Hey everyone! Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of two awesome gaming handhelds: the ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X. If you're trying to figure out which one is the better choice for your gaming needs, you've come to the right place. We'll break down everything from design and performance to battery life and price, so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, both the ROG Ally and the ROG Ally X share a similar DNA, but there are some key differences. The original ROG Ally sports a sleek, white finish with ergonomic curves that make it comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions. It feels solid in your hands, and the button placement is well thought out. The ROG Ally X, on the other hand, introduces a new color scheme and some subtle tweaks to the overall design.

The ROG Ally X boasts a refined aesthetic with improved ergonomics. The grips are slightly more pronounced, offering a more secure and comfortable hold, especially for those with larger hands. The button layout has also been tweaked based on user feedback, making frequently used buttons more accessible. One of the most noticeable changes is the inclusion of a larger battery, which adds a bit of heft to the device but is well worth it for the extended playtime. The build quality on both devices is top-notch, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of portable gaming. However, the enhanced ergonomics and refined design of the ROG Ally X give it a slight edge in this category. For gamers who prioritize comfort and accessibility, the Ally X is the clear winner.

Ultimately, the design is subjective. Some users may love the look and feel of the original ROG Ally, while others may prefer the subtle improvements of the ROG Ally X. Consider where and how you'll be gaming the most. If you are on the go, perhaps the lighter ROG Ally is the better option. If you are gaming from home, then maybe the comfort of the ROG Ally X is the winner.

Display and Visual Experience

Both the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X feature impressive displays that deliver vibrant colors and sharp details, making your games look stunning. The original ROG Ally comes with a 7-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) display with a 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium technology. This combination ensures smooth, tear-free gaming with excellent responsiveness.

The ROG Ally X retains these key features but also introduces some enhancements to improve the visual experience. The screen boasts improved brightness and contrast, making the visuals more vivid and immersive. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of The Witcher 3 or engaging in fast-paced action in DOOM Eternal, the ROG Ally X delivers crisp and clear images with accurate color reproduction. The 120Hz refresh rate is particularly beneficial in fast-paced games, providing a competitive edge with reduced motion blur and smoother animations. In addition to hardware improvements, the ROG Ally X also features optimized software settings that allow you to fine-tune the display to your preferences.

The anti-glare coating on both devices minimizes reflections, ensuring comfortable viewing even in brightly lit environments. However, the enhanced brightness and contrast of the ROG Ally X make it slightly better for outdoor gaming. The displays on both devices are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, which offers excellent scratch resistance and durability. Both devices have excellent screens, but the ROG Ally X has a slight advantage for those who enjoy bright screens.

Performance and Gaming

Performance is where these devices truly shine, offering desktop-level gaming experiences in a portable form factor. The original ROG Ally is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor with Radeon graphics, delivering impressive performance for a wide range of games. It handles most modern titles with ease, although you may need to adjust settings to achieve optimal frame rates in more demanding games.

The ROG Ally X takes performance to the next level with an upgraded processor and improved cooling system. The new AMD Ryzen processor offers a significant boost in both CPU and GPU performance, allowing you to play the latest games at higher settings with smoother frame rates. The improved cooling system ensures that the device stays cool even during intense gaming sessions, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining consistent performance. In addition to the hardware upgrades, the ROG Ally X also features optimized software that enhances overall system performance.

The ROG Ally can play AAA games without issue, but you may have to play with the visual options, or play at 30 frames per second. However, the ROG Ally X provides a better experience due to the increased performance. The increased performance allows the user to play most AAA games at the highest visual fidelity while maintaining 60 frames per second.

Battery Life and Power

Battery life is a critical factor for any portable gaming device, and both the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X offer decent performance in this area. The original ROG Ally comes with a 40Wh battery, which provides around 2-3 hours of gameplay on a single charge, depending on the game and settings. While this is sufficient for short gaming sessions, it may not be enough for long trips or extended playtime.

The ROG Ally X addresses this limitation with a significantly larger battery. The increased battery capacity translates to a noticeable improvement in battery life, allowing you to game for longer periods without needing to plug in. Depending on the game and settings, you can expect to get around 4-6 hours of gameplay on a single charge, making it ideal for travel and extended gaming sessions. In addition to the larger battery, the ROG Ally X also features power-saving modes that help extend battery life even further. These modes optimize system performance and reduce power consumption, allowing you to squeeze every last minute out of your battery.

The ROG Ally requires you to bring a battery pack with you if you plan on gaming for more than 2 hours. However, the ROG Ally X does not have this limitation. The ROG Ally X will allow you to game on the go without worrying about battery life.

Price and Value

Price is always a significant consideration when choosing a gaming device, and both the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X offer different value propositions. The original ROG Ally is positioned as a more affordable option, making it accessible to a wider range of gamers. Despite its lower price point, it still delivers excellent performance and features, making it a great value for the money.

The ROG Ally X, on the other hand, is priced at a premium, reflecting its upgraded hardware and enhanced features. While it may be more expensive, the ROG Ally X offers a superior gaming experience with improved performance, battery life, and ergonomics. For gamers who are willing to invest in the best possible portable gaming experience, the ROG Ally X is well worth the extra cost. When evaluating the value of each device, it’s essential to consider your budget and gaming needs.

The ROG Ally will save you some money, but you will have to sacrifice battery life and performance. However, the ROG Ally X may be a better option if you want the best performance and long battery life. Ultimately, weigh your options and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Final Verdict

So, which gaming handheld wins? The ROG Ally and ROG Ally X are both excellent devices that offer unique strengths. The original ROG Ally is a great entry point into portable PC gaming, offering solid performance and a sleek design at an affordable price. However, the ROG Ally X takes things to the next level with its upgraded hardware, improved ergonomics, and extended battery life.

For gamers who prioritize performance and battery life, the ROG Ally X is the clear winner. Its upgraded processor and larger battery provide a superior gaming experience, allowing you to play the latest games at higher settings for longer periods. However, if you’re on a budget and don’t mind sacrificing some performance and battery life, the original ROG Ally is still a great option.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what features are most important to you and choose the device that best fits your gaming lifestyle. Whichever you choose, you're sure to have an amazing time gaming on the go!