🔗 Share this article

The partnership between tech giants has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, a remarkable yet premium-priced mobile gaming device. Releasing on October 16th, the charcoal model carries a significant price of A$1599, while its budget-friendly white counterpart retails for $599. Thankfully, the higher-end version delivers exceptional performance that justifies its premium price tag.

Early Testing

After thorough testing over several weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has proven its abilities across multiple gaming categories. Although its premium pricing compared to competitors like the Steam Deck OLED (£479), the sheer power packed into its compact frame (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents unmatched innovation in the portable gaming market.

The remarkable processing power, combined with its flexible entertainment possibilities through remote play and universal compatibility, makes it especially attractive for either Microsoft loyalists and handheld gaming aficionados. Though some early technical issues and navigation difficulties appeared during testing, nearly all were straightforward to address and quickly forgotten once immersive gameplay commenced.

Getting Started

Configuring the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't entirely straightforward. Although the device starts up in a dedicated Xbox interface that replicates both traditional and desktop versions, it fundamentally runs on Microsoft's operating system, requiring system updates before optimal functionality becomes accessible. This configuration phase requires a certain period and feels somewhat atypical for a dedicated gaming handheld.

In the opening period, despite quick profile setup, the system falsely claimed unavailable Game Pass Ultimate access, with multiple account linking attempts proving unsuccessful. Curiously, this issue resolved itself unexpectedly the next day. In similar fashion, wireless connection problems after sleep mode too fixed themselves within the initial period.

Once various accounts were correctly integrated - including computer entertainment platforms like Steam - the device performed exceptionally well. A accessible feature allows direct booting into the familiar Xbox interface while at the same time compiling games from other platforms, ensuring smooth access to recent gameplay no matter the initial platform.

Technical Assessment

Above detailed performance issues may likely be fixed through software updates, because when operating correctly, the ROG Xbox Ally X offers remarkable performance. Slight slowdown may occur when booting up at low battery levels (below 15%), but beloved games like Supergiant's sequel load promptly and perform flawlessly with almost no loading times between different areas. Performance-heavy applications such as Avowed and traditional computer games operate seamlessly with excellent frame rates and fast loading sequences.

Even without missing an OLED display, the visual experience remains stunning on its compact 1080p screen. The graphical details in games like Hades II create a authentic graphical treat, with visual elements that truly amaze. The speaker arrangement notably boosts entertainment experience, with positional effects that faithfully reproduce virtual occurrences and character positions.

Design and Ergonomics

The unconventional design resembles a modified Xbox controller with an built-in screen, but the matte black exterior feels luxurious and refined. The adjustable LED lighting around the control sticks provides subtle visual personalization without being distracting.

During testing, the device proved comfortable during long periods, despite its moderately increased weight (over 700 grams) compared to alternative devices. The gamepad-based grips provide excellent hand comfort, with discomfort only occurring during unusual playing positions without suitable anchoring for elbows.

Runtime Capability

The considerable 80Wh battery delivers notable performance given the hardware capabilities. Uninterrupted gameplay sessions of about two hours are possible with popular titles, with competent power management that minimizes excessive energy consumption. Though the device becomes warm during prolonged use, it doesn't achieve excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device smartly leverages Microsoft's cross-platform initiatives, allowing smooth access to an substantial library of console titles and subscription services across multiple devices. This smart integration enables continuous gameplay progress regardless of the gaming device used.

For enthusiastic players with sufficient budget seeking a high-end handheld that combines computer entertainment with traditional gaming performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an superb investment for committed entertainment seekers.

• Availability: Now released since October 16th
• Price Points: £479-£799
• Main Attributes: Multiple store access