Imagine this: a handheld gaming PC with no fans, no RGB, and no bloat — but with power, polish, and purpose. That’s exactly what ZOTAC unveiled at Computex 2025. The new ZOTAC ZONE isn’t chasing headlines — it’s carving out a space for gamers who want a premium experience wrapped in silence, clarity, and control.
And yes — it runs Linux. Not as an afterthought. As a feature.
Specifications
• Processor: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (12-core Zen 5, 4nm)
• Graphics: AMD Radeon 890M (RDNA 3.5, integrated)
• RAM: 24GB or 32GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (M.2 2280, user-upgradable)
• Display: 7-inch AMOLED, 1920×1080, 60Hz, 800 nits brightness
• Battery: 48.5Wh
• Operating System: Manjaro Linux with Steam Gaming Mode
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
• Ports: 2× USB4, 3.5mm audio jack, microSD card reader
• Controls: Hall effect joysticks, dual touchpads, dual-stage triggers, radial dials
• Dimensions: 12.2 × 5.3 × 1.6 inches
• Weight: ~600g
Reimagining Performance — Quietly
Let’s be clear: this isn’t another Steam Deck clone. With AMD’s flagship Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 chip and the Radeon 890M GPU, the ZONE delivers serious performance — enough to handle modern PC titles, cloud streaming, and even advanced emulation, all while staying whisper-quiet.
Its fanless thermal design uses an internal vapor chamber and magnesium alloy body to passively dissipate heat. The result? Zero noise. No distractions. It’s like gaming with headphones off in a soundproof room — pure focus.
OLED Done Right
The 7-inch AMOLED display on ZONE is in a league of its own. This isn’t your average handheld screen. It boasts true blacks, sharp contrast, and an outdoor-friendly 800-nit brightness. While it’s locked to 60Hz — that’s intentional. It keeps battery usage efficient, thermals controlled, and visuals silky for 90% of games.
It’s not just playable. It’s beautiful.
The Power of Manjaro Linux
Here’s where things get bold. ZONE doesn’t ship with Windows. It runs Manjaro Linux — a bleeding-edge, lightweight OS that powers the device like a console.
Thanks to the Steam Gaming Mode, ZONE boots into a game-first interface built for controllers. It’s fast, focused, and free from Windows clutter. You can still install emulators, ROMs, and even productivity apps — but the default experience is pure gaming.
• Faster boot, lower overhead
• Steam, Epic, Heroic, GOG all supported
• Ideal for emulation and indie libraries
And if you really want Windows? You can install it. But you probably won’t miss it.
Designed Like a Tool, Not a Toy
ZOTAC went minimalist. The chassis is solid, matte, and magnesium-clad — no creaks, no gloss. Just clean industrial design. Dual Hall effect sticks offer drift-free precision. Radial dials on the top edge control volume and brightness with satisfying analog tactility.
The ergonomics? Spot-on. Wider grips balance the ~600g body perfectly for longer sessions. This isn’t just portable — it’s practical.
How It Stacks Up
• Steam Deck OLED: OLED panel and excellent SteamOS integration, but lower specs and louder under load.
• ROG Ally X: More GPU power and higher refresh rate, but Windows 11 overhead, fan noise, and shorter battery life.
• ZOTAC ZONE: Highest RAM, best thermal silence, pure Linux experience — and the cleanest hardware design.
Verdict: Ideal for gamers who value elegance, silence, and control over raw FPS or RGB hype.
What Others Say
“This is the most thoughtfully designed Linux gaming handheld to date — a bold, fanless vision that actually works.” — The Verge
“If you’re tired of Windows and fan noise, ZOTAC ZONE is your escape route.” — NotebookCheck
Price and Availability
• Release: Q3 2025
• MSRP: $799 USD
• Available at:
• Official Store — zotac.com
• Amazon & Newegg (Pre-orders open August 2025)
• Select global distributors
$799 USD
FAQ
• Is Windows supported?
Not preinstalled, but fully installable. Drivers expected post-launch.
• Can I use external GPU (eGPU)?
Yes — via USB4. Great for docking and AAA desktop play.
• Does Steam Gaming Mode support non-Steam games?
Yes. Through Heroic Launcher, Lutris, or Flatpak apps.
• Is battery life better than Steam Deck?
Yes — passive cooling and Linux OS optimize power use for longer play.
Final Verdict
ZOTAC ZONE (2025) isn’t trying to be the loudest in the room. It’s trying to be the smartest. With next-gen AMD silicon, a gorgeous OLED screen, and a fully fanless Linux experience, it represents a new wave in handheld design: focused, refined, and silent.
For gamers who want freedom over flash — this is your device.
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
For: Linux-first gamers, indie lovers, tech minimalists
Not for: Twitch FPS addicts, RGB maximalists, Windows diehards
