The Zotac Gaming Zone is the latest gaming handheld set to be released in a few weeks. MeinMMO editor Benedikt Schlotmann tested the handheld at gamescom 2024 and is already convinced: This could become a real hidden gem if everything goes well.
On September 12, 2024, the next gaming handheld, the Zotac Gaming Zone, will be released. I was able to try out the gaming handheld in more detail at Gamescom 2024 and even play two games on it.
You can read my first impressions from Gamescom 2024 in this article. So far, I am very optimistic that we could be looking forward to a really good handheld here, provided all the conditions are right.
The Zotac Gaming Zone expands upon many ideas from the competition
What makes the handheld so exciting? The Zotac Gaming is a gaming handheld with a Windows operating system, but in appearance and design, it is more reminiscent of the Steam Deck. In particular, the two trackpads again provide the option to function like a mouse. There are also many details that I already really like:
- The shoulder buttons can be adjusted, similar to the Xbox controller, regarding how hard you can press them.
- The Zotac Gaming Zone offers a USB-C port on both the top and bottom side. Therefore, you can charge the device while simultaneously using, for example, headphones with a dongle.
- There is a kickstand on the back, similar to the Nintendo Switch. However, on the Zotac gaming handheld, it seems a bit small for the large, hefty device.
- For the display, Zotac uses a vibrant AMOLED display, as you might know from Samsung phones. This makes games appear very vivid and colorful.
- Nice idea, but not very relevant for me: Zotac even built a selfie camera and a microphone into the gaming handheld. A fingerprint scanner for “Windows Hello” is also integrated.
What did I play? In my short gameplay session at gamescom 2024, I tested Forza Horizon 5 and Horizon: Forbidden West.
- Forza Horizon 5 runs at low settings with stable 90 FPS at Full HD, and it sometimes goes even higher. With the adjustable shoulder buttons, the game feels really good. At medium graphics settings, the FPS drop to 50 to 60, but the game remains smooth.
- Horizon: Forbidden West looks wonderfully vibrant and colorful on the Zotac Gaming Zone. The AMOLED display really shines here. At low details, the game also achieves stable 90 FPS at Full HD. The vibration function feels natural when hitting enemies with Aloy.
Annoying Windows and imprecise D-pad are points of concern for me
What bothered me? The D-pad on the upper left side feels sluggish and imprecise. The Steam Deck simply feels better in comparison.
Windows 11 also feels unintuitive and poorly usable on the Zotac Gaming. However, the handheld has this in common with all other gaming handhelds.
I personally have little use for the RGB lighting on the back. RGB on the back is probably not seen by anyone when I support the handheld on my knees or have it resting on my lap. I simply don’t understand this design choice.
What can I not comment on yet? I could not assess the battery life, as the devices at gamescom were constantly powered. I also cannot comment on how the display performs outside in the sun and how much visibility you have in the end.
I also cannot comment on the built-in speakers; it was simply too loud at Gamescom. Since I usually play with in-ears or at least headphones, this is not a major concern for me.
More on gaming handhelds: Are you looking for more gaming handhelds or haven’t found the right device for yourself yet? At MeinMMO, we present you with the most exciting devices you should definitely know about: The best gaming handhelds you should definitely know about
Webedia Gaming (GameStar, GamePro, MeinMMO) is covering the big gaming event as the official media partner of gamescom 2024.
