ASUS presented the ROG Ally X, an improved version of the portable console launched in 2023, which we had the opportunity to test in depth. The second version shows very well, p improvements in ergonomics of use, connectivity, performance and autonomy.

For weeks now, there have been rumors of a new version of the ASUS handheld gaming machine, one of the most attractive of the new generation that has brought this group of portable consoles back to the forefront of modern times. Taking advantage of the Computex framework, the company has officially unveiled it, and it’s as we’ve come to expect: just as attractive but well improved in key points.

ASUS ROG Ally X, news

ASUS says that the new version of the console “It was created based on user feedback and improved many of its key components”. In this way, maintaining the 7-inch IPS screen with touch interface, FHD resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate of the original version, as well as its main engine, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme with eight-core CPU and sixteen threads, and Radeon 780M Graphics GPU, the improvements are numerous and interesting.

We summarize them for you:

– Updated chassis and motherboard to improve ergonomics, cooling and connectivity, as well as allowing the installation of new internal components.

– 1 TB SSD. One of the renewed sections was the storage, which now features an M.2 2280 SSD, which, in addition to doubling the capacity to 1 Tbyte, allows you to easily upgrade to an even larger SSD.

– More memory. Another internal hardware upgrade comes from 24GB of DDR5-7500 RAM. Like all AMD APUs, the Ryzen Z1 Extreme shares its video RAM with the system RAM, so this new feature will improve performance when running modern games that require more VRAM for high-resolution textures.

– More autonomy. A key feature in any portable device ROG Ally uses daily.

– Better ergonomics. As we said, the new version of the console has a redesigned chassis in a new black color, with slightly deeper grips and a more rounded shape. The buttons and controls are arranged at a slightly more ergonomic angle, with the trigger tilting to make them easier to press. The macro buttons on the back are also smaller to reduce accidental presses and remain easily accessible. The joysticks have been replaced with a new module and the D-pad has been similarly improved with more accurate eight-way input for fighting and retro games.

– Improved connectivity. ASUS has responded to user requests to restore the XG Mobile port. And it does it with the best and most standardized USB Type-C, dual ports, one of which supports Intel Thunderbolt.

– Better cooling. The new and larger battery required changes to the internal design, which ASUS used to improve its cooling system. The new fans are 23% smaller but use 50% thinner blades for improved airflow. Two new tunnels in the fan housing direct the air to the third air outlet. This new thermal solution provides 24% more
air volume, cooling not only of internal components, but also of the touchscreen.

Availability and price

ASUS ROG Ally 899 euros. With Windows 11 pre-installed and the aforementioned improvements to key components, it will be a contender for users looking for the best portable console.