# The Rise of Handheld Gaming PCs and a Look at Traditional Gaming Laptops
Handheld gaming PCs have seen a notable surge in popularity in recent times, propelled by the release of devices such as the Steam Deck. This innovative device showcased that a nearly complete PC gaming experience could fit into a portable design. Following the Deck’s triumph, additional handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go and the Asus ROG Ally surfaced, providing gamers with numerous choices. These portable devices are undoubtedly convenient and surprisingly powerful for their size, allowing users to enjoy full PC games comfortably on the couch without the hassle of a hefty laptop.
Nonetheless, in spite of their benefits, handheld gaming PCs tend to have a rather limited scope, as they are chiefly created for gaming. In contrast to traditional gaming laptops, they may have difficulty managing a multitude of tasks such as processing workloads, surfing the web, and media consumption simultaneously. For individuals in search of a versatile device that accommodates broader computing necessities alongside gaming, traditional gaming laptops continue to be a more sensible option.
At present, a noteworthy offer on the Asus TUF F16 gaming laptop makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive portable gaming experience. Typically priced around $1,000, the 2024 model is currently available for $800, representing a noteworthy $200 discount.
This particular configuration of the TUF F16 is powered by an Intel Core i5 210H processor, complemented by an NVIDIA GeForce 4050 laptop GPU and 8GB of RAM. For those desiring improved performance, the 2025 model is also on sale, featuring an Intel Core i5 13450HX processor coupled with the NVIDIA GeForce 5050 laptop GPU and 16GB of RAM, offered at a $300 discount—reducing the price from $1,300 to $1,000. Both versions include a 512GB SSD to meet all storage requirements.
## Gaming Performance
While the Asus TUF Gaming F16 may not be classified as a leading powerhouse that can maximize every new AAA title, it nonetheless delivers respectable performance for its price segment. Indie games operate smoothly, and numerous larger titles can achieve stable performance at medium settings with minimal sacrifices.
The TUF F16 features a 16-inch display with a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, functioning at Full HD resolution and supporting a fluid 144Hz refresh rate—traits that enhance fast-paced gaming and competitive play. Adaptive-Sync technology minimizes screen tearing and stuttering, enabling a smoother gaming experience. Furthermore, the slender bezels surrounding the display optimize usable screen area without making the laptop feel excessively large or unwieldy.
In terms of design, Asus adopts a fairly understated approach. The keyboard is full-sized and incorporates a dedicated number pad—a feature that is becoming increasingly rare among contemporary laptops. The gold-accented WASD keys add a dash of personality without straying into flashy territory.
Battery life on the Asus TUF F16 is praiseworthy; its 90Wh battery supports rapid charging, reaching 50% capacity in around 30 minutes. There’s also a 100W USB-C port available for charging phones and accessories, enhancing its adaptability.
In summary, at just $800, the Asus TUF F16 offers substantial value. It emerges as a competent gaming hub that can efficiently handle basic everyday laptop tasks, appealing to both gamers and general users alike.
