Asus had already done good things with the Rog Ally X, but due to the limitations of running Windows on handheld devices, he was unable to achieve true perfection. in Xbox AllyHowever, that major drawback is beginning to be erased. Thanks to this official partnership with Microsoft, the first-ever Xbox Handheld is rethinking its approach to Windows. I’m happy to report that it feels smooth in the UI department after practicing both the Base model and Gamescom’s more powerful Xbox Ally X.
My time with both variations of the new ASUS ROG Xbox Ally was limited – about 15 minutes on each device. I also ate quite a long initial loading time for the less powerful Xbox Ally, which offered massive, demanding games like the Forza Horizon 5 and the new Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 Remaster. However, I still managed to get a good feel for each device.
The Xbox-Cification, designed by Rog Ally, also landed well. The ergonomics were far more comfortable than some of its slightly uncomfortable press shots, and initially it was unbelievable. Xbox Ally and Ally X are looking for courses, including Asus and Microsoft, which are very important prices.
Let’s start with the white ally, the basic model we were able to test first. Aiming to become this handheld duo Xbox series, with the exception of unexpected high sticker prices, Xbox Ally aims to land a place in the best gaming handheld buying guide for those with a tight budget.
Soon, I was hit with the quality of a 7-inch display – a screen to share with the more powerful Xbox Ally X. At a certain angle, I admit that the incredibly bright light in the test booth was very attractive on the screen, as evidenced by some of the photos on the device. But when I tilted away from the lights above my head, I really can’t complain about vividness and clarity. The views and vehicles on the Forza Horizon 5 looked stunning, with the interior of the THPS 3+4 Forge popping out of lava and sparks. In particular, despite the weight of the Forza Horizon 5, the frame rate felt smooth and smooth.
I wanted to compare the performance differences in these thick triple A games on Ally X, but the Bigger Brother unit I was given was loaded with only Hollow Knight Silksong. Silksong absolutely shined on Ally X, but it’s worth noting that it’s not an extreme test of its power.
But overall, it’s a big tick from me at the forefront of performance on both devices, and the base Xbox Ally handles surprisingly well. Another affirmation that both models share for almost identical designs is ergonomics.
When I first saw the Xbox Ally image, I was skeptical that the Xbox controller-style grip and Chunkier trigger would work, but I’ll definitely do it. The Xbox Ally is extremely comfortable, with all the front buttons out of reach of the thumbs from the stick, which is dipped in the RGB backlight. The volume and power buttons are located at the top of the unit, in addition to the USB-C port, micro SD card slot and headphone jack. Finally, these larger rear triggers feel very satisfied with the press – their concave design also makes a comfortable resting place for your index or middle finger, depending on your preferred grip.
But for me, the biggest achievement of Xbox Ally is conquering navigation and user experience with a Windows-based handheld. As Niall has highlighted recently, other rival devices such as the OneXfly F1 Pro are beginning to understand this, but the allies found it very easy to use. It borrows heavily from the Xbox interfaces found in Series X or S consoles, making it familiar to those already in that ecosystem. But it’s not just a cut-and-paste job – this is tailored specifically for the handheld.
The main dashboard is smooth and tidy. Also, compared to Asus’ previous Rog Ally Models, there is an addition that is a new Xbox button that summons the Game Bar menu, allowing you to quickly navigate to several recently played games, popular apps, device settings, Command Center and more. Having the button will show you the carousels of all apps currently running on your device, allowing you to quickly switch between them.
All of these menus are easily navigable with thumbsticks. This was one of the major drawbacks of most other Windows-based handhelds. Given how freely these devices give these devices from a storefront and platform perspective, the Xbox PC app, game pass, steam, epic etc. – navigation should be appropriate, and from what I’ve seen, it’s absolutely right.
Overall, I was very impressed with both the standard Xbox Ally and the Beefier Xbox Ally X. Both devices offer excellent performance and visuals, excellent design and an intuitive interface. However, despite my passionate impression, some important questions remain unanswered.
Many games definitely wear one of the best gaming headsets from the guide, but my big environment meant I couldn’t test the audio quality of the built-in speakers. The Xbox still doesn’t provide a solid battery life estimate. It took just 15 minutes on each console (both connected to a charger) and I couldn’t read the situation myself. What’s more, despite the release date for Xbox Ally being within two months, the very important price remains a mystery.
However, I think the Xbox Ally could become the go-to handheld unless some of the unprecedented prices reduce the value of your money. It’s becoming available and is becoming a great device while still retaining the benefits of Windows.
