Zotac has entered the competitive handheld gaming PC market with its Zone device, aiming to challenge established players like the Steam Deck OLED. With its impressive specs and unique features, the Zone offers a compelling package for gamers on the go.
Display: A Standout Feature
One of the Zone’s most praised aspects is its 7-inch AMOLED display:
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Up to 800 nits brightness
Reviewers consistently highlight the screen’s vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The higher refresh rate compared to the Steam Deck OLED (120Hz vs 90Hz) is a notable advantage for smoother gameplay[1][2].
Performance
Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor with Radeon 780M graphics, the Zone delivers strong gaming performance:
- Comparable to devices using the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip
- Capable of running demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Forza Horizon 5 smoothly at 1080p with medium settings[1]
- Benchmarks show solid frame rates across various games[2]
Controls and Ergonomics
The Zone offers a mix of traditional and innovative control features:
- Hall-effect analog sticks and triggers to prevent drift issues
- Two-stage adjustable triggers for customizable gameplay
- Radial dials around thumbsticks for quick settings adjustments
- Dual touchpads similar to the Steam Deck
- Comfortable curved design with rounded grips[3]
Some reviewers note that the button placement and overall feel are reminiscent of the Steam Deck, though with subtle improvements in ergonomics[2].
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life remains a concern for the Zone:
- 48.5Wh battery capacity
- Runtime of 1-2 hours for demanding games
- Shorter battery life compared to some competitors[1]
On the plus side, the device features dual USB4 ports with DisplayPort 1.4a support, offering versatile connectivity options[4].
Software and User Experience
The Zone runs on Windows 11, providing access to a wide range of PC games and applications. Zotac has developed a custom launcher to streamline the gaming experience, though some reviewers note it’s still in early stages of development[2].
Price and Value
While it offers impressive hardware, especially its display, the price point may be a hurdle for some consumers given the strong competition in the market[2][4].
Conclusion
The Zotac Zone presents itself as a strong contender in the handheld gaming PC space. Its standout AMOLED display, powerful performance, and innovative control features make it an attractive option for gamers seeking a premium portable experience. However, the relatively short battery life and high price point may give some potential buyers pause.
For those who prioritize display quality and are comfortable with the Windows ecosystem, the Zone offers a compelling alternative to the Steam Deck OLED. As Zotac continues to refine the software experience and if the price becomes more competitive, the Zone could carve out a significant niche in the growing handheld gaming market.
Citations:
[1] https://basic-tutorials.com/reviews/gadget-reviews/zotac-zone-review/
[2] https://www.gamesradar.com/hardware/handhelds/zotac-zone-review/
[3] https://www.theshortcut.com/p/zotac-zone-hands-on-review
[4] https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/hands-on-with-the-zotac-zone-gaming-handheld-its-got-a-gorgeous-screen-but-the-competition-is-ramping-up/
[5] https://www.techradar.com/computing/gaming-computers/hands-on-the-zotac-zone-is-the-newest-challenger-in-the-handheld-pc-gaming-arena-but-it-needs-some-work
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU2TyyF_e18
[7] https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/zotac-zone-review
[8] https://www.gamesradar.com/hardware/handhelds/the-zotac-zone-just-entered-the-handheld-ring-with-a-dollar799-price-tag-but-im-scared-itll-become-a-punching-bag/
