The Asus ROG Ally X: A Giant Leap Forward for Windows Handheld Gaming, But Still Not Quite There
The Asus ROG Ally X is here, and it’s a game changer. It’s the most powerful Windows handheld yet, boasting a massive 80Wh battery, smoother gameplay thanks to a variable refresh rate screen, and revised ergonomics that make it more comfortable than ever. But is it enough to usurp the reigning champion, the Steam Deck OLED, and finally offer a truly compelling Windows gaming handheld experience?
Let’s dive into the details and see what sets the Ally X apart.
A Battery Beast With Serious Performance
The Ally X’s biggest headline is its enormous battery. With an 80Wh pack, it eclipses the battery capacity of most laptops, offering unprecedented runtime for a handheld. While previous Windows handhelds struggled to deliver more than a couple of hours of gameplay, the Ally X can easily stretch that to 4-5 hours, depending on the game and chosen power mode.
This increased capacity isn’t just about endurance; it also opens up the possibility for higher performance. The Ally X, while still featuring the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip as its predecessor, now thrives in "Turbo" mode, drawing up to 40 watts without sacrificing battery life significantly. This allows the Ally X to deliver astonishing framerates on even the most demanding PC games, exceeding the performance of previous models and leaving the Steam Deck OLED in the dust.
For example, Alan Wake II, a game notoriously demanding on system memory and VRAM, runs surprisingly well on the Ally X in its 25W “Turbo” mode. While it’s not quite a 60fps beast, it manages a smooth 35-45fps, making for a truly enjoyable handheld experience that was impossible on its predecessor.
The Ally X consistently delivers remarkably smooth gameplay thanks to its VRR screen, dynamically syncing with game framerates. This makes a noticeable difference compared to the Steam Deck, even the one with the OLED panel. While the Deck may offer a higher average framerate, the Ally X’s VRR ensures a more consistent and less stuttery experience.
Improved Ergonomics and Refined Design
The Ally X boasts significantly improved ergonomics over the original Ally. The meatier grips and triggers provide a more comfortable and secure grip, and the re-shaped back buttons are now more intuitive and accessible. These enhancements make extended gaming sessions far more comfortable.
However, the offset right analog stick remains a point of contention. While some might adapt quickly, it can feel unnatural and require a shift in grip for some users, particularly those accustomed to the perfectly symmetrical joysticks of the Steam Deck.
Navigating The Windows Divide: A Step Forward, But Still Flawed
The Ally X presents a compelling argument for Windows in the handheld space. While it delivers superior performance to the Steam Deck OLED, Windows’ inherent limitations remain a significant hurdle.
Sleep and wake issues are a persistent problem, making the experience inconsistent and frustrating. Mandatory updates and unwanted software also plague the initial setup and user experience. While the Armoury Crate game launcher has seen significant improvements, especially with its intelligent game sorting and seamless update management, it still pales in comparison to the seamless integration and ease of use of SteamOS.
The lack of native support for older PC games also favors the Steam Deck and its vast library of compatible titles. While the Ally X shines with newer titles, Windows-specific quirks and compatibility issues might leave users waiting for the release of a SteamOS-based alternative.
The Shadow of Customer Support
Asus has faced serious criticism regarding its customer support, particularly surrounding the original Ally’s SD card reader issues. Despite overwhelming evidence of a widespread defect, Asus has refused to acknowledge the problem. While the Ally X features a seemingly new reader, confidence in Asus’ commitment to quality and customer satisfaction remains low.
This lack of transparency casts a long shadow over the Ally X’s otherwise compelling features. While the improved performance and ergonomics are undeniable, the lack of trust in Asus’ handling of potential issues might deter some from taking the plunge.
The Verdict: A Promising Step, But The Road Ahead is Long
The Asus ROG Ally X is a significant leap forward for Windows handheld gaming, and it offers the best performance and battery life in the market. Its refined ergonomics, powerful hardware, and VRR screen make it a standout contender.
However, Windows’ limitations and Asus’ questionable customer support record act as a barrier for many. The Steam Deck OLED, despite its slightly lower performance, continues to offer a more consistent and user-friendly experience with its dedicated operating system and robust community support.
The Ally X is a promising sign for the future of Windows handheld gaming, but it’s not the definitive answer just yet. Asus has shown impressive progress, but it still needs to address the shortcomings of its operating system and build a foundation of trust with its customer base.
If you prioritize the latest games and performance above all else, the Ally X might be the perfect choice. However, for those seeking a more reliable and user-friendly experience, the Steam Deck OLED remains the gold standard.