Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 tested: Same performance, more comfortable, and a glorious OLED screen
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the ROG brand, ASUS has released a series of hardware updates, including a refreshed version of its handheld gaming PC: the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20. This model serves as an evolution of the Asus ROG Ally X, focusing on premium upgrades to ergonomics and display technology rather than raw processing power.
Design and Display Upgrades
Visually, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 is a departure from its predecessor. The device features a new, tinted transparent plastic chassis accented with gold menu buttons and a gold stripe across the rear, alongside a prominent "20th Anniversary" ROG badge. While the transparent look is striking, it can make the device appear more toy-like, and the status lights are now visible through the top of the casing, which may be distracting during gameplay.
The most significant upgrade is the display. While the original Ally X utilizes a 7-inch IPS panel, the X20 moves to a 7.4-inch OLED touchscreen with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. Beyond the slightly larger size and narrower top bezels, the OLED technology provides superior brightness and much deeper black levels. This is particularly noticeable in visually demanding titles like God of War: Ragnarok, where high contrast enhances the overall immersion.
Ergonomics and Controls
Under the hood, the hardware remains identical, powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip. However, the tactile experience has been refined. The X20 introduces new TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) joysticks, designed for increased longevity and a tighter feel. The D-pad has also been redesigned to switch between 4-way and 8-way modes, offering better precision for platformers and fighting games, respectively.
The chassis feels more substantial in hand, aided by rubberized grips on the back of the handles. Additionally, the library button from the previous model has been replaced with a dedicated screenshot button, a practical change for most users.
Battery Life and Pricing
The device retains the 80 Whr battery found in the original model. However, the power draw of the OLED panel may impact runtime. In testing with God of War: Ragnarok at 50% brightness and a 17W performance mode, the battery dropped by 47% after 1 hour and 15 minutes of play, suggesting an estimated total playtime of approximately 2.5 hours.
The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 is priced at $1,299.99, representing a $300 premium over the standard Ally X. For current owners of the Ally X, the upgrade may not be necessary since the gaming performance remains unchanged. However, for those looking to enter the handheld PC market, the X20 offers a more premium experience through its superior screen and improved control components.
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