ZOTAC introduced the Zone 2025 Prototype at Computex 2025 as the second-generation version of the original Zone, which was unveiled at Computex 2024. It retains the same design as the first version, but ZOTAC upgraded its configuration with the AMD Ryzen AI 300 series platform and RAM options of up to 32GB.
If not counting handheld PC models running Z2 Extreme, ZOTAC Zone 2 is the handheld PC with the most powerful configuration currently, and most importantly, ZOTAC chooses the operating system platform as Linux instead of Windows, integrating Steam Gaming Mode.
ZOTAC Zone 2025 Hands-on: First Impresasion
Design and Build quality
First, looking at the appearance, the ZOTAC Zone 2025 doesn’t differ much from the first generation. I remember the first generation featured a mouse gray color, but ZOTAC released a white version for this second generation.
Holding it in your hand is still solid and complete; most handheld gaming models now focus on optimizing the design and having the game make it the best.
Controls and Layout
As we can see, the ZOTAC Zone 2025 has two trackpads on both sides, which is convenient for users. The overall layout closely resembles that of the PS5, so we can easily get used to it. The design of ZOTAC has a hidden meaning because it helps Steam Deck users feel more familiar.
The ZOTAC button on the left lets users quickly access quick settings while playing games. The opposite side has the Home button and a settings button. The joystick and trigger of the ZOTAC Zone are Hall Effect anti-slip and durable.
Display and Connectivity
Above is the USB-C port with USB4 standard for charging and data transfer; the heat dissipation slot is also located here.
The ZOTAC Zone’s display is only 7 inches in size to optimize weight and feel. The FHD 1200p 120Hz resolution is just enough for performance and overall experience.
Hardware and Performance
While most handheld PCs have 16GB or 24GB RAM options, ZOTAC offers configurations up to 32GB and SSD options up to 1TB. This configuration, combined with the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 platform, will be enough to play games at 720p or 1080p resolution. I’ve proven the Radeon 890M iGPU on AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series APUs through the laptops I tested over the past year, so I believe it will also work well for handheld PCs. The
ZOTAC Zone 22025 has a 48.5Wh battery, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2. However, the most notable point of this handheld gaming machine is not the hardware but the software.
Linux Over Windows
Instead of choosing Windows, ZOTAC chose Linux, with the Manjaro Linux distro integrating Steam Gaming Mode. Let’s face it: Windows is not the optimal operating system for handheld gaming, although its environment is the best for gaming. Microsoft has shaped the Windows operating system with mouse and keyboard operation over the past 30 years, making it difficult for them to change it now.
Linux is an inexpensive choice because it is an open-source operating system with many distros. Steam chose Linux from the start with the Steam Deck, and its success is undeniable.
Thanks to the Steam Deck, developers are optimizing many PC games for Linux, and perhaps ZOTAC realized that this is the right time to make the switch. ZOTAC also chose Manjaro because it will provide a more user-friendly experience, and Steam Gang Mode will give users an interface similar to the Steam Deck interface.
Time will tell whether the ZOTAC Zone 2025 will succeed, but the initial move from Windows to Linux should give this handheld PC a better chance of competing in an increasingly crowded market.
Also see: MSI Claw A8 Hands-on: First Handheld with AMD Z2 Extreme
If you’re considering a serious upgrade to your handheld gaming setup, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ offers a compelling option. It runs on the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip, paired with 32GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 1TB NVMe SSD—hardware more commonly found in full-sized laptops. The 8-inch FHD+ screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, offering sharp, fluid visuals without weighing you down. It ships with Windows 11 and is currently listed on Amazon for $1,199.
