Asus ROG Ally X Review: The Portable Gaming Beast

Hey gamers! Ready to check out the next big thing in portable gaming? Well, get comfy, grab your chai or coffee—because today, we’re talking about the Asus ROG Ally X, the handheld that’s shaking up the gaming world in 2025. Whether you’re tired of dragging your gaming laptop everywhere or you want something better than a Steam Deck, this one’s worth a deep look. Let’s break it down, friend-style.

What Exactly Is the Asus ROG Ally X?

Imagine this—Windows 11, powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip, 24 GB super-fast RAM, 1 TB NVMe SSD, and a bright 7-inch FHD 120 Hz display—all in your hands. Yep, the ROG Ally X is not just any handheld; it’s like a mini gaming laptop you can carry in your bag.

My friend Sameer takes his to metro rides in Delhi. Instead of watching random YouTube shorts, he’s busy slicing monsters in Elden Ring, getting 30–35 FPS on medium settings. Now that’s crazy for something this small!

Specs at a Glance

Design & Comfort: Looks Like a Console, Feels Like One Too

Good news—this one fits so well in hand. Rounded edges, grippy back, buttons that just feel right. Ever tried a controller that feels cheap? This is the opposite.

Even the D-pad and thumbsticks are improved. Fighting games like Tekken? A breeze now. Two USB-C ports make it super easy to dock, charge, or use extra gadgets. At 678g, sure it’s heavier than Switch or Deck OLED, but hey—that big battery’s gotta go somewhere!

Performance: Beast Mode ON

This is where the Ally X shines. AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme plus 24 GB RAM means games run smooth like butter:

• Shadow of the Tomb Raider: 43 FPS (Medium)

• Cyberpunk 2077: 37 FPS (Default), 45 FPS (Tweaked)

• Red Dead Redemption 2: 40 FPS (Medium)

• Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2: 90 FPS (Medium)

• Forza Horizon 5: 50 FPS (High)

• Alan Wake 2: 34 FPS (Low with FSR)

Even Indie games like Hades or Octopath Traveler? 60+ FPS, no sweat.

Battery & Cooling: Long Life, Cool Feel

Double battery, bro. 80 Wh—biggest ever on a handheld. This means:

• 2.5–3 hours heavy AAA gaming (like Doom Eternal)

• 4 hours average mixed use

• 14+ hours video playback (hello Netflix binges!)

New fans, better heat pipes—24% more airflow. Your palms won’t burn anymore.

Pro Tip: Use ‘Armoury Crate’ to tweak performance & save battery. Drop refresh rate to 60 Hz if you want longer unplugged play.

Software & Daily Use: Windows in Your Pocket

Yep—it runs full Windows 11. Steam, Epic, GoG, Xbox... all yours. But remember—it’s not as smooth as a console menu. You may tap the screen to close popups or adjust something. But that’s okay—you’re holding a full Windows PC!

Armoury Crate SE helps a lot—it’s like your gaming dashboard.

Reddit users say:
"VRR is magic. Battery life is best in class. Worth every rupee."

Pricing: Is It Worth the Money?

• $799.99 (₹65–70k India approx) for 24 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD.

Yes, it’s pricier than Steam Deck or Switch 2—but you get better power, display, storage, and Windows. For serious PC gamers who want portable power—it’s worth it.

Pros & Cons: The Honest Truth

Pros:

• Top-level gaming power

• 24 GB RAM, 1 TB storage—future-ready

• Massive 80 Wh battery

• Beautiful 120 Hz display

• Feels great to hold

• USB4/Thunderbolt for docks, mouse, everything

Cons:

• Heavy for some (678g)

• Windows quirks (like small touch targets)

• Premium price

Pro Tips Before You Buy

• Use ‘Turbo Mode’ only when plugged in.

• Customize profiles in Armoury Crate for battery or performance.

• Want even better battery? Limit refresh rate to 60 Hz.

• Buy a fast microSD card—it supports storage expansion well.

FAQs

Q: Is ROG Ally X pocket-friendly?
A: Nope. Backpack-friendly, yes. Pocket—not really.

Q: Can I play AAA titles smoothly?
A: Definitely. Medium settings give 30–50 FPS. Indie games? 60+ FPS easy.

Q: What’s the battery life like?
A: AAA games: 2.5–3 hours. Normal games: 4 hours. Light use: 10–14 hours.

Q: Can I use mouse & keyboard?
A: Totally. Via USB4 or Bluetooth.

Q: Ally X or Steam Deck?
A: Want Windows, better specs? Go Ally X. Linux or affordability? Steam Deck.

The Final Verdict

Okay, here’s the real talk: ROG Ally X is a beast.

If you travel, game seriously, or want a mini Windows PC—this is made for you. No other handheld offers this RAM, SSD, or display at this level. Sure, it costs more than a Steam Deck—but you also get more power, more ports, and longer battery.

Beginners may still love Switch or Deck. But pro PC gamers who want their entire Steam/Epic/Xbox library on the go? The Ally X is gold.

Ready to Game Anywhere?

Don’t wait. Grab the Asus ROG Ally X, tweak your settings in Armoury Crate, and lose yourself in Elden Ring or Forza Horizon—even on the bus. Your chai breaks will never be boring again.