Jakarta, Gizmology โ ASUS is back with its latest gaming handheld with the ROG Xbox Ally series, and they're also introducing an X variant like the previous generation. However, what sets this handheld gaming PC apart is that it's a collaboration with Microsoft Xbox.
One of the things that differentiates the standard Ally handheld from competitors is the D-Pad, which features an Xbox Controller-like design. Therefore, this is claimed to be one of the things that makes the ROG Xbox Ally the most comfortable gaming handheld to hold for extended periods.
So, I got the chance to try out the ROG Xbox Ally firsthand before its release. I played a few games and experienced the comfort ASUS consistently claims about this device.
Also Read: ASUS ROG Ally X Review: Performance and Ergonomic Design Take Priority
Design Like an Xbox Controller with a Screen
As I mentioned, the ROG Xbox Ally's design is largely the same as the previous Ally series. However, this Xbox version features a different D-pad, and the only difference between the ROG Xbox Ally and the X is the black and white colors.
Indeed, this design is 90% identical. Starting from the button placement on each D-Pad and also the thermals for heat dissipation. Speaking of buttons, on the left D-Pad, you'll find three. First is the Xbox button, the Armory Crate button, and the Media button, which is used for screen recording or screenshots.
This button is exclusive to the ROG Xbox Ally Series. The Xbox logo button is used to access the Xbox Ecosystem, making it easier for users to find their friends list or find installed games. ASUS also claims it also allows users to access Xbox Fullscreen.
The Armoury Crate button itself makes it easier for users to adjust the performance they want on their device. For example, if you're playing a AAA game and need a little more performance, you can easily access Armoury Crate and select the "Turbo" preset to boost performance. Likewise, if you prefer to play with the fans a little quieter, you can also use the "Turbo" preset.
On the back, you'll find the ROG logo, which serves as a heat exhaust port, and it's also located on the top of the ROG Xbox Ally. Also on top are the power button, 3.5mm audio jack, volume buttons, and two Type-C ports.
Speaking of the display, ASUS is using the same Full HD display as the previous Ally, with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 500 nits. So, in terms of the display, there are no changes, and the screen quality remains at the same level as ROG devices, providing a comfortable gaming experience.
Personally, when I tested the ROG Xbox Ally directly, I got a comfortable impression and it was classified as the same comfort as when I tested the ROG Ally X previously.
What Makes The Difference Besides Design?
Perhaps, for most people, there's no difference between the ROG Ally Series and the ROG Xbox Ally Series. However, when you look at the hardware used, it becomes a significant difference. Despite using the same battery capacity, the ROG Xbox Ally Series uses the AI โโZ2 Extreme, so the presence of a 50-tops NPU can improve battery efficiency.
Furthermore, the ROG Xbox Ally Series variant uses Impulse Triggers, which provide a very similar feel to an Xbox Controller. So, when playing FPS or racing games, you'll experience a weighty feel when pulling the trigger button on the ROG Xbox Ally.
The ROG Xbox Ally X reportedly uses AMD Fluid Motion Frames. In short, it's a technology introduced by AMD that's claimed to provide a polished level of smoothness. ASUS and AMD claim that with this technology enabled, you won't experience lag or stuck frames when playing games with fast movement.
Similar Specifications to Previous Ally Series
Moving on to the specifications, it's arguably the same as the previous Ally. However, the difference is that it now supports Xbox Fullscreen and the Microsoft Xbox ecosystem. The ROG Xbox Ally uses an AMD Ryzen Z2 A, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage, allowing you to enjoy gaming at 720p.
Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally X uses an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. It features an 80Wh battery and is claimed to be capable of gaming at up to 1080p. ASUS also claims that this will be one of the best gaming handhelds on the global market.
However, the question is whether the Indonesian market is willing to spend more money just to get a standard Ally-class gaming handheld, but with the added Xbox ecosystem. It may seem more exclusive, but is the Indonesian market willing to accept a relatively modest upgrade?
As of this writing, I haven't received official pricing information from ASUS regarding the ROG Xbox Ally Series. However, what is certain is that they will release the ROG Xbox Ally soon, very soon after the publication of this article.
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