🔗 Share this article

The collaborative effort between industry leaders has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, an extraordinary yet costly gaming handheld. Releasing on October 16th, the all-black model demands a substantial price of £799, while its more affordable white counterpart costs $599. Happily, the premium model delivers outstanding performance that validates its hefty price tag.

First Experiences

Through extensive testing over multiple weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has shown its capabilities across various game genres. Despite its premium pricing compared to competitors like the Steam Deck OLED ($549), the sheer power contained within its sleek design (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents unmatched innovation in the mobile gaming market.

This exceptional performance capability, paired with its adaptable gaming options through online gaming and multi-device compatibility, makes it especially attractive for both Xbox enthusiasts and handheld gaming devotees. Although some early technical issues and navigation difficulties manifested during testing, most were easily resolved and soon dismissed once immersive gameplay started.

Initial Configuration

Setting up the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't completely seamless. Though the device launches with a dedicated gaming environment that mimics both traditional and desktop variants, it essentially runs on the Windows platform, requiring system updates before full functionality is available. This configuration phase demands several minutes and appears rather atypical for a specialized entertainment handheld.

Throughout the initial 24 hours, even after quick profile setup, the system incorrectly indicated missing Game Pass Ultimate access, with multiple user association attempts failing to work. Remarkably, this situation corrected itself unexpectedly the following day. Similarly, wifi connectivity difficulties after sleep mode also self-corrected within the initial period.

When various accounts were successfully linked - including computer entertainment platforms like Battle.net - the device functioned exceptionally well. A accessible feature permits direct booting into the well-known Xbox interface while simultaneously aggregating games from different services, ensuring uninterrupted access to recent gameplay no matter the original source.

Capability Evaluation

Earlier described technical challenges may likely be addressed through firmware improvements, because when working optimally, the ROG Xbox Ally X delivers outstanding performance. Slight lag might appear when booting up at reduced power levels (below 15%), but popular titles like the roguelike masterpiece load promptly and perform flawlessly with almost no loading times between multiple zones. Demanding games such as Obsidian's RPG and traditional computer games operate seamlessly with excellent frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Even without not having an OLED display, the image quality remains impressive on its 7-inch 1080p screen. The graphical details in games like Hades II create a genuine imaging spectacle, with graphical components that really captivate. The sound setup greatly improves player engagement, with directional audio that faithfully reproduce virtual occurrences and character positions.

Build and Handling

The distinctive design looks like a altered Xbox controller with an built-in screen, but the satin finish exterior feels premium and elegant. The customizable LED lighting around the joysticks provides discreet gaming aesthetics without being excessive.

In practical use, the device proved ergonomic during extended sessions, despite its somewhat greater weight (over 700 grams) compared to rival products. The controller-inspired grips provide outstanding ergonomic support, with strain only occurring during awkward playing positions without proper support for arms.

Runtime Capability

The impressive 80Wh battery delivers respectable performance given the technical specifications. Extended gameplay sessions of around two hours are achievable with popular titles, with efficient power management that reduces wasteful energy consumption. While the device heats up during marathon sessions, it avoids becoming uncomfortably hot.

Software Ecosystem

The device efficiently employs Microsoft's multi-device initiatives, allowing seamless access to an substantial library of Xbox games and membership offerings across different systems. This strategic approach enables seamless gameplay advancement regardless of the gaming device used.

For dedicated gamers with proper resources seeking a top-tier handheld that merges PC gaming with Xbox-level performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an excellent purchase for serious technology adopters.

• Availability: Currently shipping since October 16th
• Cost Spectrum: $599-$999
• Key Features: Xbox integration