🔗 Share this article

The joint venture between industry leaders has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, a remarkable yet high-end portable console. Releasing on October 16th, the all-black model commands a considerable price of £799, while its more affordable white counterpart is priced at €599. Happily, the top-tier option offers outstanding functionality that justifies its substantial price tag.

Initial Impressions

During comprehensive testing over multiple weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has shown its capabilities across different gaming categories. Despite its elevated price point compared to alternative options like the Steam Deck OLED ($549), the technical capability packed into its portable form (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents something unprecedented in the mobile gaming market.

This exceptional processing power, coupled with its versatile entertainment possibilities through remote play and cross-platform compatibility, makes it particularly appealing for either console fans and handheld gaming devotees. Although some early performance hiccups and interface challenges manifested during testing, nearly all were quickly fixed and rapidly overlooked once captivating gameplay began.

Initial Configuration

Preparing the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't wholly straightforward. While the device boots into a specialized console experience that replicates both traditional and desktop variants, it ultimately runs on Windows 11, requiring system updates before optimal functionality can be achieved. This initial setup requires a certain period and appears rather unusual for a dedicated gaming handheld.

During the initial 24 hours, notwithstanding immediate user configuration, the system falsely claimed missing premium subscription access, with repeated profile connection attempts proving unsuccessful. Interestingly, this issue resolved itself automatically the next day. Similarly, wifi connectivity issues after standby also automatically resolved within the first day.

After different services were properly connected - including PC gaming platforms like Steam - the device functioned outstandingly efficiently. A user-friendly feature enables instant launching into the familiar Xbox interface while simultaneously compiling games from different services, ensuring seamless access to previous gameplay no matter the initial platform.

Performance Analysis

The previously mentioned performance issues may likely be fixed through software updates, because when functioning properly, the ROG Xbox Ally X delivers exceptional performance. Small slowdown may occur when starting at low battery levels (below 15%), but fan favorites like the roguelike masterpiece load promptly and perform flawlessly with minimal loading times between different areas. Performance-heavy applications such as Obsidian's RPG and classic PC games operate seamlessly with impressive frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Although missing an OLED display, the image quality remains stunning on its seven-inch 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a true graphical treat, with character details that truly amaze. The speaker arrangement significantly enhances game immersion, with directional audio that precisely convey in-game events and character positions.

Design and Ergonomics

The unique design appears similar to a transformed Xbox controller with an incorporated screen, but the non-glossy exterior feels premium and sophisticated. The configurable LED lighting around the thumbsticks provides understated gaming aesthetics without being distracting.

During testing, the device proved ergonomic during long periods, despite its slightly higher weight (715g) compared to alternative devices. The familiar-shaped grips provide outstanding palm positioning, with discomfort only occurring during unconventional playing positions without adequate bracing for wrists.

Battery Performance

The considerable 80Wh battery delivers respectable performance given the hardware capabilities. Continuous gameplay sessions of approximately two hours are attainable with popular titles, with efficient power management that reduces wasteful energy consumption. Although the device increases temperature during extended operation, it never reaches excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device efficiently employs Microsoft's cross-platform initiatives, allowing seamless access to an extensive library of Microsoft entertainment and premium content across various platforms. This clever implementation enables seamless gameplay advancement regardless of the entertainment system used.

For regular users with proper resources seeking a high-end handheld that merges PC gaming with Xbox-level performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an excellent investment for serious gaming enthusiasts.

• Launch Information: Available now since October 16th
• Cost Spectrum: $599-$999
• Primary Characteristics: Cross-platform compatibility