To some, the Zotac Zone will be another needless brick in the handheld wall.
Specs
One of the Zones showstopping specs is naturally its 1080p 120Hz AMOLED display.
On top of that, youve got a fairly standard 16GB LPDDR5X and 512GB SSD combo.
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
From the moment I got my hands on the Zone, I knew that Zotac understood this assignment.
In terms of layout, the Zone swaps its buttons compared to the Steam Deck.
Both use a symmetrical stick approach, which is sure to just some of you out there.
I would have much preferred a smooth, free-turning approach just like youd find on an old Hi-Fi unit.
But alas, the rotating wheels feel more like cranking an old disposable film camera.
But, its certainly a useful and attractive addition to the handhelds helpful setup.
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
Features
If theres one thing the Zone has on its side, its physical features.
Ive already touched on a couple of quirks like the handhelds radial dials and clicky D-pad.
Dont get me wrong, the clicky hair triggers will suit a variety of genres.
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
They’refineand work as an alternate way to navigate Windows 11.
Before I move on to software, I want to highlight that the Zone uses hall-effect triggers and sticks.
Okay, lets talk software, as its probably the biggest point of contention within the handheld realm.
In a way, simplicity may come to be the ONE launchers greatest strength.
Would I still suggest mostly just using Steam Big Picture more for a console-friendly layout?
Probably, yes, but with a little time, Zotacs software could feel incredibly fluid.
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
Ideally, I wantMicrosoftto step in and tailor Windows 11 handheld experiences at a OS level, but alas.
Thats going to disappoint some of you waiting for something that can boost fps beyond the ROG Ally.
As per usual, Im using low prefs across all tested games.
Doing so paints a maximum native performance, which in turn will help set expectations.
Visually, the OLED panel boasts comparable contrast and colors, beating out ordinary IPS displays.
The OLED screen really works its magic here, making the game’s rich foliage and post-apocalyptic landscapes pop.
Should you buy the Zotac Zone?
For more information on how we test gaming handhelds and other portable devices, check out ofGamesRadar+ hardware policy.
Looking for more portable ways to play?
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
Swing by thebest gaming phoneandbest gaming laptopfor more options.
Alternatively, take a peek at thebest Steam Deck accessoriesif youve already got Valves handheld.
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
(Image credit: Future / Phil Hayton)
