ZOTAC debuts its first-ever handheld gaming console that runs on Zen 4-based Ryzen 7 8840U APU, which is a power-efficient yet the strongest chip you will find in modern gaming handhelds. The display, functionality, and versatility are premium enough to make it cost more than the existing rivals.
Visuals powered by Radeon 780M, the Gaming Zone provides the ultimate gaming experience
ZOTAC today launched its first handheld console, the ‘Gaming Zone‘, which was announced in Computex 2024. The console is not only the first handheld from ZOTAC but also the first to utilize the latest AMD hardware. At the moment, we have many hardware manufacturers competing with each other to provide the best possible gaming handheld. Antec’s Core HS recently joined the market; now ZOTAC also jumped on the bandwagon.
Hardware
The Gaming Zone handheld features the Zen 4 architecture-based Ryzen 7 8840U processor, an APU that is power-efficient yet brings 8 cores and 16 threads for great computing performance. The Ryzen 8840U brings powerful Radeon 780M integrated graphics, which is capable of running most games at 1080p on high settings. This Zen 4 CPU is the first one to be featured in a gaming handheld, unlike ROG Ally or Antec Core HS, which run on Zen 3-based Ryzen 7 7840HS/U variants. This gives the Gaming Zone in a boost in performance over these consoles, making it more suitable for modern gaming needs.
The Ryzen 8840U can boost up to 5.1GHz and works in 15-30W of TDP. The system RAM is 16GB LPDDR5X 7500MHz while the storage is PCI-E 4.0 512GB SSD. The console also provides a UHS-II microSD card reader for external storage to store more games. The Gaming Zone runs on Windows 11 Home and comes with a 48.5Wh battery, which is equivalent to the Antec Core HS.
Display and Controls
The display is, however, bigger with a 7-inch AMOLED panel, and features a full HD resolution with an aspect ratio of 16:9. The brightness can go all the way to 800 nits, making it ideal for well-lit rooms or even for playing outdoors. The display runs at a 120Hz refresh rate for fluidity and has a contrast of 100,000:1 to 1M:1 for mesmerizing visuals.
The capacitive 10-point multi-touch provides a pleasant experience for those who want to execute quick actions and the gaming controls are also top-notch. The controls include 2x 2-stage adjustable trigger switches, 2x Hall effect thumbsticks, 2x Hall effect triggers, 2x radial dials, 2x trackpads, L and R bumpers, D-pad, ABXY buttons, Vol+/- buttons, Power button, 6-axis gyro, and various buttons for miscellaneous operations.
Connectivity and accessories
Gaming Zone allows connecting a stereo speaker system to its 3.5mm audio jack and has high bandwidth 2x USB 4 ports for connectivity. A 1.0MP front camera with 1280x720p resolution is also provided for various uses. Users can connect to the internet via WiFi 6E or add their peripherals via Bluetooth 5.2 connection. The console can be bought along with various accessories, including a Carrying Case, which is waterproof, and a ZOTAC GAMING Docking Station for better connectivity.
Pricing and availability
The Gaming Zone also comes with a free one-month XBOX Gaming Pass Trial for users. The console will cost US$799 and is currently available for pre-order in select regions.
Update: The company has posted that the Gaming Zone will also be showcased in Gamescom 2024 from 21st to 25th August, where viewers can take a look at the console at the ZOTAC booth.
