gamble?
What if your handheld gaming console didn't just play games but redefined how you experienced them? The Legion Go S, Lenovo's latest entry into the portable gaming market, has made a bold move by adopting SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system designed for gaming. This shift from Windows isn't just a technical tweak—it's a fantastic option. With enhanced performance, seamless updates, and a streamlined gaming experience, the Legion Go S is poised to challenge its competitors, including the Steam Deck OLED. But does this bold leap forward come without compromise? Not entirely. While the integration of SteamOS unlocks new possibilities, questions about battery life and display quality linger, leaving gamers to wonder if this device is truly the future of handheld gaming. ETA Prime explores how SteamOS transforms the Legion Go S into a more efficient and gamer-friendly console, offering smoother gameplay and access to a vast library of titles. We'll also dive into the console's hardware, including the powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 APU, and examine its ability to balance performance and adaptability. But it's not all smooth sailing—issues like limited battery life and underwhelming display performance reveal the trade-offs of this ambitious redesign. Whether you're a tech enthusiast curious about the rise of Linux in gaming or a gamer weighing your next handheld investment, the story of the Legion Go S is one worth unpacking. After all, innovation often comes with a price. Legion Go S with SteamOS Why SteamOS Integration Transforms the Experience SteamOS integration brings a host of advantages to the Legion Go S, making it a more efficient and user-friendly gaming device. This Linux-based operating system offers several key benefits: Seamless firmware updates and BIOS adjustments, simplifying system management for users. and BIOS adjustments, simplifying system management for users. Reduced system overhead , leading to optimized gaming performance compared to Windows-based systems. , leading to optimized gaming performance compared to Windows-based systems. Improved stability, minimizing interruptions and making sure a smoother gaming experience. For gamers, this means a more reliable and efficient platform that aligns with the demands of modern gaming titles. SteamOS also provides access to a vast library of games through the Steam ecosystem, further enhancing its appeal. AMD Ryzen Z2 APU: The Power Behind the Console At the heart of the Legion Go S is the AMD Ryzen Z2 APU, a processor designed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency. This hardware configuration ensures the console can handle a wide range of games while offering flexibility for different gaming scenarios. Key specifications include: 4 cores and 8 threads , allowing smooth multitasking and gaming performance. , allowing smooth multitasking and gaming performance. An RDNA 2 integrated GPU , capable of handling graphically demanding titles with ease. , capable of handling graphically demanding titles with ease. Support for up to 16GB of VRAM on the 32GB RAM model, providing ample resources for modern games. on the 32GB RAM model, providing ample resources for modern games. Customizable power modes ranging from 5W to 40W, allowing users to prioritize either battery life or performance. This robust hardware setup ensures that the Legion Go S can meet the needs of gamers who demand both power and adaptability. Legion Go S Running Official SteamOS Install Tested Watch this video on YouTube. Expand your understanding of SteamOS Integration with additional resources from our extensive library of articles. Performance and Battery Life: Striking a Balance The Legion Go S delivers competitive performance, particularly when compared to the Steam Deck OLED. At a 15W TDP (Thermal Design Power), the two devices perform similarly, but the Legion Go S occasionally pulls ahead due to its higher RAM capacity. Additional performance features include: Frame generation technology , which enhances gameplay smoothness in demanding titles. , which enhances gameplay smoothness in demanding titles. Customizable power settings, allowing users to balance performance and battery life based on their preferences. However, battery life remains a critical factor. The Legion Go S is equipped with a 55.5Wh battery, offering varying runtimes depending on usage: Up to 5 hours for indie games at a 7W TDP. for indie games at a 7W TDP. Approximately 2 hours for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. Just 1 hour and 20 minutes in performance mode at 30W TDP. While the customizable power modes provide flexibility, the relatively small battery limits extended play sessions. A larger battery, such as a 65Wh unit, could significantly improve its longevity. For now, users must actively manage power settings to maximize their gaming experience. Display and Visual Experience The Legion Go S features a 120Hz display, which enhances gameplay fluidity and responsiveness. However, there are notable limitations that affect the overall visual experience: The display lacks the vibrant colors and contrast offered by the Steam Deck OLED's screen. and offered by the Steam Deck OLED's screen. Most modern games cannot fully use the 120Hz refresh rate due to hardware constraints. For gamers, this means the display is functional and smooth but falls short of delivering a truly premium visual experience. While the high refresh rate is a welcome feature, its potential remains underutilized in many scenarios. Comparing the Legion Go S and Steam Deck OLED The Legion Go S and Steam Deck OLED cater to different priorities, making the choice between them dependent on individual preferences. Key comparisons include: The Legion Go S offers greater customization options and higher potential performance at elevated power levels. and higher potential performance at elevated power levels. The Steam Deck OLED features a superior display and comparable performance at 15W TDP, making it a more balanced option for many users. For gamers who value customization and are willing to actively manage power settings, the Legion Go S is a strong contender. However, for those who prioritize display quality and longer battery life, the Steam Deck OLED remains the more practical choice. Future Potential with the Z1 Extreme Upgrade The Legion Go S is poised for further improvement with the anticipated release of the Z1 Extreme version, which promises to elevate its performance capabilities. This upgraded APU is expected to deliver: Enhanced processing power , allowing smoother gameplay for newer, more demanding titles. , allowing smoother gameplay for newer, more demanding titles. Better utilization of VRAM, resulting in improved graphics handling and overall performance. For gamers, this upgrade could make the Legion Go S an even more competitive option in the handheld gaming market, provided the new processor meets expectations. The Z1 Extreme version has the potential to address some of the current limitations, such as battery life and display performance, further solidifying the console's position as a versatile gaming device. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Geeky Gadgets
How to Install SteamOS on Your ROG Ally or Legion Go Portable Games Consoles
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to transform your handheld gaming console into a dedicated Steam-powered machine? For gamers who own devices like the ROG Ally or Legion Go, the prospect of running Valve's streamlined, gaming-focused operating system—SteamOS—can feel like unlocking a hidden level of performance and convenience. But here's the catch: installing SteamOS isn't exactly a plug-and-play process. It requires careful preparation, a bit of technical know-how, and a willingness to embrace the challenges of customization. The good news? With the right guidance, you can turn your portable console into a seamless gateway to Valve's ecosystem, complete with optimized performance and access to your entire Steam library. In this step-by-step walkthrough, ETA Prime shows you how to install SteamOS on x86-based handhelds like the ROG Ally, Legion Go, and other compatible devices. You'll learn how to prepare essential tools like a recovery image and flashing software, configure BIOS settings, and navigate the installation process without a hitch. Along the way, we'll also address potential hurdles—like data loss and feature gaps—and share tips for post-installation optimization to ensure your device runs smoothly. Whether you're a tech-savvy tinkerer or a curious gamer looking to explore new possibilities, this guide, inspired by the expertise of ETA PRIME, will help you unlock the full potential of your handheld console. What could your gaming experience look like with a system built entirely around play? Let's find out. Installing SteamOS on Handhelds Compatible Devices and Requirements SteamOS is specifically designed for x86-based handheld gaming devices, making it compatible with a range of popular models. Supported devices include: ROG Ally and ROG Ally X: Known for their robust hardware and gaming performance. Known for their robust hardware and gaming performance. Legion Go and Legion Go S: Lenovo's portable gaming consoles with versatile features. Lenovo's portable gaming consoles with versatile features. Zotac Zone: Compact devices offering solid gaming capabilities. Compact devices offering solid gaming capabilities. Other x86 portable gaming consoles: Ensure your device meets the hardware requirements for compatibility. Before proceeding, confirm that your device meets the minimum hardware specifications for SteamOS. This step is crucial to avoid compatibility issues during installation. Preparation: Essential Tools and Resources Proper preparation is the foundation of a successful SteamOS installation. Gather the following tools and resources: SteamOS Recovery Image: Download the official recovery image from Valve's website to ensure you have the latest version. Download the official recovery image from Valve's website to ensure you have the latest version. USB Drive: Use a high-speed USB drive with at least 8GB of storage capacity to store the recovery image. Use a high-speed USB drive with at least 8GB of storage capacity to store the recovery image. Flashing Tool: Tools like Rufus (for Windows) or Etcher (for Mac/Linux) are recommended for writing the recovery image to the USB drive. Before flashing the recovery image, ensure the USB drive is formatted correctly. Double-check the flashing process to avoid errors that could disrupt the installation. Taking these steps minimizes the risk of installation failures and ensures a smoother process. SteamOS on the ROG Ally, Legion GO and Other Consoles Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on SteamOS by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Configuring BIOS Settings for SteamOS To install SteamOS, you must first adjust your device's BIOS settings. Follow these steps to configure your BIOS: Access the BIOS: Restart your device and press the designated key (commonly F2, F10, or Delete) during the boot process. Restart your device and press the designated key (commonly F2, F10, or Delete) during the boot process. Disable Secure Boot: This step is necessary to allow the installation of unsigned operating systems like SteamOS. This step is necessary to allow the installation of unsigned operating systems like SteamOS. Set Boot Priority: Configure the USB drive as the primary boot device in the boot order menu to ensure the system boots from the recovery image. After making these changes, save your settings and exit the BIOS. Properly configuring the BIOS ensures that your device can boot from the USB drive and proceed with the SteamOS installation without interruptions. Step-by-Step Installation Process With your USB drive prepared and BIOS configured, you're ready to install SteamOS. Follow these steps for a successful installation: Insert the prepared USB drive into your device and restart it. You may need to manually select the USB drive as the boot device during startup. Once the system boots from the USB drive, follow the on-screen prompts to initiate the installation process. Select the 'Wipe device and install SteamOS' option. Note that this will erase all existing data, including any installed operating systems like Windows. Complete the initial setup by selecting your preferred language, time zone, and network settings. The installation process may take several minutes. Avoid interrupting the device or powering it off during this time to prevent errors or incomplete installations. Post-Installation Configuration After successfully installing SteamOS, complete the following steps to finalize the setup and optimize your device: Log In: Use your Steam account credentials to access your game library and other features. Use your Steam account credentials to access your game library and other features. Run System Updates: Update the system to ensure you have the latest software, drivers, and security patches. Update the system to ensure you have the latest software, drivers, and security patches. Optimize Network Settings: Configure your network for stable and reliable connectivity during online gaming sessions. Additionally, explore the system settings to customize performance and tailor the gaming experience to your preferences. This may include adjusting display settings, allowing performance modes, or configuring controller inputs. Device-Specific Adjustments for Optimal Performance Different handheld gaming devices may require unique configurations to maximize performance and battery life. Consider the following adjustments: TDP Control: Adjusting the Thermal Design Power (TDP) can help balance performance and battery efficiency. For Legion Go devices, TDP settings can be modified directly in the BIOS. ROG Ally users may need third-party software for this adjustment. Adjusting the Thermal Design Power (TDP) can help balance performance and battery efficiency. For Legion Go devices, TDP settings can be modified directly in the BIOS. ROG Ally users may need third-party software for this adjustment. Resolution Settings: SteamOS supports various resolutions, but setting the display to 720p can improve performance on smaller screens without compromising visual quality. SteamOS supports various resolutions, but setting the display to 720p can improve performance on smaller screens without compromising visual quality. Power Management: Advanced power management features may require additional plugins or manual configuration to optimize battery usage during extended gaming sessions. These adjustments can significantly enhance your gaming experience by making sure smooth performance and efficient power consumption tailored to your specific device. Key Considerations and Limitations While SteamOS offers a robust and gaming-focused operating system, it's important to be aware of its limitations before proceeding: Data Loss: Installing SteamOS will erase all existing data on your device, making dual-booting with other operating systems, such as Windows, impossible. Back up important files before starting the installation process. Installing SteamOS will erase all existing data on your device, making dual-booting with other operating systems, such as Windows, impossible. Back up important files before starting the installation process. Feature Gaps: Some features may not work out of the box and could require third-party software or manual adjustments to enable full functionality. Understanding these limitations allows you to make an informed decision and prepare adequately for the transition to SteamOS. Enhancing Your Gaming Experience with SteamOS Installing SteamOS on handheld gaming devices like the ROG Ally, Legion Go, and similar consoles provides a streamlined and immersive gaming environment. By carefully preparing your USB drive, configuring BIOS settings, and following the installation steps, you can transform your device into a dedicated gaming powerhouse. While there are some limitations, such as the lack of dual-boot support, the benefits of a portable SteamOS experience—seamless integration with Valve's ecosystem, optimized performance, and access to a vast library of games—make it an appealing choice for gaming enthusiasts. With proper setup and customization, SteamOS can unlock the full potential of your handheld gaming device. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
SteamOS vs Windows : The Ultimate Test on a High-End Gaming Laptop
What if your gaming laptop could ditch Windows entirely and still deliver a seamless, high-performance gaming experience? That's the bold promise of SteamOS, Valve's Linux-based operating system designed specifically for gamers. While Linux has long been seen as a niche option in the gaming world, SteamOS is making waves by offering a streamlined, gaming-first alternative to traditional setups. But how does it hold up when installed on a powerhouse like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14? This compact yet formidable laptop, with its AMD Ryzen 9 processor and Radeon RX 6700S GPU, seems like a perfect match for SteamOS's ambitions—but does the reality live up to the hype? ETA Prime demonstrates what happens when you pair SteamOS with high-end gaming hardware. From the installation process to real-world performance benchmarks, you'll discover how this operating system tackles popular titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Doom Eternal. But it's not all smooth sailing—challenges like limited hardware compatibility and missing customization options reveal where SteamOS still has room to grow. Whether you're a Linux enthusiast, a curious gamer, or simply looking for a Windows alternative, this deep dive into SteamOS on the Zephyrus G14 offers a glimpse into the future of gaming laptops. SteamOS on Gaming Laptops Hardware Overview: The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a compact yet powerful gaming laptop, making it an ideal candidate for testing SteamOS. Its hardware specifications are tailored for high-performance gaming and demanding tasks, offering a robust platform for evaluating the operating system. Key specifications include: Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 6900HS with 8 cores, 16 threads, and a maximum clock speed of up to 5 GHz. AMD Ryzen 9 6900HS with 8 cores, 16 threads, and a maximum clock speed of up to 5 GHz. Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 6700S GPU featuring 8 GB of dedicated VRAM, optimized for modern gaming titles. AMD Radeon RX 6700S GPU featuring 8 GB of dedicated VRAM, optimized for modern gaming titles. Memory: 16 GB of RAM, making sure smooth multitasking and game performance. 16 GB of RAM, making sure smooth multitasking and game performance. Display: A 16:10 aspect ratio, offering a taller vertical resolution compared to the standard 16:9, enhancing productivity and gaming visuals. This hardware configuration is well-suited for testing Steam, providing a balance of power and efficiency that aligns with the operating system's gaming-focused design. Installing SteamOS: A Smooth Start with Some Caveats For this evaluation, SteamOS Hollow 3.624 was installed on the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14. The installation process was straightforward, with the system booting up without significant issues. SteamOS offers several built-in features that cater to gamers, including: TDP Control: This feature allows users to adjust power consumption and thermal output directly within the operating system, allowing better performance management. This feature allows users to adjust power consumption and thermal output directly within the operating system, allowing better performance management. Gaming Optimization: SteamOS provides a streamlined interface tailored for gaming, minimizing distractions and focusing on performance. Despite the smooth installation, certain limitations became evident. GPU settings were primarily managed through the BIOS, restricting manual adjustments within SteamOS itself. Additionally, features like RGB keyboard customization—a popular aspect of gaming laptops—were unavailable, limiting personalization options for users who value aesthetic customization. SteamOS Installed on a Powerful Gaming Laptop Watch this video on YouTube. Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in SteamOS. Gaming Performance: Smooth Gameplay with a Few Hiccups To evaluate gaming performance, several popular titles were tested at 1440p resolution with high settings. The results demonstrated that SteamOS is capable of delivering a strong gaming experience under the right conditions. Key findings include: Cyberpunk 2077: Playable performance was achieved with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) enabled, maintaining a balance between visual quality and frame rates. Playable performance was achieved with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) enabled, maintaining a balance between visual quality and frame rates. Doom Eternal: The game delivered consistently high frame rates without requiring significant adjustments, showcasing the system's capability for fast-paced action titles. The game delivered consistently high frame rates without requiring significant adjustments, showcasing the system's capability for fast-paced action titles. The Witcher 3 and Spider-Man 2: Both games ran smoothly with minimal tweaks, highlighting SteamOS's ability to handle graphically intensive titles. However, not all games performed flawlessly. Titles like Doom: The Dark Ages encountered compatibility issues, reflecting SteamOS's occasional struggles with specific game engines or configurations. When compared to Windows, performance differences ranged from 10 to 25 frames per second (FPS), depending on the game and settings. While Steam demonstrated commendable performance overall, it occasionally lagged behind Windows in terms of raw frame rates, particularly in more demanding scenarios. Challenges and Limitations While SteamOS shows promise as a gaming platform, several challenges and limitations were observed during testing: Aspect Ratio Issues: The laptop's native 16:10 aspect ratio was not fully supported, with many games defaulting to the more common 16:9 format. This resulted in black bars at the top and bottom of the screen, detracting from the immersive experience. The laptop's native 16:10 aspect ratio was not fully supported, with many games defaulting to the more common 16:9 format. This resulted in black bars at the top and bottom of the screen, detracting from the immersive experience. Hardware Compatibility: The limited availability of gaming laptops with AMD dedicated GPUs for SteamOS testing posed a challenge. While the Radeon RX 6700S performed well, broader hardware support is essential for wider adoption. Nvidia GPUs, for instance, face significant driver compatibility issues with SteamOS, further limiting options for users. The limited availability of gaming laptops with AMD dedicated GPUs for SteamOS testing posed a challenge. While the Radeon RX 6700S performed well, broader hardware support is essential for wider adoption. Nvidia GPUs, for instance, face significant driver compatibility issues with SteamOS, further limiting options for users. Software Limitations: Certain features, such as RGB keyboard customization, were unavailable. This lack of support for personalization features reduces the appeal of SteamOS for gamers who prioritize customization. These challenges highlight areas where SteamOS requires further refinement to compete effectively with Windows as a gaming platform. Addressing these issues will be crucial for its future development and adoption. SteamOS as a Gaming Platform: Potential and Progress SteamOS demonstrated impressive performance on the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14, particularly when paired with AMD hardware. The operating system's gaming-focused features, such as TDP control and a streamlined interface, add value for users seeking to optimize their gaming experience. Games ran smoothly at high settings, showcasing the platform's potential as a viable alternative to Windows for gaming laptops. However, challenges such as aspect ratio compatibility, limited hardware support, and occasional game-specific issues underscore the need for continued development. SteamOS remains a work in progress, with room for improvement in areas like software optimization and broader hardware compatibility. For gamers considering SteamOS, it offers a promising alternative but may not yet fully replace Windows for all use cases. This evaluation provides valuable insights into the current state of SteamOS, highlighting its strengths and areas for growth. As the platform continues to evolve, it has the potential to become a more competitive option for gaming laptops, offering a streamlined and performance-focused experience for enthusiasts and developers alike. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
Anbernic RG34XXSP Review : Nostalgia Meets Modern Gaming in Your Pocket
Have you ever wondered if a handheld gaming console could truly balance nostalgia, portability, and affordability without cutting corners? The Anbernic RG34XXSP boldly steps into this arena, promising retro gaming enthusiasts a compact, foldable device that fits in your pocket and takes you back to the golden age of gaming. But with a smaller screen than its predecessor and no significant performance upgrades, it raises a critical question: does the RG34XXSP deliver enough to justify its place in your collection, or is it simply a repackaged version of what we've seen before? In this rundown, ETA Prime explores whether this device lives up to its promise or falls short of expectations. From its dual analog sticks and tactile Japanese dome switches to its sleek foldable design, the RG34XXSP packs features that cater to gamers who prioritize precision and portability. But this isn't just about specs—it's about the experience. How does the smaller 3.4-inch IPS screen hold up for text-heavy games? Can the unchanged H700 quad-core CPU handle your favorite retro titles without breaking a sweat? And what about the quirks, like the cumbersome battery replacement process? Whether you're a seasoned retro gamer or someone curious about diving into the world of handheld nostalgia, this review will unpack the highs, lows, and everything in between. After all, the best gaming experiences are about more than just hardware—they're about how it all comes together. Compact Retro Gaming Device Design and Build The RG34XXSP's defining feature is its compact, foldable design, making it an excellent choice for gamers who value portability. This design ensures the device is easy to carry, fitting comfortably into pockets or small bags, which is ideal for on-the-go gaming. A notable improvement over its predecessor is the inclusion of dual analog sticks, which enhance control across a variety of gaming genres, from platformers to action-adventure titles. The device features a 3.4-inch IPS display with a resolution of 720×480. While slightly smaller than the RG35XXSP's 3.5-inch screen, the IPS panel delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, making sure a visually pleasing experience. However, the reduced screen size may impact the enjoyment of games with intricate visuals or text-heavy interfaces, particularly for users accustomed to larger displays. Available in four color options—indigo, yellow, gray, and black—the console caters to diverse aesthetic preferences. The use of Japanese dome switches provides tactile feedback, enhancing precision for games that require accurate inputs, such as fighting games and platformers. Additionally, the inclusion of a glass screen protector improves durability, making the device more resilient to scratches and wear, a practical feature for gamers frequently on the move. Hardware and Features The RG34XXSP is powered by the H700 quad-core Cortex A53 CPU, clocked at 1.5 GHz, the same processor used in its predecessor. While this ensures compatibility with a wide range of retro gaming platforms, it does not offer any significant performance improvements. The device is equipped with 2GB of RAM, which is sufficient for running most retro games smoothly, though it may struggle with more demanding titles. A 3,300mAh replaceable battery powers the console, providing several hours of gameplay on a single charge. However, replacing the battery requires disassembly and adhesive removal, which can be challenging for users unfamiliar with hardware modifications. The device offers a variety of connectivity options, including: Dual microSD card slots for expandable storage. A USB-C charging port for fast and convenient charging. A mini HDMI output for connecting to external displays. A 3.5mm headphone jack for private audio playback. Additionally, the RG34XXSP supports AC Wi-Fi (5 GHz) and Bluetooth 5.2, allowing wireless multiplayer gaming and the pairing of accessories such as controllers or headphones. These features add versatility, particularly for users who enjoy cooperative or competitive gaming experiences. Anbernic RG34XXSP First Look Watch this video on YouTube. Learn more about handheld games consoles with the help of our in-depth articles and helpful guides. Performance The RG34XXSP is optimized for retro gaming, supporting platforms such as Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 1, Dreamcast, and some Nintendo 64 titles. It performs well on these platforms, delivering smooth gameplay and responsive controls. However, the device struggles with higher-end systems like the PSP, where performance issues such as frame drops and lag may occur. The addition of dual analog sticks is a welcome improvement, offering greater control for games that benefit from precise directional input. However, their potential is somewhat limited by the device's inability to handle more demanding games effectively. The Japanese dome switches further enhance the gaming experience by providing responsive and tactile feedback, which is particularly advantageous for fast-paced or precision-based games. Despite its strengths, the 3.4-inch screen may detract from the overall experience for certain games, especially those with detailed visuals or text-heavy interfaces. This limitation could be a drawback for users who prefer larger displays for an immersive gaming experience. Drawbacks While the RG34XXSP offers several appealing features, it also has notable limitations. The smaller screen size may not satisfy users accustomed to larger displays, and the lack of performance upgrades due to the unchanged CPU could disappoint those expecting a more powerful device. Although the dual analog sticks improve control, their utility is constrained by the device's limited ability to handle higher-end gaming platforms. The replaceable battery, while a practical feature, involves a cumbersome replacement process that requires disassembly and adhesive removal. This could deter users who are less comfortable with hardware modifications or lack the necessary tools. Furthermore, the device's focus on retro gaming may not appeal to gamers seeking a more versatile handheld console capable of running modern titles. Final Thoughts The Anbernic RG34XXSP is a compact and affordable handheld gaming device designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. Its foldable design, dual analog sticks, and tactile Japanese dome switches make it a practical choice for nostalgic gaming sessions and everyday portability. Priced at $68, with a promotional launch price of $59.99, it offers good value for its intended purpose. However, the device's smaller screen, lack of significant performance improvements, and limited capability for higher-end platforms may restrict its appeal to a niche audience. If portability and retro gaming are your primary concerns, the RG34XXSP is worth considering. For those seeking a more versatile gaming console with enhanced performance, exploring other options may be a better choice. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
