The Asus ROG Ally X takes a bold step forward from its predecessor, reinforcing Asus’s dominance in the Windows-based handheld gaming space. While the original ROG Ally made waves in 2023 with its unique offering of Windows-powered gaming on the go, it wasn’t without its flaws. The malfunctioning SD card reader was one of its major shortcomings, but despite that, the Ally set the standard for what a gaming handheld could achieve. Now, with the ROG Ally X, Asus seeks to refine and enhance its initial success—at a higher price point, of course.
Key Specifications & Upgrades:
Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chipset (same as the previous generation)
RAM: 24GB of RAM (an upgrade from the previous model’s 16GB)
Storage: 1TB SSD (increased storage capacity from previous models)
Display: 7-inch display (no change in size, but expect improvements in performance and visuals)
Price: Rs. 89,990 in India
What’s New in the ROG Ally X?
Although the ROG Ally X retains much of the same design and core specs, such as the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extremechipset, which performed admirably in the original, there are several notable upgrades that make this refresh stand out.
More RAM: The most significant change is the increase in RAM to 24GB, up from 16GB in the original ROG Ally. This is a welcome upgrade, especially for gamers and power users who push the handheld to its limits with multitasking and resource-intensive games. The extra memory should also improve overall system performance, making the device feel smoother when handling larger game libraries or background processes.
Increased Storage: The 1TB SSD is a nice addition, providing ample space for modern AAA games, which tend to have bloated file sizes. With faster load times and the convenience of having a larger storage capacity, users won’t have to worry about juggling games or deleting files as frequently.
Improved Build Quality: The ROG Ally X feels more robust and refined than the original, with an ergonomic design that suits long gaming sessions. Asus has taken feedback from its users into account, ensuring the device feels comfortable during extended play.
Higher Price Point: The ROG Ally X is priced higher than the original model, at Rs. 89,990 in India. While the added RAM and storage justify the price increase to some extent, it's still a premium offering. The price might make potential buyers hesitate, especially when compared to alternatives like the Lenovo and MSI handhelds.
Display and Visuals: While the 7-inch display hasn’t changed in size, Asus has made adjustments to enhance its visual performance. Expect better color accuracy, smoother frame rates, and improved brightness, which will provide a more immersive experience, whether you’re gaming indoors or in brighter environments.
Performance & Gaming Experience:
The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chipset in the ROG Ally X ensures that performance remains top-notch. It can run most AAA titles at high settings, providing a fluid gaming experience. While it doesn’t mark a groundbreaking change in raw power compared to the original, the overall balance of performance and portability remains appealing.
The increased RAM and SSD boost make a tangible difference, reducing load times and allowing the device to handle more demanding applications. Whether you’re running a resource-heavy title like Cyberpunk 2077 or a more casual indie game, the ROG Ally X ensures smooth gameplay with no noticeable lag.
The inclusion of a 7-inch display remains a standout feature. The screen is large enough for comfortable gameplay but still portable enough to be taken anywhere. Asus has fine-tuned the display’s color accuracy and brightness, so it’s better suited for gaming in varied environments. Whether you're playing in a dark room or outside, the visuals remain vibrant and clear.
Battery Life:
One of the lingering concerns with gaming handhelds is battery life, especially when pushing hardware to its limits. While the ROG Ally X comes with a 7,000mAh battery, you can expect around 4-6 hours of gaming depending on the game’s intensity and the settings. This isn’t revolutionary, but it’s on par with other devices in this category. The inclusion of USB-C fast charging ensures you won’t be waiting long to get back into the action.
Conclusion:
The Asus ROG Ally X is a fantastic update to an already impressive handheld. The increased RAM and storage make it a more viable option for power users and heavy gamers, while the improved build and display enhance the overall gaming experience. While it’s priced higher than the original ROG Ally, the upgrades justify the extra cost for those looking for a more future-proof device.
However, it’s important to note that the ROG Ally X still faces stiff competition from other brands, and at Rs. 89,990, it’s firmly positioned in the premium segment. If you’re looking for a versatile handheld that blends performance with portability and are willing to pay the price, the ROG Ally X is undoubtedly worth considering.
Pros:
Significant RAM and storage upgrades (24GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
Improved build quality and ergonomics
Great display performance with better color accuracy and brightness
Still powerful with the Ryzen Z1 Extreme chipset
USB-C fast charging
Cons:
Higher price point compared to previous models
Battery life still a concern for extended gaming sessions
Faces competition from other handheld gaming devices in the same price range
Final Rating: 8.5/10
The Asus ROG Ally X has successfully improved upon its predecessor while maintaining a high level of performance and portability. It’s not a revolutionary leap, but it’s an upgrade that makes the device more refined and future-proof for gamers on the go.
