ROG Ally X Review: The Handheld PC King, Refined

When the original ROG Ally launched, it threw down the gauntlet, challenging the Steam Deck with raw power and the full flexibility of Windows. It was an impressive, if flawed, first attempt. Now, ASUS is back with the ROG Ally X, a device that isn’t a sequel but rather a meticulous, enthusiast-focused refinement. It’s the result of a year of listening to user feedback, targeting every major pain point of its predecessor to create what might just be the most complete Windows handheld on the market today.

Design and Ergonomics: A Familiar, More Comfortable Form

At first glance, the Ally X is unmistakably an Ally, but the new all-black chassis gives it a more serious, premium aesthetic. Pick it up, and the changes become immediately apparent. It’s slightly thicker and heavier, a direct consequence of its most significant upgrade. However, ASUS has used this added bulk to dramatically improve ergonomics. The grips are deeper and more rounded, fitting more naturally into the palms. The top buttons and joysticks have been slightly repositioned for a better reach, and the rear macro paddles are smaller to reduce accidental presses. While the added weight is noticeable, the improved balance and comfort make it a net positive for long gaming sessions.

The Power Within: It’s All About the Battery

The core performance still comes from the excellent AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, so don’t expect a generational leap in raw frame rates. The real story is in the supporting cast, and the headline act is the gargantuan 80 Wh battery—double the capacity of the original. This single change transforms the Ally X from a device that demanded a nearby power outlet into a truly portable powerhouse, comfortably delivering significantly longer playtimes.

This is supported by an upgrade to 24 GB of faster LPDDR5X RAM, which gives modern, VRAM-hungry titles more breathing room and makes multitasking in Windows far snappier. Internally, the M.2 slot now accommodates the standard, more affordable 2280 SSD size, and it ships with a 1 TB drive. ASUS also redesigned the thermal system with smaller, more efficient fans that push more air with less noise, ensuring the Z1 Extreme can maintain its peak performance for longer without sounding like a jet engine.

Controls, Connectivity, and Display

ASUS has addressed nearly every hardware complaint. The joysticks have been replaced with stiffer, more durable modules, and the D-pad has been refined for better precision in fighting games. Critically, the microSD card slot has been moved away from the main thermal vents, seemingly resolving the infamous issue that plagued the original.

The biggest functional upgrade, however, is the death of the proprietary XG Mobile port. In its place are two USB-C ports. One is a full-featured USB4 port with Thunderbolt 4 capabilities, allowing for simple eGPU and high-speed docking solutions, while the other is a standard USB 3.2 Gen 2 port. This is a massive win for versatility. The display remains the same fantastic 7-inch, 1080p, 120 Hz VRR panel as the original. It’s bright, vibrant, and incredibly smooth, and while it isn’t an OLED, it remains one of the best LCD screens in the handheld space.

The Final Verdict: The Enthusiast’s Choice

The ROG Ally X is the device the original should have been. It commands a premium price, and it doesn’t fundamentally change the core experience of running Windows on a small screen, which can still be clunky. However, the thoughtful, targeted upgrades are not just minor tweaks; they are transformative. The colossal battery, enhanced RAM, superior ergonomics, and versatile I/O combine to create a polished and powerful package.

If you already own an ROG Ally, this isn’t a mandatory upgrade. But for new buyers in the market for a high-end handheld PC, the ROG Ally X is the new benchmark. It’s for the player who wants uncompromising power, wants the vast library access that Windows provides, and is willing to pay for a refined experience that addresses nearly every flaw of its predecessor.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon