ASUS ROG Ally X Review: The Future of Portable Gaming with Windows 11

The world of gaming handhelds is evolving at lightning speed—and the latest contender, ASUS’s ROG Ally X, is making waves. If you’ve been following portable PC gaming trends, you might have expected incremental improvements from the competition. However, the ROG Ally X doesn’t just raise the bar; it practically vaults over Valve’s acclaimed Steam Deck OLED. Let’s dive into what makes this device a game-changer for Windows 11 gamers.

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Windows 11: Powering a New Era of Portable Gaming​

One of the standout features of the ROG Ally X is its native Windows 11 operating system. Gone are the days when you had to battle with convoluted setups or restricted ecosystems. With Windows 11 under the hood, the Ally X offers an experience akin to a fully-fledged gaming PC—albeit one that fits in your backpack.

• Seamless App Integration: Whether you’re installing emulators, game launchers (think EA App, Epic Games Store, or the Xbox app), or even niche utilities, Windows 11 makes compatibility a non-issue. This flexibility lends itself to a rich, diversified gaming library that extends far beyond what SteamOS can offer.
• Enhanced Productivity: The ability to switch seamlessly between gaming and productivity tasks is a boon. Imagine playing the latest blockbuster title, then booting up productivity software with the same device—an ideal setup for the on-the-go professional or the multitasking gamer.
• Update Experience: As we explored in our previous coverage of Windows 11 updates (see Windows 11 February 2025 Preview Update KB5052093: Features, Fixes & Insights), the operating system continues to evolve, enhancing both security and performance. This ensures that devices like the ROG Ally X stay relevant with the latest system improvements and security patches.

In essence, Windows 11 isn’t just an add-on—it’s the engine that drives the versatility and power of modern handheld gaming.

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Head-to-Head: ROG Ally X vs. Steam Deck OLED​

When it comes to raw performance and versatility, the detailed comparison between the ROG Ally X and the Steam Deck OLED reveals some clear advantages for ASUS’s newcomer. Let’s break it down:

Display & Visuals​

• ROG Ally X: Sporting a 7-inch 1080p IPS display that hits up to a 120Hz refresh rate, this screen provides fluid visuals that elevate gameplay, especially in fast-paced titles. Despite being IPS, the brightness levels (523 nits) still deliver a crisp, clear image—even under challenging lighting conditions.
• Steam Deck OLED: With a 7.4-inch OLED screen boasting HDR support and 90Hz refresh, the OLED display offers richer contrast and vibrant colors. However, the slightly lower refresh rate and higher resolution (1280 x 800) aren’t enough to keep pace with the overall performance of the Ally X in some newer, graphically intense games.

Performance & Hardware​

• Processing Power: The ROG Ally X leverages the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip—a powerhouse that notably trumps Valve’s custom AMD Zen 2 APU found in the Steam Deck OLED.
• RAM & Storage: With a generous 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of storage, the ROG Ally X effortlessly handles modern games and heavy multitasking. In contrast, the Steam Deck OLED packs in 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and offers smaller storage options, leaving less headroom for resource-intensive titles.
• Graphics & Frame Rate: When playing titles like Final Fantasy XVI, early reports show the ROG Ally X comfortably running the game at medium settings with frame rates between 30-40fps—a smooth experience compared to the muddied visuals and inconsistent performance on the Steam Deck OLED.

Gaming-Specific Features​

• PC Game Pass Integration: One of the ROG Ally X’s real game-changers is its seamless integration with PC Game Pass. For just $12 a month, gamers gain access to a vast library of over 100 titles. Whether it’s massive AAA blockbusters or hidden indie gems, this service significantly expands the device’s value proposition.
• Ease of Installation: Thanks to Windows 11, installing games, emulators, and mods is a breeze. For example, setting up a game like Ship of Harkinian—a detailed PC port of a classic title—takes mere minutes on the Ally X, in stark contrast to the convoluted process sometimes required on Steam Deck.

Battery Life & Ergonomics​

• ROG Ally X: While the device packs impressive hardware, it does come with a caveat—the battery life isn’t as robust as one might hope. Users have reported rapid battery drain during sleep mode and occasional game crashes. These issues suggest that the device is optimized more for performance than for extended unplugged sessions.
• Steam Deck OLED: Valve’s device shines in the endurance department. Its efficient design and solid battery life allow gamers to dive into quick sessions without worrying about a rapid drop in power. Moreover, its ergonomics, including a robust build and thoughtful grip, offer a more tactile gaming experience, though this advantage is mitigated by the performance gap.

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The Software Experience: A Tailored Journey for Gamers​

Beyond hardware, the ROG Ally X’s software ecosystem is what truly sets it apart. The expansive support for Windows-based applications transforms the device into a multipurpose tool rather than just a gaming console.

Emulators & Retro Gaming​

For longtime fans of retro gaming, the transitions from classic handhelds to modern devices can be fraught with challenges. The Ally X simplifies this journey:

• User-Friendly Emulation: Thanks to platforms like EmuDeck, installing and configuring emulators is now a streamlined process. Whether it’s playing The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD or diving into more obscure titles, the setup is a far cry from the weekend-long ordeal some users remember.
• Enhanced Compatibility: Unlike SteamOS, Windows 11 supports a myriad of emulators and ROMs with minimal tweaking needed. This means you can jump right into your old favorites without getting lost in technical labyrinths.

Game Streaming vs. Native Gameplay​

While many players have experimented with streaming titles via Xbox Cloud Gaming on devices like the Steam Deck OLED, nothing compares to running a game natively on hardware designed for high performance:

• Performance Edge: Natively installed games on the ROG Ally X run more reliably and with better graphics settings potentially pushed to higher limits. This native performance is particularly appealing for blockbuster titles that demand every ounce of hardware capability.
• Flexibility: Whether you’re tethered to a monitor with a keyboard and mouse or relying solely on the handheld interface, the ROG Ally X adapts to your gaming style, offering a personalized experience that traditional consoles might not match.

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Broader Implications for the Windows Gaming Community​

The emergence of the ROG Ally X is more than just a tale of two devices in competition—it symbolizes the growing convergence between traditional PC gaming and portable gaming. Here are some broader takeaways for the Windows gaming community:

• Multi-Purpose Functionality: No longer must you sacrifice productivity for play. With devices like the ROG Ally X, your handheld can double as an entry-level gaming PC, running full Windows applications alongside your favorite titles.
• Increased Accessibility: Windows 11’s versatile interface means gamers have access to a rich ecosystem that spans beyond games—think streaming services, productivity tools, and even creative software. This democratizes what a “gaming device” can be.
• Shifting Industry Priorities: The competition between Windows-based handhelds and console-inspired devices like the Steam Deck OLED fuels innovation. Manufacturers are now incentivized to improve both performance and software integration, a win for consumers seeking the best of both worlds.

As the industry continues to push the boundaries of what handheld gaming devices can achieve, it’s clear that the integration of a full-fledged operating system like Windows 11 is no longer just a luxury but a necessity. This convergence opens new avenues not only for game performance but also for software updates, system integrations, and overall user experience.

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Conclusion: A Game-Changer in the Handheld Arena​

The ASUS ROG Ally X is turning heads—and rightfully so. With its powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, superior RAM configuration, and the inherent versatility of Windows 11, it redefines the capabilities of a handheld gaming PC. While the Steam Deck OLED remains a strong competitor with its OLED display and robust battery life, the performance and flexibility of the ROG Ally X are clear, making it an intriguing option for serious gamers who demand more from their portable devices.
Before you make the leap, consider these points:

• Performance vs. Portability: The ROG Ally X excels in raw performance and versatility, but battery life may be an issue if you’re often gaming away from a power outlet.
• Ease of Use: Windows 11 brings an effortless interface for installing new games and emulators, reducing the headaches associated with non-Windows systems.
• Cost Considerations: At $799, the ROG Ally X carries a premium price tag, yet the enhanced specs could justify the investment if you’re looking for future-proof performance in handheld gaming.

Ultimately, if you’re eager to embrace a device that marries the flexibility of a full Windows PC with the convenience of portable gaming, the ROG Ally X might just be the upgrade you need. As gaming technology continues to evolve, devices like these remind us that sometimes, the most unexpected contenders can redefine an entire category.
Happy gaming, and may your frames per second always be high!

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Source: Pocket-lint I wasn't expecting the ROG Ally X to outshine the Steam Deck quite this much

 

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There’s a new wave of excitement among portable gaming fans as photos leak online, seemingly confirming the existence of an Xbox-branded handheld in close partnership between ASUS and Microsoft. Codenamed “Project Kennan,” this device, now widely referred to as the ASUS ROG Ally 2 Xbox Edition, has surfaced in certification filings and regulatory databases, making its official debut likely imminent. Here’s a thorough look at what the leaks reveal, why the market is buzzing, and an analytical deep-dive into what this means for Windows-centric gaming and the broader handheld ecosystem.

The Evolution of Handheld Gaming: Why This Leak Matters​

For decades, handheld consoles have occupied a unique intersection of accessibility, innovation, and nostalgia. But in the 2020s, the game changed significantly with Valve’s Steam Deck and ASUS’s original ROG Ally, which brought full-fledged PC gaming into truly portable form factors. Unlike legacy systems, these devices run Windows or Linux, support vast game libraries, and offer modding potential unthinkable in aging Nintendo or Sony portables.
Microsoft’s apparent collaboration with ASUS represents a pivotal moment. The prospect of a first-party Xbox portable—built off tried-and-tested hardware but imbued with Xbox ecosystem hooks—could reshape the competitive landscape. The leaks suggest this isn’t just vaporware or concept art, but a production-ready device heading for launch, possibly as early as Computex in late May.

What Do the Leaks Reveal? Verified Specs and Features​

Physical Design and Layout​

Leaked certification documents and FCC filings, scrutinized by outlets like 91Mobiles and VideoCardz, show at least two variants of the upcoming ASUS ROG Ally 2. One sports the familiar ROG branding in a white chassis, while the highlight is a slick black model proudly featuring a dedicated Xbox button above the D-pad. This specific touch is telling; it’s a clear attempt to tie the hardware unmistakably to the Xbox platform, reminiscent of first-party controllers and past brand collaborations.
Both devices feature reshaped grips—substantially thicker and ostensibly more ergonomic than the original ROG Ally. Early images show dual USB-C ports on the top, a welcome improvement for users who want to plug in accessories and charge simultaneously, or leverage a broader range of docks and external GPUs.

Display and Performance Hardware​

According to the leaks, both handheld models are equipped with a 7-inch, 120Hz LCD screen, mirroring the specs of the original ROG Ally. This is a deliberate choice, aiming for a balance between battery life and tactile feedback, though some enthusiasts may lament the lack of an OLED upgrade—a feature boasted by some competitors in 2024 and 2025.
The internal specs are where things get interesting. The Xbox-branded model is expected to pack AMD’s new 8-core Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, with a 36W TDP (thermal design power)—a spec not previously seen in handheld gaming and indicative of desktop-grade performance levels. The standard Ally 2 model reportedly carries a 4-core, 20W processor, making it a more budget-friendly but less muscular option. The inclusion of the more powerful chip hints at Microsoft and ASUS positioning their flagship to court power users, esports fans, and perhaps even professional streamers seeking a compact, on-the-go solution.

Xbox Integration and Unique Features​

The most obvious differentiator is the dedicated Xbox button. While it may seem cosmetic, its presence signals the likelihood of deeply integrated Xbox services—think fast access to Xbox Game Pass, cloud streaming, or even potentially running a specialized version of the Xbox dashboard. Microsoft’s gradual move towards platform agnosticism, with Windows and Xbox Game Pass at its core, makes this more than plausible.
Moreover, there are suggestions in the regulatory filings of firmware tweaks or exclusive features for the Xbox variant. While these have not been confirmed through secondary sourcing, the prospect raises questions about whether Xbox will leverage the device for early beta features, integration with next-gen wireless controllers, or even achievements and party chat baked directly into the handheld overlay.

Market Timing and Broader Competitive Context​

This leak comes mere weeks ahead of Computex, one of the industry’s flagship hardware showcases. Historically, ASUS uses Computex to launch ROG (Republic of Gamers) innovations, and the timing strongly hints at an imminent official unveiling. The regulatory filings appearing now align with standard timelines for devices gearing up for logistics, marketing, and preorders.
Importantly, Microsoft is also reportedly working on several new Xbox controllers, each with its own experimental features. This parallel innovation could signal an aggressive push towards a more modular, customizable, and perhaps cross-platform Xbox ecosystem, where controller and handheld hardware coexist and intermingle—potentially benefiting PC, console, and Xbox Cloud Gaming.
From a competitive standpoint, ASUS and Microsoft are entering an increasingly crowded field. Valve’s Steam Deck remains a cult favorite for Linux and SteamOS diehards, while Lenovo’s Legion Go, Ayaneo’s rapidly evolving lineup, and less mainstream brands are all jostling for space. Most of these devices run Windows for maximum compatibility, but lack the deep Xbox first-party hooks.

Strengths: Why the ASUS ROG Ally 2 Xbox Edition Could Be a Game-Changer​

Deep Ecosystem Integration​

Perhaps most compelling is the fusion of ASUS’s hardware know-how with Xbox’s software and ecosystem power. Whereas the original ROG Ally was a competent Windows handheld, an Xbox model could offer a seamless “pick up and play” experience rivaling that of the Nintendo Switch but with the unrivaled breadth of the Game Pass library. Fast user switching, synchronized achievements, save-state syncing, and party chat—features commonplace on consoles but rare on open Windows handhelds—could become standard.

Performance Leadership​

A Ryzen Z2 Extreme with 8 cores and a 36W TDP is, by current standards, overkill for a mobile device. It could allow for full HD gaming at 60–120fps in demanding titles—a feat only sometimes possible on rivals. Dual USB-C, potentially advanced cooling solutions, and possibly superior RAM/storage configurations (which will need confirmation at launch) all point towards a no-compromise machine for gamers who hate settling for less.

A New Benchmark for Ergonomics and Usability​

The visible changes to grip thickness and controller layout, if validated in hands-on reviews, may address some of the long-standing pain points in earlier handhelds. Poor ergonomics have marred otherwise excellent devices in this niche; ASUS’s evident focus on comfort could attract users frustrated with the fiddly, fatiguing design of competitors.

Branding and Community​

The Xbox logo brings with it not just hardware, but trust—especially among console gamers perhaps wary of a Windows-first gaming device. The promise of “it just works” is a significant draw, as is the potential for exclusive Xbox collaborations, preinstalled content, themed accessories, and insider support.

Potential Risks and Questions That Remain​

Battery Life: The Eternal Trade-Off​

The biggest question mark is power efficiency. AMD’s Z2 Extreme is promising, but a 36W TDP in a handheld is aggressive. Without breakthrough battery or cooling technology, early adopters may be faced with middling runtimes, particularly at 120Hz—a compromise users of the original ROG Ally and Steam Deck will remember all too well. Until independent reviews surface, potential buyers should temper expectations.

Windows 11 Usability on Handheld​

While Windows 11 has made strides in touch support and UI scaling, it remains inherently desktop first. Unless ASUS and Microsoft introduce a console-like launcher or switchable Xbox UI, the experience may feel compromised versus the frictionless smoothness of a Switch or even a Steam Deck running SteamOS. Competing devices like the Legion Go have made UX advances; the Xbox ROG Ally model needs to go further to be more than just a “PC in your pocket.”

Price and Tiering​

No price information has surfaced in leaks thus far, but it’s a crucial factor. With the original ROG Ally launching at competitive prices, an Xbox-badged, 8-core, 36W model will almost certainly cost more, possibly putting it in direct competition with premium Steam Deck and Ayaneo variants. How ASUS and Microsoft tier the two models—and whether they offer meaningful differences beyond core count and cosmetics—will shape the device’s reception.

Ecosystem Fragmentation and Update Cadence​

One lingering risk lies in ecosystem fragmentation. If the Xbox model does in fact launch with unique software features, will standard ROG Ally users be left behind? Will firmware and OS support lag behind updates to Windows 11 or Xbox Live? Microsoft has a checkered history with enthusiast hardware projects—the Surface line has thrived, but others like the Lumia or Kin faded fast. Continuous, unified updates and community engagement will be key.

Long-Term Implications: What Could This Mean for Xbox, Windows, and PC Gaming?​

If the leaks are accurate and ASUS’s Xbox handheld gains traction, it could mark the beginning of a new hybrid model for Microsoft hardware—a blend of Windows, Xbox, and premium OEM partners. For years, Microsoft dabbled in “Windows everywhere” and cross-device play; gaming handhelds may finally realize this vision, dissolving boundaries between console, PC, and cloud.
Moreover, as cloud gaming matures, devices like the ROG Ally 2 Xbox Edition are ideally situated to pivot between local and streamed play. For users in high-bandwidth regions, this means a console that travels, untethered from the living room and from the need for next-gen consoles every few years. Hardware lifecycles could get longer, and feature updates could flow via software, not just silicon.
For ASUS, this could consolidate its position as the premier Windows gaming handheld brand, one step ahead of Lenovo, Ayaneo, and even Valve. For Microsoft, it’s a chance to reinforce Game Pass as the definitive gaming subscription—not just on Xbox and PC, but everywhere.

Expert Verdict: A Cautious Yet Hopeful Outlook​

There’s little doubt the ASUS ROG Ally 2 Xbox Edition, as depicted in these leaks, is the most credible bid yet for a true “Xbox Portable.” Its combination of hardware muscle, Xbox-centric branding, and strategic timing (aligned with Computex and Microsoft Build) all point towards a concerted, well-orchestrated entry.
Yet, key questions persist. Can ASUS and Microsoft resolve the battery life and heat issues inherent in high-wattage, small-footprint devices? Will the Xbox interface on Windows be transformative, or a thin veneer over PC complexity? How will the community respond if key software features are walled off to the Xbox SKU? Ultimately, as for every great handheld, success will hinge on balancing raw power, user experience, price, and ecosystem fluidity.
With certification filings now public and leaked images circulating, the waiting game shifts to official word from ASUS and Microsoft, and soon enough, the all-important critical and user reviews. Gamers, both lifelong Xbox loyalists and Windows power users, may be on the verge of a new era—one where “Xbox” doesn’t mean a big black box under the TV, but a versatile companion in your backpack, always just a button press away.
Stay tuned for further updates as Computex approaches; this story is only just getting started.

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Source: Windows Report Photos of ASUS' Xbox-branded handheld leak online