🔗 Share this article

The joint venture between leading companies has produced the ROG Xbox Ally X, an impressive yet costly portable console. Releasing on October 16th, the charcoal model carries a considerable price of $999, while its budget-friendly white counterpart is priced at $599. Happily, the top-tier option provides superb performance that warrants its substantial price tag.

Early Testing

Through extensive testing over several weeks, the ROG Xbox Ally X has demonstrated its abilities across multiple game genres. Despite its premium pricing compared to competitors like the Steam Deck OLED (£479), the technical capability packed into its compact frame (291 x 122 x 51mm) represents something unprecedented in the portable gaming industry.

This exceptional performance capability, paired with its versatile entertainment possibilities through cloud streaming and multi-device compatibility, makes it particularly appealing for either Microsoft loyalists and handheld gaming devotees. Though some early system glitches and interface challenges appeared during testing, the majority were easily resolved and rapidly overlooked once immersive gameplay began.

Initial Configuration

Setting up the ROG Xbox Ally X isn't wholly straightforward. Although the device boots into a specialized Xbox interface that replicates both console and PC variants, it essentially runs on Windows 11, requiring system updates before complete functionality can be achieved. This initial setup requires a certain period and feels somewhat unconventional for a specialized entertainment handheld.

During the first day, even after quick profile setup, the system incorrectly indicated missing Game Pass Ultimate access, with several account linking attempts being ineffective. Interestingly, this situation corrected itself automatically the subsequent day. In similar fashion, network access issues after standby additionally self-corrected within the first day.

After various accounts were correctly integrated - including desktop gaming platforms like Steam - the device performed outstandingly efficiently. A accessible feature allows direct booting into the familiar Xbox interface while concurrently collecting games from other platforms, ensuring uninterrupted access to recent gameplay irrespective of the initial platform.

Capability Evaluation

Above detailed technical challenges might possibly be resolved through firmware improvements, because when functioning properly, the ROG Xbox Ally X provides remarkable performance. Small lag might appear when starting at minimal charge levels (below 15%), but popular titles like the roguelike masterpiece launch quickly and run perfectly with minimal loading times between different areas. Performance-heavy applications such as the fantasy adventure and classic PC games operate seamlessly with impressive frame rates and rapid loading sequences.

Despite not having an OLED display, the graphical presentation remains impressive on its 7-inch 1080p screen. The image elements in games like Hades II create a genuine graphical treat, with graphical components that really captivate. The speaker arrangement significantly enhances player engagement, with directional audio that faithfully reproduce in-game events and object locations.

Build and Handling

The unique design appears similar to a altered Xbox controller with an incorporated screen, but the non-glossy exterior feels premium and refined. The configurable LED lighting around the joysticks provides understated visual personalization without being excessive.

During testing, the device proved ergonomic during marathon gaming, despite its slightly higher weight (over 700 grams) compared to rival products. The gamepad-based grips provide excellent ergonomic support, with strain only occurring during awkward playing positions without adequate bracing for elbows.

Battery Performance

The substantial large capacity battery offers notable performance given the system components. Uninterrupted gameplay sessions of approximately two hours are achievable with popular titles, with competent power management that limits excessive energy consumption. Though the device increases temperature during extended operation, it avoids becoming excessively warm.

Gaming Library

The device smartly leverages Microsoft's cross-platform initiatives, allowing smooth access to an substantial library of Xbox games and subscription services across various platforms. This clever implementation enables uninterrupted gameplay advancement regardless of the gaming device used.

For regular users with sufficient budget seeking a premium handheld that combines computer entertainment with traditional gaming performance, the ROG Xbox Ally X represents an superb acquisition for committed entertainment seekers.

• Availability: Currently shipping since October 16th
• Pricing Range: £479-£799
• Primary Characteristics: Multiple store access