ASUS ROG Ally Review: The Mini Gaming PC You’ve Been Waiting For!
As a gaming enthusiast who loves both high-powered performance and on-the-go gaming, I was beyond excited to try out the ASUS ROG Ally. From its design to the powerhouse components packed inside, this gaming handheld quickly proved itself to be a top contender in the world of portable gaming.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
From the moment I unboxed it, I was struck by the sleek and futuristic design of the ROG Ally. ASUS has crafted a device that feels sturdy and high-quality, with a matte white finish that adds a fresh, premium look. Despite its power, the device is remarkably lightweight and easy to hold for extended gaming sessions. The grip is comfortable, and ASUS designed the controls with precision, giving it a familiar, console-style layout that I adapted to immediately.
Another nice touch is the RGB lighting around the joysticks. It adds a modern edge that makes the ROG Ally stand out. It’s like ASUS went out of their way to make the Ally look just as good as it performs, and honestly, they nailed it.
Display: Vivid and Immersive Gaming
One of the standout features of the ROG Ally is its 7-inch Full HD (1080p) display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This display quality was an instant win for me; whether I was playing fast-paced shooters or exploring fantasy worlds, the visuals were sharp, vibrant, and ultra-smooth. The colors are true to life, and the display size feels immersive yet still highly portable.
For a handheld, having a 120Hz refresh rate is a huge plus, making gameplay feel smooth and responsive. It brings an experience that’s comparable to high-end gaming monitors, right in the palm of your hand.
Performance and Power: Gaming Without Compromises
Let’s dive into what really matters: performance. The ROG Ally is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which is a beast when it comes to gaming on a portable device. Coupled with AMD Radeon graphics, I could run AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring without noticeable frame drops or lag. For a handheld, this is groundbreaking, as I didn’t have to compromise on game quality or performance.
The ROG Ally’s power doesn’t stop at graphics, though. Multitasking is a breeze, making it easy to stream, chat, or even do light editing if needed. ASUS seems to have put a lot of thought into creating a device that performs like a mini gaming PC.
Battery Life and Charging: Designed for Real Gaming Sessions
Battery life is always a consideration for handheld devices, and while the ROG Ally packs a lot of power, it does require a decent amount of energy. During my sessions with more intensive games, I got around 2-3 hours of play, which is about average for a high-performance handheld. For longer trips, I definitely found it worth bringing along a portable charger. Fortunately, ASUS included a fast-charging feature, which brought me back to about 50% in less than 30 minutes. It’s a thoughtful addition that helped minimize downtime between sessions.
Software and Usability: Seamless Integration with Windows 11
Another game-changer for me was the ROG Ally’s full support for Windows 11. Unlike other handhelds with more limited operating systems, the Ally lets you access your entire PC game library across platforms like Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Epic Games. The convenience of having all my favorite titles right at my fingertips was a huge win. It felt like a bridge between a portable console and a full-blown gaming PC, offering all the functionality of Windows 11 on a handheld device.
ASUS also includes its custom ROG Armory Crate software, which helps streamline your gaming experience by letting you manage performance modes, access game settings, and keep track of system performance. It even has an overlay feature, so you can tweak settings mid-game without breaking the immersion.
Accessories and Compatibility: Docking Station and XG Mobile
One of the coolest features of the ROG Ally is its compatibility with the XG Mobile eGPU, which allows for external graphics power. With this setup, you can dock the Ally and turn it into a powerhouse gaming PC on an external monitor. This versatility lets you seamlessly transition from handheld gaming to a full desktop experience. The dock is a bit of an investment, but for those who want the option to upscale their gaming setup, it’s a fantastic addition.
Why I’d Recommend the ASUS ROG Ally
After spending extensive time with the ROG Ally, I can confidently say this device is a game-changer for handheld enthusiasts and hardcore gamers alike. Here’s why:
Portable Powerhouse: It runs AAA titles seamlessly and offers a gaming experience that rivals many consoles.
Stunning Display: The 120Hz, 1080p display makes games come to life in your hands.
Windows 11 Flexibility: Having full access to my PC game library, plus the added productivity options of Windows 11, makes this device as versatile as it gets.
Great for At-Home or On-the-Go: With the option to dock the device and use it with the XG Mobile, you’re not limited to just handheld gaming.
The Bottom Line
The ASUS ROG Ally is, in my opinion, one of the most exciting entries in the handheld gaming market. With its powerful performance, stunning visuals, and seamless integration with PC gaming libraries, it’s a standout device for gamers who want the best of both worlds. While the battery life isn’t perfect, the fast-charging capabilities make up for it, allowing you to keep playing for longer without waiting around. If you’re considering a portable gaming device that’s ready for next-gen titles and packed with features, the ROG Ally should be at the top of your list.
