Asus ROG Ally X Review: The Portable Gaming Beast You’ve Been Waiting For!
Discover the Asus ROG Ally X, a premium handheld gaming console with a 7-inch FHD 120Hz display, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage. Is it worth $799.99? Find out here!
If you’re hunting for a premium handheld gaming experience, the Asus ROG Ally X might just be your next obsession. Designed to compete with the likes of the Steam Deck, this gaming handheld comes loaded with top-tier specs, a sleek design, and a few tweaks over its predecessor. But with its higher price tag, is it worth it? Let’s dive into the details.
Key Specs at a Glance
- Display: 7-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme
- Graphics: AMD Radeon (RDNA 3, 4GB VRAM)
- Memory: 24GB LPDDR5X-7500
- Storage: 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD (expandable via microSD)
- Battery: 80WHr, 3-8 hours depending on usage
- Weight: 678g (1.49 lbs)
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Price: $799.99 (base model)
Performance Breakdown (FPS in Popular Games)
With its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and 24GB RAM, the Ally X excels in delivering consistent performance for a handheld. Here’s how it fares in various games:
• Shadow of the Tomb Raider:
• Medium settings: ~43 fps
• Low settings: ~60 fps
• Cyberpunk 2077 (Steam Deck preset):
• Default resolution: ~37 fps
• Tweaked settings: ~45 fps
• Red Dead Redemption 2 (Favor Performance preset):
• Medium settings: ~40 fps
• High settings: Dips below 30 fps
• Alan Wake 2 (Demanding AAA title):
• Low settings (960 x 540, FSR 2 enabled): ~34 fps
• Low-medium settings: Dips below 30 fps
• Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2:
• Medium settings: ~90 fps
• Forza Horizon 5 (High preset):
• Smooth gameplay at ~50 fps
• Assassin’s Creed Valhalla:
• Medium settings: ~37 fps
On lighter games like Octopath Traveler or Hades, the Ally X easily pushes past 60 fps, making it perfect for casual gaming. Turbo mode improves performance significantly for demanding games but requires the device to stay plugged in, as it drains the battery quickly.
Design and Build Quality
The ROG Ally X is striking in its matte black chassis with customizable RGB lighting around the thumbsticks. It feels solid in hand, thanks to rounded edges and a premium finish. At 678g, it’s lightweight enough for long sessions, though its size leans closer to a chunky gaming controller than something pocketable.
The improved D-pad and thumbsticks bring better tactile feedback, perfect for precise movements in games like Street Fighter 6. Plus, a second USB-C port means better connectivity for accessories, though the removal of compatibility with Asus’s proprietary eGPU dock might disappoint power users.
Battery Life and Cooling
Battery life has doubled from the original Ally, lasting around 3.5 hours for moderate gaming and up to 8 hours for lighter tasks. It’s a massive improvement, though you’ll likely want to keep a charger handy for longer sessions. The new cooling system with thinner fan blades ensures quieter operation and cooler temperatures, even during intense gaming marathons.
Pricing and Verdict
At $799.99, the Asus ROG Ally X targets gamers willing to pay for a portable, premium Windows experience. While it’s pricier than the Steam Deck, it offers more RAM, better performance, and Windows compatibility out of the box, making it a great choice for enthusiasts. However, for budget-conscious gamers, the original ROG Ally or the Steam Deck might still provide better value.
Final Thoughts
The Asus ROG Ally X isn’t just a handheld console—it’s a portable powerhouse for gamers who demand the best on the go. Whether you’re exploring AAA titles or enjoying indie classics, this device ensures smooth gameplay across the board. It’s a treat for PC gamers who want flexibility and mobility. If you’re serious about handheld gaming, the ROG Ally X just might be worth every penny.
