The ROG Ally X from Asus emerges as a noteworthy contender in the handheld gaming market, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. Priced at $799, this Windows-based device offers enhanced performance, yet it still invites a critical examination of its value proposition compared to competitors like the Steam Deck.
What’s New in the Ally X
At first glance, the ROG Ally X appears similar to the original model, but a closer inspection reveals a series of thoughtful upgrades. The device boasts a robust 7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920×1080, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and a brightness of 500 nits, all encased in durable Gorilla Glass Victus. The specifications are impressive:
- Display: 7-inch IPS panel: 1920×1080, 120 Hz, 7 ms, 500 nits, 100% sRGB, FreeSync, Gorilla Glass Victus
- OS: Windows 11 (Home)
- CPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (Zen 4, 8 core, 24M cache, 5.10 GHz, 9-30 W)
- RAM: 24GB LPDDR5X 6400 MHz
- GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA3, 2.7 GHz, 8.6 Teraflops
- Storage: M.2 NVME 2280 Gen4x4, 1TB
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
- Battery: 80 Wh (65W max charge)
- Ports: USB-C (3.2 Gen2, DPI 1.4, PD 3.0), USB-C (DP, PD 3.0), 3.5 mm audio, Micro SD
- Size: 11×4.3×0.97 in. (280×111×25 mm)
- Weight: 1.49 lbs (678 g)
The ROG Ally X features a larger battery and improved RAM, enhancing its capability to handle demanding games while maintaining a compact form factor. The redesign includes a more ergonomic shape and a repositioned microSD card slot, addressing previous user concerns.
How It Feels Using the ROG Ally X
In practical use, the ROG Ally X delivers a seamless gaming experience. During testing, I engaged with various titles, including
The improved ergonomics of the ROG Ally X make extended gaming sessions more comfortable. The device’s weight distribution and textured grip contribute to a more enjoyable experience, allowing for longer play without discomfort. Additionally, the thumbsticks have been refined to minimize accidental screen taps, enhancing overall control.
Performance: The Difference a Big Battery and RAM Make
Asus has effectively doubled the battery capacity in the ROG Ally X, retuning its power modes for better efficiency. The device now operates on lower wattage levels, which translates to improved battery life across various gaming scenarios. Benchmarks indicate significant gains in performance, particularly in demanding titles, thanks to the additional RAM and optimized power settings.
While some benchmark results may show lower performance in Turbo mode compared to the original, this trade-off often results in better battery longevity, making the ROG Ally X a more practical choice for mobile gaming.
Software: Handheld Windows is Still Handheld Windows
Despite improvements in software stability and responsiveness, the ROG Ally X still grapples with the inherent challenges of running Windows on a handheld device. The Command Center overlay has seen enhancements, but launching games can still be a hit-or-miss experience, with occasional crashes and unexpected behavior when switching between applications.
For those who prioritize playing intensive games on the go, the ROG Ally X stands out as a compelling option in the handheld gaming market.