Hands-On With the Xbox Ally X, the New Gaming Handheld from Asus and Microsoft

PC gaming handhelds have exploded onto the market, each trying to carve out a niche in a crowded landscape. However, many devices have often fallen short in key areas like software performance, control comfort, and access to game libraries. Enter the Xbox Ally X, a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft that promises to bring a fresh perspective to the handheld gaming experience. I recently had the opportunity to take an early look at this intriguing device, which is set to launch during the upcoming holiday season.

The Xbox Ally line, particularly the Xbox Ally X, appears to have addressed many of the pain points associated with previous handheld gaming PCs. With thoughtfully integrated features like an Xbox button for quick access to the Xbox app and well-optimized gaming settings, the Xbox Ally X stands out among its competitors. But is the hardware powerful enough to keep pace with modern PC gaming?

Specifications that Impress

Let’s dive into the specifications of the Xbox Ally X, as these will undoubtedly inform its performance. The top-end model boasts an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme APU, accompanied by 24GB of RAM and a robust 1TB SSD, all sustained by an 80Wh battery. The base model, Xbox Ally, scales back to the Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, supported by a 60Wh battery. Both devices feature a stunning 7-inch, 1080p IPS display with a commendable 120Hz refresh rate alongside variable refresh rate (VRR) and FreeSync capabilities to alleviate screen tearing.

For those less familiar with the intricacies of PC hardware, the AI Z2 Extreme is a newly unveiled variant of the Z1 Extreme APU that has already captured attention in the gaming community. While the base model may not match the power of the X variant, it offers an affordable entry point for gamers who want decent performance without breaking the bank.

Gameplay Experience: A Promising Preview

My brief gameplay session with the Xbox Ally X was encouraging. I played Gears of War: Reloaded for about 15 minutes, running at 1080p with high settings and maintaining a smooth 60 FPS throughout. The system was operating in Turbo mode, emphasizing performance at the potential cost of battery life and heating concerns. It’s worth noting that while this was an enjoyable experience, the game’s remastered nature means it may not fully reflect how demanding newer titles will perform.

Although I didn’t have hands-on experience with the base model, early impressions suggest that the Xbox Ally X offers an accessible, robust handheld gaming experience. As more demanding games are released, I am eager to see how both models perform in real-world scenarios.

Enhancing User Experience

Perhaps the most significant improvement with the Xbox Ally is its user experience. Unlike many previous handhelds that suffered from clunky interfaces, the Xbox Ally runs a slimmed-down version of Windows, replete with a newly designed Xbox app. This streamlined operating system is designed to focus on game performance while keeping unnecessary processes at bay, enhancing overall efficiency.

The Xbox app shines through its user-friendly design, allowing for easy navigation with a controller and offering support for importing games from various platforms like Steam and Epic Games. Centralizing your gaming library within the Xbox app transforms the handheld into an effective all-in-one launcher.

However, there’s still room for growth. The current design of the app could benefit from increased intuitiveness in game organization. Additionally, the AI Copilot feature raises some eyebrows—it is touted as a guide for players but may not add substantial value to the overall gaming experience.

Ergonomics and Design

Comfort is key for handheld gaming devices, and in this regard, the Xbox Ally X excels. It feels much like an Xbox controller, presenting a comfortable grip that gamers will appreciate. While the device does have a bulkier design compared to its rivals—measuring 290.8mm in width and 121.5mm in height—it makes up for that with a high-quality gaming experience that is reminiscent of the ergonomics found in the Steam Deck but with distinct advantages.

Pricing Considerations

As we look forward to the official launch, the pressing question on everyone’s mind is, “How much will this cost?” With its advanced hardware and unique features, the Xbox Ally X is unlikely to be inexpensive. While details on pricing have yet to be confirmed, speculation suggests that it will fall into the higher end of the market. However, the lesser Xbox Ally model might provide a more affordable alternative for those keen on entering the handheld gaming arena.

The Future of Handheld Gaming

Regardless of your choice between models, the real significance of the Xbox Ally X extends beyond individual specifications. This device could pave the way for better integration between the Xbox and Windows ecosystems, encouraging other manufacturers to adopt similar advancements in future handheld designs. Therefore, even if you opt not to purchase an Xbox Ally X, its influence will likely ripple through other handheld options available on the market.

In conclusion, the Xbox Ally X represents a thoughtful attempt to bridge the gap between console gaming and portability. With its compelling features, ergonomic design, and promising specs, it is shaping up to be a worthy contender in the handheld gaming space. As the release date draws near, all eyes will be on how well it performs against its rivals and whether it can truly deliver on the promise of the ultimate portable gaming experience.

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