When the Asus ROG Ally X was released in 2024, PC gaming handhelds had begun to build off of the success of the Valve Steam Deck. While these handheld gaming PCs existed prior to the Steam Deck, they only recently became a mainstream mode of playing PC games. The Asus ROG Ally X utilizes an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip and features a more robust cooling system, a larger battery, and additional 8GB of RAM that significantly enhance its performance.
The Asus ROG Ally X is now available for purchase at a price of $799 from Asus and Best Buy. Can this Windows handheld outperform Valve's Steam Deck OLED? This sequel to the previous year's ROG Ally offers more storage, faster RAM, double the battery life, and USB4 connectivity. However, further benchmarking and battery testing are required before a comprehensive review can be published.
The Asus ROG Ally X boasts a larger 80Wh battery compared to its predecessor's 40Wh battery. This upgrade results in twice the PCMark 10 gaming battery life benchmark, extending playtime significantly. Additionally, design tweaks have made the ROG Ally X more comfortable for extended gaming sessions by improving button placement and responsiveness.
Despite these improvements, some aspects of the Asus ROG Ally X may deter some buyers. The device runs on Windows 11, which is not as optimized for handheld gaming as other operating systems. Additionally, the ROG Ally X's reliance on AMD technology may limit its compatibility with certain games and software. Furthermore, its price point of $799 places it at a higher cost compared to some alternative handheld gaming devices.
In conclusion, the Asus ROG Ally X offers significant improvements over its predecessor and is a strong contender in the handheld gaming PC market. Its enhanced performance, battery life, and ergonomic design make it an attractive option for gamers seeking a portable Windows 11-based gaming experience. However, potential buyers should consider its compatibility with certain games and software as well as its higher price point relative to other options in the market.