ASUS has officially opened pre-orders for its latest gaming handheld, the ROG Ally X, an upgraded version of the original ROG Ally. This new iteration brings several improvements to the table, making it an attractive option for portable gaming enthusiasts.

The ASUS ROG Ally X promises a powerful portable gaming experience with upgraded features

Key Upgrades

The ROG Ally X boasts several enhancements over its predecessor:

• Storage: Doubled to 1TB SSD (up from 512GB)
• RAM: Increased to 24GB LPDDR5X-7500MHz
• Battery: Significantly larger 80Whr capacity (previously 40Whr)
• Ergonomics: Slightly improved design for better comfort

Specifications

• Display: 7-inch Full HD IPS
• GPU: AMD Radeon 780M (unchanged from original)
• Storage Expansion: Improved microSD card slot with better heat management
• SSD Form Factor: Now supports full M.2 2280 (upgraded from 2230)

Pricing and Availability

• US Price: $800
• Malaysia Price: RM4,299 (approximately $920)

Pre-orders are now live in multiple regions. In Malaysia, early buyers can secure a bonus bundle worth RM658, including a premium hard case, gaming charger dock, and screen protector.

Secure your ASUS ROG Ally X pre-order and enjoy exclusive bonuses!

Should You Upgrade?

While the ROG Ally X offers notable improvements, particularly in storage and battery life, the core gaming experience remains similar to the original model. The unchanged GPU suggests that performance gains may be minimal for most games.

The $800 price point positions the Ally X as a premium option in the handheld gaming market. Potential buyers should weigh the upgrades against their needs and budget, especially if they already own the original ROG Ally.

For those new to ASUS's handheld lineup, the Ally X presents a more future-proof option with its increased RAM and storage. However, the significant price increase (especially notable in markets like Malaysia) may give some pause.

As with any new hardware release, it's advisable to wait for comprehensive reviews and real-world performance tests before making a decision. The improvements in heat management and ergonomics are promising, but their impact on long-term usability remains to be seen.

Update: Monday July 22 17:02

The ROG Ally X is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor featuring 8 cores and 16 threads based on Zen 4 architecture and 4nm process. It includes a 7-inch FHD 120Hz IPS-level LCD display and runs on Windows 11 Home. The device boasts improved cooling with a new dual fan system increasing airflow by 10% and an enhanced internal cooling system. Connectivity options include a Thunderbolt 4 port, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, UHS-II microSD card reader, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2. The handheld also features Hi-Res certified sound with AI noise-cancellation. However, potential buyers should note the increased weight of 678 grams when considering their purchase.

The ASUS ROG Ally X combines advanced features and powerful performance for serious gamers