The Steam Deck Oled is a dream come true for an older gamer/ex pc builder. Tried the Rog Ally a few weeks, but sold it. The Deck is a different breed 💪
I get the impression that there's a misunderstanding regarding the difference between Linux and Windows here. Stating that Steam deliberately makes it difficult to run other stores implies a lack of understanding of operating systems.
I have the OG steam deck and just upgraded to the 512 OLED, and absolutely love it. The weight it something people don’t talk about, but to me, it’s noticeably different so I’m glad you touched on that. Glad you’re enjoying it man.
I thought the complaints about Steam being front and centre were kinda weak tbh. If this was the Epic deck they wouldn't let anyone else's store on it in the first place. Epic's history is pretty clear for anyone to see and that's before you factor in that their storefront sucks. Valve isn't going to bend over backwards to make it easy to install their competitor's stores but they don't get in your way either and I appreciate that. Nintendo sure as hell wouldn't put an "install non-Nintendo apps" button in their client that's for sure. I installed Heroic Launcher and I have my Amazon and GOG libraries available and it's easy to add games with it. I understand Epic's store works too but I don't know personally. Different strokes for different folks but I put Windows on my Steam Deck and it sucked out loud. I much prefer SteamOS and I like the Linux desktop but I have all platforms, Linux, Macs and Windows so I'm accepting of anything that works.
It's not blindly hating if you use it and don't like it :) Linux users just seem shocked when someone doesn't like their OS for some reason. Different strokes..
@@JoeysRetroHandheldswhat you’re bitching about is the UI there’s lots of different desktop environments for Linux. Ironically Valve force you to use only one of several different options. KDE Plasma the one that is mainly modelled on WindowsXP/7 and it’s actually hugely modable but Valve have locked all that stuff out.
Blah Linux geeks always get offended. I have been using Linux for 10years 10 hours a day at work. I don't miss a second of it when I get home back to my windows machines.
I updated my lcd sd to sell it and with the latest update the screen looks fantastic. So now im just going to keep it instead of selling it at a loss to get the oled
Is your problem with Linux or the Plasma desktop? I don't really understand. As someone who has daily driven Linux on several systems across the years I'd choose Linux almost always over Windows.
I don't like Linux either. In Windows I can do everything without having to type a single command line, just using double clicks for installations. On Linux, at least on Steam Deck, I had to make several commands on a console that reminds me of a computer from the 90s just to configure an Emudeck folder.
Comparing the deck to odin 2 is absolutely ridiculous. Pcsx2 alone has compatibility of 99%, Aether sx2 on Android hardly cuts it and there is no development on it as well. Way more emulators are available on steam deck, wiiu,ps3, xbox, xbox 360. Switch emulation is phenomenal on the deck, odin2 doesn't cut it there either. I can play Tears of the kingdom which is the most demanding switch game on my deck at higher than 30fps . Linux just takes an hour to get used to and steam os makes it even more easy, people should stop being ao lazy
Odin 2 handles PS2 and Wii/GameCube at 4k internal resolution easily not even in high performance mode. It also has a higher resolution screen and is currently only limited to the software with Yuzu making huge improvements daily. So yeah with half the price, the Odin can run emulators better and with higher resolution and better battery life.
Odin 2 resolution is 1080p and has a longer batter for PS2 that one kind of era, but the steam OLED has oled but is also more expensive, so there's no clear winner
@@SirTobyGirl you don't need to buy OLED model to experience the deck. The base LCD model is cheaper than the Odin 2 and it runs way many emulators as well as PC games. Comparing Android ecosystem to steam OS or Windows is stupid. A PS2 emulator on Android is only capable of running around 80% of the games, PCSX2 is 99%, switch emulation is just emerging while PC and Linux you can play every single Switch exclusive, deck included. Even you don't get the full GameCube compatibility on Android
I really appreciate your review and honesty, was quite a few reviews iv'e watched that haven't talked about aspects that you have. Now I can make a more informed decision on purchasing the oled deck based on things you have mentioned that many other review so far haven't. thank you
I don’t have a console or any other computer that can actually run triple A games. I’m just a casual gamer. I don’t care for competitive gaming. Being able to play triple A computer games on a handheld anywhere definitely did it for me. I’ve wanted to casually start gaming, but didn’t want to spend thousands on a gaming computer that I couldn’t easily transport. I also didn’t want a console since you can’t mod and play exclusives. I am fine with playing triple A games that came out years ago and newer ones at 30 fps if I need to. I love the OLED and I definitely think it was a smarter choice than buying a console or decked out gaming computer. This thing can do almost anything even if it is not always the best at doing those things.
Linux dt is not that hard to learn (file system is but still similar to MacOS + sys file are read-only anyways). You’re in dt mode 24/7 on windows. Not having gamepass on linux sucks for you but you should direct your gripe towards Microsoft. You will not get a control panel anywhere near as integrated on Windows. Your lack of customization issue will definitely not be resolved by switching away from linux. Bro don’t scroll down if you don’t wanna see that stuff💀 You can thank the respective launchers for dropping linux support ; can’t blame Steam for that they aren’t preventing you from installing anything.
"It's the fact that it's Steam that nobody cares" You're right, but it's for many many reasons. All summed up by Steam being the best PC gaming store BY FAR and having been the primary PC Gaming store for many many years now. Steam is just better in every way than every other PC gaming store so it being front and center just makes the most sense. If it was Epic yeah people would be upset because it's library and features are MASSIVELY lesser than Steam. So just pointing out that people being fine with it being Steam fits. Look at it this way. It's a Valve device for playing games. It's literally called the "Steam" Deck. It's basically The Nintendo Switch which is designed to play games on their store. It's not a negative for their device to be around their store... it's a MASSIVE plus and makes Valve incredibly awesome to make it so easy to sideload other stores on it's device.
Would you actually be upset if Epic made a console of their own like a Steam Deck and only allowed epic games store on it (or did it like Steam Deck where you could use the other stores but it wouldn't be straight out of the box)? It would not bother me at all, but I would also not use such a device because I think Epic service is really bad. If it comes down to "people would be upset because the device would suck", it kinda loses any meaningful point within this context doesn't it?
@@tiikerihai I would because Epic doesn't have anywhere remotely near the features and catalogue to do it. People don't say Nintendo is bad for the Switch being a Nintendo platform... Honestly the fact Valve made the Steam Deck so open is pretty much unique in these devices launched to a specific gaming platform... and Steam itself has more games then probably any platform in the world, including the Switch.
@@M4ttNet I agree with you on part that I think a console would suck if Epic made it, but I don't really see any reason why you'd actually care about it if it existed. I don't personally like the Nintendo Switch, but I don't think about it either. I'd feel the same way about Epic.
@@tiikerihai I agree. I think we agree. That Steam can focus on it's own games first because it's a big and feature full store while Epic wouldn't matter to us because it's nothing like that?
Everything in the video was top notch, though i don't get the Linux thing - took me 2 days to learn and it was uncanny how much it's "windows-like" - each to our own ofc
Just being scared of change🤷🏻♂️ it’s just looks different once you learn to use it and understand the file structure. Really easy to use. Stuff like Heroic and Lutris allow other game stores to be used and hooked up with Proton.
After watching your video, im still not quite sure why you opted in replacing your ally with the sd oled. You mentioned good things about the deck, but also a lot of reasons youd prefer your ally. What ultimately made you make the switch? In testing streaming from my ps5 on ally with chiaki vs deck oled with chiaki4, the chiaki4 on deck did a much better job it seemed. Had a lot of white screen breaks and stuff on the Chiaki. Not sure if there are settings to fix that. Chiaki 4 on deck didnt need any tweaking it seems.
EmuDeck, app updates, fixing games to work (lots need you to run them in desktop mode first to work, GTA V a quick example), transferring roms over, adding non steam games, and so much more.
I don’t care having all my games on steam . I actually DONT want to buy games if they are not on Steam :P. I’ve had a decade worth of horrible experiences with Uplay and Origin . I am done . With that said I hate the game pass app but it is a big deal with all those games. My personal take is if a game runs on the deck and it runs well, there’s no reason to play it on the Ally or my other consoles/handhelds .
Hey Joey, thanks for the review! Comparing the Ayn Odin 2 and ASUS ROG Ally to the Steam Deck (LCD/OLED), how much benefit do you find having/using the touch pads? Do you feel like you're gaining anything with them or missing anything without them?
The Odin 2 is a bit odd there, but I actually really enjoy using the sticks to navigate the Ally, and don't find the trackpads to be much different. But it may be different if you're playing games that require them.
I agree that weight and battery life needed improvement. Tbh, my FOMO is hitting me hard And want the oled so bad 😅 Also i want to boot into my library as well.
I can't make up my mind between getting an Odin 2 or a Steamdeck. I mainly want a handheld for long flights where I will need long battery life. The steam deck is really enticing with the new Oled upgrade, and it being a jack of all trades. However, I think the form factor and battery life of the Odin 2 might make more sense. It's cheaper too, it's a difficult decision to make!
@@LAdeThatFeel I got it and it's running skyrim and spyro reignited on switch perfectly. It's actually pretty incredible! Finding PSX games look really good on here too. If emulation keeps developing at this pace on android then we'll be flying.
I definitely agree it sucks we can't use game pass native on Linux but other than that I don't understand the difficulty using it. Its super easy on the deck.
From 512 LCD to 512 OLED. I love this OLED!. About the Linux stuffs, with the recent GUI, Linux gets better. Its not that bad. I'm a Windows guy too :) BTW, what game is that? 11:45
@baelrog you should never get an etched screen when purchasing an oled...it dampers the vibrant colors you get by choosing oled if you are going to get an etched screen then you may as well stay with lcd. Etched screens are ok as long as you don't mind damping the beautiful colors oled gives you.
I understand the dislike for Linux. I know it's hard to switch. But Windows is so unbelievably inefficient, it drains the battery so fast, especially while idle. Once games get optimized, Linux should easily be able to perform better. And it's cheaper since the manufacturer doesn't have to buy windows licenses.
I need some honest advice. Console gaming/pc gaming is feeling kinda boring the last couple of months. Till GTA6 comes out I need something new in my life..😂 Should I get the PS5 VR2 or a steam deck?
The psvr2 is absolutely amazing....now if we are talking about the ORIGINAL psvr then i would agree with joey..but...i disagree with him with the whole play for a week and collect dust thing. The psvr2 has so many upgrades and eye tracking its just a complete beast..Horizon was amazing.. the walking dead is awesome..so many good games and more are coming. That's really a hard choice bro because they both serve different purposes but if you are looking for somthing truly different that will *WOW* you...go with the PSVR2 you will NOT regret your purchase.
@@mattrobbins1237 thanks for the info man 👌🏼 it surely is an hard decision. i will make a list of the games for both as well and decide on that as well. I Heard the the psvr doesnt have much great titles tho.
Lack of customization ? We can literally change the keyboard themes, the startup themes, the profile animations , profile background, profile achievements, and even the home page store is customized based on the Steam account gaming prefs...
Will you be doing an emulation comparison between this and the Odin 2... I'm so torn what to do my odin 2 max has just arrived.. but seeing this screen... I keep reading that odin 2 is still better and I noticed you dropped in that its better? Im only interested up to Ps2 and Gamecube same as you I'd rather stick to my Switch as we can still genuinely buy our games... and I've had a big mac today 😂
Hah, yeah I'm working on that video, but may take me a bit to get it out. I will say the Odin 2 seems to be noticeably better for emulation performance.
@JoeysRetroHandhelds Thank you my friend. Subscribed to channel 😄.. The odin 2 looks a lot nicer to be fair I have never liked the cosmetic look of the decks... got mine in white too... I think I definitely will stay with Odin 2.. just had a 1tb sd card arrive will set it up the weekend.. enjoyed the video mate.
You started losing me with your issues with the LCD Deck. This generation doesn’t deserve such amazing tech. I used to play on a GameBoy with no backlight and I didn’t bitch about that😂
Have a good desktop and went for Oled due to screen tdp with battery efficiency and steam os. I do use game pass but when thinking about I only use game pass for aaa games and I don’t plan to use it for these games especially that aaa games to me are meant to be run on big telly with full surround and didn’t want to deal with windows handheld especially that windows is annoying already as it is ;). Heroic launcher solves my problem with epic and gog games.
I want to try out Steam Deck Oled but it is not worth it in Australia when it is $100$ USD more expensive than ROG Ally and $30 more expensive than Lenovo Legion Go (they both include 3 months game pass too and are more powerful/way wider gaming compatibility).
I don’t get how you spend so much time in Linux! I have all my emulation stuff also and done. I go to desktop mode just to update yuzu really. lol complaining about the fan noise you should try a one player omg!!! The biggest disappointment really is just the lcd screen!
Well that's the thing you sacrifice with other handheld pc, while Valve pc handheld is sorta like a traditional handheld with same specs and performance on all models with good battery life, while Legion go and Ally are indeed powerful it comes with a cost of your battery life, with great power there may also come lesser battery.
The performance gain actually not worth it. Its not a night and day difference by any means. Maybe some games are playable on ally compared to steam deck but like i said its not worth it. Look at new avatar game, it runs horribly on any handheld
Just got mine today and I’m very happy with my purchase. I couldn’t make my mind up about two weeks ago but when I heard battery life on the Ally was around 70 to 80 minutes it kinda turned me off. Also it’s not like the OLED screen is bad… imho the picture quality plus battery life and portability was a no brainer for me. If I didn’t have a PS5 and a XSX maybe I’d choose differently but I’m VERY happy with the Steamdeck! Ohh yeah I forgot about the fact that I feel like Valve will keep making updates and content for their products and Asus will just make something bigger faster and stronger real soon and just move on from the ROG.
@@nodaysoff3324Theres also the fact (for me at least) that you want a handheld to feel good in the hands. The Ally just feels a bit cheap, there’s something about the Deck that just makes me smile each time I pick it up.
If you're anything but the most casual pc gamer, doing basic setup in Linux is a breeze. Perhaps some general computer knowledge is in order because I really see no reason, with a keyboard and mouse, you couldn't set things up almost the exact same way you would in windows.
Thanks for your reviews. I currently own both and undecided on which i like better to keep. Been testing both through streaming and running games natively. I like the layout better on the rog ally as its easier for me to control the sticks, but the deck is more comfortable. I like the 1080p, windows, playnite, and naitive gamepass potential of ally. But the hdr/oled combo makes hdr enabled games look better than the 1080p does. Through in the slightly larger screen and battery life as a pro for the steam deck as well. Noticed a big difference in switching between the same saves doing tests in a game like witcher 3. Game looks good on ally, but then when you switch to Hdr/oled, the sun and lighting just look so much better on the deck. Yet, outside of hdr games, the 1080p difference wins out for the ally for oled. Kinda at a wash. Got them at the same price. Dont want two. But not sure what to ultimately keep. Watching your playnite video makes the ally a big plus. Love having a gamefront that organizes and shows the coverart of everything i would install (emulators, WoW, etc.) I guess the steamdeck would do that for all the steam games i get, but not for ones outside their walls as well.
In spite of what linux fanboys claim, I use Linux 10 hours a day for the last 10 years at work and never miss linux when i get home back to my Windows machines. There is just a lot of hype from people trying to feel special 😂😂😂
Nah antiglare is awesome. I play near the window mostly, and I don't like seeing the reflection every time the screen goes black. Antiglare resolves that, and i really like it. Had regular steam deck 256gb so i know how the regular screen looks. My biggest issue is that on antiglare i cant put a screen protector because it will ruin everything
To be fair you'd want to compare oled glossy to oled matte. It comes down to how you use the device. Since you have more light commonly, that is the right choice for you for sure. But either one is so much better than Lcd.
I've got my Odin 2 max not set it up yet... I was tempted to sell and get this after seeing the screen.. do you think its best to stick to the Odin 2 ? I mainly want it up to ps2 gamecube emulation you see..
@@pbarratt73 i personally think ps2 and gamecube runs very well on the Odin. Maybe look at some Videos about emulation of this two Systems. But i played some Hours Mario Strikers Football and a bit Need for Speed at Gaemcube Emu. PS2 i have setup but Not played much, just a bit Tomb Raider.
I also love my OLED Deck, but like you, I'm not a Linux fan and try to get out of desktop mode asap. But after installing emudeck, Moonlight and Decky, I'm in there a lot less now. LMAO shooting Sarah in Starfield. Yah, that game sucks!
I think we can all agree that if the OLED deck can load Win11 successfully it would be a clear no-brainer. As it is i think I'll wait to see what the Ally 2 does or even the next deck. I would be ok with an Ally performance and deck battery life expectancy.
That's still a ways out. There's no upcoming APUs to satisfy the ideal battery/performance ratio that valve is shooting for. They likely will do what they did for the Deck and develop a custom APU.
Nope Windows is absolute ass as a portable handheld OS. I have an Ally and an OLED deck. My Ally is mostly docked so m+k can be used. Deck travels with me, stays next to the bed it behaves like a console not a laptop missing key interface elements. The Deck is my handheld daily driver.
When I get my OLED deck I think I'm gonna put windows on it I have it on my Ally and I agree with you, Linux is horrible. I prefer windows, I use the OS every day. BTW great review, glad to see someone else who loves the rog ally as much as me.
Joey sort of touched on it with mentioning being locked into the Steam store, but, why are gamers such two faced liars? On the one hand they bemoan the death of physical media but on the other hand gleefully send currency to Valve for software for which they provide no value to yet skim a third of the money off the top? Makes no sense to hold such a position but act in an opposite way.
I disagree with you on your statement that steam deck LCD and oled is a night and day difference. Yeah sure the steam deck oled has much better, vibrant more colour accurate screen with better brightness and 90hz display and little better design improved track pad and hall effect joystick or analog stick are nice. Along with better speaker, bigger battery capacity and 6nm chipset. *But at the end of the day valve took what Nintendo did with their Nintendo switch which uses LCD display which uses 20nm chipset which was ineffective and battery hungry and LCD display made the battery life worse and it had worse kickstand decent speakers* And switch oled uses 16nm chipset instead of 20nm it is way more energy efficient and you get more battery life, better speakers, hidden AMD FSR 1 support that upscales games. Better kickstand. Valve took and copied from Nintendo's playbook and gets more credit for slightly better. The steam deck oled isn't a huge upgrade as you make it out to be!
Half of the stuff you said wasn't even made for the switch OLED. Steam deck OLED is a completely different device minus form factor and chip architecture. Literally every other aspect is improved, down to the damn screws. But cope harder, Nintendo fanboy.
@@SolidSt8Dj You didn't read my comments properly then you just read and heard you wanted to hear and ignored the rest. Steam Deck OLED is same as Switch OLED in it's design philosophy. The old LCD switch had horrible battery, bad screen, Nvidia Tegra X1 (20nm) single kickstand which can't even keep the switch up for most part. Bad speakers, slightly below average dock which would make the switch heat up faster. The new switch V2, lite and OLED switch has better battery life, improved speakers and Bluetooth and newer WiFi, great speakers, better dock with cooling fan, much better screen if you own (Switch OLED), slightly bigger interal storage. And hdmi output and ethernet cable output to TV. The Steam Deck OLED is nothing more than Switch copycat. It's a great revision but it copied what Nintendo already did with their switch oled. And let me tell you the old switch LCD was pain in the @$$ to take apart and replace the screen and battery, the new switch oled also uses different screwdrivers and nuts and bolts and is more replacement friendly. So your whole point is moot and invalid once again I'm more of Sony fanboy than Nintendo as I grew up with PS1 and PS2 and PS3 as kid. But whatever I'll take a cheap shot at me. And I'm not gonna respond because that's what good people do cheers now!
Hah, it's actually been pretty easy for most, if they're on Steam, they just work. But there has been quirks that I've needed to fix (Jedi Fallen Order, GTA V etc.)
Why overrated man? it's just plug and play, you can copy everything from your main pc and you're ready to play! On the SD, everything is complicated, experimental layers, you have to watch videos just to do something simple! @@ashwin.unlead
@@JoeysRetroHandheldsthat's a EA fault for breaking the game on linux. I understand ur frustration but that's business make no sense to prioritize Linux operating system with 1% or less of the user base. It's the same for all the other gaming business, that is the main problem with linux. EA update with no regards for Linux and valve and the Linux community has to rush to fix it.
The Steam Deck Oled is a dream come true for an older gamer/ex pc builder. Tried the Rog Ally a few weeks, but sold it. The Deck is a different breed 💪
I get the impression that there's a misunderstanding regarding the difference between Linux and Windows here. Stating that Steam deliberately makes it difficult to run other stores implies a lack of understanding of operating systems.
“It doesn’t smell as good as the LCD deck”
Such a deal breaker. The reason why I’m not making the upgrade.
Honestly, fair.
@@JoeysRetroHandheldshe's joking dude 🤣🤣
@@RagnarCrumpets I know :)
I have the OG steam deck and just upgraded to the 512 OLED, and absolutely love it. The weight it something people don’t talk about, but to me, it’s noticeably different so I’m glad you touched on that.
Glad you’re enjoying it man.
I have the OG Steam Deck and recently replaced my 64 GB SSD to a 512 GB. Next year, I'll definitely get the OLED model!
I thought the complaints about Steam being front and centre were kinda weak tbh. If this was the Epic deck they wouldn't let anyone else's store on it in the first place. Epic's history is pretty clear for anyone to see and that's before you factor in that their storefront sucks. Valve isn't going to bend over backwards to make it easy to install their competitor's stores but they don't get in your way either and I appreciate that. Nintendo sure as hell wouldn't put an "install non-Nintendo apps" button in their client that's for sure. I installed Heroic Launcher and I have my Amazon and GOG libraries available and it's easy to add games with it. I understand Epic's store works too but I don't know personally.
Different strokes for different folks but I put Windows on my Steam Deck and it sucked out loud. I much prefer SteamOS and I like the Linux desktop but I have all platforms, Linux, Macs and Windows so I'm accepting of anything that works.
100% - valve makes no attempt to limit what is available.
The Linux rant is so funny. One day you'll look back at it and realize you've matured and don't care anymore
If I get much older I'll be in a nursing home, so no such change here!
People like what we like, it's awesome we have choices.
Linux is shit bro. It's ok if you like it, but it is what it is.
Blindly hating on linux is so weird lol. Its more efficient that bloody windows
It's not blindly hating if you use it and don't like it :) Linux users just seem shocked when someone doesn't like their OS for some reason. Different strokes..
no hate. Enjoy your steam deck the way you want. I don't see it as con especially with how privacy invasive windows 11 onwards is.
@@JoeysRetroHandheldswhat you’re bitching about is the UI there’s lots of different desktop environments for Linux. Ironically Valve force you to use only one of several different options. KDE Plasma the one that is mainly modelled on WindowsXP/7 and it’s actually hugely modable but Valve have locked all that stuff out.
Blah Linux geeks always get offended. I have been using Linux for 10years 10 hours a day at work. I don't miss a second of it when I get home back to my windows machines.
I updated my lcd sd to sell it and with the latest update the screen looks fantastic.
So now im just going to keep it instead of selling it at a loss to get the oled
Is your problem with Linux or the Plasma desktop? I don't really understand. As someone who has daily driven Linux on several systems across the years I'd choose Linux almost always over Windows.
I don't like Linux either. In Windows I can do everything without having to type a single command line, just using double clicks for installations. On Linux, at least on Steam Deck, I had to make several commands on a console that reminds me of a computer from the 90s just to configure an Emudeck folder.
Comparing the deck to odin 2 is absolutely ridiculous. Pcsx2 alone has compatibility of 99%, Aether sx2 on Android hardly cuts it and there is no development on it as well. Way more emulators are available on steam deck, wiiu,ps3, xbox, xbox 360. Switch emulation is phenomenal on the deck, odin2 doesn't cut it there either. I can play Tears of the kingdom which is the most demanding switch game on my deck at higher than 30fps . Linux just takes an hour to get used to and steam os makes it even more easy, people should stop being ao lazy
Preach
Odin 2 handles PS2 and Wii/GameCube at 4k internal resolution easily not even in high performance mode. It also has a higher resolution screen and is currently only limited to the software with Yuzu making huge improvements daily. So yeah with half the price, the Odin can run emulators better and with higher resolution and better battery life.
Also can't even play fornite natively for $600 😂😭
Odin 2 resolution is 1080p and has a longer batter for PS2 that one kind of era, but the steam OLED has oled but is also more expensive, so there's no clear winner
@@SirTobyGirl you don't need to buy OLED model to experience the deck. The base LCD model is cheaper than the Odin 2 and it runs way many emulators as well as PC games. Comparing Android ecosystem to steam OS or Windows is stupid. A PS2 emulator on Android is only capable of running around 80% of the games, PCSX2 is 99%, switch emulation is just emerging while PC and Linux you can play every single Switch exclusive, deck included. Even you don't get the full GameCube compatibility on Android
I really appreciate your review and honesty, was quite a few reviews iv'e watched that haven't talked about aspects that you have. Now I can make a more informed decision on purchasing the oled deck based on things you have mentioned that many other review so far haven't. thank you
Glad it was helpful!
I don’t have a console or any other computer that can actually run triple A games. I’m just a casual gamer. I don’t care for competitive gaming. Being able to play triple A computer games on a handheld anywhere definitely did it for me. I’ve wanted to casually start gaming, but didn’t want to spend thousands on a gaming computer that I couldn’t easily transport. I also didn’t want a console since you can’t mod and play exclusives. I am fine with playing triple A games that came out years ago and newer ones at 30 fps if I need to. I love the OLED and I definitely think it was a smarter choice than buying a console or decked out gaming computer. This thing can do almost anything even if it is not always the best at doing those things.
Linux dt is not that hard to learn (file system is but still similar to MacOS + sys file are read-only anyways). You’re in dt mode 24/7 on windows. Not having gamepass on linux sucks for you but you should direct your gripe towards Microsoft. You will not get a control panel anywhere near as integrated on Windows. Your lack of customization issue will definitely not be resolved by switching away from linux. Bro don’t scroll down if you don’t wanna see that stuff💀 You can thank the respective launchers for dropping linux support ; can’t blame Steam for that they aren’t preventing you from installing anything.
Mostly bought the oled because of that upgraded battery,
I don't wanna keep carrying a power bank.
Pretty good reason, lol
"It's the fact that it's Steam that nobody cares" You're right, but it's for many many reasons. All summed up by Steam being the best PC gaming store BY FAR and having been the primary PC Gaming store for many many years now. Steam is just better in every way than every other PC gaming store so it being front and center just makes the most sense. If it was Epic yeah people would be upset because it's library and features are MASSIVELY lesser than Steam. So just pointing out that people being fine with it being Steam fits.
Look at it this way. It's a Valve device for playing games. It's literally called the "Steam" Deck. It's basically The Nintendo Switch which is designed to play games on their store. It's not a negative for their device to be around their store... it's a MASSIVE plus and makes Valve incredibly awesome to make it so easy to sideload other stores on it's device.
Would you actually be upset if Epic made a console of their own like a Steam Deck and only allowed epic games store on it (or did it like Steam Deck where you could use the other stores but it wouldn't be straight out of the box)? It would not bother me at all, but I would also not use such a device because I think Epic service is really bad. If it comes down to "people would be upset because the device would suck", it kinda loses any meaningful point within this context doesn't it?
@@tiikerihai I would because Epic doesn't have anywhere remotely near the features and catalogue to do it. People don't say Nintendo is bad for the Switch being a Nintendo platform... Honestly the fact Valve made the Steam Deck so open is pretty much unique in these devices launched to a specific gaming platform... and Steam itself has more games then probably any platform in the world, including the Switch.
@@M4ttNet I agree with you on part that I think a console would suck if Epic made it, but I don't really see any reason why you'd actually care about it if it existed. I don't personally like the Nintendo Switch, but I don't think about it either. I'd feel the same way about Epic.
@@tiikerihai I agree. I think we agree. That Steam can focus on it's own games first because it's a big and feature full store while Epic wouldn't matter to us because it's nothing like that?
Everything in the video was top notch, though i don't get the Linux thing - took me 2 days to learn and it was uncanny how much it's "windows-like" - each to our own ofc
Just being scared of change🤷🏻♂️ it’s just looks different once you learn to use it and understand the file structure. Really easy to use. Stuff like Heroic and Lutris allow other game stores to be used and hooked up with Proton.
After watching your video, im still not quite sure why you opted in replacing your ally with the sd oled. You mentioned good things about the deck, but also a lot of reasons youd prefer your ally. What ultimately made you make the switch?
In testing streaming from my ps5 on ally with chiaki vs deck oled with chiaki4, the chiaki4 on deck did a much better job it seemed. Had a lot of white screen breaks and stuff on the Chiaki. Not sure if there are settings to fix that. Chiaki 4 on deck didnt need any tweaking it seems.
Mostly comfort and battery life. Ally is behind in both and with the OLED deck, it's a huge difference to me.
I dont know what you're up to but i NEVER go into desktop mode, why would you needt to?
EmuDeck, app updates, fixing games to work (lots need you to run them in desktop mode first to work, GTA V a quick example), transferring roms over, adding non steam games, and so much more.
I don’t care having all my games on steam . I actually DONT want to buy games if they are not on Steam :P.
I’ve had a decade worth of horrible experiences with Uplay and Origin . I am done .
With that said I hate the game pass app but it is a big deal with all those games.
My personal take is if a game runs on the deck and it runs well, there’s no reason to play it on the Ally or my other consoles/handhelds .
add discover app as non steam game to be able to update desktop apps from game ui.
Hey Joey, thanks for the review! Comparing the Ayn Odin 2 and ASUS ROG Ally to the Steam Deck (LCD/OLED), how much benefit do you find having/using the touch pads? Do you feel like you're gaining anything with them or missing anything without them?
The Odin 2 is a bit odd there, but I actually really enjoy using the sticks to navigate the Ally, and don't find the trackpads to be much different. But it may be different if you're playing games that require them.
the linux hate is not what surprised me, what surprises me is that fact that you seemed to love windows on handhelds.
What do you think about streaming in the deck vs Odin
Both are good, but it becomes 1080p vs. WiFi. However, controls wise, the Deck OLED is a bit better as it's made more for PC gaming.
I agree that weight and battery life needed improvement.
Tbh, my FOMO is hitting me hard
And want the oled so bad 😅
Also i want to boot into my library as well.
Hah, and right? Yes please.
The Steam Deck is my emulation handheld of choice because I really only emulate up to PS2 and Gamecube. Not looking to emulate anything beyond that.
I can't make up my mind between getting an Odin 2 or a Steamdeck. I mainly want a handheld for long flights where I will need long battery life. The steam deck is really enticing with the new Oled upgrade, and it being a jack of all trades. However, I think the form factor and battery life of the Odin 2 might make more sense. It's cheaper too, it's a difficult decision to make!
if you take more than 6h probably should get odin 2
@@LAdeThatFeel I got it and it's running skyrim and spyro reignited on switch perfectly. It's actually pretty incredible! Finding PSX games look really good on here too. If emulation keeps developing at this pace on android then we'll be flying.
What game is that with like the samurai? Looks awesome
Octopath Traveler 2
I definitely agree it sucks we can't use game pass native on Linux but other than that I don't understand the difficulty using it. Its super easy on the deck.
He gets panick attacks when he has to deal with desktop mode apparently.
How do you use Game Pass on the steam deck? Is it just streaming from the cloud only, or are you able to install the games? Thanks.
Hey! What's the first game you showed in the video @0:30? Thanks!
Octopath Traveler 2!
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds Thanks! :D
Hello good sir, what game are you playing at 5:30?
Hey! That's Triangle Strategy.
Bro literally preferred the oled deck for little technical changes hahaha. The rest is the exact same, he just wasted more money 😂
Nope.
From 512 LCD to 512 OLED. I love this OLED!. About the Linux stuffs, with the recent GUI, Linux gets better. Its not that bad. I'm a Windows guy too :) BTW, what game is that? 11:45
That's FFXIV!
what made you go from etched glass to glossy? (512 lcd has etched and 512 oled has glossy) How is the difference for you?
@baelrog you should never get an etched screen when purchasing an oled...it dampers the vibrant colors you get by choosing oled if you are going to get an etched screen then you may as well stay with lcd. Etched screens are ok as long as you don't mind damping the beautiful colors oled gives you.
I understand the dislike for Linux. I know it's hard to switch. But Windows is so unbelievably inefficient, it drains the battery so fast, especially while idle. Once games get optimized, Linux should easily be able to perform better. And it's cheaper since the manufacturer doesn't have to buy windows licenses.
I need some honest advice. Console gaming/pc gaming is feeling kinda boring the last couple of months. Till GTA6 comes out I need something new in my life..😂 Should I get the PS5 VR2 or a steam deck?
Steam Deck.
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds 😮 explain!
You'll use the VR for a week, then it'll collect dust for a year, but the Deck will last forever.
The psvr2 is absolutely amazing....now if we are talking about the ORIGINAL psvr then i would agree with joey..but...i disagree with him with the whole play for a week and collect dust thing. The psvr2 has so many upgrades and eye tracking its just a complete beast..Horizon was amazing.. the walking dead is awesome..so many good games and more are coming. That's really a hard choice bro because they both serve different purposes but if you are looking for somthing truly different that will *WOW* you...go with the PSVR2 you will NOT regret your purchase.
@@mattrobbins1237 thanks for the info man 👌🏼 it surely is an hard decision. i will make a list of the games for both as well and decide on that as well. I Heard the the psvr doesnt have much great titles tho.
Can moonlight stream at 90hz?
Lack of customization ? We can literally change the keyboard themes, the startup themes, the profile animations , profile background, profile achievements, and even the home page store is customized based on the Steam account gaming prefs...
Aish just clued me into heroic launcher to install GoG and Epic games in the deck
Yeah I use it, but eh.
Will you be doing an emulation comparison between this and the Odin 2... I'm so torn what to do my odin 2 max has just arrived.. but seeing this screen...
I keep reading that odin 2 is still better and I noticed you dropped in that its better? Im only interested up to Ps2 and Gamecube same as you I'd rather stick to my Switch as we can still genuinely buy our games... and I've had a big mac today 😂
Hah, yeah I'm working on that video, but may take me a bit to get it out. I will say the Odin 2 seems to be noticeably better for emulation performance.
@JoeysRetroHandhelds Thank you my friend. Subscribed to channel 😄.. The odin 2 looks a lot nicer to be fair I have never liked the cosmetic look of the decks... got mine in white too... I think I definitely will stay with Odin 2.. just had a 1tb sd card arrive will set it up the weekend.. enjoyed the video mate.
You started losing me with your issues with the LCD Deck. This generation doesn’t deserve such amazing tech. I used to play on a GameBoy with no backlight and I didn’t bitch about that😂
We didn't advance this far so I could continue waiting for street lights to see my Gameboy screen in the back of the car :)
Have a good desktop and went for Oled due to screen tdp with battery efficiency and steam os. I do use game pass but when thinking about I only use game pass for aaa games and I don’t plan to use it for these games especially that aaa games to me are meant to be run on big telly with full surround and didn’t want to deal with windows handheld especially that windows is annoying already as it is ;). Heroic launcher solves my problem with epic and gog games.
Windows drivers for the OLED aren't out yet. Wifi is giving me issues
There's a workaround for WiFi drivers on the WindowsOnDeck subreddit, but the lack of audio is more my concern currently.
I want to try out Steam Deck Oled but it is not worth it in Australia when it is $100$ USD more expensive than ROG Ally and $30 more expensive than Lenovo Legion Go (they both include 3 months game pass too and are more powerful/way wider gaming compatibility).
I don’t get how you spend so much time in Linux! I have all my emulation stuff also and done. I go to desktop mode just to update yuzu really. lol complaining about the fan noise you should try a one player omg!!! The biggest disappointment really is just the lcd screen!
As an Ally user the OLED deck looks really good for battery life purposes. I just can't give up the performance the Ally puts out.
Well that's the thing you sacrifice with other handheld pc, while Valve pc handheld is sorta like a traditional handheld with same specs and performance on all models with good battery life, while Legion go and Ally are indeed powerful it comes with a cost of your battery life, with great power there may also come lesser battery.
The performance gain actually not worth it. Its not a night and day difference by any means. Maybe some games are playable on ally compared to steam deck but like i said its not worth it. Look at new avatar game, it runs horribly on any handheld
I would not choose ally, especially with those micro sd problems that it has
Just got mine today and I’m very happy with my purchase. I couldn’t make my mind up about two weeks ago but when I heard battery life on the Ally was around 70 to 80 minutes it kinda turned me off. Also it’s not like the OLED screen is bad… imho the picture quality plus battery life and portability was a no brainer for me. If I didn’t have a PS5 and a XSX maybe I’d choose differently but I’m VERY happy with the Steamdeck! Ohh yeah I forgot about the fact that I feel like Valve will keep making updates and content for their products and Asus will just make something bigger faster and stronger real soon and just move on from the ROG.
@@nodaysoff3324Theres also the fact (for me at least) that you want a handheld to feel good in the hands. The Ally just feels a bit cheap, there’s something about the Deck that just makes me smile each time I pick it up.
Glad someone feels the same way about the home screen lol
I'm surprised it isn't talked about more!
What’s retro about the steam deck?
It plays every retro game and emulator out there :)
If you're anything but the most casual pc gamer, doing basic setup in Linux is a breeze. Perhaps some general computer knowledge is in order because I really see no reason, with a keyboard and mouse, you couldn't set things up almost the exact same way you would in windows.
Glad you like Linux!
Idk if you don’t have a steam library and you have/had a PC it makes me question a number of things tbh lol
Same.
5:40 what game is that?
Triangle Strategy
Ty@@JoeysRetroHandhelds
XBPlay on Linux 👌🏽
Great on Android too!
Im solely convinced that the steam deck owes its entire existence to gaben bricking his switch when modding and pirating from nintendo
what game is at 12:20 ?
World of Warcraft
Thanks for your reviews. I currently own both and undecided on which i like better to keep. Been testing both through streaming and running games natively.
I like the layout better on the rog ally as its easier for me to control the sticks, but the deck is more comfortable. I like the 1080p, windows, playnite, and naitive gamepass potential of ally. But the hdr/oled combo makes hdr enabled games look better than the 1080p does. Through in the slightly larger screen and battery life as a pro for the steam deck as well. Noticed a big difference in switching between the same saves doing tests in a game like witcher 3. Game looks good on ally, but then when you switch to Hdr/oled, the sun and lighting just look so much better on the deck. Yet, outside of hdr games, the 1080p difference wins out for the ally for oled.
Kinda at a wash. Got them at the same price. Dont want two. But not sure what to ultimately keep. Watching your playnite video makes the ally a big plus. Love having a gamefront that organizes and shows the coverart of everything i would install (emulators, WoW, etc.) I guess the steamdeck would do that for all the steam games i get, but not for ones outside their walls as well.
Looks like a cool device !
In spite of what linux fanboys claim, I use Linux 10 hours a day for the last 10 years at work and never miss linux when i get home back to my Windows machines.
There is just a lot of hype from people trying to feel special 😂😂😂
I agree. Starfield was a huge disappointment in many ways. Funny how your background footage is nonchalant trashing starfield 😂
Nah antiglare is awesome. I play near the window mostly, and I don't like seeing the reflection every time the screen goes black. Antiglare resolves that, and i really like it. Had regular steam deck 256gb so i know how the regular screen looks. My biggest issue is that on antiglare i cant put a screen protector because it will ruin everything
To be fair you'd want to compare oled glossy to oled matte. It comes down to how you use the device. Since you have more light commonly, that is the right choice for you for sure. But either one is so much better than Lcd.
@@omnicognatesnr5947 why tho? I also have switch oled and don't see any difference
lol “To hell they are!”
It’s no suprise that the Odin 2 runs the games better. The odin has the better Hardware that is faster.
I've got my Odin 2 max not set it up yet... I was tempted to sell and get this after seeing the screen.. do you think its best to stick to the Odin 2 ? I mainly want it up to ps2 gamecube emulation you see..
@@pbarratt73 i personally think ps2 and gamecube runs very well on the Odin. Maybe look at some Videos about emulation of this two Systems. But i played some Hours Mario Strikers Football and a bit Need for Speed at Gaemcube Emu. PS2 i have setup but Not played much, just a bit Tomb Raider.
Ps play is coming soon to Linux . Unfortunately the dev is not going to be releasing on steam
Oh cool! Chiaki4deck covers my needs currently, but good to know.
Another day left… wait that? I have a different device then
If your just playing steam games you hardly ever have to go to desktop mode.....
I appreciate the candid "I fookin hate Linux!" 😂
Windows on handhelds like this is absolute torture and is not fit for purpose at all in any way shape or form
What is the game at 10:50?
Octopath Traveler 2!
I also love my OLED Deck, but like you, I'm not a Linux fan and try to get out of desktop mode asap. But after installing emudeck, Moonlight and Decky, I'm in there a lot less now. LMAO shooting Sarah in Starfield. Yah, that game sucks!
Ah how I wish that was still the case, I'm in there so often.
lol - that game is not for me
Linux is easier to use than windows and doesn’t come with a a bunch of BS
I think we can all agree that if the OLED deck can load Win11 successfully it would be a clear no-brainer. As it is i think I'll wait to see what the Ally 2 does or even the next deck. I would be ok with an Ally performance and deck battery life expectancy.
That's still a ways out. There's no upcoming APUs to satisfy the ideal battery/performance ratio that valve is shooting for. They likely will do what they did for the Deck and develop a custom APU.
Disagree, its still too large of a device to consider portable. Its a stay at home play on the sofa and bed console.
Why would you want Windows on a handheld?
Oled is already a no brainer because it doesn't have windows 11
Nope Windows is absolute ass as a portable handheld OS. I have an Ally and an OLED deck. My Ally is mostly docked so m+k can be used. Deck travels with me, stays next to the bed it behaves like a console not a laptop missing key interface elements. The Deck is my handheld daily driver.
When I get my OLED deck I think I'm gonna put windows on it I have it on my Ally and I agree with you, Linux is horrible. I prefer windows, I use the OS every day. BTW great review, glad to see someone else who loves the rog ally as much as me.
Joey sort of touched on it with mentioning being locked into the Steam store, but, why are gamers such two faced liars?
On the one hand they bemoan the death of physical media but on the other hand gleefully send currency to Valve for software for which they provide no value to yet skim a third of the money off the top? Makes no sense to hold such a position but act in an opposite way.
👁 👄 👁 U can literally play other platforms. It's just Linux lmfao.
@@joeykeilholz925It’s not easy, and multiplayer games are a no go. Give Xbox Game Pass a toss too.
What on earth is bro talking about.
@@SolidSt8Dj Where did you get lost?
"I finally love the Steam Deck"
Omg I can finally use my LCD SD???? .... "(OLED Review)
Welp, back in the attic you go.
LOL, my apologies
I disagree with you on your statement that steam deck LCD and oled is a night and day difference.
Yeah sure the steam deck oled has much better, vibrant more colour accurate screen with better brightness and 90hz display and little better design improved track pad and hall effect joystick or analog stick are nice.
Along with better speaker, bigger battery capacity and 6nm chipset.
*But at the end of the day valve took what Nintendo did with their Nintendo switch which uses LCD display which uses 20nm chipset which was ineffective and battery hungry and LCD display made the battery life worse and it had worse kickstand decent speakers*
And switch oled uses 16nm chipset instead of 20nm it is way more energy efficient and you get more battery life, better speakers, hidden AMD FSR 1 support that upscales games. Better kickstand.
Valve took and copied from Nintendo's playbook and gets more credit for slightly better.
The steam deck oled isn't a huge upgrade as you make it out to be!
Half of the stuff you said wasn't even made for the switch OLED.
Steam deck OLED is a completely different device minus form factor and chip architecture. Literally every other aspect is improved, down to the damn screws.
But cope harder, Nintendo fanboy.
@@SolidSt8Dj You didn't read my comments properly then you just read and heard you wanted to hear and ignored the rest.
Steam Deck OLED is same as Switch OLED in it's design philosophy. The old LCD switch had horrible battery, bad screen, Nvidia Tegra X1 (20nm) single kickstand which can't even keep the switch up for most part. Bad speakers, slightly below average dock which would make the switch heat up faster.
The new switch V2, lite and OLED switch has better battery life, improved speakers and Bluetooth and newer WiFi, great speakers, better dock with cooling fan, much better screen if you own (Switch OLED), slightly bigger interal storage. And hdmi output and ethernet cable output to TV.
The Steam Deck OLED is nothing more than Switch copycat. It's a great revision but it copied what Nintendo already did with their switch oled.
And let me tell you the old switch LCD was pain in the @$$ to take apart and replace the screen and battery, the new switch oled also uses different screwdrivers and nuts and bolts and is more replacement friendly.
So your whole point is moot and invalid once again I'm more of Sony fanboy than Nintendo as I grew up with PS1 and PS2 and PS3 as kid. But whatever I'll take a cheap shot at me. And I'm not gonna respond because that's what good people do cheers now!
Come on Joey!! Don't jump ship! Who cares about the Steam Deck when you have the Ally? SteamOS and all the crap layers to make your gaming difficult!
Hah, it's actually been pretty easy for most, if they're on Steam, they just work. But there has been quirks that I've needed to fix (Jedi Fallen Order, GTA V etc.)
ally is overrated imo
Why overrated man? it's just plug and play, you can copy everything from your main pc and you're ready to play! On the SD, everything is complicated, experimental layers, you have to watch videos just to do something simple!
@@ashwin.unlead
That's a crazy take if you've used the oled
@@JoeysRetroHandheldsthat's a EA fault for breaking the game on linux. I understand ur frustration but that's business make no sense to prioritize Linux operating system with 1% or less of the user base. It's the same for all the other gaming business, that is the main problem with linux. EA update with no regards for Linux and valve and the Linux community has to rush to fix it.
It's an honest review that's what matters!