ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled the Ally X, an improved iteration of its popular Ally handheld gaming device. Packing a slew of hardware upgrades, the Ally X aims to elevate the on-the-go Windows gaming experience to new heights.
At its core, the Ally X retains the potent AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor from its predecessor. However, it’s the under-the-hood enhancements that truly set it apart. With a whopping 1TB of blazing-fast SSD storage, you’ll have ample room to store your entire game library without compromising load times. The 24GB of speedy LPDDR5 RAM ensures seamless multitasking and enables games to utilise more video memory for stunning visuals.
Perhaps the most significant upgrade is the Ally X’s beefy 80Wh battery, which doubles the capacity of the original model. This means you can indulge in extended gaming sessions without being tethered to a power outlet. Impressively, despite packing such a massive battery, the Ally X maintains a relatively svelte 678g weight, with the distribution optimised for comfortable handheld play.
ASUS has also revamped the Ally X’s ergonomics, with deeper handles, a more rounded shape, and an angled button layout tailored for prolonged gaming sessions. The joysticks have been fortified with a 5-million-cycle lifespan and stiffer springs for a familiar, responsive feel. Even the D-pad has received an upgrade, promising precise 8-way inputs for fighting and retro games.
Connectivity has been bolstered too, with the Ally X sporting dual USB-C ports – one of which is Thunderbolt-enabled for compatibility with docks and external GPUs. This versatility should please users who craved more universal I/O options.
Under the hood, ASUS has implemented an ingenious cooling solution to tame the Ally X’s performance-oriented hardware. Smaller yet more efficient fans, coupled with an additional exhaust vent, allow for a 24% increase in airflow. This not only keeps the internals chilled but also ensures the touchscreen remains a comfortable 6°C cooler during heated gaming sessions.
The ASUS ROG Ally X will be available for pre-order in South Africa from 27 June 2024, with global availability to follow. Stay tuned for pricing details and release information in your region.
