ASUS has introduced two variants of its popular ROG Ally handheld gaming device, offering gamers a choice between the AMD Z1 Extreme APU and the standard Z1 chip. With a price difference of $100 US, the question arises as to whether the improved performance of the Extreme variant justifies the higher cost.
Specifications of AMD Z1 Extreme vs Standard Z1
When examining the specifications, it becomes evident that the AMD Z1 Extreme APU outshines its standard Z1 counterpart. The Z1 Extreme boasts 8 cores and 16 threads for the CPU, along with 12 RDNA 3 cores. In contrast, the standard Z1 features 6 cores and 12 threads for the CPU, along with just 4 RDNA 3 cores. This difference in core configuration and graphics computing power contributes significantly to the performance gap between the two variants.
ASUS’s official gaming benchmark results
To settle the debate, ASUS released its official gaming benchmark results, which shed light on the performance differences between the two ROG Ally variants. The tests were conducted under different scenarios, utilizing the devices’ maximum 30W power design.
Performance at 1080p
At a 1080p resolution, the Ryzen Z1 Extreme model proved to be the clear winner, showcasing an impressive lead over its standard Z1 counterpart in all tested titles. The benchmark results revealed a remarkable 30-40% performance difference across various gaming benchmarks. This dominance at 1080p is primarily due to the Z1 Extreme’s superior core configuration and graphics computing power, enabling it to deliver exceptional gaming performance.
Dominance of Z1 Extreme at 1080p
With its impressive core specifications, the Z1 Extreme demonstrated its prowess in terms of both CPU and GPU performance. The device showcased exceptional capabilities, establishing its complete dominance at the 1080p resolution. Gamers seeking breathtaking gaming experiences at this resolution would undoubtedly benefit from opting for the AMD Z1 Extreme variant.
Performance at 720p
Even at the lower 720p resolution, the Z1 Extreme continued to showcase its superiority over the standard Z1 option. The benchmark results revealed an average performance uplift of 34%, highlighting the significant performance advantage provided by the Extreme variant. Gamers will still enjoy remarkable performance gains compared to the standard Z1 model, making the upgrade worthwhile.
Price-performance analysis
With a price difference of just 16%, it is reasonable to question if the improved performance of the AMD Z1 Extreme justifies the additional cost. However, considering the substantial performance gains of 35-40% offered by the Extreme variant, the price difference becomes a worthwhile investment for avid gamers. The enhanced gaming experience and smooth gameplay that the Z1 Extreme provides make it the preferred choice, especially for those seeking optimal performance.
Based on the official gaming benchmark results released by ASUS, it is clear that the AMD Z1 Extreme variant of the ROG Ally handheld gaming device outperforms its standard Z1 counterpart in every aspect. Its superior core configuration and graphics computing power translate into significant performance gains, delivering immersive gaming experiences. Considering the benchmark results and the reasonable price difference, it is recommended to opt for the AMD Z1 Extreme variant to enjoy enhanced gaming performance and make the most out of the ROG Ally handheld gaming device.