Asus ROG Xbox Ally X - Best Premium Windows Handheld
The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X delivers top-tier performance and premium comfort for demanding PC gamers, though it commands a premium price.
- +Most powerful performance with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU
- +Console-like comfort with Xbox controller-style grips and impulse triggers
- +Full Windows compatibility and seamless Xbox Game Pass integration
- -Very high price point compared to competitors
- -Uses an IPS LCD screen instead of a more vibrant OLED panel
- -The new Xbox Full Screen Experience software still has occasional bugs
The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X stands at the pinnacle of handheld gaming PC performance. It is equipped with the cutting-edge AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, which provides a noticeable performance uplift over previous generation chips, enabling smoother frame rates at 1080p in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077. Its defining feature is the exceptional ergonomics, incorporating grips that mirror the shape and feel of an Xbox wireless controller, making it the most comfortable handheld for extended play sessions. Hall-effect joysticks and impulse triggers that mimic the PS5 DualSense's haptic feedback further enhance the premium feel. A major software advancement is the inclusion of the Xbox Full Screen Experience, a dedicated interface that overlays Windows 11 to provide a console-like dashboard for launching games from any storefront, including Steam, Epic, and crucially, PC Game Pass.
This, combined with a massive 80Wh battery that offers best-in-class battery life for a Windows handheld, addresses key historical pain points. However, this power and polish come at a steep cost, placing it in a premium tier. The display, while a bright 1080p 120Hz IPS panel, lacks the contrast and vibrancy of OLED alternatives found on other high-end devices. For gamers who demand the utmost performance, full Windows application support, and unparalleled comfort, and are willing to pay for it, the ROG Xbox Ally X is the definitive choice.