That's more GPD related than other devices. I have an Ayaneo Air Plus coming in that I'm hoping will have a lot better ergonomics and it's also basically the same size.
You also need to be careful of the button placement. On the Win4, the right stick is so close to the buttons it makes it hard to press them, especially the A and B buttons.
@@jmotley1I don't have a problem pressing A or B. The problem I have is more the lack of "grip space". The PSP like design might have worked for the smaller and ligher PSP (was still awkward to hold, especially when using the analogue pad) but isn't good for such a big and especially heavy device. I wonder of legitnessify wants the power of a 6800U or now 7840U, a battery that will last as long, if not longer and a pocketable size all in one device. Else he could get one of the many ARM based handhelds that are available in pocketable sizes but are less powerful.
I have both and gpd win 4 its giving me 25-30fps more in most AAA games and emulation. Psx2 works more stable in gpd. I payed $1000 for both devices (Argentina Price) and i really like gpd more.
The fact that it's the smallest form factor that does the best cooling/performance for the Win 4 Pro, makes it the most sense as a gaming handheld that you could actually hold for hours.
They said there is an update coming to fix the issue but their priority is pumping out more indygogo devices. POS company man. I will never buy another Chinese ging handheld, I'm sticking to the main players like ASUS, LENOVO, etc from now on. Those companies at least are more in the public eye and in a way are obligated to be accountable for issues that arise (well.... Maybe except for the ASUS SD card issue, which they're ignoring)
I just got the OLED steam deck with a bunch of accessories. Did not do enough research and did not know the win4 even existed. Now I very much regret not getting the win4 instead, the size is just so much more portable and also more powerful. You can link to a eGPU for great 1440p gaming at home. If they can somehow incorporate a add-on like a the old lapdock for the old motorola atrix phone, then this would be the first time I have seen a true all-in-one device that can fit in your pocket. I'm pretty excited to see where we will in another 5 years.
Well, reviewer seems to get lost between the size and compromises…the win4 keyboard is basically for quick emergency situations, so it’s basically an added bonus, a level above the win3’s keyboard. So physical size of the win4 is a plus, knowing that it is not as ergo as the Ally…but the Ally has better software to make the Ally feel more like a console out of the box, and it has the ASUS brand behind it, while the win4 can represent a big headache when it comes to after sales support. But at this point, only the small Chinese brands offer more daring specs and form factor than the big names.
These two have the same alps sticks, you can search for the hall replacement, which is compatible with both devices. And gpd provided the instruction on how to fix deadzone. Considering to get one for myself
Nice review, cheers! My hands are on the smaller side, so I find the Win 4 a good size. Can totally understand anyone with bigger hands find the Win 4 a little cramped to hold. I also really like using the trackpoint on Lenovo laptops, so the Win 4 mouse nubbin feels natural to use.
Yeah, ergonomics are a very personal thing. I find the Steam Deck actively hard to use, despite all the praise it gets, and I have a Win 4 that feels great and very natural. I specifically got it chasing the PSVita-like form factor and it 100% did what I expected it to do (the SD card does get uncomfortably warm sometimes, though). Ultimately my takeaway is that it's great that there are so many different handhelds now. I have wrist issues, so the idea of detachable controllers in the Lenovo is interesting, I love the Joycon for that reason, too. But it's worth noting that, for my money, there is no other handheld that solves the issues with being Windows-based as well as the Win 4 does. The keyboard and the small form factor are game changers for me. My Steam Deck is gathering dust since I got it.
ive had the GPD win4 7840u for 5 months now and i got small hands... this device makes my hands hurt for intended play sessions even with grips from etsy. if you know any grips to help please let me know because I'm close to selling it for a little bigger device soon.
I only have Win 4 and I love it (maybe because I have smaller hands?). Unfortunately I don't like the design Ally is going for, but I do agree with some of your points on the short coming of win 4. Cheers and keep up the good work / video
@@rajivpaul9122I didn't have the latest version, got problem with shipment and got it refunded. So far playing AAA games with low setting still looks very good~ just make sure the games you want to play can adjust font size to bigger size.
Full disclosure, I don’t have a steam deck or WIN 4. I got my Rog Ally a little over a week ago. I’m historically a console gamer. I have been playing Series X since it was released. The Ally has been amazing. I’m shocked that I’ve played it as much as I have. I’ve played a lot of games that I wanted to on console, but just didn’t. Like Shredders Revenge per example lol. I’ve been blown away by the technology in general. I’ve been playing Starfield on it as well. The only game I’m playing on console now is madden 24. I love the Ally.
Took me a while to accept the nub on a lenovo thinkpad I used for work. One day after several months I was just using it because it was the natural thing to so. I hope they keep developing with nub as an option because the trackpads make the device so much bigger.
@@michaelmcteague7471 The thumb works fine, we just need some practice. The old Toshiba Librettos used a thumb numb on the right, and put the mouse buttons under the left hand (but they gave it a rough texture which really made a difference vs the rubber nubs so you can brush it lightly). Placing the nub on the upper right, would have made the operation more natural, like on the Pocket 3 track pad, but i guess it was a compromise.
Looks like most of the reasons you don’t like the win 4 is due to it being smaller. That’s what you want but you can’t have it all. Want comfort you need something bigger. Simple.
why people keep saying gpd win 4 looks like ps vita, i compare the vita and psp but the psp have the more look to gpd win 4, and yeah this is just a small argument but i just want to point that out.
interesting review. To me it sound like you are confused on what your priorities are or you like to have your cake and eat it. Sometimes we don't know exactly what we want until we try a few things. Sometimes we are unrealistic and want it all. If your priority is a smaller device then you should expect to compromise on comfort and ergonomics. If your preference is comfort and ergonomics you should expect to compromise on size and portability. Unfortunately there is little working around this as the laws of physics apply... Certainly a middle ground may be found but the Win 4 is not that middle ground. It is in the extreme side due to its compact size. The Legion Go and the Steam Deck are on the extreme side of the spectrum owing to their huge sizes. The Asus ROG Ally is probably the closest middle ground you can find. Perhaps a good alternative to the GPD Win 4 is the GPD Win Mini. If Compact Size is your main priority then look towards the GPD Win Mini especially with the grips.
I hope gpd fixes the heating issues with win mini that The Phawx pointed out. It does seem to be on pace to be the best compact handheld pc if they'll be able to fix those.
I have the same frustration with my RP2+, there is no room for our hands. I play street 3.3 with the D-Pad and suspended left hand. I feel like the Win gpd 4 had huge potential but maybe not tested by normal/big hand. Funny thing is that the Gpd Win Mini will have grips for better comfort and have HalSticks but the form factor is not as cool as the WIN 4
I love the look of the rog ally but it's missing one CRITICAL thing. And that's some sort of mouse trackpad on the right side. The Win 4 has the nub. I absolutely need that considering the amount of point n clicks I play. Which buttons are the default left and right mouse click?
smaller portable gaming devices is regressive thinking. they will grow and grow until its like holding a skateboard and some one murders another person on public transit over some seating dispute revolving around their over grown gaming device and using their portable gaming device they end another passenger
I love my steam deck the most . But truth be told , I have used it like 3 times since I got the ally. The ally is just much more portable and easier to carry around . The screen is phenomenal . The audio is better than the deck . It’s definitely NOT as comfortable but it’s comfortable enough . I even bought an xg mobile and have it dock to my tv lol … yeah I hate to like it but I do . The other option you might like is the Ayn Loki Max. Sure it’s not that cheap and it’s 6800u but I have seen others call it the “comfiest small handheld “ Is my ally tethered to a plug 90% of my game time ? Sure… but it’s the best we’ve got right now .
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds Yeah, same in UK import tax and shipping costs a small fortune , does make you consider purchases very carefully. Going to bypass GPD Win Mini, AyaNeo Air Plus and see what 2024 brings, Although the Lenovo Legion Go does look great, especially with no shipping or import taxes to pay.
I have the Win 4 and it is quite heavy and thick. That being said, I absolutely love the form factor and it truly feels like a handheld. The screen is amazing as well. I have a steam deck and I play it more than it, but if Windows ever gets good on the Deck ill be back on it
I have win4 and steamdeck. Win4 has been my daily driver since i bought it. Steamdeck is just too uncomfortable for my small hands. I even gave my steamdeck to my brother😅
i have the ally but if it wasnt for my budget limitation i would definetly picked the gpd, i mean just look at is size, i love and play still on my psvita and thing thing look just like it
lol I was searching for reviews of the GPD Win4 vs the Ayaneo slide and I have the win4 and I feel like I'm the only one who thinks the Win4's "getting warm" is fine. And As a female the win4 is a good size. Sure it's a bit heavy but I'm fine w/ that considering it has everything I need such as a keyboard. I really like it for retro games, or low power games. I've played Elden Ring on it and I did fine, got about 60-90 minutes of play, it's been a while since I played that game. All I can say when you decide what to get, just consider what you're wanting and go from there. I will never be unhappy w/ my 32GB 6800U Win4, until a few years go by and it can't run what I want which I don't really see it happening. It ran a beta game better than my potato desktop i72600k with a XFX 290x. lol Mainly cause the GPU was too old on the PC to handle the beta game which wanted a 20 series GPU.
I Love the way the SD/Rog ally reliability and playability options , but i need something smaller pocketable xbox type . for something not $1500 .. what is the best way to go ?
Thanks man. I have a steam deck but I’ve been wanting a windows handheld since the first aya neo. I was between the aya air 1s and the GPD win 4 because I want a smaller device than the deck. The form factor is the most important thing to me. The air just has too bad of battery and the screen is just a bit too small with those bezels to justify the price. I’ve also heard a lot of complaints about their QC lately and the air devices overheating. Was going to get a win 4 until this video. I feel a lot of reviewers love the devices but maybe don’t try to use them long term enough to notice the annoyances. In summary, I guess small win handhelds are just not quite there yet. At least by the time they are, we should have processors that are a bit more power efficient as well as 120hz oled panels. I think for my windows handheld I’ll grab an Ally and just upgrade the storage to avoid sd card issues.
Add a 3D grip and you will like it more. But I'm tempting to have another device with 7" screen. I love my GPD Win 4 but there is something... that doesn't satisfy my thirst... Now checking on Win Mini (7" screen, smaller form factor than Win 4 but worrying about the thermal...). Anyways, cheers from another Canadian fellow (Montreal) who loves an UMPC
No wonder why the gpd win 4 you have right now is not the latest one so that's why it feels cheap. The 6800u version feels like a prototype version of the gpd win 4 for me. Not only that, there a lot of complains with 6800u version but the 7840u have already fix the issues that you have
after owning an xperia i think the GPDWIN4s ribbon cable system that attaches to the screen will probably fail, moving parts like that are bad and they're not easy to fix.
Bigger device will of course be more comfortable. The win has portability and just about fits in a pocket. If u want it more comfortable they sell grips. For me I grew up on handhelds being like this, so it doesn’t bother me, and I have large hands. The newer version 7840 I believe is a little better with heat and the internals.
I think the best thing to do is buy the Steam Deck at the lowest possible price and wait for better devices in terms of screen, power, battery and ergonomics.
I prefer thicker devices. With my switch for instance I got the bulkiest and largest case and still it isnt thick enough. Devices being thin is not good for my already poor blood circulation due to the awkward grasp
I got the GPD Win 1 back when it launched in 2016. Thought it was the coolest little device to hit the market, even if it was relatively useless to me… But when the GPD 4 came out it was a no doubt buy for me. I got it, and it was just as cool as it looked online. My only issue is the joysticks are awful for FPS games or anything else that takes fine movements. It’s such a shame that this device can run any of the games I want, but the joysticks are the thing that kills it for me!
I find the Win4 build quality to be better than the Ally. The Ally is just more comfortable because it is bigger. Can't have our cake and eat it too and all.
Sort of a cop out to say that when the Ayaneo Air Plus is both small and comfortable. Ergonomics and comfort are a thing at any size, GPD just didn't prioritize them.
I want to say this is a great comparison video but it seems that this an Ally video. I know you said it’s not a teardown but the intentions vs your execution made it so, WHICH is in fact fine but maybe change the title or like someone else said the comparisons should be handhelds within the same bracket on the spectrum. Nevertheless I did enjoy hearing about the Ally though and why I would want to steer clear of the Win 4, at least for the moment. Awesome video in that sense.
@megaloth1955 I have mixed feelings. On one side I am GLAD for you, on the other "fk you" dude, I am jealous 🤣🤣🤣🤣, I only seen them around 800eu 7640cpu which is not top and its overpriced cos go and rog, same as sd are much less expensive even locally I have sd and Go but want a smaller win device
@megaloth1955 aaaaww...I see. I have come across 750 -800 gpd and omexplayers BUT I am in baltics and all the taxes are already included, we don't pay anything upon arrival from aliexpress for about 2 years now, because tax charge policy, as well as we don't declare goods bought from ali, wish, etc But not Ebay, there I have to prove I payed taxes almost every time
Man i got similiar dillema. I really WANT to exchange ally. But the other device is just either more expensive and not worth it. Lenovo would be best if it had more usb and ram, unfortunately
Grips don't change bad design choices, only masks them and the left stick isn't bad, this was when this device had massive deadzone issues which has since been fixed.
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds well most of not all of your complaints were how you thought it felt in your hands, with the grip that is available it feels like your holding a PlayStation controller, so virtually all your complaints would be resolved. It's really a night and day difference. The 3d files to print the grip were also released by the developer so even tho you'd had to print it or buy it from a printer it's basically an official accessories. Out of the box it's not the most comfortable I agree but with the grip is like heaven.
I enjoyed the honesty in this review compared to other videos that really seem to be more of an advertisement. So few youtubers really mentioned the gpd deadzone issue for example. I'm still waiting for a win max 2 (7840u) but starting to lose patience with how long it's taking to ship. 😢
Great review but you need to understand that one was made for gaming, and the other is a full all around productivity device. Hence the built in keyboard. And also the deadzone issue has been fixed with an update.
I think most or almost all your negative points on their GD P win 4 was mostly to do with your hand size you do want something smaller yes but at the same time you do have larger hands so having something that is as small as the GDP win 4 for you would cause you many many drawbacks but somebody maybe like me who has smaller hands it actually holds up really really well I'm actually not a fan of the sizes of the new ones because they just bigger and a bit more difficult for me to hold for a long period of time I literally think that the main market for owners for the GD P win 4 would be those with smaller hands and I I think it is a thing that I think you should make a statement about because you don't really specifically have small hands your hands on the larger side where a larger portable gaming unit is better for you rather than a smaller one. But I think valid it's just I think you should make a statement that you have larger hands so those are smaller hands experience may vary
I am a big fan of the niche work that gpd is doing, but, I have GPD win 3 and I hate it and I hoped that by learning from everything wrong they did with it they would solve it in win 4, And it really disappoints me to know that they don't pay attention to the details, I really want a portable device for gaming and work that won't break my back when I carry it.
I have a Win4 and have the same thoughts. I’m not going to buy another device because it cost too much son I’m going to have to wait this out. The Win4 is heavy, the buttons are way too small, the UI is slow and the mousepad is a joke. Really wish I had seen this video first.
@@JoeysRetroHandheldsabsolutely you articulate why you don’t like something very well . But at the same time , when I try something I know you hated (like the rp3 ) and use it myself … I’m like “yeah this is….completely fine imho” But definitely not dissing , I just don’t have that high standards personally .
Yep, makes sense. I tend to go heavy into the "would I personally use this" side of things, which could be more balanced the other way. But it's hard for me to recommend things that I wouldn't even use, for whatever reason I find. Trust me, it's be way easier and better for views if I just started recommending everything, lol but that would just be scummy.
Thats why I funded the onexfly. I wanted a smaller device for travel. Already owned a onexplayer 1s that i prefer to my ally and my deck when it comes to ease of game installs but its to big for travel. even then i just wished a onexly came with a trackpad and sim card slot to make it my all in one device as i dont make calls on my phone just use it for hotspot.
I could forgive the OneXFlys lack of VRR if it was cheaper, but at more expensive than the Ally plus only using DHL shipping in Canada (which adds a ton of fees), it's not worth it. Looks awesome though, would love to see it. Also, every review unit had the 60hz screen, they haven't shown the 120hz screen yet, which is.. Weird.
I have a Win 4 for a few month now and love it (especially the physical keyboard, which is its killer feature if you want to play DOS games like I do), but the ergonomics of holding it aren't great. It's not even it's thickness but that it lacks good, ergonomic grips. The SD is if far more comfortable to hold. A future model should leave the PSP like form behind and go for better ergonomics, even if it means a wider shell. I was looking for some grips but sadly could only find 3D printed ones that also cover the the mouse / joypad switch and can't compare to properly produced ones. Still wonder if I would get something like the GPD Win (Mini) with it's clamshell design in the future. Will still offer a keyboard, which will be easier to use. The Ally felt really cheap in my hands, no comparison to the Win 4 or the SD. I rather have good battery life than a device that fits in my pocket. If you want the latter and good battery life, you have to go with lower performance devices and especially ARM based ones. There are enough of them available from different brands, so I don't really get people complaining about handheld PCs being bigger than ARM devices. Wanting powerful devices with long battery life and in a small form factor is wishful thinking.
@@JoeysRetroHandheldsi feel like thats just the current state of handheld pc. I have the win4 and steam deck but they are meh. The switch is still my main handheld.
98% of this whole video just sounds like "I prefer the ROG, so ill absolutely demolish everything about the GPD and kiss ass to Asus" This whole video just screams incredibly biased, far from a fair review.
they both look super bulky and dated im just waiting for screens to be flat and extend out like a tape measure then you can fold and pocket these things
![BEST Gaming Handheld in 2024!? [Steam Deck OLED | Ally X | Legion Go | Claw]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/czoKrKcgHaY/mqdefault.jpg)
FINALLY someone else is saying it! I want a device just like this that will fit in your pocket. So sick of technology getting bigger and bigger.
Clearly didn't watch the whole video and see how much the smaller device was uncomfortable for him and the bigger alloy was more comfortable 😂.
That's more GPD related than other devices. I have an Ayaneo Air Plus coming in that I'm hoping will have a lot better ergonomics and it's also basically the same size.
You also need to be careful of the button placement. On the Win4, the right stick is so close to the buttons it makes it hard to press them, especially the A and B buttons.
@@jmotley1I don't have a problem pressing A or B. The problem I have is more the lack of "grip space". The PSP like design might have worked for the smaller and ligher PSP (was still awkward to hold, especially when using the analogue pad) but isn't good for such a big and especially heavy device.
I wonder of legitnessify wants the power of a 6800U or now 7840U, a battery that will last as long, if not longer and a pocketable size all in one device. Else he could get one of the many ARM based handhelds that are available in pocketable sizes but are less powerful.
Not at a point where we can make anything near powerful enough and compact enough for that. If you aren't aware of that...
I have both and gpd win 4 its giving me 25-30fps more in most AAA games and emulation. Psx2 works more stable in gpd. I payed $1000 for both devices (Argentina Price) and i really like gpd more.
The gpd win 4 is my favorite, because of the design, technologies, more ram, physical keyboard and mini trackpad, it's a pity I don't have it
I thought it'd be mine as well!
And it's really tiny and no sd card issues
The fact that it's the smallest form factor that does the best cooling/performance for the Win 4 Pro, makes it the most sense as a gaming handheld that you could actually hold for hours.
Nah dude. I have the GPD WIN 4 and the dead zone issue makes it borderline useless. I regret returning my ROG ALLY.
They said there is an update coming to fix the issue but their priority is pumping out more indygogo devices. POS company man. I will never buy another Chinese ging handheld, I'm sticking to the main players like ASUS, LENOVO, etc from now on. Those companies at least are more in the public eye and in a way are obligated to be accountable for issues that arise (well.... Maybe except for the ASUS SD card issue, which they're ignoring)
On the win 4: deadzones will be adjustable in a month. Also the gpd win 4 is cooler than the steam deck. Al least it's the case with my devices.
I just got the OLED steam deck with a bunch of accessories. Did not do enough research and did not know the win4 even existed. Now I very much regret not getting the win4 instead, the size is just so much more portable and also more powerful. You can link to a eGPU for great 1440p gaming at home. If they can somehow incorporate a add-on like a the old lapdock for the old motorola atrix phone, then this would be the first time I have seen a true all-in-one device that can fit in your pocket. I'm pretty excited to see where we will in another 5 years.
Well, reviewer seems to get lost between the size and compromises…the win4 keyboard is basically for quick emergency situations, so it’s basically an added bonus, a level above the win3’s keyboard. So physical size of the win4 is a plus, knowing that it is not as ergo as the Ally…but the Ally has better software to make the Ally feel more like a console out of the box, and it has the ASUS brand behind it, while the win4 can represent a big headache when it comes to after sales support. But at this point, only the small Chinese brands offer more daring specs and form factor than the big names.
These two have the same alps sticks, you can search for the hall replacement, which is compatible with both devices. And gpd provided the instruction on how to fix deadzone. Considering to get one for myself
Why didn't I understand every negative comments he had with win 4? They are all not true in my experience, usability, functionality, etc. Weird.
Nice review, cheers! My hands are on the smaller side, so I find the Win 4 a good size. Can totally understand anyone with bigger hands find the Win 4 a little cramped to hold. I also really like using the trackpoint on Lenovo laptops, so the Win 4 mouse nubbin feels natural to use.
Yeah, ergonomics are a very personal thing. I find the Steam Deck actively hard to use, despite all the praise it gets, and I have a Win 4 that feels great and very natural. I specifically got it chasing the PSVita-like form factor and it 100% did what I expected it to do (the SD card does get uncomfortably warm sometimes, though).
Ultimately my takeaway is that it's great that there are so many different handhelds now. I have wrist issues, so the idea of detachable controllers in the Lenovo is interesting, I love the Joycon for that reason, too.
But it's worth noting that, for my money, there is no other handheld that solves the issues with being Windows-based as well as the Win 4 does. The keyboard and the small form factor are game changers for me. My Steam Deck is gathering dust since I got it.
ive had the GPD win4 7840u for 5 months now and i got small hands... this device makes my hands hurt for intended play sessions even with grips from etsy. if you know any grips to help please let me know because I'm close to selling it for a little bigger device soon.
I only have Win 4 and I love it (maybe because I have smaller hands?). Unfortunately I don't like the design Ally is going for, but I do agree with some of your points on the short coming of win 4. Cheers and keep up the good work / video
Did you get the newest version of the win 4? N how's it holding up with the AAA titles?
@@rajivpaul9122I didn't have the latest version, got problem with shipment and got it refunded. So far playing AAA games with low setting still looks very good~ just make sure the games you want to play can adjust font size to bigger size.
Have they fixed the dead zone problems yet?
Thanks, I have an Ally but I was curious about its competitors
Just bought the win 4 6800U made sure to grab a grip cause I hear it’s essentialllll for the win 4. Also the case cause why not
Full disclosure, I don’t have a steam deck or WIN 4. I got my Rog Ally a little over a week ago. I’m historically a console gamer. I have been playing Series X since it was released.
The Ally has been amazing. I’m shocked that I’ve played it as much as I have. I’ve played a lot of games that I wanted to on console, but just didn’t. Like Shredders Revenge per example lol.
I’ve been blown away by the technology in general. I’ve been playing Starfield on it as well. The only game I’m playing on console now is madden 24. I love the Ally.
and rog ally still cant play kingdom hearts 1.5+2.5
Took me a while to accept the nub on a lenovo thinkpad I used for work. One day after several months I was just using it because it was the natural thing to so. I hope they keep developing with nub as an option because the trackpads make the device so much bigger.
I wish my brain worked for those nubs like yours does.
I do wonder if the thumb is less comfortable for it. I used the index finger as the Lenovo nub was in the middle of the keyboard
@@michaelmcteague7471 The thumb works fine, we just need some practice. The old Toshiba Librettos used a thumb numb on the right, and put the mouse buttons under the left hand (but they gave it a rough texture which really made a difference vs the rubber nubs so you can brush it lightly). Placing the nub on the upper right, would have made the operation more natural, like on the Pocket 3 track pad, but i guess it was a compromise.
hell yeah this guy knows what people are looking for. subbed.
The handheld PC lore thickens
Great comparison video! I was considering the Win 4, but I love my ally
Compare it to the old psp slim, is ergonomics worse on the gpd win 4?
If its not we could get used to it
Looks like most of the reasons you don’t like the win 4 is due to it being smaller. That’s what you want but you can’t have it all. Want comfort you need something bigger. Simple.
why people keep saying gpd win 4 looks like ps vita, i compare the vita and psp but the psp have the more look to gpd win 4, and yeah this is just a small argument but i just want to point that out.
interesting review. To me it sound like you are confused on what your priorities are or you like to have your cake and eat it. Sometimes we don't know exactly what we want until we try a few things. Sometimes we are unrealistic and want it all. If your priority is a smaller device then you should expect to compromise on comfort and ergonomics. If your preference is comfort and ergonomics you should expect to compromise on size and portability. Unfortunately there is little working around this as the laws of physics apply... Certainly a middle ground may be found but the Win 4 is not that middle ground. It is in the extreme side due to its compact size. The Legion Go and the Steam Deck are on the extreme side of the spectrum owing to their huge sizes. The Asus ROG Ally is probably the closest middle ground you can find. Perhaps a good alternative to the GPD Win 4 is the GPD Win Mini. If Compact Size is your main priority then look towards the GPD Win Mini especially with the grips.
I hope gpd fixes the heating issues with win mini that The Phawx pointed out. It does seem to be on pace to be the best compact handheld pc if they'll be able to fix those.
@@richardgano9783 looks like they are taking your concerns seriously and publicly. Hopefully the mitigations work
I have the same frustration with my RP2+, there is no room for our hands. I play street 3.3 with the D-Pad and suspended left hand. I feel like the Win gpd 4 had huge potential but maybe not tested by normal/big hand. Funny thing is that the Gpd Win Mini will have grips for better comfort and have HalSticks but the form factor is not as cool as the WIN 4
I love the look of the rog ally but it's missing one CRITICAL thing. And that's some sort of mouse trackpad on the right side. The Win 4 has the nub. I absolutely need that considering the amount of point n clicks I play. Which buttons are the default left and right mouse click?
I'd appreciate it if the buttons were a bit Bigger and the device Tad bit Big in width and was a bit slimmer
So there’s 3 versions of the gpd win 4 correct which is the middle one the 7640u?
??? what about the gpd win mini or the updated win 4?
I really wish someone would put both these devices together 😅
I have the gpd win 4 and its thickness is also what bothers me considering its smaller. As for the dead zones yeah they are bad.
smaller portable gaming devices is regressive thinking. they will grow and grow until its like holding a skateboard and some one murders another person on public transit over some seating dispute revolving around their over grown gaming device and using their portable gaming device they end another passenger
Gpu win 4 being able to connect to any gpu is huge for me.
Yep, Win 4 is definitely more versatile in that way. Although the Ally does have a mod coming out for that.
nice that's a pro as well the community on the ally is way better than the actual customer service from Gpd@@JoeysRetroHandhelds
Can't wait until we get a windows handheld the size of an RP3+ or Vita
They're getting bigger 😂
I love my steam deck the most .
But truth be told , I have used it like 3 times since I got the ally.
The ally is just much more portable and easier to carry around . The screen is phenomenal . The audio is better than the deck . It’s definitely NOT as comfortable but it’s comfortable enough .
I even bought an xg mobile and have it dock to my tv lol … yeah I hate to like it but I do .
The other option you might like is the Ayn Loki Max. Sure it’s not that cheap and it’s 6800u but I have seen others call it the “comfiest small handheld “
Is my ally tethered to a plug 90% of my game time ? Sure… but it’s the best we’ve got right now .
Nailed my thoughts completely, yep.
In reviewing Win 4s, always include the m.2 2280 SSD! It's actually using the long laptop SSD no need to buy that small one.
put 3d printed grip on gpd win 4 and youre ready to go
I love the look of the GPD, it reminds me of my 2009 sidekick LX and the PSP, just a shame the screen is not 144hz otherwise I’d be all over it
Dude I was so close to ordering the win 4 but I couldn't wait foe the shipping so I just bought the ally. Amazing review tho
Have both and enjoy both. Win 4 for travel. Ally for the couch.
I have both devices, The Rog Ally is the winner for me but I still prefer my Onexplayer Mini pro 6800U, it's kind of in between the Win 4 and the Ally
The new OneXFly looks awesome, but it's a lot more expensive to Canada since they ship DHL. Going to keep an eye on the used market for it.
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds Yeah, same in UK import tax and shipping costs a small fortune , does make you consider purchases very carefully. Going to bypass GPD Win Mini, AyaNeo Air Plus and see what 2024 brings, Although the Lenovo Legion Go does look great, especially with no shipping or import taxes to pay.
I have the Win 4 and it is quite heavy and thick. That being said, I absolutely love the form factor and it truly feels like a handheld. The screen is amazing as well. I have a steam deck and I play it more than it, but if Windows ever gets good on the Deck ill be back on it
Rn I’m between the SD OLED or the Win 4, Would you say it’s better even with the big price difference?
Is the steam deck lighter or the win 4 is ?
That intro 😂😂😂. Great vid my friend! - Stubbs
Win4 based on PSP predecessor of psvita you mentioned earlier
I have win4 and steamdeck. Win4 has been my daily driver since i bought it. Steamdeck is just too uncomfortable for my small hands. I even gave my steamdeck to my brother😅
i have the ally but if it wasnt for my budget limitation i would definetly picked the gpd, i mean just look at is size, i love and play still on my psvita and thing thing look just like it
lol I was searching for reviews of the GPD Win4 vs the Ayaneo slide and I have the win4 and I feel like I'm the only one who thinks the Win4's "getting warm" is fine. And As a female the win4 is a good size. Sure it's a bit heavy but I'm fine w/ that considering it has everything I need such as a keyboard. I really like it for retro games, or low power games. I've played Elden Ring on it and I did fine, got about 60-90 minutes of play, it's been a while since I played that game.
All I can say when you decide what to get, just consider what you're wanting and go from there. I will never be unhappy w/ my 32GB 6800U Win4, until a few years go by and it can't run what I want which I don't really see it happening. It ran a beta game better than my potato desktop i72600k with a XFX 290x. lol Mainly cause the GPU was too old on the PC to handle the beta game which wanted a 20 series GPU.
I Love the way the SD/Rog ally reliability and playability options , but i need something smaller pocketable xbox type . for something not $1500 .. what is the best way to go ?
Thanks man. I have a steam deck but I’ve been wanting a windows handheld since the first aya neo. I was between the aya air 1s and the GPD win 4 because I want a smaller device than the deck. The form factor is the most important thing to me. The air just has too bad of battery and the screen is just a bit too small with those bezels to justify the price. I’ve also heard a lot of complaints about their QC lately and the air devices overheating. Was going to get a win 4 until this video. I feel a lot of reviewers love the devices but maybe don’t try to use them long term enough to notice the annoyances.
In summary, I guess small win handhelds are just not quite there yet. At least by the time they are, we should have processors that are a bit more power efficient as well as 120hz oled panels. I think for my windows handheld I’ll grab an Ally and just upgrade the storage to avoid sd card issues.
you could go for a legion go if you can wait
@@yashdes1 not like wine
Add a 3D grip and you will like it more. But I'm tempting to have another device with 7" screen. I love my GPD Win 4 but there is something... that doesn't satisfy my thirst... Now checking on Win Mini (7" screen, smaller form factor than Win 4 but worrying about the thermal...). Anyways, cheers from another Canadian fellow (Montreal) who loves an UMPC
What's your problems with the win 4 or do you have any
@3dtheking No issue. Just the general comfort, there is something bothering. Adding 3d grip definitely helps, but it kills the portability.
If the ally had the keyboard i'd be so happy.
Agreed. I program my M2 button to bring up the keyboard with the touch of a button.
It helps.
No wonder why the gpd win 4 you have right now is not the latest one so that's why it feels cheap. The 6800u version feels like a prototype version of the gpd win 4 for me. Not only that, there a lot of complains with 6800u version but the 7840u have already fix the issues that you have
after owning an xperia i think the GPDWIN4s ribbon cable system that attaches to the screen will probably fail, moving parts like that are bad and they're not easy to fix.
Watching this to pass time before starfield releases in 20mins
Bigger device will of course be more comfortable. The win has portability and just about fits in a pocket. If u want it more comfortable they sell grips. For me I grew up on handhelds being like this, so it doesn’t bother me, and I have large hands. The newer version 7840 I believe is a little better with heat and the internals.
I'm looking at buying a ROG ALLY - how do I load it with games from different devices such as ps2 - ps5 and the Xbox??
I think the best thing to do is buy the Steam Deck at the lowest possible price and wait for better devices in terms of screen, power, battery and ergonomics.
I prefer thicker devices. With my switch for instance I got the bulkiest and largest case and still it isnt thick enough.
Devices being thin is not good for my already poor blood circulation due to the awkward grasp
I got the GPD Win 1 back when it launched in 2016. Thought it was the coolest little device to hit the market, even if it was relatively useless to me…
But when the GPD 4 came out it was a no doubt buy for me. I got it, and it was just as cool as it looked online.
My only issue is the joysticks are awful for FPS games or anything else that takes fine movements. It’s such a shame that this device can run any of the games I want, but the joysticks are the thing that kills it for me!
I’m waiting for my GPD win mini .. fingers crossed it will be the device
I find the Win4 build quality to be better than the Ally. The Ally is just more comfortable because it is bigger. Can't have our cake and eat it too and all.
Sort of a cop out to say that when the Ayaneo Air Plus is both small and comfortable. Ergonomics and comfort are a thing at any size, GPD just didn't prioritize them.
I'm in doubt between these two, which one would you recommend?
win 4， rog ally cant play kingdom hearts 1.5+2.5 and rog ally analog stick got some issue after a month of playing
@@xflovewhy can’t it? If it could play AAA games why can’t it run kingdom hearts 1-2.5? I’m deciding between the two
@@dimendkai SE alreay patch and fix KH after rog ally x come out ，kh is able to play now
I want to say this is a great comparison video but it seems that this an Ally video. I know you said it’s not a teardown but the intentions vs your execution made it so, WHICH is in fact fine but maybe change the title or like someone else said the comparisons should be handhelds within the same bracket on the spectrum. Nevertheless I did enjoy hearing about the Ally though and why I would want to steer clear of the Win 4, at least for the moment. Awesome video in that sense.
I like this honest review❤
What about the ayaneo slide ? Is it better
What Playnite theme is that on the Ally at 5:38
?
Hey it's J Hero.
what the dragon thing in the background?
Illidan statue!
I loved win3 but win4 for 1200 was a bit too much. I'll definitely get one if come across for a reasonable price just for fofm factor
I just grabbed a 7640U Win 4 for 500 bucks in the latest Aliexpress sale. It's doable.
@megaloth1955 I have mixed feelings.
On one side I am GLAD for you, on the other "fk you" dude, I am jealous 🤣🤣🤣🤣, I only seen them around 800eu 7640cpu which is not top and its overpriced cos go and rog, same as sd are much less expensive even locally
I have sd and Go but want a smaller win device
@@tombstonefreakOh, don't "worry", I'll pay much more than that on VAT and import taxes 🤣 Let's hope it will be worth the hassle lol
@megaloth1955 aaaaww...I see. I have come across 750 -800 gpd and omexplayers BUT I am in baltics and all the taxes are already included, we don't pay anything upon arrival from aliexpress for about 2 years now, because tax charge policy, as well as we don't declare goods bought from ali, wish, etc
But not Ebay, there I have to prove I payed taxes almost every time
What is on the rog Ally screen before you click on this video?
Sea of Stars
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds ah okay. I keep hearing about this game
Which one is better in gaming and performance?
Asus rog ally or GPD win 4 ?
And Which one has better screen colors and brightness?
Ally for everything you asked.
Holy shit the dead zones are bad on yours I didnt have that issue, I wonder if they're using diferent models for the sticks ?
I'm always so lucky
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds it happens
Man i got similiar dillema. I really WANT to exchange ally. But the other device is just either more expensive and not worth it. Lenovo would be best if it had more usb and ram, unfortunately
I bet op would change his tune with the grip. And it's obviously a bad left tumb stick.
Grips don't change bad design choices, only masks them and the left stick isn't bad, this was when this device had massive deadzone issues which has since been fixed.
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds well most of not all of your complaints were how you thought it felt in your hands, with the grip that is available it feels like your holding a PlayStation controller, so virtually all your complaints would be resolved. It's really a night and day difference. The 3d files to print the grip were also released by the developer so even tho you'd had to print it or buy it from a printer it's basically an official accessories. Out of the box it's not the most comfortable I agree but with the grip is like heaven.
GPD all day. Same form factor as a PSP
I enjoyed the honesty in this review compared to other videos that really seem to be more of an advertisement. So few youtubers really mentioned the gpd deadzone issue for example.
I'm still waiting for a win max 2 (7840u) but starting to lose patience with how long it's taking to ship. 😢
Appreciate that!
What's the name of the front end launcher on Rog ally u install 😮? Look real good. Please tell me
Playnite
@@JoeysRetroHandhelds and what's the theme call? Please
J hero
Great review but you need to understand that one was made for gaming, and the other is a full all around productivity device. Hence the built in keyboard.
And also the deadzone issue has been fixed with an update.
No one is being productive on that keyboard.
Man I want that gpd win4 just because it looks like a vita haha
Yeah it has an awesome look.
As much as I wanted the win 4 I think u just talked me to into an ally
I just want to know wich game is the one he is playing at the start of the video (the one that looks like an RPG).
Top left :)
I really like your hoodie
Thanks! lol quality is better than I expected
what emulator are you using for you games?
I think most or almost all your negative points on their GD P win 4 was mostly to do with your hand size you do want something smaller yes but at the same time you do have larger hands so having something that is as small as the GDP win 4 for you would cause you many many drawbacks but somebody maybe like me who has smaller hands it actually holds up really really well I'm actually not a fan of the sizes of the new ones because they just bigger and a bit more difficult for me to hold for a long period of time I literally think that the main market for owners for the GD P win 4 would be those with smaller hands and I I think it is a thing that I think you should make a statement about because you don't really specifically have small hands your hands on the larger side where a larger portable gaming unit is better for you rather than a smaller one. But I think valid it's just I think you should make a statement that you have larger hands so those are smaller hands experience may vary
FINALLY a review of the win4 that actually speaks to its ergonomics!
I am a big fan of the niche work that gpd is doing, but, I have GPD win 3 and I hate it and I hoped that by learning from everything wrong they did with it they would solve it in win 4, And it really disappoints me to know that they don't pay attention to the details, I really want a portable device for gaming and work that won't break my back when I carry it.
7:35 have you never typed on a smartphone before? Same exact thing just mechanical . . .
What's a smartphone?
Perfect small formfactor handheld? Onexfly enters the chat
I have a Win4 and have the same thoughts. I’m not going to buy another device because it cost too much son I’m going to have to wait this out. The Win4 is heavy, the buttons are way too small, the UI is slow and the mousepad is a joke. Really wish I had seen this video first.
Glad (but not glad) that I'm not the only one.
Lucky for me my wife like smaller things as well
Its so lame that the Lenovo Legion Go is not going to even have VRR!😢
Yep, major misstep.
Bummer that you didnt end up being into it. Sorry again man 😔. Great video though.
No harm no foul, got to test a cool device I've been interested in!
I have learned Joey is super picky on what he likes lol
Absolutely! I wouldn't be able to trust any reviewer who likes every device they get :)
@@JoeysRetroHandheldsabsolutely
you articulate why you don’t like something very well .
But at the same time , when I try something I know you hated (like the rp3 ) and use it myself … I’m like “yeah this is….completely fine imho”
But definitely not dissing , I just don’t have that high standards personally .
Yep, makes sense. I tend to go heavy into the "would I personally use this" side of things, which could be more balanced the other way. But it's hard for me to recommend things that I wouldn't even use, for whatever reason I find.
Trust me, it's be way easier and better for views if I just started recommending everything, lol but that would just be scummy.
Thats why I funded the onexfly. I wanted a smaller device for travel. Already owned a onexplayer 1s that i prefer to my ally and my deck when it comes to ease of game installs but its to big for travel. even then i just wished a onexly came with a trackpad and sim card slot to make it my all in one device as i dont make calls on my phone just use it for hotspot.
I could forgive the OneXFlys lack of VRR if it was cheaper, but at more expensive than the Ally plus only using DHL shipping in Canada (which adds a ton of fees), it's not worth it. Looks awesome though, would love to see it. Also, every review unit had the 60hz screen, they haven't shown the 120hz screen yet, which is.. Weird.
Loki mak onexfly/onexplayer mini try them handhelds out since you not really sold on aya neo even tho i think the 1s/geek looks interesting
Homer...is that you?
They have internet on computers now?
How were you playing Mario kart on win 4?
An emulator
Look at Retrobat
I have a Win 4 for a few month now and love it (especially the physical keyboard, which is its killer feature if you want to play DOS games like I do), but the ergonomics of holding it aren't great. It's not even it's thickness but that it lacks good, ergonomic grips. The SD is if far more comfortable to hold.
A future model should leave the PSP like form behind and go for better ergonomics, even if it means a wider shell. I was looking for some grips but sadly could only find 3D printed ones that also cover the the mouse / joypad switch and can't compare to properly produced ones.
Still wonder if I would get something like the GPD Win (Mini) with it's clamshell design in the future. Will still offer a keyboard, which will be easier to use.
The Ally felt really cheap in my hands, no comparison to the Win 4 or the SD.
I rather have good battery life than a device that fits in my pocket. If you want the latter and good battery life, you have to go with lower performance devices and especially ARM based ones. There are enough of them available from different brands, so I don't really get people complaining about handheld PCs being bigger than ARM devices. Wanting powerful devices with long battery life and in a small form factor is wishful thinking.
Which one is better in gaming and performance?
Asus rog ally or GPD win 4 ?
And Which one has better screen colors and brightness?
GPD mini is going to be the win
09:23 no its not a Seinfeld joke, its a "Friends" joke.
Wait, when did that happen in Friends? I meant it wasn't a Seinfeld joke because it sounded like a skit they'd make lol
Oh wait, the Nubbin! Yeah!
I sold the Rog Ally for a Win 4. Wanted more RAM for non gaming use.
I love that you hate most of the products. Keep on going....
It's a weird hobby that we're in where people just accept mediocrity and hand over hundreds of dollars for it.
@@JoeysRetroHandheldsi feel like thats just the current state of handheld pc. I have the win4 and steam deck but they are meh. The switch is still my main handheld.
GPD has the best handheld design even though it's a Vita on steriods. All other handhelds are like the hideous Switch
98% of this whole video just sounds like "I prefer the ROG, so ill absolutely demolish everything about the GPD and kiss ass to Asus"
This whole video just screams incredibly biased, far from a fair review.
they both look super bulky and dated im just waiting for screens to be flat and extend out like a tape measure then you can fold and pocket these things