🔗 Share this article

The collaborative effort between industry leaders has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, an impressive yet costly portable console. Launching on October 16th, the charcoal model carries a considerable price of €899, while its more affordable white counterpart is priced at €599. Happily, the higher-end version offers outstanding functionality that justifies its premium price tag.

Initial Impressions

After thorough testing over several weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has proven its potential across different gaming categories. Despite its premium pricing compared to rival devices like the Steam Deck OLED (A$899), the technical capability housed inside its sleek design (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents unmatched innovation in the portable gaming landscape.

This exceptional performance capability, coupled with its versatile play capabilities through remote play and multi-device compatibility, makes it particularly appealing for both console fans and mobile entertainment devotees. Although some initial technical issues and navigation difficulties appeared during testing, the majority were quickly fixed and soon dismissed once immersive gameplay commenced.

Setup Process

Configuring the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't entirely straightforward. Though the device launches with a custom console experience that resembles both traditional and desktop versions, it fundamentally runs on the Windows platform, requiring firmware upgrades before full functionality is available. This initial setup demands several minutes and feels somewhat atypical for a specialized entertainment handheld.

In the opening period, even after immediate profile setup, the system incorrectly indicated unavailable Game Pass Ultimate access, with several account linking attempts failing to work. Remarkably, this issue resolved itself automatically the next day. In similar fashion, wireless connection problems after standby also self-corrected within the beginning phase.

Once various accounts were properly connected - including desktop gaming platforms like Steam - the device operated remarkably smoothly. A accessible feature allows instant launching into the recognizable Xbox interface while simultaneously compiling games from other platforms, ensuring smooth access to current gameplay irrespective of the initial platform.

Capability Evaluation

The previously mentioned system problems might possibly be fixed through firmware improvements, because when working optimally, the ROG Xbox Ally X provides exceptional performance. Slight lag can happen when starting at minimal charge levels (below 15%), but popular titles like Supergiant's sequel load promptly and run perfectly with negligible loading times between different areas. Graphics-intensive titles such as Avowed and classic PC games perform excellently with impressive frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Although lacking an OLED display, the graphical presentation remains breathtaking on its compact 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a authentic visual feast, with graphical components that genuinely impress. The sound setup greatly improves game immersion, with spatial sound that accurately represent digital scenarios and object locations.

Design and Ergonomics

The distinctive design looks like a altered Xbox controller with an incorporated screen, but the non-glossy exterior feels luxurious and refined. The customizable LED lighting around the control sticks provides discreet gaming aesthetics without being distracting.

During testing, the device proved ergonomic during marathon gaming, despite its somewhat greater weight (715g) compared to competitors. The familiar-shaped grips provide excellent hand comfort, with fatigue only occurring during unconventional playing positions without suitable anchoring for elbows.

Runtime Capability

The impressive large capacity battery provides respectable performance given the system components. Uninterrupted gameplay sessions of approximately two hours are achievable with graphics-intensive applications, with efficient power management that limits wasteful energy consumption. Although the device increases temperature during prolonged use, it avoids becoming uncomfortably hot.

Software Ecosystem

The device smartly leverages Microsoft's cross-platform initiatives, allowing uninterrupted access to an substantial library of Microsoft entertainment and premium content across various platforms. This clever implementation enables seamless gameplay progress regardless of the entertainment system used.

For regular users with proper resources seeking a high-end handheld that merges PC gaming with traditional gaming performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an superb purchase for dedicated technology adopters.

• Availability: Now released since October 16th
• Price Points: £479-£799
• Main Attributes: Cross-platform compatibility