The ASUS ROG Ally X represents an incremental but meaningful upgrade to the original handheld PC, featuring a more powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor and refined ergonomics. Reviewers noted its improved button placement and slightly better battery life, though the device still falls short in battery endurance. The Xbox-branded interface streamlines access to both Xbox Game Pass and other platforms, though this may not suit users outside the Microsoft ecosystem. Tom's Hardware called it a solid iteration that improves on an already strong foundation, while Reddit users in r/SteamDeck reported mixed feelings about the Xbox UI integration.
Full review
Design and Ergonomics
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X stands out for its exceptional comfort and ergonomic design, a critical factor for handheld gaming devices. According to the Retro Handhelds review, the device features 'big, fat, and meaty' grips that make it one of the most comfortable x86 handhelds available. The side grips are positioned to accommodate palm placement, and the device's weight distribution ensures extended gaming sessions don't cause hand fatigue. Digital Downloaded's Matt noted that the prongs on either side of the device 'sit in the hand nicely and suit longer play sessions better,' while Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan emphasized that 'the side grips are kind of a game changer' for comfort during extended use. The device's build quality and form factor make it particularly appealing for users who value extended gaming sessions over portability.
However, some reviewers have noted design compromises. ZTGD's Ken McKown criticized the D-pad, stating it 'is still not a fan of the d-pad' and that 'there are two new buttons in addition to the view and menu buttons, one is a dedicated library button, which is awesome, the other opens up Armoury Crate.' The Retro Handhelds review also pointed out that while the device's controls are generally solid, the D-pad 'pivot feels off' and 'is not the most obvious actuation in the world for my liking.' Additionally, the device's large size makes it less pocket-friendly compared to competitors like the Nintendo Switch, with the Ultrabook Review noting it's 'no Nintendo Switch – this will not fit in your pocket as easily.' Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is that the Ally X's design prioritizes user comfort and usability over portability.
Performance and Hardware
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X delivers robust performance with its AMD Ryzen Z2A processor, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage, making it a powerful contender in the handheld gaming market. According to Pete Matheson's review, the device handles demanding titles like 'Hogwarts Legacy' and 'Battlefield 6' with ease, while also supporting a wide range of PC games from Steam, Epic, and Xbox. The device's hardware is capable of running most modern titles at high settings, though some users have noted that performance can be inconsistent with certain games, particularly those that require extensive graphics processing. Digital Downloaded's Matt noted that while the device is 'less powerful' than its predecessor, it still 'has a AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, where the original Ally has a AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme,' and that 'the build of the device is refined and, in my opinion, more comfortable.' The performance improvements are particularly noticeable in multi-tasking scenarios, where the additional RAM allows for smoother transitions between applications and games.
In terms of gaming performance, the device excels in handling modern titles, though it's not without its limitations. The Retro Handhelds review noted that while the device can run 'Ninja Gaiden 4 and Indiana Jones, both ran well,' the experience was 'great for the most part when actually playing the games themselves.' However, the device's performance can vary depending on the game's optimization for handheld mode. The Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan noted that while the device has 'great performance for what it is,' there are still some 'key aspects of the Steam Deck' that he missed, suggesting that while performance is strong, it may not fully replace the Steam Deck's unique features. Additionally, the device's battery life, while improved, still falls short of expectations for extended gaming sessions, with the Retro Handhelds review noting that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some.'
Software and User Experience
The software experience on the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is a blend of Windows 11 and Microsoft's Xbox-focused UI, designed to streamline access to various gaming platforms. According to Digital Downloaded's Matt, the device 'boots directly to the Xbox UI on launch' and 'has the added feature that it will display all your games, regardless of platform, at the top,' allowing users to access their Steam library without leaving the app. This integration with Xbox Game Pass and other platforms is a significant advantage for users who rely on multiple gaming ecosystems. However, the device's reliance on Windows 11 introduces some challenges. ZTGD's Ken McKown noted that 'the bones are still Windows' and that 'I ran into several issues with drivers not installing' and that 'it took forever to get this thing updated.' The device's software experience is further complicated by the need for frequent updates, which can be inconsistent and sometimes require manual intervention through Armoury Crate or other tools.
The user experience is further complicated by the device's hybrid nature, combining the familiarity of Windows with the streamlined interface of Xbox. Pete Matheson's review highlighted that while the 'Xbox-style dashboard shows your Steam, Epic, and Xbox games all in one place' and 'feels cleaner than previous Windows handhelds,' it's still 'Windows' and therefore subject to 'Windows Updates, Armoury Crate updates, Microsoft Store updates, Bloatware you did not ask for, UI scaling issues, and Controller mapping inconsistencies.' The Retro Handhelds review also noted that 'Armoury Crate was fine overall; however, it still feels like it's behind in full usability over its contemporaries.' Despite these challenges, the device's software is generally considered stable and functional, with most users finding the interface intuitive once they become familiar with it.
Battery Life and Power
Battery life on the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X remains a significant concern, with reviewers consistently noting that it falls short of expectations for extended gaming sessions. The device features an 80Wh battery, which is an improvement over the original Ally's 60Wh, but still insufficient for users seeking all-day gaming. According to the Retro Handhelds review, 'the battery life may not be good enough for some,' and the Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan noted that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some more expensive than top competition.' Pete Matheson's review also highlighted that while the 'overall performance has stayed smooth enough that I stopped worrying about it,' the battery life 'is the best I've seen so far in a handheld of this power,' suggesting that while the device's performance is solid, its battery life is still a limiting factor for many users. The device's power management is generally adequate for short gaming sessions, but users should expect to recharge frequently during extended use.
Despite the battery limitations, the device's power management is generally considered adequate for its intended use case. The Retro Handhelds review noted that the device's 'stability and quiet fans' are 'excellent,' and that 'the temperatures are stable,' which suggests that the device's power management is well-balanced. However, the device's reliance on Windows 11 and its hardware capabilities can lead to increased power consumption, particularly during high-performance gaming. The Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan noted that 'the device's software in general feels a lot more robust now,' but also pointed out that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some more expensive than top competition.' The device's power consumption is particularly notable during intensive gaming sessions, where users may experience a noticeable drop in battery life.
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X for its superior build quality, ergonomic design, and powerful performance. Digital Downloaded's Matt highlighted the device's 'refined build' and 'more comfortable' design, noting that 'the prongs on either side of the device do sit in the hand nicely and suit longer play sessions better.' The Retro Handhelds review emphasized that 'the ergonomics of the Xbox Ally are great' and that 'the grips are big, fat, and meaty,' making it 'probably going to be a go for me going forward.' Pete Matheson's review also noted that the device 'has made me think I could give up console gaming entirely,' citing its ability to run a wide range of PC games from Steam, Epic, and Xbox. The device's ability to handle demanding titles like 'Hogwarts Legacy' and 'Battlefield 6' was particularly praised, with reviewers noting that it 'handles everything I've thrown at it' and that 'the performance has stayed smooth enough that I stopped worrying about it.'
The device's software integration with Xbox Game Pass and other platforms was also a major selling point. Digital Downloaded's Matt noted that the device 'boots directly to the Xbox UI on launch' and that 'it will display all your games, regardless of platform, at the top,' allowing users to access their Steam library without leaving the app. The Retro Handhelds review also praised the device's 'Xbox-style dashboard' and its ability to 'show your Steam, Epic, and Xbox games all in one place,' which 'feels cleaner than previous Windows handhelds.' Additionally, the device's ability to run Windows applications and games without the need for compatibility layers or emulators was seen as a significant advantage, with Pete Matheson noting that 'if it runs on Windows, it can probably run on this thing.' The device's ability to support multiple gaming platforms and its flexibility in handling various types of games was a major draw for many reviewers.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X has several notable shortcomings that detract from its overall appeal. The most significant issue is its battery life, which reviewers consistently note is inadequate for extended gaming sessions. The Retro Handhelds review explicitly stated that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some more expensive than top competition,' while the Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan noted that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some more expensive than top competition.' Additionally, the device's reliance on Windows 11 introduces numerous software challenges, including driver issues, inconsistent updates, and bloatware. ZTGD's Ken McKown noted that 'I ran into several issues with drivers not installing' and that 'it took forever to get this thing updated,' while Pete Matheson's review highlighted that 'the device is still Windows' and that 'updates are in multiple places, and the reliability of the Microsoft Store actually updating my apps is hit and miss.'
Another major drawback is the device's software integration, which, while improved, still falls short of perfection. The Retro Handhelds review noted that 'Armoury Crate was fine overall; however, it still feels like it's behind in full usability over its contemporaries,' and that 'the Xbox Full Screen Experience is in its early stages.' Furthermore, the device's performance can be inconsistent with certain games, particularly those that require extensive graphics processing or are not optimized for handheld mode. The Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan noted that 'the device has become a favorite of mine as far as handhelds go,' but also pointed out that 'I was missing key aspects of the Steam Deck,' suggesting that while the device is powerful, it may not fully replace the Steam Deck's unique features. Additionally, the device's storage limitations, with only 500GB of internal storage, can be restrictive for users who want to keep a large library of games.
Who It's Best For
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is best suited for users who prioritize performance, versatility, and a Windows-based gaming experience over portability and battery life. According to Digital Downloaded's Matt, the device is ideal for 'users who prefer handheld gaming in about 99% of cases' and for those who want to 'play their PC library in a format that they prefer.' Pete Matheson's review highlighted that the device is particularly appealing to users who 'do not want to abandon entire game libraries,' as it supports multiple gaming platforms including Steam, Epic, and Xbox. The device is also well-suited for users who value the ability to run Windows applications and games without compatibility issues, with Matheson noting that 'if it runs on Windows, it can probably run on this thing.' Additionally, the device's powerful hardware makes it ideal for users who want to play demanding titles like 'Hogwarts Legacy' and 'Battlefield 6' on the go.
However, the device may not be ideal for users who prioritize battery life or portability over performance. The Retro Handhelds review noted that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some more expensive than top competition,' and that 'the device is no Nintendo Switch – this will not fit in your pocket as easily.' The device's large size and weight make it less suitable for users who frequently travel or need a highly portable device. Additionally, the device's reliance on Windows 11 and its software challenges may not appeal to users who prefer a more streamlined, console-like experience. Users who are comfortable with Windows and its quirks, and who value the ability to run a wide range of PC games, will find the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X to be a strong fit for their needs.
How It Compares to Alternatives
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X competes directly with the Steam Deck and other Windows-based handhelds, but it stands out due to its superior hardware and Xbox-focused integration. Digital Downloaded's Matt noted that 'the Xbox Ally is slightly more powerful than its predecessor' and that 'the build of the device is refined and, in my opinion, more comfortable,' suggesting that it offers improvements over previous models. The Retro Handhelds review compared it to the 'AYN Loki' and noted that 'the ergonomics of the Xbox Ally are great' and that 'the grips are big, fat, and meaty,' making it 'probably going to be a go for me going forward.' Pete Matheson's review also highlighted that while 'the Steam Deck tempted me, it had too many compatibility gaps,' the Ally X 'has handled everything I've thrown at it' and 'is the first handheld that has made me think I could give up console gaming entirely.' The device's ability to run Windows applications and games without compatibility issues sets it apart from competitors, with Matheson noting that 'if it runs on Windows, it can probably run on this thing.'
However, the device's performance is not without its limitations. The Ultrabook Review's Derek Sullivan noted that 'the device has become a favorite of mine as far as handhelds go,' but also pointed out that 'I was missing key aspects of the Steam Deck,' suggesting that while the device is powerful, it may not fully replace the Steam Deck's unique features. Additionally, the device's battery life is a significant drawback compared to competitors, with the Retro Handhelds review stating that 'the battery life may not be good enough for some more expensive than top competition.' The device's reliance on Windows 11 also introduces software challenges that may not be present in more streamlined console-based devices. While the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X offers superior performance and flexibility, it may not be the best choice for users who prioritize battery life or a more simplified user experience.
Strengths
- +Slightly more powerful than predecessor with AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor
- +Refined build with comfortable hand grips and improved button layout
- +Better battery life compared to original model
- +Xbox-branded UI with integrated Game Pass and cross-platform game access
Watch-outs
- −Battery life still insufficient for extended use
- −Xbox UI may not appeal to non-Microsoft ecosystem users
How it compares
The ASUS ROG Ally X stands out with its Xbox-branded UI and Game Pass integration, which differentiates it from competitors like the Valve Steam Deck OLED that focuses on SteamOS. However, while it offers slightly better battery life than its predecessor, it still falls short compared to the MSI Claw 8's 80WHr capacity and lacks the raw performance of the Lenovo Legion Go S with its Z1 Extreme chipset.
Who this is for
At a glance: Microsoft ecosystem users seeking Game Pass access.
Why you’d buy the ASUS ROG Ally X
- Slightly more powerful than predecessor with AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor.
- Refined build with comfortable hand grips and improved button layout.
- Better battery life compared to original model.
Why you’d skip it
- Battery life still insufficient for extended use.
- Xbox UI may not appeal to non-Microsoft ecosystem users.
Rating sources
“It's still an improvement on an already very good device and at a price point that people coming to PC handheld gaming for the first time will find reasonable”
“The Ally X is the first handheld that has made me think I could give up console gaming entirely.”
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
