ASUS ROG Ally X Review

Introduction

ASUS is a name that has long been associated with quality gaming devices. Their latest entry, the ASUS ROG Ally X, has set the gaming world abuzz. With a combination of sleek design, powerful hardware, and innovative features, the ROG Ally X aims to be the ultimate portable gaming machine.

But does it live up to the hype? In this review, we dive deep into everything this device offers, from design and features to performance and usability. By the end, you’ll know if the ASUS ROG Ally X is the right handheld gaming console for you. Let’s begin!

Design and Features

The design of the ASUS ROG Ally X is all about blending style with comfort. At first glance, you will notice its sharp edges and ergonomic form that fits comfortably in your hands. The body is made of high-quality materials that give it a premium look. The device has a matte finish that resists fingerprints, ensuring it stays clean and sleek. With a 7-inch Full HD touchscreen, the visuals are bright and vivid. The screen supports 120Hz refresh rates, which promises fluid motion during intense gaming sessions.

The ROG Ally X is slightly heavier than other handheld consoles, but it is well-balanced. The weight distribution makes it easy to hold for long periods without feeling fatigue. It also has a well-thought-out button layout. The joysticks are highly responsive, and the triggers have a satisfying click to them. The D-pad is precise and feels comfortable to use in different types of games. The back of the device has grips that provide extra support, ensuring it doesn’t slip from your hands even during long hours of gameplay.

ASUS has also included customizable RGB lighting around the joysticks, which adds to the overall aesthetics. The lighting can be adjusted based on your preferences or synced with the in-game actions, providing a more immersive experience. One of the standout features is the inclusion of front-facing speakers, which provide clear audio without needing external headphones. These speakers deliver crisp sound quality with a noticeable amount of bass, making game audio feel more lifelike.

Additionally, the device comes with a built-in kickstand, allowing you to place it on a flat surface and use an external controller. This is particularly useful when you want to enjoy games on the go without holding the device all the time.

Specification

Key Features

The ASUS ROG Ally X is packed with features that make it a worthy contender in the gaming handheld market. One of the key highlights is its 7-inch Full HD display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This means games look smoother and more vibrant, offering an edge in fast-paced action titles. The display also supports multi-touch, allowing for better control in games that require it.

Another standout feature is the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. This chip is designed for mobile gaming, providing high performance while maintaining energy efficiency. Paired with Radeon graphics, it delivers excellent frame rates, even in demanding games. The device also includes 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, which ensures multitasking is smooth, and loading times are kept to a minimum.

The ROG Ally X runs on Windows 11, which means it is not limited to just gaming. You can use it as a mini PC for various tasks like browsing the web, streaming content, or even doing some light productivity work. With 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, there is ample space for games, apps, and files. The storage is also expandable via microSD, which is a great addition for those who like to keep multiple games installed.

Connectivity options are robust, with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 support, ensuring fast and stable wireless connections. The device also includes USB Type-C with DisplayPort support, allowing you to connect it to external displays. For audio, the dual front-facing speakers are paired with a 3.5mm audio jack for those who prefer headphones.

Battery life is also impressive, with ASUS claiming up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge. This is supported by fast charging technology, which allows you to quickly top up the battery and get back to gaming. The device also comes with several software optimizations through the ASUS Armory Crate software, which allows you to tweak settings and monitor performance in real-time.

Performance

Performance is where the ASUS ROG Ally X truly shines. Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and Radeon graphics, it handles a wide range of games with ease. Whether you’re playing graphic-intensive titles or classic arcade games, the device delivers smooth gameplay without noticeable lag. The 120Hz refresh rate makes a significant difference, especially in first-person shooters and racing games where every frame counts.

Multitasking is another area where the ROG Ally X excels. Switching between different apps or games is seamless, thanks to the 16GB of RAM. You can easily run multiple applications without any slowdown, making it a versatile device for both gaming and everyday use. The SSD storage also contributes to the overall speed, with games loading quickly and no noticeable stutter during gameplay.

The ROG Ally X also features an efficient cooling system that prevents overheating during extended gaming sessions. The device remains cool to the touch, even when playing demanding titles. This is due to the dual-fan cooling system that ASUS has integrated into the design. The fans are relatively quiet, so they don’t disrupt your gaming experience.

Another area where the device impresses is its audio performance. The dual front-facing speakers provide clear and crisp sound. There is a noticeable amount of bass, which adds depth to the game audio. The speakers are loud enough for most environments, but if you prefer a more immersive experience, the 3.5mm audio jack or Bluetooth headphones are always an option.

However, the battery life, while decent, could be better. In high-performance mode, it lasts around 4-5 hours, which is sufficient for short gaming sessions but may require frequent recharging during longer marathons. Fortunately, the fast-charging feature allows you to quickly get back into action without much downtime.

Pros and Cons

Latest Deals

If you’re considering purchasing the ASUS ROG Ally X, there are currently some great deals available on Amazon. As of now, the device is available for $699 with free shipping for Prime members. Amazon is also offering a bundle deal, which includes a carry case and a screen protector at a discounted price of $749.

Additionally, Amazon has a 0% interest financing option for up to 12 months, making it easier to own this premium gaming console. Always check for the latest deals and promotions to make sure you get the best price.

Should You Buy It?

The ASUS ROG Ally X is an excellent choice for gamers who want a powerful handheld device without compromising on performance. If you are looking for a versatile gaming console that doubles as a mini PC, this is one of the best options on the market. It offers robust performance, a beautiful display, and plenty of features that make gaming enjoyable and immersive.

However, if battery life and weight are your top priorities, you might want to explore other options. The device is slightly heavier than some competitors, and its battery life, while decent, could be longer. But for most gamers, these are minor drawbacks considering the benefits it offers.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the ASUS ROG Ally X sets a new standard in the handheld gaming market. It offers a compelling blend of performance, design, and features that make it a great buy for serious gamers. The price might be a bit steep for some, but considering what you get, it is well worth the investment. The device is perfect for those who want a premium gaming experience on the go.

If you’re looking for a handheld console that can also function as a mini PC, the ASUS ROG Ally X checks all the boxes. It is built with quality, performs exceptionally well, and offers features that enhance your overall gaming experience. With its vibrant display, powerful hardware, and thoughtful design, it’s hard to find a direct competitor that matches its versatility and performance.

For those willing to invest in a high-end device that can handle both AAA and indie games with ease, the ROG Ally X is a compelling choice. While there are minor trade-offs, such as its weight and battery life in high-performance mode, these are easily overshadowed by the device’s strengths. The ASUS ROG Ally X is a future-proof investment for any gaming enthusiast who values quality and functionality.

How We Test

To ensure a comprehensive review, the ASUS ROG Ally X was tested across various scenarios. We began by evaluating its design and ergonomics through long gaming sessions, noting comfort, button responsiveness, and overall build quality. The device was tested with a variety of game genres, including fast-paced shooters, RPGs, and strategy games, to gauge performance under different loads.

We also measured battery life by playing high-performance games and then testing lighter usage scenarios, such as browsing or media playback. Display quality was assessed using different types of content, from colorful platformers to dark, high-contrast action games, checking for brightness, color accuracy, and refresh rate. Audio performance was tested by listening to game soundtracks, in-game dialogue, and ambient sounds with and without headphones.

Finally, we looked into the software experience, including the functionality of pre-installed apps like the ASUS Armory Crate, to see how it contributed to overall usability and user experience.

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