Zotac, a GPU manufacturer, has recently unveiled the Zone gaming handheld at Computex. This device competes with other second-gen Windows gaming handhelds on the market, such as the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI Plus. However, the Zone sets itself apart by offering unique features that differentiate it from the competition.
The Zone boasts an OLED screen, similar to the Steam Deck OLED, and two-stage adjustable triggers reminiscent of the Xbox Elite gamepad. Additionally, it features drift-resistant Hall effect joysticks, symmetrical PlayStation-esque joysticks, programmable dials, twin Steam Deck-like trackpads, a built-in kickstand, a Windows Hello camera, and both top and bottom USB4 ports. These features make the Zone a standout in the crowded gaming handheld market.
Hardware Specifications
Powering the Zone is an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U chip, which offers performance on par with its predecessor, the 7840U. The device also upgrades to LPDDR5X-7500 memory, providing a slight performance boost over previous models. However, the Zone’s 48.5 watt-hour battery pack is smaller compared to other gaming handhelds on the market. The device features a 7-inch 120Hz OLED screen with a brightness of 800 nits but lacks support for variable refresh rates.
Zotac, known for its innovative cooling solutions, has equipped the Zone with a single traditional fan and small vents to regulate temperatures. While there were speculations about incorporating AirJet’s solid-state cooling tech, Zotac indicated that it may not be suitable for the 8840U chip due to high wattage and cost concerns. The Zone is expected to cost around $800 when it releases in September, positioning it as a premium gaming handheld in the market.
The Zotac Zone presents an interesting option for gamers looking for a portable gaming experience. With a mix of unique features, solid hardware specifications, and innovative design elements, the Zone aims to carve out its niche in the competitive gaming handheld market. As consumers await its release, all eyes are on Zotac to deliver a compelling gaming experience with the Zone.
Leave a Reply