ASUS Republic of Gamers officially announced the ROG Ally X, a new model of its popular ROG Ally handheld game console. Designed for Windows 11 gaming on the go, the ROG Ally X features the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor but adds upgraded storage, RAM, battery life, and an updated chassis for improved ergonomics, cooling, and connectivity. Combined with Armoury Crate SE 1.5, which features a new customizable game library and unified system updates.
Taking user feedback into account, the ROG Ally X boasts significant upgrades to its core components. Storage capacity doubles to a whopping 1TB SSD, giving gamers ample space for their favorite titles. Additionally, the ROG Ally X sports a redesigned motherboard with an M.2 2280 slot, making it easier than ever to swap in even larger drives down the line.
To complement the storage boost, the ROG Ally X packs a hefty 24GB of LPDDR5X-7500 RAM, enhancing its overall versatility. Since the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme is an APU, it shares its video RAM with the system’s memory. As modern games demand more VRAM for high-fidelity textures, this 24GB pool allows for better allocation to both the system and the integrated GPU. This translates to smoother performance in even the most demanding AAA titles.
Endurance gets a major boost too, with the ROG Ally X packing a hefty 80Wh battery – double the capacity of its predecessor. This translates to extended gaming sessions, even unplugged. Remarkably, despite this significant battery upgrade, the ROG Ally X only adds 70 grams to the weight. What’s more, the weight distribution is meticulously designed to sit perfectly beneath the user’s thumb and forefinger grip, making the device feel lighter than its 678g might suggest. This ensures long, comfortable gaming sessions, whether you’re at home or on the go.
The ROG Ally X gets a design refresh, sporting a brand-new black colorway on its redesigned chassis. For enhanced comfort during long gaming sessions, the handles have been deepened slightly, and the overall shape is now more rounded. This is achieved without any significant increase in thickness. The controls have also received an ergonomic makeover, with the buttons and joysticks arranged at a slightly more comfortable angle. The triggers are now angled for easier pressing, and the macro buttons on the back have been reduced in size to minimize accidental presses while remaining within easy reach.
For enhanced control and durability, the ROG Ally X boasts upgraded joysticks. These new modules are rated for a whopping 5-million clicks, ensuring they’ll withstand even the most intense gaming sessions. Stiffer springs are also incorporated, providing a familiar response curve that longtime controller users will appreciate. The D-Pad hasn’t been left behind either – it’s been refined for more precise eight-directional input, perfect for mastering fighting games and retro classics.
In response to user feedback, the ROG Ally X ditches the XG Mobile port in favor of a more versatile setup – dual USB-C ports. One of these ports boasts Thunderbolt compatibility, providing a seamless connection to a wider range of third-party docks and external GPUs. This upgrade enhances the Ally X’s overall flexibility and future-proofs its connectivity.
Packing a bigger punch often requires a smarter cooling system. The ROG Ally X addresses this by incorporating all-new fans. Despite being 23% smaller to accommodate the larger battery, these fans boast 50% thinner blades for improved airflow. To further enhance cooling, the fan housing features two new tunnels that channel air upwards and out through an additional third exhaust vent on the top of the device. This ingenious design delivers a 24% increase in air volume circulating throughout the Ally X. The benefits extend beyond just internal components – the touchscreen itself stays up to 6°C cooler, ensuring comfortable gaming sessions even during extended battles.