Asus ROG Ally X Review: The Ultimate Windows Gaming Handheld

Introduction to the Asus ROG Ally X

The Asus ROG Ally X sets a new standard for Windows gaming handhelds, offering an impressive combination of comfort, performance, and battery life. As a gamer who values portability, these three elements are essential for an enjoyable gaming experience.

Unmatched Comfort and Design

The ergonomic design of the ROG Ally X enhances the gaming experience with its comfortable grip. Users can game for hours without feeling strained, thanks to the improved shape and feel of the grips and buttons.

Smooth Gameplay and Power Management

Asus has ingeniously paired AMD’s powerful Ryzen chips with a variable refresh rate screen, resulting in impressively smooth gameplay. The significant upgrade to an 80-watt-hour battery allows for higher power levels without compromising performance. This is particularly noticeable in demanding titles.

Real-World Battery Life Tests

• Persona 3 Reload: Lasted 2.5 hours at maximum brightness.
• Dave the Diver: Achieved a total runtime of 3 hours, 19 minutes.
• Armored Core 6: Played for nearly 3 hours.
• Alan Wake II: Gamers can enjoy up to 2 hours of immersive gameplay.

While the battery wasn’t remarkable at first glance, it surpasses many competitors in intensive gameplay scenarios.

Benchmark Performance Analysis

The ROG Ally X outperforms many previous models, including the original ROG Ally and Steam Deck OLED. The enhanced specifications also demonstrate superior frame rates in various games.

Game and power mode	ROG Ally X	Original ROG Ally	Lenovo Legion Go	Steam Deck OLED
AC Valhalla, 15-watt TDP	525		n/a		58		~20-watt TDP	67		n/a		69		n/a

Physical Changes and Usability Improvements

The ergonomics of the device have seen substantial improvements, making the ROG Ally X far more comfortable than its predecessor. New joysticks and buttons offer a refined touch, while the addition of dual USB-C ports bolsters connectivity.

Operating System Experience

Despite the hardware advancements, the Windows interface can be cumbersome compared to SteamOS. Users may face challenges related to system recognition and updates that hinder seamless gaming experiences.

Conclusion: Is the ROG Ally X Worth It?

While the ROG Ally X shines in certain aspects, it may not meet everyone's requirements. Gamers dedicated to high-performance handheld gaming without the complications of a Windows environment may gravitate toward competitors like the Steam Deck OLED. However, for those seeking top-notch performance and are willing to navigate Windows, the ROG Ally X is an excellent choice for gaming on the go.

Final Thoughts

The ROG Ally X signifies a substantial leap for Windows handheld gaming, showcasing what is possible with improved battery technology and gaming performance. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, we hope to see more advancements like these across future devices.