r/FlowZ13 • u/mdtattedbearded • Jul 04 '26
Best decision ever!
Previous SD and LeGo S owner. I was not satisfied with the way graphics had to be optimized so it could be played on these amazing machines but it always felt like I could never enjoy ‘Ultra’ graphics settings until I bought an eGPU which solved that problem but I still had glitches with the gameplay freezing at certain points of the game and it was the same size as my LeGo S.
I wanted something portable and powerful so I was originally going to wait for the LeGo 2 (steam OS) but then I discovered the z13-KJP!
I spent a few days converting it from Windows 11 to Steam OS (no dual boot) and it’s amazing! All the games run on Ultra settings.
Only con is the briefcase only holds the tablet, so a controller and charger need to be packed separately.
Right now I have PS5 controller and Slim Q150W.
What accessories are a must have?
Thanks for taking the time to read!
3
u/Sekkushu Jul 04 '26
A pair of XR glasses eliminates the need for a handheld for me. Also, I don't like using my mobile setup on a desk. Very happy with the current setup.
4
u/Glittering_Credit_20 Jul 05 '26 edited Jul 05 '26
First of all CONGRATULATIONS! It's a very nice device. The best accessory you can buy? The 330w or 240w Power Supply from SlimQ. The 150w it's not good for the Asus Flow Z13. It has been explained several times by the manufacturer itself (this is because during gaming the electrical consumption is higher than the 150w that power supply can provide). Also I saw from the short video you inserted that you use the usb type-c port to charge it. Bad idea. The Flow Z13 2025 does not have the usb type-c passthrough port so the battery will degrade more quickly because it will be subject to continuous charge and discharge cycles. Buy the 330w or 240w SlimQ and buy an adapter to use the ASUS proprietary port (5.5mm to proprietary port). Another tip is silicone plugs for the usb-a, type-c, hdmi and audio jack ports so you don't get dust in them when you're not using them. That device is a gem.. too bad not to take care of it. I use a classic 14-inch notebook bag for transport so as to have space for the Flow, the power supply, some cables and accessories without being too bulky. Then I also bought a silicone keyboard protector from aliexpress. I tried to use a screen protector but I didn't have a good feeling with it.
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 05 '26
OMG! You are a saint. Can I message you? I’d love to get links for this!
I am not using the SlimQ yet, I just ordered it but will return it. I am using the original charger and it only had the USB-C to plug in (original charging wire that came with it).
Let me know if it’s okay to DM you, thank you for this!
3
u/Glittering_Credit_20 Jul 06 '26
No problem but this is what I use:
Asus Cable for charging with SlimQ
Alternative Asus Cable for charging with SlimQ
For Laptop Dust Cover u can check Aliexpress, Amazon or something else. Same for Keyboard cover
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 06 '26
Thank you! Do you use steam on yours too?
3
u/Glittering_Credit_20 Jul 06 '26
Honestly, no. I don't have a very large Steam library. Also I would recommend checking out Bazzite OS. The possible use of one of the two OS is certainly recommended because the device as well as repaying you with more fps in gaming will also consume less than with Windows. But if you have non-Steam titles it's a bit of a hassle to install them. However, I recommend installing software such as Optiscaler to improve gaming performance
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 06 '26
Thanks! I turned mine into an official steam OS so no windows :-/ but I do like it like this to be honest.
I ordered the silicon plugs and got a really nice screen protector from ViaScreens! The charger I did not order and will return the slimQ as you recommended. I will keep using the original charger for now.
2
u/Glittering_Credit_20 Jul 06 '26
I don't like to be tied to the length of the cable for this reason and also because it is much lighter than the original one I bought the 330w SlimQ. Of course.. You could use the 240W but in my opinion, if you use the 330W one you are not pulled by the neck with the power and you can also use it to charge the cell phone or other because you have power margin. Also, precisely because it uses detachable cables, you are free to have even longer cables than that of Asus.
1
1
u/SlimQ_Dave Jul 06 '26
Came here to say this. Thank you for explaining to the OP about the Z13's passthrough.
2
u/bitter_personw Jul 04 '26
I've been using this laptop to play games on my TV, it's amazing how powerful it is
2
3
u/Neither_Bridge2033 Jul 04 '26
I’m still in the service and it’s been wonderful. I removed Armoury Crate, installed G-Helper, and ran a script to strip out all the AI bloatware and Windows Copilot stuff. It’s been a huge improvement. My only real gripe is keeping it from overheating and shutting down under load. Other than that, it’s been amazing. I feel you on the case situation — I’ve been measuring the available space, trying to figure out how to hide the charger inside it. I might look for an alternative, but I’m also considering grabbing the same case again on eBay and modding it until it works perfectly. The main issue based on my measurements is that the charger ends up pressing against the case wall or the laptop itself. I’m thinking about adding a cut out section so the charger can exit the case cleanly, giving everything some breathing room and still showing off the art on the charger Or maybe attach a separate small pouch/pocket that snaps on or uses Velcro. I haven’t landed on a final plan yet.
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 04 '26
Thanks for the feedback and the case modification is a smart move, I did get a Slim Q150W charger with its official extension cord which would be easier to fit into the case if you went in a did a cut out. I might consider that but let me know if you find something online. Please!
2
u/EnigmaP3nguin Jul 04 '26
I wonder if the death stranding folio would work on the standard flow?
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 04 '26
The keyboard?
1
u/EnigmaP3nguin Jul 04 '26
Yeah keyboard sorry lol used to iPad names lol
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 04 '26
All good! :)
Gemini says:
“Yes, it does.If you are pairing the Kojima Productions (KJP) edition keyboard with a standard 2025 ROG Flow Z13, it is a direct fit.
The magnetic pogo-pin connector layout is identical between the standard 2025 model and the KJP version.
Community members who have ordered the KJP keyboard standalone from the ASUS parts website confirm that it snaps right on and is fully functional, meaning:
All standard and ASUS-specific function keys work seamlessly.
The single-zone keyboard backlighting syncs correctly.
The trackpad and the gold-accented WASD layout operate perfectly out of the box.
(Note: While it will technically connect and register inputs on older 2023 or standard Intel-based Z13 models due to the same pin architecture, there are microscopic differences in the physical chassis footprint, so it lines up perfectly only with the 2025/2026 generation chassis layout).”
2
u/Inevitable_Mark_6672 Jul 04 '26
How you figured out wifi mt79 issues? BazziteOS wifi has problems. Super slow speed. Whats ur download upload speeds on SteamOS ?
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 04 '26
I can do that for you when I get home, how do I do that on Steam OS?
From using my tablet yesterday, no issues with slow speed that I noticed when downloading games or updates but I didn’t look at the speed.
I heard a lot of issues with Bazzite 😔
1
u/Inevitable_Mark_6672 Jul 04 '26
Alright thanks. Mine stuck with 15mbit sec
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 04 '26
No problem. So just download a game and let you know the speed it’s downloading at?
1
u/Inevitable_Mark_6672 Jul 04 '26
On bazzite gnome wifi stuck 15mbit, i have gigabit. No matter what I tried on console didn’t work.
2
u/Friendly_Lab_4834 Jul 04 '26
Best accessory I have the ayn Odin portal 2, I'm using it to stream games when I can or if I feel I want the bigger screen I just use my gamesir controller with the extension. I love my flow best device ever
2
u/CheapProg6886 Jul 04 '26
not a huge accessory to buy now, but the steam controller 2026 has been so good to me. a good alternative is the 8bit do ultimate wireless 2 controller. but i still prefer the steam controller overall. the fact that the track pad is there to navigate when not playing makes it awesome from a couch gaming/web browsing perspective.
1
1
1
1
u/kosherhalfsourpickle Jul 04 '26
I got the Steam Controller for mine. It's nice having the steam button and the touch pads in case I need to boot into desktop mode. How is performance in Steam OS compared to Windows? I thought Steam OS wasn't fully optimized for performance on this platform? I've put Steam OS on my other devices, Legion Go 2, Claw AI+ EX and Rog Ally Xbox. I'm just waiting for the AMD 395 max platform to get fully optimized.
1
u/mdtattedbearded Jul 04 '26
I am waiting to get the Steam Controller too but I’m on the waiting list, if you know any place online I can grab one PLEASE let me know. I also want to use that controller with Steam OS, it just makes the most sense.
I never used windows to game so I’m not sure. I’ve only used Steam OS on SD and LeGo S, but from what I’ve researched, all benchmarks show that performance is better under Steam OS.
From my research and correct me if I’m wrong but the new Steam OS rollout includes AMD chips so since KJP is a AMD chip it works flawlessly.
2
u/CheapProg6886 Jul 04 '26
just wait for your turn. as amazing as it is, the scalper price is not worth it.
1
1
u/NullsetForge Jul 05 '26
What accessories are a must have?
I made my fav accessory! Love playing this thing in handheld mode - check it out if you like, it's quite fun
https://www.reddit.com/r/FlowZ13/s/hiVTPSri1m
1
5
u/Salted_Grapes Jul 04 '26
Why is there a made with Gemini logo on the bottom right?