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However, prices quickly climb once you add a discrete graphics card (GPU) to a mini PC.
You’ll ultimately spend less on a gaming handheld than you will on agreat mini PCdesigned for gaming.
The ASUS ROG Ally docked on the left, with the ROG NUC 970 gaming mini PC on the right below a monitor.
I use aSteam Deckregularly, and despite its size and weight, it never gets uncomfortable to hold.
That holds true whether I’m lying back on the couch or sitting in an airplane seat.
Mini PCs take a different approach.
The ASUS ROG NUC 970 gaming mini PC on the right, with a ROG Ally docked on the left.
Mini PCs, small as they may be, usually attempt to include as many ports as possible.
That reduces the need for a dock or a hub.
The same holds true for gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally that run Windows.
An inside look at the ROG NUC 970 with slots for RAM and storage.
However, those using a Steam Deck will have a different experience.
Gaming handheld vs. mini gaming PC: Which should you buy?
The Steam Deck playing the Quake mod “The Immortal Lock”
Gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally can handle more demanding titles like Diablo 4.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is available on the Steam Deck, filling in some compatibility issues with Game Pass.
The Steam Deck surrounded by our other favorite gaming handhelds, including the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X.
