ASUS ROG Ally X: The Ultimate Handheld Gaming Powerhouse

The ASUS ROG Ally X, launched in 2024, represents a significant advancement in handheld gaming technology, building upon its predecessor with notable enhancements in performance, design, and user experience. Here’s everything you need to know about The ASUS ROG Ally X.

ASUS ROG Ally X Design and Ergonomics

While maintaining a similar aesthetic to the original ROG Ally, the Ally X introduces subtle yet impactful design refinements. The device features slightly deeper handles and a more rounded shape, contributing to improved comfort during extended gaming sessions. The buttons and joysticks have been rearranged to provide a more ergonomic angle, and the triggers have been redesigned for easier access. Additionally, the back buttons have been reduced in size to minimize accidental presses without sacrificing accessibility.

ASUS Ally X Display

The Ally X retains the 7-inch full-HD IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 7ms response time from its predecessor. The screen supports a peak brightness of 500 nits, 100% sRGB coverage, and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. It also features AMD’s FreeSync Premium technology to reduce screen tearing, ensuring a smooth and vibrant visual experience.

 ROG Ally X Performance

Under the hood, the Ally X is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, paired with 24GB of LPDDR5X-7500 RAM, offering a significant boost over the previous model’s 16GB. Storage has been doubled to a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, providing ample space for a vast library of games and media. The device also boasts an 80Wh battery, doubling the capacity of its predecessor, which translates to extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging.

Connectivity And  Expansion

A notable change in the Ally X is the replacement of the proprietary XG Mobile port with a USB4 Type-C port, enhancing compatibility with a wider range of peripherals and external GPUs. The device also includes an additional USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port and a UHS-II microSD card reader, facilitating faster data transfer and expanded storage options.

Software and User Experience

The Ally X runs on Windows 11 Home, providing access to a vast array of PC games across multiple platforms, including Xbox, Steam, EA, Ubisoft, and GOG. ASUS’s Armoury Crate SE app has been updated to improve system startup and game library access, enhancing the overall user experience. However, some users have noted that navigating Windows on a handheld device can be cumbersome due to its reliance on mouse and keyboard inputs.

ASUS Ally X Audio

The device features dual front-firing Smart Amp speakers with Dolby Atmos support, delivering clear and immersive audio. For a more personalized audio experience, users can connect their preferred headphones via Bluetooth 5.2.

Pricing And Availability

The ASUS ROG Ally X is available in two configurations: a 1TB model priced at $799.99 and a 2TB model at $899.99. It is available for purchase through various retailers, including Best Buy and ASUS’s official website.

The ASUS ROG Ally X stands as a formidable contender in the handheld gaming market, offering substantial improvements in performance, design, and battery life over its predecessor. While navigating Windows on a handheld device presents some challenges, the Ally X’s powerful hardware and versatile connectivity options make it an excellent choice for gamers seeking a portable yet robust gaming experience.