Asus recently introduced the ROG Ally X, a revamped version of last year's model of its handheld PC. While there is no notable increase in performance, the improvements in other areas are significant.
Digital Foundry has taken a closer look at how this will affect the successor model. closer look.
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How the Asus ROG Ally X beats its predecessor
Going from 16GB to 24GB of memory solves problems encountered with new games, and doubling the battery capacity addresses the main problem of all Windows handhelds: poor battery life. The memory upgrade to 24GB LPDDRX at 7500 MT/s again offers more bandwidth, resulting in a slight performance increase.
The ROG Ally X uses the same Z1 Extreme processor as the previous model, but the increased memory significantly improves performance in certain games. For example, according to Digital Foundry's analysis, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora runs almost smoothly on the new model, while it stutters on the old model. Alan Wake 2 also benefits from the additional memory, as it requires more RAM than the old model can offer. These improvements show how important sufficient memory is for a smooth gaming experience.
In addition to storage, there are other improvements that put the ROG Ally X in the top tier of handhelds, barring an OLED display or a larger screen. The doubled battery capacity extends playtime significantly, although it still can't match the battery life of the Steam Deck OLED. The new model weighs more due to the larger battery (900 grams, 220 grams more than before), but remains within acceptable limits.
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| Asus ROG Strix GL502VW | Asus ROG Strix XG | |
|---|---|---|
| Main processor | AMD Z1 Extreme | AMD Z1 Extreme |
| random access memory | 16GB LPDDR5 6400MT/s | 24GB LPDDR5X 7500MT/s |
| Screen | 1920×1080 – 120 Hz IPS with VRR | 1920×1080 – 120 Hz IPS with VRR |
| battery pack | 40 WHr | 80 WHr |
| I/O | 1x USB-C, MicroSD, headphone jack, XG Mobile Port | 2x USB-C (one of them compatible with USB 4/Thunderbolt 4), MicroSD, headphone jack |
The internals of the ROG Ally X have also been redesigned to take advantage of the new battery. Smaller but more effective fans ensure better cooling while keeping noise levels down. The device also now offers a larger and cheaper SSD form factor, which increases storage up to 1 TB. The analog sticks, triggers and buttons have also been improved, which Digital Foundry says makes them more comfortable to use.
Connectivity has been streamlined by moving the controversial SD card slot and headphone jack. There are also now two USB-C ports, one of which is USB 4 compatible, increasing flexibility. Despite the improvements and a price tag of $799, however, the device does not offer a significant performance boost over the previous model. However, it is the only handheld PC with a variable refresh rate, allowing for a more consistent gaming experience. The price is higher, but still cheaper compared to other premium handhelds with 32GB of storage.