🔗 Share this article

The joint venture between leading companies has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, a remarkable yet premium-priced mobile gaming device. Debuting on October 16th, the charcoal model carries a substantial price of $999, while its more affordable white counterpart is priced at £499. Fortunately, the higher-end version offers superb performance that justifies its premium price tag.

First Experiences

During comprehensive testing over multiple weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has demonstrated its potential across multiple game genres. Although its higher cost compared to rival devices like the Steam Deck OLED (£479), the technical capability packed into its portable form (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents a new benchmark in the handheld entertainment landscape.

Such impressive processing power, paired with its adaptable gaming options through cloud streaming and universal compatibility, makes it especially attractive for either Xbox enthusiasts and portable gaming devotees. Although some preliminary technical issues and UI problems appeared during testing, most were straightforward to address and soon dismissed once engaging gameplay commenced.

Initial Configuration

Configuring the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't wholly frictionless. While the device launches with a dedicated Xbox interface that mimics both traditional and desktop variants, it ultimately runs on the Windows platform, requiring system updates before optimal functionality is available. This configuration phase requires some time and appears rather atypical for a specialized entertainment handheld.

Throughout the initial 24 hours, even after immediate profile setup, the system incorrectly indicated inactive Game Pass Ultimate access, with several account linking attempts failing to work. Remarkably, this situation corrected itself spontaneously the following day. Similarly, network access issues after standby additionally fixed themselves within the beginning phase.

After various accounts were successfully linked - including computer entertainment platforms like Epic Games Store - the device operated exceptionally well. A accessible feature allows direct booting into the familiar Xbox interface while at the same time aggregating games from other platforms, ensuring smooth access to current gameplay irrespective of the primary storefront.

Technical Assessment

The previously mentioned technical challenges could potentially be fixed through software updates, because when working optimally, the ROG Xbox Ally X delivers outstanding performance. Minor sluggishness might appear when launching at low battery levels (below 15%), but fan favorites like the roguelike masterpiece load promptly and operate smoothly with minimal loading times between multiple zones. Performance-heavy applications such as Avowed and classic PC games operate seamlessly with impressive frame rates and quick loading sequences.

Even without missing an OLED display, the visual experience remains breathtaking on its compact 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a authentic imaging spectacle, with graphical components that truly amaze. The speaker arrangement significantly enhances player engagement, with directional audio that precisely convey in-game events and environmental elements.

Build and Handling

The unconventional design resembles a modified Xbox controller with an integrated screen, but the matte black exterior feels premium and elegant. The customizable LED lighting around the thumbsticks provides discreet visual personalization without being distracting.

During testing, the device proved comfortable during long periods, despite its moderately increased weight (approximately 1.6 pounds) compared to rival products. The gamepad-based grips provide outstanding ergonomic support, with strain only occurring during awkward playing positions without proper support for arms.

Power Endurance

The impressive 80 watt-hour battery offers notable performance given the system components. Extended gameplay sessions of approximately two hours are attainable with graphics-intensive applications, with competent power management that reduces excessive energy consumption. While the device heats up during extended operation, it doesn't achieve excessively warm.

Software Ecosystem

The device effectively utilizes Microsoft's cross-platform initiatives, allowing uninterrupted access to an extensive library of Xbox games and membership offerings across different systems. This clever implementation enables seamless gameplay progress regardless of the playing platform used.

For dedicated gamers with adequate funds seeking a high-end handheld that merges desktop experiences with Xbox-level performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an outstanding purchase for dedicated gaming enthusiasts.

• Availability: Currently shipping since October 16th
• Pricing Range: $599-$999
• Main Attributes: Cross-platform compatibility