🔗 Share this article

The collaborative effort between tech giants has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, a remarkable yet premium-priced portable console. Debuting on October 16th, the charcoal model commands a significant price of A$1599, while its more affordable white counterpart retails for $599. Fortunately, the premium model offers outstanding capabilities that warrants its premium price tag.

First Experiences

After thorough testing over an extended period, the ROG Xbox Ally X has demonstrated its potential across various gaming categories. Despite its elevated price point compared to rival devices like the Steam Deck OLED ($549), the technical capability packed into its sleek design (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents unmatched innovation in the handheld entertainment landscape.

Such impressive performance capability, paired with its adaptable play capabilities through online gaming and cross-platform compatibility, makes it particularly appealing for both console fans and mobile entertainment aficionados. Although some preliminary system glitches and interface challenges occurred during testing, nearly all were quickly fixed and quickly forgotten once engaging gameplay commenced.

Setup Process

Setting up the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't entirely frictionless. While the device boots into a custom Xbox interface that mimics both Xbox and computer iterations, it fundamentally runs on Windows 11, requiring firmware upgrades before optimal functionality becomes accessible. This initial setup demands several minutes and seems slightly unusual for a purpose-built gaming handheld.

Throughout the initial 24 hours, even after quick account integration, the system incorrectly indicated unavailable Game Pass Ultimate access, with multiple account linking attempts proving unsuccessful. Curiously, this issue resolved itself spontaneously the following day. Likewise, network access issues after sleep mode additionally fixed themselves within the first day.

After various accounts were properly connected - including desktop gaming platforms like Battle.net - the device functioned outstandingly efficiently. A intuitive feature allows instant launching into the well-known Xbox interface while concurrently collecting games from alternative stores, ensuring uninterrupted access to previous gameplay no matter the primary storefront.

Performance Analysis

The previously mentioned performance issues could potentially be addressed through firmware improvements, because when working optimally, the ROG Xbox Ally X delivers exceptional performance. Minor lag may occur when starting at low battery levels (below 15%), but beloved games like Hades II start rapidly and run perfectly with almost no loading times between various sections. Demanding games such as Avowed and traditional computer games perform excellently with superb frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Even without missing an OLED display, the graphical presentation remains breathtaking on its seven-inch 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a authentic imaging spectacle, with graphical components that really captivate. The speaker arrangement greatly improves player engagement, with spatial sound that accurately represent virtual occurrences and character positions.

Build and Handling

The unconventional design resembles a altered Xbox controller with an integrated screen, but the non-glossy exterior feels luxurious and sophisticated. The customizable LED lighting around the joysticks provides understated gaming aesthetics without being excessive.

During testing, the device proved easy to handle during marathon gaming, despite its moderately increased weight (over 700 grams) compared to alternative devices. The gamepad-based grips provide outstanding hand comfort, with strain only occurring during awkward playing positions without proper support for wrists.

Power Endurance

The substantial 80Wh battery delivers respectable performance given the system components. Continuous gameplay sessions of approximately two hours are achievable with graphics-intensive applications, with effective power management that limits unnecessary energy consumption. Though the device becomes warm during marathon sessions, it avoids becoming problematic temperatures.

Entertainment Options

The device effectively utilizes Microsoft's multi-device initiatives, allowing seamless access to an extensive library of Xbox games and subscription services across different systems. This smart integration enables continuous gameplay development regardless of the entertainment system used.

For enthusiastic players with sufficient budget seeking a premium handheld that combines PC gaming with Xbox-level performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an superb investment for serious entertainment seekers.

• Release Details: Available now since October 16th
• Cost Spectrum: $599-$999
• Key Features: Multiple store access