The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X is a game-changer, but is it truly an 'Xbox'? This handheld device is a unique blend, offering a sequel-like experience to the Asus ROG Ally X while embracing the Xbox ecosystem. But here's the twist: it's not just about gaming; it's about revolutionizing the handheld PC experience.
The Evolution of Handheld Gaming PCs:
While it may not be an 'Xbox' in the traditional sense, the Xbox Ally X is a significant step forward for handheld gaming PCs. With the Xbox Full Screen Experience, it provides a seamless gaming interface, bypassing the usual Windows startup process. This feature, exclusive to the device until early 2026, is Microsoft's answer to SteamOS, making it a strong contender in the handheld gaming market.
Design and Comfort:
The Xbox Ally X follows the trend of handheld gaming PCs with a rectangular design and a large screen. However, it stands out with its Xbox-inspired plastic grips, resembling an elongated Xbox controller. Despite initial skepticism, the design proves surprisingly comfortable, even more so than its predecessor. This ergonomic approach prevents the discomfort often associated with prolonged gaming sessions.
Specifications and Performance:
The device measures 11.42 x 4.76 x 2 inches and weighs 1.58lb, slightly larger and heavier than the original Ally X. It boasts a 7-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Freesync Premium support. In terms of performance, it delivers 42 fps in Cyberpunk 2077 and 76 fps in Forza Horizon 5 at high settings, with a slight boost in the Xbox Full Screen Experience. The triggers, featuring Hall Effect and Impulse Trigger tech, provide immersive haptic feedback in supported games.
Software and User Experience:
The software is where the Xbox Ally X truly shines. The Xbox Full Screen Experience allows users to boot directly into the Xbox App, streamlining the gaming experience. The setup process is controller-friendly, and the touchscreen keyboard is now usable with the controller. The handheld also comes with Steam pre-installed and supports other third-party stores, making it a versatile gaming platform.
Controversy and Limitations:
However, there are a few controversies and limitations to consider. The Armoury Crate button placement seems redundant, and the device lacks a direct way to access Armoury Crate, adding an extra step for certain tasks. Additionally, while the Xbox Full Screen Experience is impressive, it doesn't integrate critical applications like Windows Update, requiring users to occasionally interact with the desktop.
Battery Life and Pricing:
The battery life is a mixed bag. While it lasts around 9 hours in PCMark10 tests, it's not as impressive as the Legion Go 2. However, in real-world gaming scenarios, it outperforms competitors, lasting 2 hours and 34 minutes in Cyberpunk 2077. As for pricing, at $999, it's more expensive than its predecessor and other handhelds, but it offers a unique experience and is competitively priced compared to similar devices with the Z2 Extreme chip.
Conclusion:
The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X is a bold statement in the handheld gaming PC market. It offers a compelling blend of Xbox integration, powerful performance, and a user-friendly interface. While it has its quirks and limitations, it sets a new benchmark for what handheld gaming PCs can achieve. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the hardware; it's about the seamless gaming experience it delivers. So, is it an 'Xbox'? The debate is open, and we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
