Valve's SteamOS 3.8 is nearing its official release, signaling exciting developments for handheld gaming systems. Recently, YouTuber The Phawx successfully managed to install this upcoming version of SteamOS on the Asus ROG Ally before its public launch, showcasing its potential.
The anticipation for SteamOS 3.8 is palpable among gaming enthusiasts, especially as Valve previously delivered SteamOS 3.7 Preview for its Steam Deck handheld in mid-March 2025. This latest version will be the first fully supported by non-Steam Deck handhelds, further demonstrating Valve's commitment to expanding its user base. While the ROG Ally typically operates on Windows 11 and contains a fair amount of bloatware, many users are eager for a streamlined gaming experience that Valve's SteamOS could provide.
In his detailed video, The Phawx showcased that installation of SteamOS 3.8 on the ROG Ally was relatively smooth, with most functions working as desired. Impressively, the SteamOS recognizes the ROG Ally's 120 Hz display and includes a toggle switch for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), which should enhance gameplay fluidity. However, he also highlighted a significant limitation—the ROG Ally is reportedly locked in a 15W TDP (Thermal Design Power) mode. This power setting restricts the device's performance potential, as the ROG Ally has a TDP range of 10-30W.
Interestingly, 15W is also the maximum power output that the Steam Deck operates on. While benchmarks showed that the ROG Ally outperformed the Steam Deck in various gaming scenarios, the overall performance gap was marginal. Specifically, The Phawx noted that the lower limits during gaming sessions were impressive, showcasing smoother gameplay. However, the performance was sometimes hindered due to the ROG Ally's custom CPU being throttled by the insufficient power plan compared to its specifications.
Despite the limitations presented, the potential for enhanced performance becomes clear with the official release of SteamOS 3.8. Users expect Valve to lift the power restrictions, enabling the ROG Ally and other handheld devices to fully tap into their high-performance capabilities.
A more comprehensive roll-out of SteamOS is on the horizon, with Valve also eyeing a release for Desktop PCs in the near future. This expansion could further enhance the versatility of SteamOS as a powerful alternative to existing operating systems in gaming. However, current performance comparisons reveal that the Steam Deck's custom Van Gogh APU outshines the ROG Ally's Ryzen Z1 Extreme, despite being older and built on a weaker architecture. Valve has optimized its software for the Steam Deck, creating an edge that could shift as the Ryzen Z2 and Ryzen Z2 Extreme are officially released later on.
Furthermore, the findings reported by The Phawx indicate that while most of the SteamOS functions are readily usable on the ROG Ally, several features still require refinement. The ROG Ally's controller, for instance, shows recognition problems, with back paddles appearing dysfunctional. Given that this is still an early version of SteamOS, ongoing improvements are expected as Valve finalizes the software for broader release.
This development also reflects the growing interest and collaboration between various tech companies like Valve and gaming hardware manufacturers. As handheld gaming continues to evolve, innovations like the SteamOS 3.8 signify a dynamic shift towards enhancing gaming performance and user experience, especially on devices that traditionally rely on Windows.
With SteamOS 3.8, players anticipate access to burgeoning functionalities that will not only elevate their gaming experiences but also expand the marketplace for handheld gaming consoles. As Valve gears up for the forthcoming official release, players are encouraged to consider the impact of these developments on their choices and experiences in portable gaming.
