Introduction: Asus ROG Ally X Overview
With the rise in popularity of handheld gaming PCs following the success of the Steam Deck, the Asus ROG Ally X stands out as a top choice for Windows 11-based gaming on the go. Despite utilizing the same AMD Z1 Extreme chip as its predecessors, the Asus ROG Ally X boasts significant upgrades in cooling, battery life, and RAM capacity, setting it apart as a standout option in the market.
Design Features of Asus ROG Ally X
At first glance, the Asus ROG Ally X may appear similar to its predecessor, the original ROG Ally, but closer inspection reveals numerous enhancements. The inclusion of an additional exhaust on the chassis, revamped back buttons, and a second USB-C port in place of the ROG XG port indicate a more refined design approach. The increased thickness of the device accommodates improved cooling mechanisms, resulting in a device that remains cool even during extended gaming sessions.
The Asus ROG Ally X’s array of buttons, including power, volume, and program-specific buttons, offer convenience and customization options for users. Coupled with a high-quality 7-inch 1080p IPS display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate, the device provides an immersive gaming experience with vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay.
Performance and Specifications of Asus ROG Ally X
Despite retaining the AMD Z1 Extreme SOC, the Asus ROG Ally X sets itself apart with upgraded specifications, including 24GB of LPDDR5 RAM at 7,500MHz. This boost in memory capacity and speed translates to improved gaming performance and enhanced overall usability.
In real-world testing scenarios, the Asus ROG Ally X showcases superior performance compared to its predecessor and other handheld gaming PCs, particularly excelling in memory-intensive games. With notable benchmarks and support for Radeon graphics features, the device can handle demanding AAA titles at high settings with ease.
Notably, the Asus ROG Ally X boasts an extended battery life, lasting up to 9 hours and 23 minutes in the PCMark10 battery test. This significant improvement, along with the device’s efficient power management, ensures extended gaming sessions without constant recharging.
Challenges in Windows 11 Integration
While the Asus ROG Ally X shines in terms of hardware and performance, the limitations of Windows 11’s touch screen functionality remain a drawback for users. Navigating the operating system with a gamepad or touch screen can be cumbersome, highlighting the need for Microsoft to enhance Windows 11’s controller-friendly UI for handheld gaming PCs.
Despite the usability challenges posed by Windows 11, devices like the Asus ROG Ally X continue to provide a compelling gaming experience, albeit with some operational hurdles. As the handheld gaming PC market expands, improvements in operating system integration will be crucial to enhancing user experience.