Asus Ally X20 tested: Stunning OLED screen and comfort
Asus ROG has long been known for crafting high-end PC components, culminating in some truly jaw-dropping desktop builds. But as the brand looks to expand its reach, attention is now shifting to portable gaming, with the arrival of the new Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20. This latest handheld doesn’t just offer a refresh; it reimagines the entire experience of handheld PC gaming.
While the performance remains anchored by the powerful AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, the X20 introduces a suite of thoughtful upgrades that significantly enhance the tactile experience. This is where the real magic lies—not in raw computational power, but in the refinement of design and hardware details that make the device feel genuinely premium.
The jump from the original Ally X to the X20 involves several subtle yet impactful changes. Forget massive leaps in speed; instead, Asus focused on making the handheld feel more substantial and refined. The new iteration features TMR joysticks, rubberized grips, a more robust chassis, and a transforming D-pad, all designed to improve comfort and control.
Visually, the X20 sports a fresh aesthetic. It features a new, transparent plastic case with a subtle black tint, accented by gold menu buttons and a distinctive gold stripe, along with a prominent “20th Anniversary” ROG badge on the back. While some preferred the plainer look of the original, this new design leans into a more striking, high-end visual presence.
Perhaps the most noticeable enhancement, however, is the display. The X20 ditches the original’s IPS panel for a stunning 7.4-inch OLED screen. This upgrade delivers superior contrast, making dark areas truly deep and blacks pop, while also offering significantly improved brightness. For visual purists, the OLED panel provides a vibrant, immersive canvas for games like Forza Horizon 6 and God of War: Ragnarok, bringing out lush environments and deep shadows with incredible fidelity.
Although the core performance is identical, the difference in the screen technology is a game-changer. It provides a vivid, bright, and responsive display that feels much more cutting-edge, even if benchmarks show no mechanical performance boost. This means the X20 is less about raw horsepower and more about an elevated sensory experience.
On the technical side, the X20 maintains the powerful configuration, featuring 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory and a 1TB SSD, along with full USB4 Type-C connectivity. The device also retains the 80 Whr battery, though performance testing suggests that the advanced OLED screen does utilize slightly more power, leading to a marginal reduction in endurance during extended sessions.
Ultimately, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 is the definitive evolution of the handheld. If you are seeking the absolute best portable gaming experience, prioritizing ergonomic comfort, and demand a screen that truly blows minds, the upgrade is worthwhile. For those who plan to use the handheld as their sole gaming machine for years, the X20 offers a compelling package, making a strong case for the investment.
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