🔗 Share this article

The joint venture between tech giants has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, an impressive yet premium-priced portable console. Launching on October 16th, the all-black model demands a significant price of €899, while its less powerful white counterpart costs £499. Happily, the premium model offers superb performance that justifies its hefty price tag.

Initial Impressions

Through extensive testing over several weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has demonstrated its abilities across various game genres. Despite its elevated price point compared to rival devices like the Steam Deck OLED (£479), the raw performance housed inside its compact frame (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents a new benchmark in the mobile gaming landscape.

The remarkable processing power, paired with its flexible entertainment possibilities through online gaming and universal compatibility, makes it particularly appealing for both Xbox enthusiasts and mobile entertainment aficionados. While some initial performance hiccups and navigation difficulties occurred during testing, the majority were straightforward to address and soon dismissed once engaging gameplay began.

Setup Process

Setting up the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't entirely straightforward. Though the device starts up in a dedicated gaming environment that resembles both console and PC iterations, it ultimately runs on the Windows platform, requiring firmware upgrades before complete functionality becomes accessible. This initial setup requires several minutes and appears rather unconventional for a specialized entertainment handheld.

During the initial 24 hours, despite prompt profile setup, the system incorrectly indicated inactive premium subscription access, with repeated profile connection attempts proving unsuccessful. Interestingly, this issue resolved itself spontaneously the subsequent day. Likewise, wifi connectivity difficulties after sleep mode additionally automatically resolved within the beginning phase.

When multiple profiles were successfully linked - including computer entertainment platforms like Epic Games Store - the device operated outstandingly efficiently. A user-friendly feature permits direct booting into the familiar Xbox interface while at the same time collecting games from alternative stores, ensuring seamless access to previous gameplay irrespective of the initial platform.

Capability Evaluation

Earlier described technical challenges might possibly be addressed through system patches, because when functioning properly, the ROG Xbox Ally X offers outstanding performance. Minor slowdown may occur when booting up at minimal charge levels (below 15%), but popular titles like Hades II start rapidly and operate smoothly with almost no loading times between multiple zones. Demanding games such as Obsidian's RPG and established desktop games perform excellently with superb frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Although missing an OLED display, the graphical presentation remains stunning on its 7-inch 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a genuine imaging spectacle, with character details that genuinely impress. The sound setup greatly improves game immersion, with spatial sound that precisely convey virtual occurrences and character positions.

Form and Comfort

The distinctive design resembles a modified Xbox controller with an built-in screen, but the non-glossy exterior feels premium and sophisticated. The configurable LED lighting around the thumbsticks provides subtle gaming aesthetics without being excessive.

In practical use, the device proved comfortable during extended sessions, 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 awkward playing positions without suitable anchoring for arms.

Power Endurance

The impressive 80 watt-hour battery offers commendable performance given the hardware capabilities. Uninterrupted gameplay sessions of around two hours are achievable with popular titles, with competent power management that minimizes unnecessary energy consumption. Although the device becomes warm during prolonged use, it never reaches excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device effectively utilizes Microsoft's universal initiatives, allowing seamless access to an comprehensive library of Xbox games and premium content across various platforms. This strategic approach enables uninterrupted gameplay progress regardless of the gaming device used.

For enthusiastic players with sufficient budget seeking a top-tier handheld that combines computer entertainment with Xbox-level performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an excellent acquisition for serious entertainment seekers.

• Availability: Now released since October 16th
• Pricing Range: Various price options
• Main Attributes: Multiple store access