The ASUS ROG Ally series represents a major step in handheld gaming, bringing PC-level performance into a portable device. The original ROG Ally allowed players to access a vast library of games on Windows 11, including Xbox Game Pass, Steam, and other digital platforms, all in a compact and portable form.

The series later expanded with the ROG Ally X, which introduces improvements in battery capacity, cooling, and memory, while retaining the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor as the original. The Ally X features 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a larger 80 Wh battery, designed to enhance extended gaming sessions and overall usability.

Both devices share the same handheld gaming DNA but differ in technical refinements and user experience. While the first model focused on raw performance in a compact form, the Ally X emphasizes a more balanced approach between power, portability, and comfort.

The ASUS ROG Ally series demonstrates how handheld gaming devices are evolving to provide a full gaming experience outside traditional desktops and laptops, giving players the flexibility to enjoy high-quality games anywhere

Design and Build Quality

The ROG Ally X features a slightly curved body with improved grips for comfortable long gaming sessions and a sleek matte black finish. Weighing around 678 grams, it remains portable while feeling solid. The internal structure was redesigned to fit a larger battery and enhanced cooling without adding bulk.

The button layout and analog sticks were upgraded for smooth motion and durability. Triggers and bumpers feel firmer, and two programmable back buttons were repositioned to reduce accidental presses.

Display and Audio

The 7-inch Full HD touchscreen supports a 120 Hz refresh rate and HDR10, delivering smooth visuals and vibrant colors. Touch controls remain responsive for menus and in-game gestures.

Audio comes from stereo speakers with clear highs and balanced mids. The device also includes built-in microphones that support voice chat while reducing background noise. These features combine to provide an immersive audiovisual experience in a compact, portable device.

Performance

The ROG Ally X delivers impressive gaming performance for a handheld device. Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, it can handle most modern AAA titles at high settings. The integrated RDNA 3 GPU provides smooth gameplay and supports features like DirectX 12 and hardware accelerated ray tracing.

Compared to the original ROG Ally, the Ally X benefits from enhanced cooling and improved thermal management, which helps maintain stable performance during long gaming sessions. Frame rates remain consistent even in graphically demanding games, and load times are significantly reduced thanks to the fast NVMe SSD storage.

The device also performs well for general PC tasks, including streaming, web browsing, and productivity apps, making it versatile beyond gaming. Game compatibility is broad, thanks to Windows 11 and support for Xbox Game Pass, Steam, and other platforms.

Overall, the ROG Ally X provides a handheld gaming experience that rivals small gaming laptops, offering both power and portability in a compact form factor.

Battery Life and Cooling

The ROG Ally X comes with a larger 80 Wh battery, providing longer gaming sessions compared to the original Ally. On average, players can expect 3–5 hours of continuous gameplay, depending on settings and game demands. Light tasks and less demanding games can extend battery life further.

Cooling has been significantly improved. The device uses a dual-fan system and optimized airflow to keep the CPU and GPU temperatures under control. This reduces thermal throttling during extended sessions, allowing consistent performance without overheating.

The combination of a high-capacity battery and efficient cooling ensures that the Ally X can handle intense gaming sessions while remaining comfortable to hold and operate.

Software and User Experience

The ROG Ally X runs Windows 11, offering full PC functionality alongside handheld gaming. Players can install and run games from Steam, Epic Games, Xbox Game Pass, and other platforms without limitations.

ASUS provides additional software tools like Armoury Crate, allowing users to customize performance profiles, fan speeds, and power settings easily. The interface is optimized for handheld use, with touch-friendly menus and quick-access buttons for system controls.

Xbox integration is seamless, enabling cloud gaming, game streaming, and remote play directly on the device. Users can also map buttons and triggers for specific games, creating a more personalized experience.

Overall, the software and user experience balance Windows versatility with handheld convenience, making the device flexible for both gaming and general PC tasks.

Price and Competition

The ROG Ally X is positioned as a premium handheld gaming device, priced higher than most competitors but justified by its performance, display, and build quality.

It competes with devices like the Steam Deck, AYANEO 2, and Lenovo Legion Go, offering similar or higher performance in aspects such as graphics power, RAM, and battery capacity.

While the price may be a consideration for budget-conscious gamers, the ROG Ally X is designed for players who prioritize high performance, full PC compatibility, and a polished handheld experience.

Final Review

The ROG Ally X is a strong contender in the handheld gaming market, delivering PC-level performance in a compact and portable design. With the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a high-refresh 7-inch Full HD touchscreen, it provides smooth gameplay and responsive visuals across a wide range of games.

The device is ergonomic and durable, featuring improved grips, a refined button layout, and a sleek matte black finish, making longer sessions more comfortable. Cooling is efficient, keeping temperatures stable during demanding gameplay, and the battery supports several hours of continuous play.

Audio performance is clear and immersive, complemented by responsive touch controls and built-in microphones for voice communication. Windows 11 and ASUS customization tools add flexibility for both gaming and general PC tasks.

While the ROG Ally X excels in many areas, there are some minor considerations. Its premium design and powerful hardware make it slightly heavier than some competitors, which may affect portability during very long sessions. Some highly demanding games can push the system close to its thermal limits, requiring occasional short breaks to maintain optimal performance.

Overall, the ROG Ally X strikes a strong balance between power, portability, and user experience. Its thoughtful design, high performance, and versatility represent a notable evolution in handheld gaming, offering a high-quality experience in a compact form factor.