🔗 Share this article

The joint venture between tech giants has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, an extraordinary yet costly portable console. Releasing on October 16th, the all-black model carries a substantial price of $999, while its more affordable white counterpart costs A$999. Thankfully, the top-tier option provides outstanding functionality that justifies its premium price tag.

First Experiences

After thorough testing over several weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has demonstrated its abilities across different entertainment types. Although its higher cost compared to alternative options like the Steam Deck OLED (€569), the raw performance housed inside its compact frame (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents unmatched innovation in the mobile gaming industry.

This exceptional performance capability, coupled with its adaptable gaming options through cloud streaming and cross-platform compatibility, makes it especially attractive for both Microsoft loyalists and portable gaming devotees. While some preliminary technical issues and UI problems manifested during testing, the majority were straightforward to address and rapidly overlooked once engaging gameplay began.

Setup Process

Configuring the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't wholly seamless. Though the device launches with a custom console experience that resembles both Xbox and computer variants, it ultimately runs on the Windows platform, requiring firmware upgrades before complete functionality becomes accessible. This configuration phase needs several minutes and appears rather unconventional for a dedicated gaming handheld.

In the initial 24 hours, even after immediate profile setup, the system mistakenly reported inactive premium subscription access, with multiple profile connection attempts proving unsuccessful. Curiously, this situation corrected itself unexpectedly the next day. Likewise, wifi connectivity difficulties after sleep mode too self-corrected within the first day.

After multiple profiles were properly connected - including desktop gaming platforms like Epic Games Store - the device performed outstandingly efficiently. A user-friendly feature permits direct booting into the recognizable Xbox interface while simultaneously collecting games from other platforms, ensuring smooth access to recent gameplay regardless of the original source.

Performance Analysis

The previously mentioned system problems might possibly be addressed through firmware improvements, because when working optimally, the ROG Xbox Ally X provides outstanding performance. Slight slowdown may occur when booting up at reduced power levels (below 15%), but popular titles like Hades II load promptly and run perfectly with minimal loading times between various sections. Performance-heavy applications such as Avowed and established desktop games operate seamlessly with impressive frame rates and quick loading sequences.

Although missing an OLED display, the visual experience remains impressive on its seven-inch 1080p screen. The visual effects in games like Hades II create a authentic graphical treat, with visual elements that really captivate. The audio system notably boosts game immersion, with spatial sound that precisely convey virtual occurrences and object locations.

Build and Handling

The distinctive design resembles a modified Xbox controller with an incorporated screen, but the non-glossy exterior feels luxurious and sophisticated. The customizable LED lighting around the joysticks provides subtle visual personalization without being excessive.

In practical use, the device proved comfortable during long periods, despite its moderately increased weight (over 700 grams) compared to alternative devices. The familiar-shaped grips provide excellent palm positioning, with strain only occurring during unusual playing positions without proper support for arms.

Battery Performance

The considerable 80Wh battery delivers notable performance given the hardware capabilities. Uninterrupted gameplay sessions of about two hours are achievable with graphics-intensive applications, with competent power management that reduces excessive energy consumption. Though the device becomes warm during marathon sessions, it doesn't achieve excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device effectively utilizes Microsoft's universal initiatives, allowing seamless access to an comprehensive library of Xbox games and subscription services across multiple devices. This smart integration enables continuous gameplay progress regardless of the playing platform used.

For regular users with sufficient budget seeking a top-tier handheld that unites PC gaming with traditional gaming performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an excellent acquisition for dedicated entertainment seekers.

• Release Details: Currently shipping since October 16th
• Price Points: £479-£799
• Main Attributes: Multiple store access