Tired of being chained to your desktop for PC gaming? Modern handhelds like the AYA NEO and Steam Deck now allow playing AAA titles on the go. Both convert into desktop-like setups when docked. For mobile gamers, these devices promise full PC power without sacrificing mobility.
But should you choose the sleek and cutting-edge AYA NEO? Or the cheaper and compatibility-focused Steam Deck? Identifying which device best fits your lifestyle takes some detective work. Let’s examine what sets them apart so you can game on the go without buyer’s remorse!
The Core Promise: PC Gaming Without Compromise
Before diving into the details, it helps to understand what unifies these platforms. Namely, the ability to enjoy Category gaming minus limitations faced by mobile gamers.
I’m talking immersive titles like Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Spiderman Remastered and more running locally on specialized handheld hardware. No more stream latency or availability issues as with cloud gaming alternatives.
Both the AYA NEO and Steam Deck pack enough processing punch for 60+ FPS. Coupled with integrated controls and a built-in display, they replicate a gaming laptop experience in a compact form factor around a pound.
For context, the Nintendo Switch feels underpowered in comparison. Some ambitious ports like The Witcher 3 run below 30 FPS in handheld mode. And certain games like Guardians of the Galaxy skip Switch entirely due to technical constraints.
Let’s examine how the new crop of handheld PCs casts aside past limitations with some seriously impressive specs under the hood!
Steam Deck: A Handheld With Desktop DNA
Valve designed the Steam Deck as a portable gateway into its vast Steam library and PC ecosystems. Don’t let its button layout fool you – nested inside lies the soul of an x86 computer!
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Zen 2 4c/8t, 3.5GHz |
| GPU | 8 RDNA 2 CUs, 1.6GHz |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 64GB/256GB/512GB SSD |
| Display | 7" 1280×800 IPS |
| Dimensions | 11.7 x 4.6 x 1.9 in |
| Weight | 1.47 lbs |
This silicon combines with SteamOS to dish out solid gaming performance on par with last-gen consoles. Handling graphics is an RDNA 2 GPU clocking around 1.6GHz when pushed. Processing falls upon a Zen 2 chip complimented by 16GB of speedy LPDDR5 RAM.
Cold hardware stats alone don’t capture how satisfying AAA titles feel with its responsive controls and 7” IPS display. So while compact, the Steam Deck captures a home console experience anywhere thanks to its mature hardware design.
AYA NEO: Next-Gen Handheld Focused on Customization
Chinese startup AYA approaches handheld PC gaming from a craftsman mindset. Each small batch product exemplifies quality over quantity with thoughtful design choices.
Rather than chase Steam’s software ecosystem, they optimize for hardware flexibility. Multiple joysticks and modular layouts account for many playstyles. This shows in the AYA NEO 2021 iteration with its slick frame:
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Ryzen 5 4500U 6C/12T |
| GPU | Radeon Vega 6 Cores |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR4X |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe SSD |
| Display | 7" 1280×800 IPS 500nit |
| Dimensions | 257 x 106 x 33 mm |
| Weight | 650g |
AYA skips experimental designs for proven AMD mobile chips. A Ryzen 4500U CPU and Vega integrated graphics competently drive modern games. Cooling stays quiet thanks to a sizable but lightweight chassis with ample airflow.
This refinement shows – the latest AYA NEO 2021 model runs gameplay smooth as butter. Its higher density display also looks great at 500 nits brightness. If you believe variety is the spice of life, the AYA NEO makes a strong case thanks to its modular approach.
Gaming Performance and Libraries
Now for the golden question – how well do these systems actually play games? After all, rock-solid hardware matters little without software to take advantage!
Here‘s a performance snapshot across some noteworthy AAA titles:
| Game | Steam Deck (FPS) | AYA NEO (FPS) |
|---|---|---|
| Elden Ring | 45 | 38 |
| God of War | 60 | 47 |
| Forza Horizon 5 | 92 | 67 |
| Gears 5 | 87 | 62 |
Tests courtesy of Digital Foundry using a blend of mediumhigh settings show Steam Deck‘s RDNA 2 graphics provide a visible bump. This aligns with its best-in-class 1.6 TFLOPS putting it closer to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One power.
The AYA NEO isn‘t far behind thanks to some software trickery, but expect to make some graphics sacrifices. Its 1 TFLOP Vega integrated graphics roughly match the original PS4 and Xbox One. But both handhelds still outmuscle the Nintendo Switch in portable mode.
Library support also favors Steam thanks to Valve‘s longstanding relationship with developers. As of today over 80% of Top 100 Steam games run flawlessly on Deck. Verified compatibility continues improving as more studios add native Linux ports.
Windows compatibility helps offset AYA‘s smaller game catalog. But running intensive titles through a compatibility layer introduces minor performance drags. Plan on tweaking graphics settings more often to smooth out frame pacing.
Let‘s summarize the key takeaways so far:
- Steam Deck offers no compromise 1080P gameplay thanks to faster RDNA 2 graphics. Huge Steam library with thousands of verified titles to play on Linux.
- AYA NEO lags Steam Deck on raw power. But provides brighter screen and modular options tailoring its use. Windows compatibility supplements smaller verified game list.
Now let‘s tackle the final (and for many decisive) consideration around pricing…
Pricing Showdown
Cost keeps handheld PCs out of reach for many gamers. Sadly these cutting edge devices demand premiums well beyond mass market alternatives like the $299 Nintendo Switch.
Here’s how the mid-tier 256GB SSD models for both compare at retail:
| Device | Price |
|---|---|
| Steam Deck | $529 |
| AYA NEO 2021 | $1299 |
Ouch, over double the price! The AYA NEO trades blows on functionality but costs doubly so. Even the entry level 64GB Steam Deck squeaks by at $399.
In AYA‘s defense, small production batches and cutting-edge components cost big bucks. Laborious manufacturing techniques also contribute to overhead. Furthermore Steam heavily subsidizes Deck pricing to spur platform growth according to insiders.
But explaining the why matters little to savvy shoppers. Forking out twice as much money equates to immense added value that the AYA NEO doesn‘t quite achieve. There‘s a reason Steam Deck preorders sold out almost instantly!
Final Recommendations
We’ve covered a ton of ground comparing GPU specs, OS capabilities and pricing models. With all that unpacked, who comes out on top in a battle between the AYA NEO versus Steam Deck?
For most gamers including myself, the Steam Deck strikes an ideal balance of power, compatibility and affordability. It delivers no compromise 1080P gaming backed by Valve’s trusted Steam platform. Huge verified game catalog means spending more time playing and less time troubleshooting!
However the AYA NEO speaks to folks wanting a premium experience fine-tuned to their tastes. Fanatics willing to compromise on battery life and graphics fidelity may appreciate its brighter display and creative modular layout. Just prepare to pay dearly for the privilege with a $1000+ price tag.
Here is how I would summarize guidance based on budgets and gaming priorities:
- Prefer Steam-based games? Get a Steam Deck!
- Need to run intensive new releases with high FPS? Grab a Steam Deck!
- Seeking a premium handheld focused on portability? Choose AYA NEO!
- Want flexibility to customize controls layout? AYA NEO has modules for that!
- Tight budget the priority? Steam Deck no question!
Either device makes PC gaming far less ‘static‘ than our beefy desktop rigs. For gamers longing to slash cords without butchering visuals, a handheld PC revolution has clearly arrived. We just have two very compelling options to pick from!
I‘m excited to see you leverage either amazing device to embrace gaming mobility. Let me know if any other questions come up around optimizing your play!
