Hands-On: The Asus ROG Ally X Is the Xbox Handheld We’ve Waited For
▼ Summary
– The Xbox ROG Ally X features Xbox-style grips and haptic feedback for enhanced comfort and a more immersive, console-like gaming experience.
– It includes a streamlined Xbox interface optimized for the 7-inch screen, aiming to simplify Windows navigation and improve usability for console players.
– The device is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, 24GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, targeting Full HD gaming with strong performance.
– A larger 80Whr battery is included to improve battery life, though exact duration depends on game demands and settings.
– Pricing is yet to be confirmed but is expected to be higher than the top-spec Steam Deck OLED, with both models launching on October 16.
The Asus ROG Ally X represents a significant evolution in handheld gaming, combining the hardware expertise of Asus with the software polish of Xbox to create a device that feels genuinely console-like in the palm of your hand. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between PC and console gaming, offering a refined experience that could finally win over traditional console players.
Visually, the device retains the Asus design DNA but introduces Xbox-inspired grips that dramatically improve comfort and ergonomics. The angular edges of the original model have been replaced with contours that fit more naturally in your hands, making extended play sessions far less fatiguing. While the device is noticeably chunkier than a Nintendo Switch, it remains more compact than a Steam Deck OLED.
Under the hood, the Ally X is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, paired with a generous 24GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage. This hardware combination ensures that most games can run smoothly at Full HD resolution, a notable step up from many competitors. The inclusion of a sizable 80Whr battery should help mitigate one of the traditional weaknesses of Windows-based handhelds, though real-world performance will depend heavily on game demands.
The 7-inch IPS display delivers a sharp 1080p image with support for 120Hz refresh rates and variable refresh rate technology. While it may not match the deep blacks of an OLED panel, brightness levels are impressive, and touch responsiveness is precise. Forza Horizon 5 looked vibrant and fluid during testing, though graphically intensive titles will understandably impact battery life.
One of the most welcome improvements is the addition of haptic feedback in the triggers and bumpers, bringing tactile immersion closer to what you’d experience with an Xbox controller. During gameplay, effects like spellcasting in Hogwarts Legacy felt nuanced and engaging. The inclusion of a dedicated Xbox button also simplifies navigation, allowing quick access to the redesigned UI optimized for the smaller screen.
Connectivity remains robust with dual USB-C ports, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The power button continues to double as a fingerprint reader, streamlining the login process. Internally, the device runs a streamlined version of Windows 11, with background processes optimized to free up system resources. Features like Automatic Super Resolution help enhance visual quality even in games that lack native upscaling support.
A more affordable variant, simply called the Xbox Ally, serves as the Series S equivalent in this lineup. Dressed in white and equipped with a Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage, it targets 720p gaming on the go. It’s lighter than the Ally X and lacks impulse triggers, but should still handle modern titles with adjusted settings or AMD upscaling tech. Its 60Whr battery represents a meaningful upgrade over the original Ally, though Windows power management remains a wildcard.
Pricing for both models is still unconfirmed, but expectations point toward a premium over the Steam Deck OLED. The partnership between Asus and Microsoft brings a level of polish and integration that previous Windows handhelds lacked, making the ROG Ally X one of the most compelling options for gamers seeking a portable PC experience with console-like convenience.
(Source: Stuff.tv)
