Alright, let’s cut to the chase on the handheld battleground: the ROG Ally (original) versus the ROG Ally X (also referred to as the ROG Xbox Ally X or Xbox ROG Ally X). It’s crucial to understand that while the original ASUS ROG Ally (2023) came with either an AMD Ryzen Z1 or Z1 Extreme processor, the newer generation, released in October 2025, includes two models: the standard **ROG Xbox Ally** (with a Ryzen Z2 A processor) and the premium **ROG Xbox Ally X** (with a Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor). Your question likely refers to the choice between the original ROG Ally and the latest, most powerful version, the ROG Xbox Ally X, or potentially the two new 2025 models. I’ll cover the key distinctions to help you decide.

Here’s a breakdown of what sets them apart:

### **1. Processor & Performance**

* **ROG Ally (Original 2023):** Typically features the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor (though a less powerful Z1 version also exists). This chip uses Zen4 architecture with RDNA3 graphics. It’s a capable chip, offering good performance for a handheld, often outperforming the Steam Deck in raw power.
* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** This is where the “X” truly shines. It boasts the **AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor**, which is an upgrade based on Zen 5 microarchitecture with 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This newer chip, combined with other improvements, delivers a noticeable performance uplift. Benchmarks show an average performance boost of around 36.9% at 17W over the original ROG Ally, with smoother and more consistent frame delivery. Even at higher power settings (Turbo mode), the Ally X maintains better performance and stability.

**Verdict:** The ROG Xbox Ally X is the clear winner for raw gaming performance and future-proofing, thanks to its next-gen processor and NPU for AI-ready hardware.

### **2. RAM & Storage**

* **ROG Ally (Original 2023):** Comes with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM (6400MT/s dual channel) and typically a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. While the SSD is upgradeable, the RAM is not.
* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** Significantly upgrades to **24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM** and a larger **1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD (2280 form factor)**, making it easier to upgrade in the future. The increased RAM directly contributes to better overall system performance and smoother gameplay, especially in demanding titles, as it allows more memory to be allocated to graphics.

**Verdict:** The ROG Xbox Ally X offers superior memory and storage out of the box, leading to a more responsive system and less need for immediate upgrades.

### **3. Battery Life**

* **ROG Ally (Original 2023):** Features a 40Wh or 60Wh battery. Real-world gaming battery life was often around 1.5 to 2 hours in demanding games at default performance settings, which was a common criticism.
* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** A major improvement here, with an **80Wh battery**. This provides significantly longer playtime, with some reports indicating more than double the battery life of the original Ally, lasting over two hours even in demanding games at max TDP. It also supports up to 100W chargers for faster recharging.

**Verdict:** The ROG Xbox Ally X dramatically improves battery life, a crucial factor for a portable gaming device.

### **4. Ergonomics & Design**

* **ROG Ally (Original 2023):** Features an all-plastic, white chassis. While generally well-regarded for its design, some found it less comfortable for extended sessions.
* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** Asus has listened to feedback. The Ally X features **contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers**, aiming for enhanced comfort during long gaming sessions. The face buttons sit a bit higher with improved tactility, and the rear macro buttons have been shrunk to reduce accidental presses. It’s slightly thicker and heavier (715g vs 670g) due to the larger battery and improved cooling, but many reviewers find the ergonomic improvements worthwhile.

**Verdict:** The ROG Xbox Ally X offers a more comfortable and refined ergonomic design, making it better for extended play.

### **5. I/O Ports & Cooling**

* **ROG Ally (Original 2023):** Includes a 3.5mm combo audio jack, a ROG XG Mobile Interface and USB Type-C combo port (USB 3.2 Gen2, DisplayPort 1.4), and a UHS-II microSD card reader. The microSD card reader’s placement in the original Ally was sometimes associated with overheating issues.
* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** Adds a **second USB Type-C port**, one of which supports **USB4 speeds and Thunderbolt devices**, offering more versatility for accessories or external GPUs. The microSD card reader has been relocated, potentially resolving the overheating concerns of the original. The cooling system has also been upgraded with **dual 77-blade fans** (up from 47-blade) and more ventilation, keeping internals and the touchscreen cooler.

**Verdict:** The ROG Xbox Ally X provides more versatile connectivity and a significantly improved cooling system, addressing previous concerns.

### **6. Software & User Experience**

Both devices run on Windows 11 Home, allowing access to a vast library of PC games from various launchers (Steam, Epic Games, Xbox app, etc.).

* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** Benefits from a partnership with Microsoft, introducing the **Xbox Full Screen Experience**. This new mode boots the system directly into a console-like Xbox app interface, optimized for joystick and button controls, offering a more streamlined and intuitive experience, similar to Steam’s Big Picture mode but for the Xbox ecosystem. This feature is a timed exclusive to ASUS ROG devices at launch and will be available to other Windows handhelds in early 2026. Microsoft also estimates this mode can save up to 2GB of memory and reduce idle power consumption by two-thirds.

**Verdict:** The ROG Xbox Ally X offers a more polished and console-like software experience with the Xbox Full Screen Experience, which is a significant advantage for ease of use.

### **7. Price**

* **ROG Ally (Original 2023):** The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme model was initially around $699.99, but its price has dropped considerably since its launch, making it a more budget-friendly option.
* **ROG Xbox Ally X (2025):** This premium model is priced at $999.99. The standard ROG Xbox Ally (with the Z2 A processor) is priced at $599.99.

**Verdict:** The original ROG Ally (especially the Z1 Extreme version at a reduced price) offers better value if budget is a primary concern. However, the ROG Xbox Ally X justifies its higher price with substantial upgrades across the board.

### **Which one to get?**

As a gaming expert, if you’re looking for the absolute best portable gaming experience with the latest technology, improved comfort, significantly better battery life, and enhanced performance, the **ROG Xbox Ally X** is the one to get. It addresses many of the criticisms of the original Ally and delivers a more premium, refined, and future-proof handheld.

However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a powerful Windows handheld capable of playing modern PC games, the **original ROG Ally (specifically the Z1 Extreme model)** remains a strong contender, especially at its current lower price. You’ll still get a fantastic 120Hz display and solid performance, but you’ll contend with shorter battery life and a less refined ergonomic and software experience.

If you’re considering the *new* standard **ROG Xbox Ally** (with the Z2 A processor) as a budget-friendly entry into the latest generation, it offers the new Xbox Full Screen Experience and improved ergonomics over the original Ally, but with a less powerful processor and less RAM than the Ally X.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities:
* **ROG Xbox Ally X:** For enthusiasts who want the cutting-edge, best performance, longest battery, and most comfortable experience, and are willing to pay the premium.
* **ROG Ally (Original Z1 Extreme):** For value-conscious gamers who want strong performance for less, and don’t mind the compromises in battery life and ergonomics.
* **ROG Xbox Ally (New Standard Z2 A):** A middle-ground option offering the new software and ergonomics at a lower price than the Ally X, but with reduced raw power compared to both the Z1 Extreme and Z2 Extreme.

No matter your choice, you’re stepping into the exciting world of PC handheld gaming, and