The ROG Ally X from ASUS is a high-performance handheld gaming laptop that combines power, style and versatility.
Designed for Windows 11, it is an upgrade from the ROG Ally launched last year, with user feedback from the first model front of mind when creating the new device.
What levels up the new ROG Ally X from the first model is the improved speed, power and battery life.
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Best Picks tested out the latest gaming device to see how it rates against the first model, and whether it will improve your gaming experience.
How do I get it and what will it cost?
The ROG Ally X is hitting shelves in Australia today, and can be purchased for $1599 from the ASUS E-shop or JB Hi-Fi.
New Zealand fans can purchase it from PB Tech and JB Hi-Fi for $1,799.
What is it good for and what does it do?
Whether you’re an experienced PC gamer or looking to get into it, the ROG Ally X caters to the very beginner to the extremely skilled of players.
One of the handy features on this device is the Armoury Crate, which is a centralised interface where users can access all their gaming platforms, from Xbox, to Steam to EA.
While mainly designed for gaming, users can also access the Windows 11 desktop and internet as you would a normal PC, making it a really convenient and compact device if you’re on the go.
The battery is a powerful 80Wh, and compared to the ROG Ally, that’s double the capacity, giving users more uninterrupted gaming.
The ROG Ally X also has an updated chassis which allows for better cooling and connectivity.
When using any gaming device, storage is always one of the most important features.
The ROG Ally X has 24 GB RAM, which allows for more storage on the console and the graphics processing unit, ensuring the device overall performs better when running the next-generation AAA titles.
The ROG Ally X also has been built with a 1TB solid-state drive, a major upgrade from the 512GB in the original. This simply gives players much more room for their games.
How does it look and work?
Keeping the sleek and stylish design of the first ROG Ally model, ASUS has really listened to user feedback when creating the latest device.
Firstly, it is a gaming beast that weighs just 70 grams more than the previous model, but ASUS has distributed the weight so it actually feels lighter than the 678 grams it weighs.
It boasts a brand new black colourway and slightly deeper handles with a more rounded shape that offer a player comfort without it being too thick.
Slants on the device to the console’s triggers makes them easier to press and ASUS has adopted a smaller button design on the back to reduce the problem of gamers accidentally hitting them while ensuring they are still accessible.
The ROG Ally X also has updated controls, with joysticks now more durable due to stiffer springs. The D-Pad is also better on the upgraded device, with more precise eight-direction input for fighting and retro games.
It boasts a 7-inch Full HD panel with a high 120Hz refresh rate and the console now features two USB-C ports rather than the original XG Mobile port.
How did I find the device?
Overall, I am impressed by ROG Ally X upgrade and it really does take gaming to the next level. The improved storage is unbeatable, and that, along with the powerful battery, makes the upgrade worthwhile.
This is a true contender in the gaming market and while it is 70 grams heavier than the last model, it really is lightweight and comfortable to hold.
The smooth gameplay, realistic graphics and quick load times provide an immersive gaming experience, and it is evident ASUS has listened to user feedback on the ROG Ally model to create this gaming powerhouse.
While the new ROG Ally X is slightly more expensive than the ROG Ally, it is well worth the money given the huge upgrade to base storage and faster RAM.
The audio on the gaming device is also really impressive, with a two-speaker system with Smart Amplifier Technology and AI noise-cancelling technology.
With its powerful hardware and stunning display, the ROG Ally X really ticks the boxes and is a serious upgrade from the ROG Ally.