ROG Xbox Ally X review: Portable power that wowed me—when Windows didn’t get in the way

I thought I was getting an Xbox in my backpack. I got a gorgeous, stubborn PC instead.

TL;DR

• Setup feels like a PC because it is—expect 30-40 minutes of Windows onboarding and updates.
• Performance is wild for a handheld: DOOM: The Dark Ages ~40–60 fps with dynamic resolution; Indy looks great.
• 120 Hz 1080p screen is bright and anti-glare; speakers are loud with legit bass; fans stay quiet.
• Armoury Crate SE and the dedicated Xbox button make multi-storefront life manageable and fast.
• Real PC quirks: driver prompts, odd errors (Forza AP101), occasional sleep-resume hiccups, and one blue screen all week.
• About 2 hours of battery at full tilt; more with balanced settings and 60 Hz caps.
• Ergonomics are excellent; rear M1/M2 buttons are better for shortcuts than in-combat actions.
• Docked to a TV, it’s a capable mini-console, but not a full replacement for a living room box.
• Pricey—and my unit lacked a charger—which makes the initial buy-in sting.
• Verdict: 8/10. A powerful, flexible handheld PC that shines if you embrace a bit of tinkering.