A Linux-based operating system called Bazzite is making waves in the handheld gaming market, offering a compelling alternative to Windows. Initial skepticism about Bazzite's Steam Deck-like interface has given way to recognition of its potential to enhance the gaming experience on devices like the Asus ROG Ally X. This shift raises questions about the future of Windows on handheld gaming devices.

The Asus ROG Ally X, when paired with Bazzite, has demonstrated significant improvements over its Windows counterpart. It offers ease of use comparable to the Steam Deck, while leveraging the Ally X's more powerful hardware, larger battery, and variable refresh rate screen. Initial tests indicate that, depending on the game, the Bazzite setup provides better performance and battery life. This combination is compelling, though the $800 price tag and some lingering quirks with Bazzite, suggest its not for everyone.

However, Bazzite proves that a non-Windows OS on gaming handhelds is a viable path forward, mimicking the streamlined experience of the Steam Deck. Windows, with its resource-intensive nature and interface issues, is not considered ideal for handheld gaming. In contrast, the Steam Deck's Linux-based SteamOS provides a smoother, more reliable gaming experience. SteamOS is not available for other handhelds, this is where Bazzite fills the gap, bringing SteamOS-like functionality to other devices.

Bazzite, an open-source project, is not a direct copy of SteamOS but is instead built on Fedora Linux. It replicates the Steam Deck user interface, including Valve’s tutorials, with a limited license from Valve, it is technically allowed. Bazzite has demonstrated improved performance for some games, running many Windows games better than the same hardware on Windows. This is due, in part, to the Proton compatibility layer and community fixes for broken games.

The performance gains, while not consistent across all games, are noticeable. Some games exhibited up to 13% faster performance on Bazzite. Additionally, frame rate dips are less frequent, contributing to a smoother gaming experience. This is further enhanced by the Ally X's variable refresh rate screen, which is supported by Bazzite. Power management is also improved with Bazzite, with the ability to fine-tune power usage on-the-fly which leads to improved battery life in some titles.

Bazzite includes a built-in monitoring tool and an integrated version of Handheld Daemon, that allows precise power adjustments. This feature is more responsive than some manufacturer’s proprietary software. While certain features, like rear macro buttons, require workarounds, Bazzite’s enhancements are a step in the right direction. This level of control over power consumption can lead to class-leading battery life in some scenarios, surpassing even the Steam Deck OLED.

While Bazzite offers great advancements, some features of the Steam Deck, including twin touchpads, a larger screen, and superior ergonomics, are not replicated. There are also issues with sleep mode, Bluetooth microphone support, and update messages. In particular, a major bug occurs when the battery is fully drained, causing the system to slow to a crawl. However, these issues are being addressed by Bazzite’s developers.

Despite these minor issues, Bazzite provides a strong case for non-Windows operating systems on handheld gaming devices. While the Asus ROG Ally X may not currently be the best option at its price point, the potential of Bazzite is clear. For owners of the Asus ROG Ally X, regular Ally, or the Lenovo Legion Go, it could be worth installing Bazzite, offering a significant step up over the Windows experience. The broader implication is that a change is needed for the future of handheld gaming, and the industry should look at alternatives to Windows to make handheld devices a better option.