ROG XBOX Ally Hands-On Review: Features, Performance & Price Breakdown

Imagine holding the power of a gaming console in your hands, an experience that feels like an Xbox squeezed into a sleek, portable shell. That’s the promise of the ROG XBOX Ally, a handheld gaming device that aims to redefine casual gaming. But can it truly deliver on this ambitious vision, or does it fall short of the hype? With its ergonomic design, a 7-inch 1080p display, and the versatility of Windows 11, the ROG XBOX Ally seems poised to carve out a niche for itself. Yet, its AMD Ryzen Z2A processor raises questions about whether it can handle the demands of modern gaming. Is this the future of handheld gaming, or just another device with compromises?

In this first look, ETA Prime explores what makes the ROG XBOX Ally tick, and where it stumbles. From its customizable macro keys and RGB lighting to its limitations with AAA titles, this insight will help you decide if this $599 device is the right fit for your gaming needs. Whether you’re a fan of cloud gaming on Xbox Game Pass or someone who enjoys indie gems, there’s plenty to unpack here. But does its performance truly justify its price tag? Let’s see if the ROG XBOX Ally is a fantastic option or simply a device that plays it safe.

Asus ROG XBOX Ally Overview

TL;DR Key Takeaways :

The Asus ROG XBOX Ally is a $599 handheld gaming device designed for casual gamers and cloud gaming, featuring a 7-inch 1080p display and Windows 11 compatibility.
It is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2A processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, making it suitable for indie and 2D games but limited for demanding AAA titles at high resolutions.
Key design features include ergonomic back handles, customizable macro keys, RGB lighting, and front-firing speakers for enhanced comfort and usability.
Performance modes (Silent, Performance, Turbo) and a robust software ecosystem, including support for multiple game stores, enhance flexibility but highlight its limitations for high-end gaming.
Battery life varies significantly, offering up to 8 hours for light gaming but dropping to 2-3 hours for intensive titles, making it ideal for casual or shorter gaming sessions.

Design and Build: Comfort Meets Functionality

The ROG XBOX Ally prioritizes comfort and usability, making it a well-suited option for extended gaming sessions. Its ergonomic design includes back handles for a secure grip, making sure that users can play for hours without discomfort. The device is available in a white color variant, which visually sets it apart from the higher-end ROG Ally X. Key design features include:

Linear triggers for precise and responsive input
Customizable macro keys for enhanced gameplay control
RGB lighting for a touch of personalization and style
Front-firing speakers that deliver clear, player-focused audio

These thoughtful design elements strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality, creating a device that is both visually appealing and practical for gaming enthusiasts.

Specifications: What’s Under the Hood?

The ROG XBOX Ally is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2A processor, built on the Zen 2 architecture with 4 cores and 8 threads. While this processor is capable of handling casual and indie games, it struggles with more graphically demanding titles. The device also includes:

16GB of RAM, making sure smooth multitasking and gameplay
A 512GB M.2 SSD, which is upgradeable for users needing additional storage
A 7-inch 1080p IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB color accuracy for vibrant visuals
Connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, two USB-C 3.2 ports, a microSD slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack
A 65Wh battery, offering varying runtimes depending on the selected power mode

These specifications make the device a solid choice for casual gamers and fans of indie titles, though it may not meet the expectations of those seeking high-end performance.

ROG XBOX Ally First Look Review : An Xbox In Your Hands?

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Software and Features: A Windows Gaming Experience

Running on Windows 11, the ROG XBOX Ally provides a familiar and versatile gaming environment. This operating system ensures compatibility with a wide range of games and applications, making it a flexible option for users. Notable software features include:

A fingerprint sensor for quick and secure logins
An Xbox-style passcode input for added accessibility
Support for multiple game stores, including Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG
The Armory Crate SE app, which allows users to customize performance settings and tailor the device to their preferences

This robust software ecosystem enhances the device’s usability, particularly for casual gamers who value convenience and flexibility.

Performance: A Mixed Bag

The ROG XBOX Ally delivers performance comparable to the Steam Deck APU, with slight overclocking to improve efficiency. It excels at running indie and 2D games, making it a reliable choice for casual gaming. However, its limitations become evident when tackling more demanding AAA titles. At 1080p resolution, users may need to lower settings to 720p or 900p to achieve smoother gameplay. The device offers three performance modes:

Silent (6W) for minimal power consumption and quieter operation
Performance (15W) for a balanced gaming experience
Turbo (20W) for maximum performance, albeit with higher power consumption

While these modes provide flexibility, the hardware struggles to meet the demands of high-end gaming, making it better suited for less resource-intensive titles.

Battery Life: Varies by Usage

Battery performance is highly dependent on the type of game and power mode selected. For less demanding indie and 2D games, the device can deliver up to 8 hours of runtime in Silent mode. However, for AAA titles or graphically intensive games, battery life drops significantly to around 2-3 hours, depending on the thermal design power (TDP) settings. This variability makes the ROG XBOX Ally more suitable for shorter gaming sessions or casual play.

Limitations: Where It Falls Short

Despite its strengths, the ROG XBOX Ally has several limitations that may deter certain users. These include:

The AMD Ryzen Z2A processor, which struggles with newer, more demanding games
Limited native PC gaming performance at high resolutions or frame rates
The absence of USB 4 support and hall-based analog sticks, features that are becoming standard in competing devices

These shortcomings highlight the device’s focus on casual gaming rather than high-end performance, which may not appeal to users seeking a more robust and future-proof solution.

Best Use Cases: Where It Excels

The ROG XBOX Ally is particularly well-suited for specific scenarios. It shines in cloud gaming platforms like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now, where processing demands are handled by remote servers. Additionally, its compatibility with SteamOS offers an alternative gaming experience for users who prefer a Linux-based environment. For casual gamers and fans of indie titles, the device provides a compelling option that combines portability with ease of use.

Price and Value: Is It Worth $599?

At $599, the ROG XBOX Ally positions itself as a mid-range handheld gaming device. Its design and features cater to a specific audience, particularly casual gamers and cloud gaming enthusiasts. However, its performance limitations may not justify the price for users seeking a more versatile or powerful gaming solution. Alternatives such as the Steam Deck or higher-end ROG Ally models may offer better value for those with more demanding requirements. For its target audience, though, the ROG XBOX Ally offers a unique blend of features and portability.

Media Credit: ETA PRIME

Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Top News

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