quickutilities – A Reddit user, u/BetweenInkandPaper, recently upgraded the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme’s battery from 40Wh to 80Wh. This mod dramatically improved the handheld’s battery life, addressing a common complaint about the device’s limited endurance. The Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is popular among gamers for its performance and affordability but struggles with battery life, typically lasting about two hours under load.
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The user performed this upgrade using an 80Wh battery sourced from AliExpress and ran the device on SteamOS, which is lighter and more power-efficient than Windows 11. After the upgrade, the device’s standby time jumped to around eight hours. When configured with DeckyTDP at 30 watts, the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme draws roughly 40 watts total, allowing for about two hours of gameplay. At a lower 15-watt TDP, with an overall draw near 11 watts, the user claimed battery life exceeding six hours.
This improvement stands out significantly, given the ROG Ally’s original battery performance. The SteamOS system contributes to the extended battery life, as it consumes fewer resources compared to Windows 11. The mod also includes a 3D-printed custom backplate, which accommodates the larger battery size. Many owners and content creators have attempted battery mods to extend the Ally’s lifespan. This recent Reddit report is notable for the scale of improvement, especially when combined with SteamOS. The mod is part of a growing trend to optimize handheld gaming PCs for better endurance, balancing performance and portability.
Comparing Battery Life and How to Perform the Upgrade
In a detailed analysis, YouTuber The Phawx compared the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme with the newer ROG Ally X model. Both devices can support 80Wh batteries, but the Ally X benefits from a more efficient APU and hardware design. On Windows 11, the Ally X delivers around 4 to 5 hours of standby, about 6 hours at 15W TDP, and roughly 3 hours at 30W TDP. The Redditor’s modded Ally on SteamOS reportedly achieves better standby and low-TDP battery life than the Ally X on Windows. This discrepancy likely arises from SteamOS’s lightweight design and system optimizations. However, the Ally X’s hardware remains more power efficient overall, particularly under heavy use.
For those interested in performing this battery upgrade, iFixit has published a comprehensive step-by-step guide. The DIY mod involves replacing the original battery with an Asus A42N1403 laptop battery and installing a custom 3D-printed backplate. The process requires moderate technical skills and takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete with basic tools. Users must take care during disassembly to avoid damaging internal components.
This mod offers a significant battery boost for gamers who want longer playtime on their ROG Ally Z1 Extreme. With proper installation and SteamOS’s efficient operation, users can expect a better balance of performance and endurance. As handheld PC gaming grows, such modifications could become increasingly popular for maximizing device potential.
