The ROG Ally X: Not a Sequel, But a Smart Evolution
The handheld gaming PC market is heating up, and ASUS is refusing to stand still. Following the success and learning from the feedback of the original ROG Ally, the company has unveiled the ROG Ally X. This isn't the mythical "ROG Ally 2" that some were expecting; instead, it's a strategic, user-driven refresh designed to address the first device's biggest pain points and solidify its position as a top contender against rivals like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion Go.
So, what exactly is the ROG Ally X? Think of it as the "Pro" or "Ultimate" version—less about a raw power upgrade and more about a comprehensive refinement focused on durability, battery life, and usability.
The Heart of the Matter: Sustained Performance
At its core, the ROG Ally X retains the same powerful AMD Z1 Extreme processor that made the original a performance champion. This was a conscious decision. For ASUS, the goal wasn't to create a new performance tier but to ensure the existing power could be sustained for longer periods.
The key to this is a massive redesign of the cooling system. ASUS has implemented a much larger heatsink and a second fan, which not only keeps the AMD APU cooler but also manages heat across the entire device, including the motherboard and memory. This results in:
Quieter operation: The fans don't need to spin as aggressively.
Higher sustained performance: The system can maintain peak clock speeds for longer without thermal throttling.
The ability to push higher TDP: Early reports suggest the Ally X will allow users to push beyond the original 25W turbo mode when plugged in, potentially unlocking even more performance.
The King is Dead, Long Live the King: Battery Life
This is the headline feature. The single biggest criticism of the original Ally was its notoriously short battery life. The ROG Ally X tackles this problem head-on with a massive battery upgrade—from 40Wh to a staggering 80Wh.
This effectively doubles the battery life. Where the original might have struggled to hit two hours in a demanding AAA game, the Ally X is poised to offer significantly more playtime, making it a truly viable device for long flights, commutes, or gaming sessions away from an outlet.
Design Refinements: More Than Cosmetic Tweaks
While the overall silhouette is familiar, the ROG Ally X features several thoughtful design improvements:
Enhanced Ergonomics: The grips are deeper and more contoured, reducing hand fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
Durability: ASUS has replaced the microSD card slot, which was prone to overheating on some original units, and has made the joystick modules more user-replaceable.
More Memory and Storage: The base model now comes with 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM (up from 16GB) and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, future-proofing the device for more demanding games and multitasking.
Connectivity: The port selection has been upgraded to include not one, but two USB-C ports, one of which supports USB4. This provides greater flexibility for charging, connecting docks, and using accessories simultaneously.
Who is the ROG Ally X For?
The ROG Ally X is a targeted answer to its predecessor's flaws. It is the ideal device for:
Prospective Buyers on the Fence: If you loved the Ally's performance but were scared off by the battery life, the Ally X is the model you've been waiting for.
Mobile Power Users: Gamers who need a handheld that can last through a cross-country flight or a full day of use without being tethered to a power brick.
Enthusiasts Seeking Longevity: The improved repairability, larger base storage, and extra RAM make it a more future-proof investment.
The Verdict: A Mature and Focused Upgrade
The ROG Ally X is a testament to ASUS's commitment to the handheld market. By listening to community feedback, the company has created a device that refines a winning formula. It may not have a new processor, but its monumental leap in battery life, cooling, and quality-of-life features makes it a profoundly more compelling and complete package.
It sets a new standard for what a premium handheld PC should be: powerful, comfortable, and, most importantly, usable for more than just a quick gaming fix. The ROG Ally X isn't a revolution; it's a smart, calculated evolution that raises the bar for the entire category.