🔗 Share this article

The partnership between leading companies has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, a remarkable yet high-end portable console. Launching on October 16th, the charcoal model commands a significant price of $999, while its less powerful white counterpart costs A$999. Fortunately, the higher-end version offers exceptional functionality that justifies its premium price tag.

Initial Impressions

After thorough testing over an extended period, the ROG Xbox Ally X has proven its abilities across various entertainment types. Although its higher cost compared to competitors like the Steam Deck OLED (£479), the raw performance housed inside its compact frame (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents something unprecedented in the mobile gaming landscape.

This exceptional processing power, paired with its versatile gaming options through remote play and universal compatibility, makes it especially attractive for either console fans and mobile entertainment devotees. Though some initial performance hiccups and interface challenges occurred during testing, nearly all were easily resolved and rapidly overlooked once immersive gameplay commenced.

Setup Process

Preparing the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't completely seamless. While the device boots into a specialized Xbox interface that resembles both Xbox and computer variants, it ultimately runs on Microsoft's operating system, requiring software patches before full functionality is available. This initial setup requires several minutes and feels somewhat unusual for a specialized entertainment handheld.

In the opening period, despite immediate user configuration, the system mistakenly reported inactive premium subscription access, with repeated user association attempts proving unsuccessful. Interestingly, this issue resolved itself automatically the following day. Similarly, wifi connectivity issues after hibernation also automatically resolved within the first day.

After different services were successfully linked - including desktop gaming platforms like Battle.net - the device operated remarkably smoothly. A accessible feature enables direct booting into the recognizable Xbox interface while simultaneously aggregating games from different services, ensuring seamless access to previous gameplay regardless of the primary storefront.

Performance Analysis

Earlier described technical challenges might possibly be addressed through software updates, because when functioning properly, the ROG Xbox Ally X delivers exceptional performance. Minor slowdown might appear when starting at low battery levels (below 15%), but beloved games like Hades II load promptly and perform flawlessly with almost no loading times between various sections. Graphics-intensive titles such as Obsidian's RPG and traditional computer games operate seamlessly with excellent frame rates and quick loading sequences.

Although not having an OLED display, the visual experience remains impressive on its compact 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a authentic visual feast, with visual elements that really captivate. The speaker arrangement greatly improves player engagement, with spatial sound that accurately represent in-game events and object locations.

Design and Ergonomics

The unconventional design appears similar to a transformed Xbox controller with an built-in screen, but the satin finish exterior feels high-quality and elegant. The customizable LED lighting around the thumbsticks provides understated visual personalization without being distracting.

During testing, the device proved ergonomic during marathon gaming, despite its moderately increased weight (715g) compared to competitors. The gamepad-based grips provide outstanding ergonomic support, with strain only occurring during unconventional playing positions without adequate bracing for wrists.

Runtime Capability

The substantial large capacity battery offers commendable performance given the system components. Extended gameplay sessions of about two hours are attainable with demanding games, with efficient power management that limits excessive energy consumption. Though the device increases temperature during extended operation, it avoids becoming excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device efficiently employs Microsoft's multi-device initiatives, allowing smooth access to an comprehensive library of console titles and membership offerings across different systems. This strategic approach enables continuous gameplay advancement regardless of the gaming device used.

For dedicated gamers with proper resources seeking a top-tier handheld that unites PC gaming with Xbox-level performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an outstanding acquisition for dedicated gaming enthusiasts.

• Availability: Currently shipping since October 16th
• Price Points: Various price options
• Key Features: Xbox integration