Asus ROG Ally X: A Promising Upgrade with Enhanced Features

by Tom Misch
in News, PC, Release
on 16 May 2024

A recent hands-on experience with an engineering sample of the upcoming Asus ROG Ally X has revealed some exciting improvements over its predecessor. The Verge had the opportunity to test a prototype of the device, and although limited, the experience unveiled notable enhancements that are worth mentioning.

One noteworthy change is the exterior design of the Asus ROG Ally X. Unlike the original model’s white color, the new version will come in a sleek black finish. Additionally, it features improved ergonomics and smaller grips, ensuring a more comfortable gaming experience. The sizeable battery within the device contributes to its slightly heavier weight compared to its predecessor. Alongside this, the Asus ROG Ally X is expected to be thicker, measuring at 1.5-inches as opposed to the previous model’s 1.27-inches.

Hardware leaker, MysteryLupin, has divulged alleged specifications and pricing for the Asus ROG Ally X. According to the leaks, the device is rumored to offer a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU and a 7-inch 1080p 120Hz display, which remains largely consistent with the original model. However, significant upgrades include a larger 1TB SSD and an astonishing 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, promising improved storage space and faster memory performance.

Battery life has also received attention in this potential new iteration. The Asus ROG Ally X is rumored to provide up to eight hours of longevity, outperforming its predecessor’s capability of approximately six hours. A larger battery will undoubtedly be welcomed by gamers, as it addresses concerns about draining power when running demanding games. Notably, similar battery concerns have been observed with devices like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion Go.

Although the Asus ROG Ally X appears to be an iteration of the previous model rather than an entirely innovative release, the anticipated upgrades make it a promising choice for gaming enthusiasts. Recent trends in the handheld gaming scene, such as the Steam Deck OLED, demonstrate the effectiveness of hardware revisions. Fans of the Asus ROG Ally series can look forward to the official launch event scheduled just before Computex 2024, where the device’s full capabilities will be revealed. Perhaps the Asus ROG Ally X will challenge other portable gaming devices, including Valve’s popular machines and Nintendo’s offerings. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting release.

Additional facts:

1. The Asus ROG Ally X is expected to have improved cooling capabilities compared to its predecessor, allowing for efficient heat dissipation during intense gaming sessions.

2. The device will likely feature an upgraded audio system, providing a more immersive sound experience for gamers.

3. It is speculated that the Asus ROG Ally X will support 5G connectivity, enabling smoother online gaming and faster downloads/uploads.

4. The pricing for the Asus ROG Ally X is yet to be officially confirmed, but it is expected to be in the premium range, considering its high-end specifications.

5. The new model is anticipated to have a range of connectivity options, including USB Type-C ports, HDMI output, and a headphone/microphone combo jack.

Key questions and answers:

Q: What are the major improvements in the exterior design of the Asus ROG Ally X?
A: The Asus ROG Ally X features a sleek black finish, improved ergonomics, and smaller grips for enhanced comfort during gaming.

Q: What are the significant upgrades in terms of hardware specifications for the Asus ROG Ally X?
A: The rumored upgrades include a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU, a 7-inch 1080p 120Hz display, a larger 1TB SSD, and 24GB LPDDR5X RAM for improved storage and faster memory performance.

Q: What is the expected battery life of the Asus ROG Ally X?
A: The rumored battery life for the Asus ROG Ally X is up to eight hours, surpassing the previous model’s capability of approximately six hours.

Key challenges or controversies:

One potential challenge for the Asus ROG Ally X could be the competition from other portable gaming devices, such as the Steam Deck and Nintendo’s offerings. These devices already have established fan bases and may provide strong competition in the market.

Advantages:

1. Improved exterior design and ergonomics for a more comfortable gaming experience.
2. Upgraded hardware specifications for enhanced gaming performance.
3. Larger battery capacity leading to improved battery life.
4. Potential support for 5G connectivity for smoother online gaming experiences.
5. Expected higher storage capacity and faster memory performance.

Disadvantages:

1. The Asus ROG Ally X is anticipated to be slightly heavier and thicker compared to its predecessor, which may affect portability.
2. The device’s premium pricing may make it less accessible for budget-conscious gamers.