ROG Ally X Review - 1 Month Later - ASUS Dropping the HAMMER

ROG Ally X Review - 1 Month Later - ASUS Dropping the HAMMER

Introduction

A year ago, ASUS launched the ROG Ally, and while there was a lot to love, certain aspects left users wanting more. Fast-forward to five months ago, ASUS announced the ROG Ally X, claiming to address all the prior complaints. After using it as my main system for a month, there's still a lot to admire, but some elements continue to fall short. This article dives into what ASUS got right, what still requires improvement, and how to optimize the device to suit personal preferences. Additionally, I'll touch on the RMA issues users have experienced. Grab a seat, get comfortable, and let's delve into this in-depth review.

Initial Impressions

ASUS provided a retail unit of the ROG Ally X, and immediately, notable improvements were apparent. The power button, serving also as a fingerprint reader, is more recessed for easier location. The fingerprint reader works far more reliably than the original model.

An issue with the rumble feature emerged; a high-pitched whine occurred, especially prevalent in Doom Eternal. A reboot temporarily fixed it, but ASUS is sending a replacement to inspect further. Other reviewers didn’t face these issues, indicating it might be a unit-specific problem.

Key Changes from ROG Ally to Ally X

Performance and Power Profiles

While the screen and chipset between the two models remain the same, the power profiles have shifted. Silent mode now runs at 13 watts, performance mode at 17 watts, and turbo mode retains its 25-watt setting, significantly impacting overall performance and battery life.

Battery Life

The standout enhancement is the massive 80 WHr battery. In comparison tests with the Steam Deck OLED, the results showed noticeable improvements. The ROG Ally X exhibited double the battery life of its predecessor, tackling the core issue users had with the 2023 model.

Ergonomics

The new rounded corners of the Ally X improve comfort. Though still not rivaling the Steam Deck, it’s a step up from the prior model. The improved joysticks offer better tension and top scooping for thumb placement, though placement leads to occasional screen contact.

USB Ports and Controls

Replacing the proprietary eGPU port with a USB-C is a beneficial change for more users, despite some who invested in the eGPU feeling the pinch. Macro buttons are smaller and less intrusive, and the d-pad, while better, sometimes squeaks—a problem likely unique to this unit.

Audio

Speakers remain fantastic, similar to the original Ally, producing great sound quality without distortion at high volumes.

Software Experience

Windows OS continues to be a major gripe due to its inefficiency on a 7-inch screen. While it offers better compatibility than SteamOS, the annoyances and limitations in touch targets make it less user-friendly for a compact device.

Armory Crate Improvements

The software improvements in Armory Crate add value; tailored game settings and power profiles enhance user experience, although 99% of my gaming involves launching directly from Steam’s Big Picture mode.

Baesaj OS

An exciting alternative, Béisaj OS, offers a console-like experience akin to SteamOS, providing an impressive alternative for those frustrated with Windows. For advanced users, this could transform the ROG Ally X’s functionality considerably, although still in an experimental phase.

Performance Benchmarks

Performance Benchmarks: Thanks to the updated power profiles, the ROG Ally X consistently shows minor performance improvements over the 2023 model, especially in game FPS and battery endurance.

Conclusion: What I Like and What I Don’t

Likes:

• Significantly better battery life.
• Improved ergonomics and controls.
• Excellent screen and audio performance.
• User-friendly Armory Crate updates.

Dislikes:

• Windows OS is still not ideal for small screens.
• Lack of trackpads and capacitive thumbsticks.
• Squeaky d-pad and potential rumble issues.

Trustworthiness: ASUS needs to remain transparent and effective in their RMA processes to regain consumer trust.

Keywords

• ROG Ally X
• Battery Life
• Ergonomics
• USB Ports
• Performance Benchmarks
• Armory Crate
• Béisaj OS
• Windows OS
• Software Issues

FAQs

Q1: What is the most significant upgrade in the ROG Ally X compared to the original ROG Ally? A1: The most significant upgrade is the 80 WHr battery, offering significantly better battery life than the original ROG Ally.

Q2: How does the ROG Ally X compare to the Steam Deck in terms of ergonomics? A2: The ROG Ally X shows improvement in ergonomics, but it still does not match the comfort level provided by the Steam Deck.

Q3: Are there any notable software improvements in the ROG Ally X? A3: Armory Crate has been significantly improved, allowing tailored game settings and better power profile management. Additionally, Béisaj OS offers an exciting alternative for running a more console-like experience.

Q4: What are the key drawbacks of the ROG Ally X? A4: The primary drawbacks include the inefficiency of Windows OS on a small screen, lack of trackpads, absence of capacitive thumbsticks, and minor hardware issues such as a squeaky d-pad.