At Computex 2024, various vendors unveiled their new and upcoming gaming handheld devices. One of the notable devices showcased was Zotac’s Zone. This gaming handheld, priced at $800, boasts impressive specs such as an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X-7500 memory, and 780M graphics. Not to mention, it supports 2280 NVMe SSDs, making it compatible with conventional PC SSDs. These specifications indicate that the Zotac Zone is geared towards delivering powerful performance for gaming enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the Zotac Zone is its 7-inch AMOLED 1080p touch-screen. With a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 800 nits brightness, the display offers vivid colors, excellent contrast, and impressive brightness even in well-lit environments. The combination of a 7-inch display and 1080p resolution hits the sweet spot for a gaming handheld, providing a balance between smooth gameplay and pixel density. It is evident that Zotac has prioritized display quality to enhance the gaming experience on the Zone.
The Zotac Zone comes equipped with hall effect joysticks, 2-stage triggers, and radial dials, offering a unique gaming control experience. While the controls were generally well-received, some users noted a vertical look inversion issue during testing, which hindered the full exploration of the device’s capabilities. Nevertheless, the joysticks and triggers were comfortable to use, particularly for individuals with larger hands. Despite this, the overall ergonomic design and control features of the Zotac Zone show promise for an immersive gaming experience.
In terms of build quality, the Zotac Zone may not exude a premium feel due to its slightly plasticky finish. However, the device felt sturdy and durable during a minor stress test, indicating its ability to withstand everyday wear and tear. Additionally, Zotac showcased a range of accessories for the Zone, including a docking station with HDMI, USB Type-A, and Type-C support, as well as a dedicated carry case. These accessories enhance the functionality and portability of the gaming handheld, catering to the diverse needs of users.
As we anticipate the release of the Zotac Zone in September, it is evident that the device holds great potential in the gaming handheld market. With its impressive specifications, high-quality display, unique control features, and range of accessories, the Zotac Zone aims to offer a compelling gaming experience for enthusiasts. While some aspects like build quality could be improved, the overall package presented by Zotac at Computex 2024 suggests a promising future for gaming handhelds. As we wait for the official launch, the competition with rivals like the Steam Deck OLED will undoubtedly be fierce. Only time will tell if the Zotac Zone can make a lasting impression on the gaming community.
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