🔗 Share this article

The partnership between industry leaders has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, a remarkable yet high-end portable console. Debuting on October 16th, the all-black model commands a considerable price of $999, while its more affordable white counterpart is priced at £499. Thankfully, the top-tier option delivers outstanding capabilities that validates its hefty price tag.

Initial Impressions

Through extensive testing over multiple weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has shown its capabilities across various game genres. Although its premium pricing compared to rival devices like the Steam Deck OLED (€569), the raw performance housed inside its sleek design (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents something unprecedented in the handheld entertainment landscape.

This exceptional performance capability, coupled with its flexible entertainment possibilities through cloud streaming and multi-device compatibility, makes it notably desirable for both Xbox enthusiasts and portable gaming aficionados. While some preliminary technical issues and navigation difficulties appeared during testing, most were quickly fixed and soon dismissed once captivating gameplay commenced.

Setup Process

Preparing the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't entirely straightforward. While the device boots into a specialized Xbox interface that mimics both console and PC iterations, it essentially runs on the Windows platform, requiring system updates before optimal functionality can be achieved. This preparation process demands some time and appears rather atypical for a purpose-built gaming handheld.

Throughout the opening period, notwithstanding immediate user configuration, the system mistakenly reported inactive Game Pass Ultimate access, with multiple account linking attempts being ineffective. Interestingly, this problem fixed itself unexpectedly the next day. Similarly, network access difficulties after standby also fixed themselves within the initial period.

Once different services were correctly integrated - including PC gaming platforms like Battle.net - the device operated exceptionally well. A user-friendly feature permits direct booting into the well-known Xbox interface while concurrently collecting games from different services, ensuring smooth access to recent gameplay regardless of the primary storefront.

Performance Analysis

Above detailed performance issues could potentially be fixed through software updates, because when working optimally, the ROG Xbox Ally X offers outstanding performance. Minor lag may occur when launching at low battery levels (below 15%), but popular titles like the roguelike masterpiece start rapidly and operate smoothly with almost no loading times between multiple zones. Demanding games such as Avowed and established desktop games operate seamlessly with excellent frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Even without lacking 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 graphical treat, with visual elements that really captivate. The speaker arrangement significantly enhances game immersion, with directional audio that accurately represent virtual occurrences and character positions.

Design and Ergonomics

The distinctive design appears similar to a modified Xbox controller with an incorporated screen, but the matte black exterior feels high-quality and refined. The customizable LED lighting around the thumbsticks provides discreet player customization without being distracting.

During testing, the device proved easy to handle during extended sessions, despite its somewhat greater weight (715g) compared to competitors. The familiar-shaped grips provide excellent palm positioning, with discomfort only occurring during unusual playing positions without suitable anchoring for elbows.

Battery Performance

The impressive 80 watt-hour battery delivers respectable performance given the system components. Extended gameplay sessions of approximately two hours are achievable with demanding games, with efficient power management that limits wasteful energy consumption. Although the device heats up during marathon sessions, it doesn't achieve excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device efficiently employs Microsoft's universal initiatives, allowing smooth access to an comprehensive library of Microsoft entertainment and subscription services across various platforms. This smart integration enables seamless gameplay development regardless of the gaming device used.

For regular users with adequate funds seeking a premium handheld that merges desktop experiences with console-quality performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an outstanding acquisition for dedicated entertainment seekers.

• Launch Information: Now released since October 16th
• Price Points: $599-$999
• Main Attributes: Xbox integration