ASUS ROG Ally X Review: A Game-Changer in Handheld Gaming
The gaming industry has seen a remarkable evolution in handheld devices, and the ASUS ROG Ally X has entered the arena with a bang. This powerful handheld gaming console is not just another device; it’s a fusion of performance, portability, and innovation. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the ROG Ally X promises an unparalleled gaming experience.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore everything from the design and performance to battery life and value, helping you decide if this device is worth your investment.
Design and Build Quality
ASUS has a reputation for crafting visually stunning and robust gaming hardware, and the ROG Ally X is no exception. The device boasts a sleek, ergonomic design with premium materials that feel durable yet lightweight.
- Ergonomics: The contours of the ROG Ally X are designed to fit comfortably in your hands, making long gaming sessions enjoyable. The button placement is intuitive, ensuring easy access without straining your fingers.
- Display: Equipped with a 7-inch Full HD (1080p) touchscreen display, the ROG Ally X delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals. The 120Hz refresh rate and adaptive sync technology ensure buttery-smooth gameplay, minimizing motion blur and screen tearing.
- Aesthetics: RGB lighting around the thumbsticks and ASUS’s signature Republic of Gamers logo give the device a distinct gaming vibe.
Performance
Under the hood, the ROG Ally X is a powerhouse. Packed with cutting-edge hardware, it can handle demanding games with ease.
- Processor: The device features the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, a chip specifically designed for handheld gaming. With 8 cores and 16 threads, this processor ensures exceptional performance and multitasking capabilities.
- GPU: The integrated RDNA 3 graphics card delivers stunning visuals, rivaling some entry-level gaming laptops.
- RAM and Storage: The ROG Ally X comes with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. This configuration allows for faster loading times and smoother gameplay.
- Software: Running Windows 11, the device provides access to a vast library of PC games, including Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Epic Games Store. The pre-installed Armoury Crate SE software makes customizing performance settings and RGB lighting a breeze.
Game Library and Compatibility
One of the biggest selling points of the ROG Ally X is its ability to run PC games. Unlike competitors that rely on proprietary ecosystems, this device gives you the freedom to access virtually any game available on PC platforms.
- Cloud Gaming: With support for Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce NOW, you can stream games without worrying about storage constraints.
- Emulation: The device is also capable of running emulators, making it a dream come true for retro gaming fans.
Battery Life
Battery life is often a critical factor for handheld gaming devices, and the ROG Ally X strikes a decent balance.
- Usage Time: On average, the device provides around 4-6 hours of gameplay, depending on the intensity of the game and performance settings.
- Charging: The 65W fast-charging support ensures you can get back to gaming quickly, with a 50% charge achievable in just 30 minutes.
Cooling System
Gaming on the go often leads to overheating concerns, but ASUS has tackled this with an advanced cooling system.
- Dual Fans: The device is equipped with dual-intelligent cooling fans that keep the system running efficiently.
- Thermal Management: ASUS’s proprietary cooling technology ensures the ROG Ally X remains cool even during marathon gaming sessions.
Connectivity and Expandability
The ROG Ally X is designed to be more than just a handheld device.
- Ports: It includes a USB-C port, a headphone jack, and a microSD card slot for storage expansion.
- External GPU Support: ASUS’s XG Mobile dock compatibility allows users to connect an external GPU, turning the device into a full-fledged gaming PC.
- Wireless Connectivity: The device features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 for lag-free online gaming and seamless accessory pairing.
Audio
Audio quality can make or break a gaming experience, and ASUS has ensured that the ROG Ally X doesn’t disappoint.
- Speakers: The dual front-firing speakers deliver clear and immersive audio.
- Headphone Support: For a more private experience, the device supports high-quality audio codecs for wired and wireless headphones.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional performance with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and RDNA 3 graphics.
- Access to a vast library of PC games.
- Sleek and ergonomic design with a vibrant 120Hz display.
- Expandable storage and external GPU support.
- Advanced cooling system.
Cons:
- Battery life could be better for extended gaming sessions.
- Slightly higher price compared to competitors.
- The learning curve for setting up and optimizing Windows 11 for gaming.
Price and Availability
The ASUS ROG Ally X is priced at approximately $699, making it a premium but justified choice for gamers seeking top-tier performance in a handheld device. It’s available through major retailers and ASUS’s official website.
Conclusion
The ASUS ROG Ally X is a groundbreaking device that redefines handheld gaming. With its powerful hardware, stunning display, and extensive game library compatibility, it’s a must-have for serious gamers who crave performance and portability. While the battery life and price might deter some, the overall experience it offers is unmatched.
If you’re in the market for a handheld gaming console that can double as a portable PC, the ASUS ROG Ally X is undoubtedly worth considering. Embrace the future of gaming on the go and get ready to level up your gaming experience.
