The ASUS ROG Ally X builds upon the foundation of its predecessor with significant hardware and software improvements. The handheld gaming PC features the powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 24GB of RAM, and a spacious 1TB SSD, making it a serious contender in the portable gaming market. With its 7-inch FHD touchscreen running at 120Hz, players can enjoy smooth visuals across their favorite titles from multiple game libraries including Steam, Game Pass, Epic, and GOG.
The ROG Ally X runs Windows OS, giving users access to their entire PC gaming collection in a portable form factor. The upgraded Armoury Crate SE 1.5 software provides an intuitive interface for managing games and customizing settings. This combination of power and versatility makes the device stand out among other gaming handhelds currently available.
Gaming sessions can last longer thanks to the ROG Intelligent Cooling system that prevents thermal throttling. The device also offers expanded connectivity through USB 4 and features Wi-Fi 6E for fast wireless connections. These technical improvements address many of the limitations found in the original ROG Ally, making the X model a more complete gaming solution.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS ROG Ally X doesn’t just refine the original—it’s practically a redesign. While it maintains a familiar shape and size, the changes to the chassis make an immediate difference the moment you pick it up. The handles are fuller and rounder, providing a much more comfortable grip, especially for long sessions. It feels less like a gadget and more like a true gaming controller that happens to house a full-blown Windows PC.
The all-black matte finish replaces the original white design, giving it a sleeker, stealthier aesthetic. It resists fingerprints better than expected, and the overall build quality feels solid and premium. ASUS has shifted the volume rocker and power button slightly for better ergonomics, and the new button placements make them easier to reach without accidental presses.
Controls and Haptics
The joysticks are noticeably improved, now featuring Hall effect sensors that eliminate stick drift—a welcome upgrade for handheld enthusiasts tired of dealing with analog stick issues over time. The D-pad is also more precise, with a tactile response that makes it ideal for platformers and fighting games. The triggers and bumpers have been tweaked too, offering a more defined actuation that feels natural.
Haptics are a huge leap forward here. While not quite on the level of the PlayStation 5’s DualSense, the vibration feedback feels sharp and immersive, adding an extra layer to gameplay without feeling gimmicky.
Display and Audio
The ROG Ally X sticks with the same 7-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS display as the original, but that’s not a bad thing. It’s bright, hitting up to 500 nits, and covers 100% of the sRGB spectrum. Colors pop, blacks are deep for an IPS panel, and motion clarity is excellent thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate.
Adaptive Sync is still present, reducing screen tearing during fast-paced action games. Whether you’re playing high-speed racers or narrative-driven RPGs, the display holds up beautifully.
Audio gets a subtle but effective boost. The dual front-facing speakers deliver loud, clear sound, with a surprising amount of bass for a device this size. Plug in a headset, and you get access to Dolby Atmos support, offering a wider, more immersive soundstage.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the ROG Ally X is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, an eight-core, 16-thread beast that delivers desktop-like performance in a handheld form factor. The integrated RDNA 3 graphics hold their own surprisingly well, letting you play demanding AAA titles at medium to high settings without compromising much on framerate.
The real game changer? 24GB of LPDDR5X-7500 RAM. This not only gives you more breathing room for modern games but also means smoother multitasking. You can run Discord, Spotify, and Chrome in the background without seeing a noticeable performance dip.
ASUS doubled the SSD capacity on the X, offering up to a 1TB or 2TB PCIe Gen 4 drive with blazing-fast speeds. If you’re the kind of player who jumps between huge game installs, you’ll appreciate not needing to delete anything just to make space.
Thermal performance is solid. ASUS redesigned the cooling system with larger fans and a more efficient heat pipe layout. It runs quieter than the original Ally while staying cool enough to hold without discomfort, even after extended play sessions.
Battery Life
This was one of the biggest gripes with the original model, and ASUS listened. The Ally X packs an 80Wh battery—twice the capacity of its predecessor. In real-world terms, you’re looking at around 6-8 hours of battery life on lighter indie games or emulation, and about 3-4 hours on more demanding AAA games.
Of course, you can extend battery life by tweaking power profiles in the Armoury Crate SE software, which now includes more granular control over wattage and fan curves. And with 65W fast charging through the updated USB-C ports (yes, there are now two), topping off the battery is quick and painless.
Ports and Expandability
Speaking of ports, ASUS ditched the XG Mobile connector and replaced it with dual USB-C ports, both supporting USB4. This opens the door to a wider range of docks, external GPUs, and peripherals without locking you into ASUS’s ecosystem.
There’s also a microSD card slot, a headphone jack, and Wi-Fi 6E for rock-solid wireless connectivity. Whether you’re streaming Xbox Cloud games or downloading massive updates on Steam, the network performance doesn’t disappoint.
Software and User Experience
The Ally X runs Windows 11 out of the box, giving you full access to the vast library of PC games and applications. Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass—everything works. But it’s the revamped Armoury Crate SE 1.5 that ties the experience together.
The UI is cleaner, faster, and more intuitive. Switching between game libraries, adjusting performance profiles, and mapping controls feels natural. You can also launch games in a console-style mode that makes handheld gaming on Windows much less of a chore.
Gaming Experience
If you’re wondering how it plays, the short answer is: fantastic. You can comfortably run Cyberpunk 2077, Forza Horizon 5, or Baldur’s Gate 3 at 1080p with medium to high settings, all while maintaining 40-60fps in most cases. Drop the resolution or adjust settings, and you can push even higher framerates.
It also excels at emulation. RetroArch, Dolphin, and Yuzu run flawlessly, turning the Ally X into an all-in-one retro gaming powerhouse.
Verdict: Is It Worth It?
The ASUS ROG Ally X fixes nearly every complaint people had with the original. Better battery life, more RAM, larger storage, improved ergonomics, and expanded connectivity—it’s the most refined Windows handheld on the market right now.
It’s not cheap, and running Windows on a handheld still comes with its quirks. But if you’re looking for a powerful, portable PC gaming experience with the freedom of Windows, the ROG Ally X sets a new standard.
Whether you’re gaming on the go, streaming, or emulating your favorite classics, this is the handheld that finally delivers.
Key Takeaways
- The ROG Ally X combines the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor with 24GB RAM and 1TB storage for powerful portable gaming performance.
- Windows OS support enables access to multiple game libraries including Steam and Game Pass on a single device.
- Enhanced battery life and cooling technology allow for extended gaming sessions without performance drops.
Overview of the Asus ROG Ally X
The Asus ROG Ally X represents a significant upgrade to the original ROG Ally, offering enhanced hardware specifications and improved performance for portable PC gaming. It maintains the core concept of a Windows-based handheld gaming device while addressing many of the limitations of its predecessor.
Design and Build Quality
The ROG Ally X features a slightly thicker chassis than the original model, measuring 1.45 inches at its thickest point compared to the previous 1.28 inches. This additional space houses improved cooling systems, including an enhanced air channel that helps maintain optimal temperatures during extended gaming sessions.
Despite the size increase, Asus has maintained a portable form factor that remains comfortable for handheld gaming. The device includes ergonomic grips and strategically placed buttons that enhance gaming comfort during longer sessions.
Build quality is robust with premium materials that give the device a solid feel. The ROG Ally X includes Aura Sync RGB lighting elements that allow for customizable illumination effects, adding a touch of personalization to the device’s aesthetic.
Weight has increased slightly due to the larger battery and cooling systems, but remains balanced for comfortable handheld use.
Target Audience and Usage Scenarios
The ROG Ally X targets dedicated PC gamers who want their library available on the go. With its AMD Z1 Extreme processor and substantial 24GB of RAM, it appeals to users who need high performance for demanding modern titles.
This handheld gaming PC bridges the gap between gaming laptops and portable consoles. It’s ideal for travelers, commuters, or gamers who want flexibility in where they play without sacrificing performance.
The device excels at running AAA titles with impressive framerates. Games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 can run at over 100 FPS using recommended settings, making it suitable for competitive gamers who need responsive performance.
With 1TB of storage and Windows compatibility, the ROG Ally X serves as both a gaming device and portable workstation, appealing to users who need versatility beyond gaming applications.
Technical Specifications
The ROG Ally X offers substantial hardware improvements over its predecessor, delivering a powerful mobile gaming experience with enhanced performance and battery life.
Processor Details
The Asus ROG Ally X runs on AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, built on an advanced 4nm process. This 8-core/16-thread CPU features a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz that can boost up to 5.10 GHz when needed. The processor includes a generous 24MB cache to improve performance in demanding applications.
For graphics, the handheld integrates AMD’s Radeon 780M GPU based on RDNA 3 architecture. This integrated GPU contains 12 Compute Units, offering substantial graphics power for a portable device. The combination provides enough horsepower to run modern AAA games at playable framerates.
The Z1 Extreme APU represents AMD’s dedicated solution for handheld gaming PCs, optimized for the balance between performance and power efficiency needed in this form factor.
Memory and Storage Capacity
The ROG Ally X comes equipped with 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, a significant upgrade from the 16GB found in the base ROG Ally model. This additional memory allows for smoother multitasking and better performance in memory-intensive games.
Storage capacity has also seen a substantial boost. The device features a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, doubling the storage of the original model. This faster storage technology ensures quick game loading times and system responsiveness.
For users needing additional storage, the Ally X maintains expandability options through its microSD card slot. This allows gamers to easily expand their library without complicated internal upgrades.
Display Characteristics
The ROG Ally X features a 7-inch IPS LCD display with a 16:9 aspect ratio, making it ideal for gaming content. The 1080p Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) delivers sharp visuals while maintaining performance.
The screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth motion in fast-paced games. This high refresh rate is especially beneficial in competitive titles where visual responsiveness is crucial.
The display also offers:
- 500 nits peak brightness for good visibility
- 100% sRGB color coverage
- Touch functionality for intuitive navigation
- Corning Gorilla Glass protection for durability
The panel uses AMD FreeSync Premium technology to reduce screen tearing and stuttering during gameplay.
Audio Quality and Features
Audio on the ROG Ally X has been designed to provide an immersive gaming experience. The device features a dual front-facing speaker system that delivers clear stereo sound without requiring headphones.
Dolby Atmos support enhances the audio experience by providing virtual surround sound. This technology creates more spatial awareness in games, helping players better locate sounds in 3D environments.
The handheld includes a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting traditional headphones or external speakers. For wireless audio, it supports Bluetooth 5.2 with various audio codecs for high-quality wireless sound transmission.
Smart Amplifier Technology helps protect the speakers while delivering louder, clearer audio. Additionally, the Ally X includes dual microphones with AI noise-cancellation for clear voice chat during multiplayer gaming sessions.
Connectivity Options
The ROG Ally X offers comprehensive connectivity options for a portable gaming device. It features a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port that supports multiple functions:
- Power Delivery 3.0 for fast charging
- DisplayPort output for connecting external displays
- USB data transfer for peripherals
Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) for high-speed, low-latency online gaming. This technology provides access to less congested 6GHz bands for better performance in crowded network environments.
Bluetooth 5.2 supports various peripherals including controllers, headphones, and keyboards. The device also includes a microSD card reader for expandable storage options.
The ROG XG Mobile interface allows connection to ASUS’s external GPU dock for significantly enhanced graphics performance when using the device at a desk.
Battery Performance and Charging
Battery life receives a significant upgrade in the ROG Ally X with its 80Wh battery capacity, compared to the 40Wh in the original model. This larger battery doubles potential playtime, addressing one of the main criticisms of the first ROG Ally.
Actual runtime varies significantly based on the games played and performance settings. Less demanding titles can run for 6-8 hours, while graphically intensive AAA games might deplete the battery in 2-3 hours at higher performance settings.
The device supports fast charging through its USB-C port with Power Delivery 3.0. The included 65W charger can replenish the battery from 0% to approximately 50% in about 30 minutes. Full charging takes roughly 2 hours.
Battery life can be extended through the device’s performance profiles, which allow users to balance power consumption with performance based on their current needs and access to power sources.
Operating System and Software
The ROG Ally X runs Windows 11 as its native operating system, providing users with a familiar environment for gaming and productivity. This integration enables seamless access to game libraries while the custom Armoury Crate SE software offers specialized tools for optimizing performance.
Windows 11 Integration
The ROG Ally X comes with a full Windows 11 operating system, transforming it from a mere handheld into a portable PC. This gives users access to their entire game library across multiple platforms including Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and others without complicated workarounds.
Windows 11 on the Ally X offers the flexibility of a desktop experience in a portable form factor. Users can install any Windows-compatible application, browse the web, and perform productivity tasks just like on a standard computer.
The familiar Windows interface has been optimized for the handheld’s touchscreen, though some elements can feel slightly cramped on the 7-inch display. A wireless mouse and keyboard can be connected for a more traditional computing experience when needed.
One advantage of running Windows is automatic driver updates and software compatibility with a vast library of PC games spanning decades.
Armoury Crate SE and Command Center
Armoury Crate SE serves as the command center for the ROG Ally X, providing easy access to performance settings and system controls. This specialized interface lets users quickly switch between performance profiles without navigating through Windows menus.
The Command Center within Armoury Crate SE offers customizable performance modes including Turbo, Performance, and Silent. Each mode balances power consumption and thermal management differently to suit various gaming scenarios.
Users can monitor system metrics like CPU temperature, GPU usage, and fan speeds in real-time. The software also allows for custom fan curves and power limits for those who want granular control over their device’s performance.
Quick access buttons enable fast switching between games and applications. The overlay can be summoned during gameplay to adjust settings without exiting to the desktop.
Armoury Crate SE also manages controller settings, allowing button remapping and creating custom control profiles for different games.
Gaming Performance
The ROG Ally X delivers exceptional gaming performance with its AMD Z1 Extreme APU and 24GB of LPDDR5 memory. This handheld PC offers various power modes to balance performance and battery life for different gaming scenarios.
Support for AAA Games and Game Pass
The ROG Ally X handles AAA gaming titles with impressive capability. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 run smoothly on the device, especially when using appropriate TDP settings. Players can choose between Silent (13W), Performance (17W), Turbo (25W), and custom power profiles to find the right balance between performance and battery consumption.
Game Pass integration makes the Ally X a versatile gaming platform. The handheld comes ready for Microsoft’s subscription service, giving players immediate access to hundreds of titles without additional purchases.
Some users have reported performance issues with certain games, including micro stuttering in titles that previously ran at 60fps. These problems might require troubleshooting or firmware updates to resolve.
Refresh Rates and Resolution
The ROG Ally X features a 120Hz display that delivers smooth visuals for fast-paced games. This high refresh rate significantly enhances the gaming experience by reducing motion blur and providing more responsive gameplay compared to standard 60Hz screens.
The device typically runs games at 1080p resolution, though players can adjust settings for specific titles to optimize performance. For demanding games, lowering the resolution can help maintain higher frame rates.
Super resolution technology helps the Ally X upscale lower-resolution content to look better on its display. This feature is particularly useful when running graphically intensive games that might otherwise struggle at native resolution.
Special Gaming Features
The ROG Ally X incorporates the Zero Gravity thermal system, designed specifically for portable gaming. This cooling solution helps maintain peak performance during extended gaming sessions without overheating issues that plague many handhelds.
For gamers seeking even more power, the original ROG Ally supports external GPUs through the XG connection on top. The Ally X expands these capabilities with compatibility for third-party USB and Thunderbolt eGPUs, potentially supporting up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU.
The Armoury Crate software provides granular control over performance settings. Players can create custom profiles for specific games, adjusting TDP, GPU frequency, and other parameters to optimize each gaming experience.
Advanced Technologies
The ASUS ROG Ally X incorporates several cutting-edge technologies that elevate its performance beyond typical handheld gaming devices. These technologies work together to deliver exceptional graphics capabilities, processing power, and user protection.
AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor Capabilities
The ROG Ally X is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which represents a significant advancement in mobile gaming technology. This processor features RDNA 3 graphics architecture combined with Zen 4 CPU cores, creating a powerful foundation for demanding games.
The Z1 Extreme offers 8 cores and 16 threads with boost clock speeds up to 5.1GHz. This processing capability allows the ROG Ally X to handle resource-intensive AAA titles with ease, even when running at the device’s native 1080p resolution.
Users benefit from AMD’s optimized power management, which balances performance needs with battery consumption. The processor’s architecture specifically targets mobile gaming scenarios, providing desktop-like performance in a handheld form factor.
Advancements in Teraflops and Graphics
The ROG Ally X delivers impressive graphical capabilities, generating approximately 8.6 teraflops of computing power. This places it ahead of many competing handheld devices and even some dedicated gaming consoles.
The device’s graphics architecture supports advanced features like ray tracing and variable rate shading. These technologies create more realistic lighting effects and optimize performance by focusing rendering resources where they’re most needed.
Display technology has also received significant attention with the ROG Ally X featuring a 7-inch 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. The high refresh rate combined with AMD FreeSync Premium support eliminates screen tearing and reduces input lag.
The device supports multiple performance profiles that users can switch between to prioritize either graphics quality or battery life depending on their needs.
Security and Privacy Features
ASUS has implemented several security measures in the ROG Ally X to protect user data and privacy. The device includes a TPM 2.0 module that works with Windows 11 to provide hardware-level security protection.
Secure Boot technology prevents unauthorized boot loaders from executing during startup. This helps protect against malware that attempts to compromise the system before the operating system loads.
The ROG Ally X incorporates fingerprint authentication integrated into the power button. This allows for quick, secure access without repeatedly entering passwords.
Windows Hello facial recognition is supported through the device’s camera. ASUS has implemented physical privacy indicators that show when the camera is active, giving users confidence in their privacy protection.
Portability and Ease of Use
The ASUS ROG Ally X balances portability with functionality in the handheld gaming space. While heavier than some competitors, it offers ergonomic advantages and interface improvements that make gaming on the go more accessible.
Ergonomics and Handling
The ROG Ally X features one of the most comfortable grips in the Windows handheld market. Its contoured design fits naturally in most hands, reducing fatigue during extended gaming sessions. The button layout is intuitive, with easy-to-reach controls that don’t require awkward finger stretching.
Weight has increased compared to the original ROG Ally, trading some portability for improved battery life and additional storage. At this size, the device remains manageable for most gaming scenarios but might feel substantial during longer sessions.
The touch screen responsiveness deserves praise, offering precise input for games or navigating Windows 11. The display remains vibrant and visible in various lighting conditions, though direct sunlight can still cause visibility issues.
Portable Gaming Versus Traditional Consoles
The ROG Ally X positions itself between traditional gaming consoles and gaming laptops. It offers the convenience of handheld gaming with significantly more power and versatility than dedicated portable consoles like the Nintendo Switch.
Windows 11 provides an accessible interface for installing games and emulators, simplifying the process compared to other non-Windows handhelds. This ease of use comes with a learning curve for those unfamiliar with PC gaming environments.
Battery life represents the most significant compromise when comparing to traditional consoles. While improved over the original ROG Ally, intensive gaming sessions still require power outlet proximity for extended play.
The device excels in versatility, allowing players to continue their PC gaming libraries on the go. This flexibility makes it ideal for those who want their game collection available anywhere, despite the higher price point compared to traditional consoles.
Expansion and Accessories
The ROG Ally X offers numerous expansion options and accessories that enhance its functionality as a premium gaming handheld. These add-ons transform the device from a portable gaming system into a versatile gaming platform that can adapt to various play styles and environments.
External Storage and SD Card Support
The ROG Ally X comes with improved storage options compared to its predecessor. While the device features built-in storage, many gamers require additional space for their growing game libraries. The handheld includes a microSD card slot that supports high-capacity cards, allowing users to expand storage significantly without opening the device.
For optimal performance, high-speed SD cards with UHS-II or higher ratings are recommended. These cards minimize loading times and provide smoother gameplay when running games directly from external storage.
Premium docking stations like the JSAUX 7-in-1 RGB Cooling Docking Station are popular accessories that provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These docks often include additional USB ports, HDMI output, and ethernet connections, effectively turning the Ally X into a desktop gaming system when desired.
Customization Options with Aura Sync
Aura Sync represents one of the key visual customization features available for the ROG Ally X. This RGB lighting system integrates with other ASUS ROG products, creating a unified lighting ecosystem across devices.
Using the Armoury Crate software, players can:
- Customize lighting patterns and effects
- Synchronize lighting with in-game actions
- Create profiles for different games or moods
- Set static colors to match their gaming setup
The ROG Ally Premium Hard Case, an official accessory mentioned in the search results, protects the device while complementing its aesthetic design. This case is specially designed to accommodate the Ally X’s dimensions and provides protection without sacrificing quick access to the device.
For audio enhancement, the ROG Cetra True Wireless earbuds pair seamlessly with the Ally X, providing immersive sound without cables that might interfere with handheld gaming. These accessories complete the ROG ecosystem experience that many enthusiasts appreciate.
