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 https://windowsforum.com/threads/353758), 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 https://www.pocket-lint.com/why-rog-ally-x-better-than-steam-deck-oled/