Power Scaling (Cyberpunk 2077, 720p, Steam Deck preset, FSR Balanced)
As mentioned before, the power limit setting is adjustable, so we wanted to find out how gaming performance varies under different power limits. By setting specific limits, we measured the console's performance and plotted the results on a chart. This data is also compared to several competing alternatives, to provide a comprehensive view of how each device balances power consumption and performance.
The power scaling numbers are as phenomenal as the overall gaming performance. The Zone manages to beat Steam Deck at low TDPs (below 15 W), a praiseworthy achievement. Until now, unwieldy Windows handhelds rocking (modified) laptop APUs were considered inappropriate for low-power gaming, but the Zone shows that you can get great performance at 12 W and below; you just have to spend some time optimizing the device.
Compared to the ROG Ally, the Zone is in another tier at 15 W and below. It's more than 50% faster at 10 W and more than 30% ahead at 12 W, mopping the floor with ASUS's handheld.