ROG Ally X UMPC: An In-Depth Review of ASUS’s Latest Handheld Gaming Device

In recent years, the handheld gaming device market has been slowly gaining traction, but it hasn’t reached the mainstream success of the Nintendo Switch just yet. While handheld gaming consoles like the ROG Ally offer great experiences for story-driven games like those found on Steam, they haven’t quite hit the same level of widespread appeal.

That being said, I recently purchased the latest ROG Ally X, a device that promises to push the boundaries of portable gaming. In this review, I’ll be taking a closer look at the new design, performance, battery life, and much more to see if it’s worth upgrading from the first generation.

What’s New in the ROG Ally X?

I’ve been using the first-generation ROG Ally for quite some time now, and I was excited to check out the new model. Although it’s technically not a “second-generation” device (since the processor hasn’t changed), ASUS has made several key improvements in the design and features. One major change is the color – this new version comes in sleek black, replacing the white and black two-tone design of the previous generation. While some may miss the fresh, lighter look, I find the new black aesthetic more in line with other high-end gaming products like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion series.

The device feels solid and robust, featuring a similar layout to its predecessor, with small but meaningful design tweaks. For example, the analog sticks have been redesigned, and there’s a slight change in button placement that improves usability.

Performance and Specifications

Under the hood, the ROG Ally X doesn’t deviate too much from the original. It’s still equipped with the AMD Ryzen G1 Extreme, offering solid performance for gaming on the go. However, one of the significant improvements is in the RAM – the new model has 24GB of RAM (12GB per slot), an upgrade from the previous 16GB configuration. The SSD has also seen an upgrade, now offering 1TB of storage, up from the previous 512GB option. This gives you more space for your game library without needing to worry about running out of room.

Display and Gaming Experience

Now, when it comes to gaming, one area where the ROG Ally X falls short compared to its competition is the display. It still features a 7-inch HD LCD screen, which isn’t bad, but the lack of an OLED option is a noticeable drawback. Competitors, including the Steam Deck, now offer OLED screens, which provide more vibrant colors and deeper contrast. If you’re someone who values screen quality for immersive gameplay, this might be a deal-breaker.

However, when it comes to performance, the ROG Ally X can still handle lightweight games like Hades and Stardew Valley with ease. In fact, I found that it performed well in these titles with smooth frame rates. For more demanding titles, like Resident Evil Village, the device can manage mid-to-high settings, but you won’t experience the same level of fluidity that you would on a full-sized gaming laptop.

Battery Life

One of the biggest improvements in the ROG Ally X is the battery. The new model boasts an 80Wh battery, a significant upgrade from the previous 40Wh. While the weight has increased slightly (about 70g heavier), the trade-off is well worth it for the improved battery life. During gameplay, I found that the device lasted approximately 3 hours, a vast improvement compared to the 1.5-hour runtime of the original. If you’re planning on long gaming sessions or need a device for on-the-go use, this extended battery life is a crucial feature.

Cooling and Noise Levels

Another change that I appreciated is the improved cooling system. The ROG Ally X uses dual cooling fans that have been optimized to produce less noise compared to the previous model. While the fan noise is still noticeable under heavy load, it’s less distracting than the high-pitched whine of the first version. This makes the overall gaming experience more enjoyable, especially during extended play sessions.

Conclusion: Is the ROG Ally X Worth the Upgrade?

After using the ROG Ally X for a few days, I can confidently say that it’s a solid upgrade from the first generation. The most significant improvements are the enhanced battery life, increased RAM, and subtle design changes. However, the lack of an OLED screen may turn off some users, particularly those who prioritize display quality.

The ROG Ally X is a fantastic option for casual gamers or those looking for a portable device that can handle light-to-medium gaming. However, if you’re a fan of graphically intense AAA titles or require higher processing power, you may find its limitations restrictive.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you’re looking for in a handheld gaming device. If you value portability, improved battery life, and a refined design, the ROG Ally X is a great choice. But if you’re after a more premium gaming experience with a superior screen, you might want to wait for future updates or explore alternatives like the Steam Deck.