Exploring the Asus ROG Ally X: A Deep Dive into the Premier Handheld Gaming PC
The introduction of Asus ROG Ally X in 2023 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of handheld gaming PCs, carving a niche in the market largely influenced by the Steam Deck’s success. Before this surge, handheld gaming PCs existed but weren’t as mainstream for PC gaming. While the industry eagerly awaits AMD’s new Z-series chip, the Asus ROG Ally X has set a benchmark for Windows 11-based handheld gaming PCs, offering a solid performance with an improved cooling system, extended battery life, and enhanced RAM specifications.
Asus ROG Ally X – A Closer Look at the Design
Evolution from the Original
At first glance, the Asus ROG Ally X shares a striking resemblance with its predecessor, the original ROG Ally. However, a closer inspection reveals significant upgrades that enhance its performance and user experience. Notably, it is slightly thicker and sports a sleek black colorway. These changes not only improve its aesthetic appeal but also its functionality.
Enhanced Cooling and Usability
One of the key design upgrades includes an additional exhaust on the chassis top, making the cooling system more efficient. This modification, along with smaller, more ergonomic buttons and the addition of a second USB-C port, underscores Asus’s commitment to addressing feedback on the original model. The device measures 1.45 inches at its thickest point, offering extra cooling capabilities and maintaining a comfortable operating temperature even during extended gaming sessions.
Performance and Specifications: Breaking New Grounds
Memory Upgrade and Gaming Performance
The Asus ROG Ally X raises the bar with 24GB of LPDDR5 RAM, a significant increase from its predecessor’s 16GB. This upgrade, combined with the AMD Z1 Extreme chip, translates to remarkable gaming performance improvements. Titles like Hitman 3 and Cyberpunk 2077 run noticeably smoother, showcasing the device’s capability to handle memory-intensive games at higher settings.
Enhanced Graphics and Battery Life
The addition of Radeon Super Resolution and FidelityFX Super Resolution technology further bolsters gaming performance, intelligently optimizing graphics to maintain high frame rates without compromising on visuals. Moreover, the upgraded 80 WHr battery ensures that gamers can enjoy long playing sessions, a significant leap from the original model’s battery life.
The Challenge with Windows 11
Despite its impressive hardware and gaming performance, the Asus ROG Ally X highlights a broader issue with Windows 11’s compatibility with touchscreen and gamepad navigation. This difficulty suggests a need for Microsoft to reevaluate its approach, especially for devices designed for gaming. While Asus and others have worked to improve this experience, the onus is on Microsoft to create a more intuitive user interface for such devices.
Deciding to Buy
With a price tag of $799, the Asus ROG Ally X might seem steep for a handheld gaming PC. However, considering its performance upgrades, enhanced cooling system, and longer battery life, it offers value for money for serious gamers. The device’s singular configuration with 1TB of storage provides ample space for a wide game library, with the option to upgrade the SSD for even more storage.
FAQs
Q: How does the Asus ROG Ally X compare with the Steam Deck?
A: While the Asus ROG Ally X runs Windows 11 and offers superior hardware specs, the Steam Deck provides an arguably more user-friendly experience with its custom SteamOS.
Q: Can the SSD on the ROG Ally X be upgraded?
A: Yes, the device comes with 1TB of storage, but users have the option to upgrade the SSD if more space is needed.
Q: How does the improved cooling system impact gaming performance?
A: The enhanced cooling system prevents overheating, ensuring that the ROG Ally X maintains optimal performance even during extended gaming sessions, without uncomfortable heat buildup.
Q: Is the $799 price tag for the Asus ROG Ally X justified?
A: Considering the hardware improvements, particularly the RAM upgrade and better battery life, the ROG Ally X offers significant value for gamers looking for a high-performance handheld device.
Conclusion
The Asus ROG Ally X represents a significant step forward in the realm of handheld gaming PCs. With substantial improvements in design, performance, and user experience, it stands out as a leading choice for gamers. While challenges with Windows 11 navigation persist, the device’s overall excellence underscores the potential and staying power of handheld gaming PCs. As the industry continues to evolve, devices like the ROG Ally X will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of gaming on the go.