Asus ROG Ally X: The Gaming Handheld with Enhanced Features

by Arthur Herring
in News, PC, Release, xEL
on 2 June 2024

Asus has recently announced the highly anticipated release of the Asus ROG Ally X, a gaming handheld that comes packed with numerous upgrades and enhancements. While it may not yet be determined whether the improvements on the Ally X are significant enough to challenge the supremacy of the Steam Deck OLED in the handheld gaming PC market, the extensive range of enhancements is undoubtedly appealing to potential buyers.

One of the most notable changes in the Asus ROG Ally X is its transition from the original white finish to a sleek black finish. This color alteration not only gives the handheld a more sophisticated look but also helps to conceal the wear and tear that may occur from regular usage.

However, the most significant improvement lies in the doubled battery capacity of the Ally X, which has been upgraded from 40Whr to an impressive 80Whr. This substantial boost in battery power may potentially propel the Ally X ahead of its main competitor, the Steam Deck, which previously held an edge when it came to battery life.

Despite the larger battery, Asus has managed to keep the overall weight of the device relatively unchanged by implementing weight reductions in other areas. The size of the fan has been reduced by 23%, while maintaining a 10% increase in airflow with the use of thinner fan blades. Additionally, an additional exhaust area has been included to enhance heat dissipation.

Internally, the Asus ROG Ally X boasts several improvements, including default 1TB storage capacity and the adoption of a “full-size” 2280 format SSD. This upgrade enables users to install a wider range of SSD options. Furthermore, the device now features a whopping 24GB LPDDRX 7500 RAM, surpassing the capabilities of many gaming PCs.

Externally, the Ally X offers a range of ergonomic enhancements such as rounder handles and triggers, ensuring a more comfortable gaming experience. The D-pad has been redesigned with a precision eight-way design, and the button layout has been optimized for easier accessibility. However, the rear macro buttons have been downsized to prevent accidental activation.

While the Asus ROG Ally X impresses with its overall comfort and performance, one aspect that missed the mark for some users was the absence of an OLED screen. Although the display quality remains excellent, the lack of OLED technology is noticeable when compared to the Steam Deck OLED, which boasts superior contrast and color saturation.

In conclusion, the Asus ROG Ally X brings forth a range of significant enhancements and upgrades, making it an attractive option for avid gamers. From improved battery life to ergonomic improvements and enhanced internal specifications, the Ally X offers a competitive gaming experience, even if it falls slightly short in its display technology. Asus continues to push boundaries and deliver innovative handheld gaming devices, and the Ally X is a testament to their commitment to excellence.

Additional relevant information about the Asus ROG Ally X:

1. The Asus ROG Ally X features a 7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels. While it may not have an OLED screen like its competitor, the display still offers crisp visuals and good color accuracy.

2. The handheld gaming device supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, ensuring smooth online gaming experiences and compatibility with various wireless devices.

3. The Ally X includes a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output.

4. Asus has integrated a built-in microphone into the Ally X, allowing gamers to communicate with teammates or make voice commands during gameplay.

5. The device comes with stereo speakers that provide immersive audio, enhancing the gaming experience.

Key questions and answers:

Q: How much does the Asus ROG Ally X weigh?
A: The article does not provide information about the weight of the device.

Q: Does the Asus ROG Ally X support expandable storage?
A: The article mentions the default 1TB storage capacity but does not specify if it is expandable.

Q: What is the display refresh rate of the Asus ROG Ally X?
A: The article does not mention the display refresh rate.

Key challenges or controversies:

One of the key challenges for the Asus ROG Ally X is the strong competition from the Steam Deck OLED, which offers OLED display technology for superior contrast and color saturation. This might sway some consumers who prioritize display quality.

Advantages:

1. The doubled battery capacity of the Asus ROG Ally X provides an impressive boost to battery life, potentially surpassing its main competitor, the Steam Deck.

2. The ergonomic enhancements, including rounder handles and triggers, optimized button layout, and a redesigned D-pad, ensure a comfortable gaming experience.

3. The device’s internal improvements, such as default 1TB storage and 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, offer high-performance capabilities exceeding those of many gaming PCs.

Disadvantages:

1. The absence of OLED technology in the display may be considered a disadvantage for some users, especially when compared to the Steam Deck OLED.

The source of the article is from the blog krama.net