ASUS ROG Ally X: Upgraded Handheld Launches, Portable PC Powerhouse
Last Updated: October 26, 2025
The landscape of portable PC gaming has been redefined once again. ASUS has officially launched the ROG Ally X, a premium, refined version of its highly successful 2023 handheld. Building on the foundation of the original, the Ally X addresses key user feedback with significant upgrades to its battery, memory, storage, and ergonomics.
This release solidifies ASUS's position as a major contender in the competitive handheld market, offering an enthusiast-grade Windows gaming experience for players on the move.
Key Upgrades: What’s New in the Ally X?
While the ROG Ally X retains the same potent AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU and vibrant 7-inch 1080p 120Hz display as its predecessor, nearly every other component has been re-evaluated and enhanced. The goal was clear: address the community's biggest critiques of the original model.
The most significant upgrade is the battery. ASUS has doubled the capacity from 40Wh to a massive 80Wh, directly targeting the original’s limited playtime and offering substantially longer gaming sessions away from a power outlet.
Performance and multitasking also get a major boost. The device now features 24GB of faster LPDDR5X-7500 RAM, up from 16GB. This not only future-proofs the handheld but also allows for better performance in demanding games that benefit from more system and video memory. Internal storage is now a standard 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD, and critically, the slot has been changed to the more common 2280 size, making future user upgrades far easier.
Externally, the Ally X sports a new, sleek black chassis that is slightly thicker and heavier to accommodate the larger battery. However, the ergonomics have been improved with more rounded, deeper grips, redesigned joysticks with a tighter dead zone, and a more precise D-pad. The cooling system has also been overhauled with smaller, more efficient fans that improve airflow while reducing noise. Finally, the proprietary XG Mobile port has been replaced by two USB-C ports, one of which is a USB4 port with Thunderbolt 4 capabilities, offering vastly improved connectivity options.
The Windows Advantage in a Crowded Market
The ROG Ally X continues to leverage its greatest strength: running a full version of Windows 11. This open platform is a key differentiator from the Linux-based Steam Deck. It provides seamless, out-of-the-box compatibility with every PC game and service, including crucial anti-cheat software that can be problematic on other systems. The tight integration with Microsoft's ecosystem makes it arguably the best handheld for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, allowing for both native PC installations and cloud streaming.
The launch of the Ally X, priced at $799, positions it as a premium option in a market that includes the more affordable Steam Deck OLED. It caters to gamers who demand top-tier performance and the unparalleled flexibility of the Windows operating system, without the compromises often associated with portable play.
The Handheld Revolution Accelerates
The arrival of the ROG Ally X is more than just a hardware refresh; it's a statement about the incredible pace of innovation in the handheld PC space. It demonstrates a commitment from major manufacturers like ASUS to listen to their communities and rapidly iterate on their products. This intense competition benefits everyone, pushing the industry toward a future where high-fidelity, no-compromise gaming is truly untethered from the desktop.
As the ROG Ally X makes its way into the hands of gamers worldwide, it sets a new benchmark for what a premium handheld can be. By thoughtfully upgrading the battery life, ergonomics, and core components, ASUS has crafted a device that doesn't just play PC games on the go—it makes the experience better than ever before.