Comparing Asus Rog Ally and Rog Ally X: Which Handheld is Right for You?
The gaming landscape has undergone significant changes with the advent of handheld PCs. One of the emerging players in this space is the Asus Rog Ally, the first Windows-based handheld to feature the Z1 Extreme chipset. It made a splash, positioning itself as a direct competitor to the Steam Deck. Following the initial success, Asus introduced an upgraded model, the Rog Ally X. While the X version appears superior on paper, the real question is: does the price difference justify the upgrade?
In this article, we will delve into the details of both devices, their similarities and differences, and help you determine which handheld suits your gaming needs best.
Understanding the Basics: Pricing and Specifications
At a glance, the Rog Ally (with the Z1 chipset) is typically available for prices ranging between $350 to $500. On the other hand, the Rog Ally X comes with the Z1 Extreme chipset and retails for an MSRP of $799. While the differences in specifications may not seem significant at first glance, the price disparity prompts a deeper examination.
Both handhelds come bundled with similar accessories: documentation, a charger, and a flimsy stand. However, unlike competitors like the Steam Deck or Lenovo's Legion Go, you won't find a protective case included, highlighting a notable difference in package offerings.
One of the standout features of the Rog Ally X is its improved performance, particularly in terms of battery life. The Ally X reportedly offers up to double the battery life compared to the original Rog Ally, and anecdotal evidence suggests that it may even outperform that expectation in some scenarios. The additional RAM in the Ally X allows users to allocate more power to the GPU, significantly enhancing performance during gameplay.
On the display front, both handhelds feature a 7-inch, 1080p screen with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz and variable refresh rate capabilities. The color representation is reportedly excellent, eliminating the need for manual calibration.
Ergonomics is highly subjective, and individual preferences dictate comfort levels across different users. While the original Rog Ally has faced criticisms for its weight and design, the Rog Ally X makes engineering strides.
The X version is slightly heavier due to a larger battery, but the creation of lighter internal components and improved weight distribution makes it feel less cumbersome during prolonged gaming sessions. Both handhelds offer decent button placements and trigger designs, though critical distinctions exist in button textures and responsiveness across the models.
The D-pad and triggers on the Rog Ally X have been noted for their ergonomic enhancements, providing a more satisfying tactile experience.
Connectivity upgrades make the Rog Ally X a more modern and versatile solution. Transitioning from a proprietary XG Mobile port found in the original to two USB 4.0 ports allows for greater flexibility and compatibility with external hardware. Users can seamlessly plug in an eGPU or other accessories without cumbersome dongles, making the Ally X a more appealing option for power users.
Audio Quality Matters: Built-in Speakers
Sound quality might not top the list of priorities for many gamers, but it can dramatically affect the overall experience. Surprisingly, while the Rog Ally X has slightly better speakers in terms of clarity, the original Ally offers louder audio.
Despite the discrepancies, both devices deliver a commendable experience, albeit with the caveat that built-in speakers might not suffice for every user. For those who value sound quality during immersion, seeking third-party audio options may be advisable.
Benchmarking Performance: Real-World Gaming
Testing with popular games such as Horizon Zero Dawn, Cyberpunk 2077, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider reveals that the Rog Ally X excels in delivering frame rates and overall performance, with recorded scores of 67 FPS for Tomb Raider and 59 FPS for Cyberpunk 2077. The original Ally, while capable, lagged behind in all scenarios.
The added RAM in the Ally X allows more efficient usage of the GPU, providing a tangible performance boost that is testimony to the benefits of upgrading.
Conclusion: Which Handheld Should You Choose?
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your gaming intentions and whether you prioritize performance or price.
Opt for the Rog Ally: If you are a casual gamer focused on lightweight titles who prefers to enjoy gaming at home while plugged in, the original Ally at the starting price of $350 is a fantastic choice.
Go for the Rog Ally X: For gamers who value performance, flexibility, and battery life, particularly during travel, the Ally X proves itself as the premium option.
Part 1/8:
Comparing Asus Rog Ally and Rog Ally X: Which Handheld is Right for You?
The gaming landscape has undergone significant changes with the advent of handheld PCs. One of the emerging players in this space is the Asus Rog Ally, the first Windows-based handheld to feature the Z1 Extreme chipset. It made a splash, positioning itself as a direct competitor to the Steam Deck. Following the initial success, Asus introduced an upgraded model, the Rog Ally X. While the X version appears superior on paper, the real question is: does the price difference justify the upgrade?
In this article, we will delve into the details of both devices, their similarities and differences, and help you determine which handheld suits your gaming needs best.
Part 2/8:
Understanding the Basics: Pricing and Specifications
At a glance, the Rog Ally (with the Z1 chipset) is typically available for prices ranging between $350 to $500. On the other hand, the Rog Ally X comes with the Z1 Extreme chipset and retails for an MSRP of $799. While the differences in specifications may not seem significant at first glance, the price disparity prompts a deeper examination.
Both handhelds come bundled with similar accessories: documentation, a charger, and a flimsy stand. However, unlike competitors like the Steam Deck or Lenovo's Legion Go, you won't find a protective case included, highlighting a notable difference in package offerings.
Performance and Battery Life: A Game Changer
Part 3/8:
One of the standout features of the Rog Ally X is its improved performance, particularly in terms of battery life. The Ally X reportedly offers up to double the battery life compared to the original Rog Ally, and anecdotal evidence suggests that it may even outperform that expectation in some scenarios. The additional RAM in the Ally X allows users to allocate more power to the GPU, significantly enhancing performance during gameplay.
On the display front, both handhelds feature a 7-inch, 1080p screen with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz and variable refresh rate capabilities. The color representation is reportedly excellent, eliminating the need for manual calibration.
Ergonomics and Build Quality: Comfort in Gaming
Part 4/8:
Ergonomics is highly subjective, and individual preferences dictate comfort levels across different users. While the original Rog Ally has faced criticisms for its weight and design, the Rog Ally X makes engineering strides.
The X version is slightly heavier due to a larger battery, but the creation of lighter internal components and improved weight distribution makes it feel less cumbersome during prolonged gaming sessions. Both handhelds offer decent button placements and trigger designs, though critical distinctions exist in button textures and responsiveness across the models.
The D-pad and triggers on the Rog Ally X have been noted for their ergonomic enhancements, providing a more satisfying tactile experience.
Connectivity Features: The New Norm
Part 5/8:
Connectivity upgrades make the Rog Ally X a more modern and versatile solution. Transitioning from a proprietary XG Mobile port found in the original to two USB 4.0 ports allows for greater flexibility and compatibility with external hardware. Users can seamlessly plug in an eGPU or other accessories without cumbersome dongles, making the Ally X a more appealing option for power users.
Audio Quality Matters: Built-in Speakers
Sound quality might not top the list of priorities for many gamers, but it can dramatically affect the overall experience. Surprisingly, while the Rog Ally X has slightly better speakers in terms of clarity, the original Ally offers louder audio.
Part 6/8:
Despite the discrepancies, both devices deliver a commendable experience, albeit with the caveat that built-in speakers might not suffice for every user. For those who value sound quality during immersion, seeking third-party audio options may be advisable.
Benchmarking Performance: Real-World Gaming
Testing with popular games such as Horizon Zero Dawn, Cyberpunk 2077, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider reveals that the Rog Ally X excels in delivering frame rates and overall performance, with recorded scores of 67 FPS for Tomb Raider and 59 FPS for Cyberpunk 2077. The original Ally, while capable, lagged behind in all scenarios.
Part 7/8:
The added RAM in the Ally X allows more efficient usage of the GPU, providing a tangible performance boost that is testimony to the benefits of upgrading.
Conclusion: Which Handheld Should You Choose?
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your gaming intentions and whether you prioritize performance or price.
Opt for the Rog Ally: If you are a casual gamer focused on lightweight titles who prefers to enjoy gaming at home while plugged in, the original Ally at the starting price of $350 is a fantastic choice.
Go for the Rog Ally X: For gamers who value performance, flexibility, and battery life, particularly during travel, the Ally X proves itself as the premium option.
Part 8/8:
Both devices showcase the potential of portable gaming, and your preferences dictate which will ultimately lead to the more satisfying experience.
What are your thoughts? Are you considering the Rog Ally or the Rog Ally X? Share your opinions and experiences!