In today’s world, much of our work is done online. Many individuals are opting for laptops to facilitate their tasks. However, for gamers, the choices often seem limited to thick or heavy laptops. If you’re looking for an alternative that offers Windows Operating System while being light enough for both work and play, you might want to consider the latest handheld PC from ASUS: the ROG Ally X.
If you’re interested in learning more about the ROG Ally X, we have recently published a comprehensive review. In this article, we will focus on how the ROG Ally X can serve as a practical work and play alternative to traditional laptops.
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My Actual ROG Ally X Experience
I tried carrying the ROG Ally X for a week, rather than carrying my laptop to experience having the Ally X as my laptop for work and play. Here are my scenarios and observations with carrying an ROG Ally X as an alternative to my main laptop.
Switching from my gaming laptop to this setup, I can really feel the difference in my back when carrying a bag with an ROG Ally X inside. However, you need to be careful when placing the device in the bag due to the protruding joystick. This is why it’s best to get a case for it, as it doesn’t come with one out of the box.
Setting it up on a table requires more effort compared to a typical laptop, where you just lift the cover and press a button. With the ROG Ally X, I need to arrange a keyboard, mouse, and phone stand to create a proper workstation setup. Even so, the great thing is that it’s easy to undock and take with me for meetings.
Before attending meetings, I occasionally need to print out documents to distribute during the session. Since it’s a Windows Handheld PC, the printing process is effortless and smooth compared to using a phone, where I frequently encounter issues with the print layout.
I also noticed that I am quicker at editing or creating documents with this device, as the experience is similar to using a laptop or desktop. In contrast, mobile devices often have interfaces that differ from their Windows versions.
I know this device will catch people’s attention in a meeting, but hear me out: if your meeting room’s projector or TV setup supports output via USB Type-C, you can easily plug it in and present your content on a large display. Navigating through your presentation is seamless, thanks to the touchscreen display. If USB Type-C isn’t supported, you’ll just need to carry a dongle that connects via HDMI or DisplayPort. As a Windows machine, it also has the capability to wirelessly cast to a display, such as a smart TV that supports wireless display.
After a long, tiring meeting, I can finally take a break—and that means enjoying a quick gaming session with the ROG Ally X. I love how easy it is to start playing since it has a built-in controller. However, I know not all games are compatible with a controller, especially esports titles that require a mouse and keyboard. This is why I stick to playing games on it that I don’t usually play on my desktop, such as the ones I purchased on Steam that I have already forgotten.
Aside from the things I can do with my work using the ROG Ally X, the primary intention of this device is to play games. I can truly play anywhere I want, such as in a coffee shop or while traveling in a car. I can easily turn it on and play, whereas with a laptop, I typically need a table to fully enjoy gaming. In addition to playing games, I can also use the device for entertainment, such as watching my favorite shows or content. While I know I can do this on my smartphone, if I want a slightly larger screen, the ROG Ally X allows for that as well.
What We Like About This Setup
One of the standout features of the ROG Ally X is that it runs on the Windows operating system. This means you won’t have to worry about software compatibility, as it can seamlessly run all your essential applications—unlike Android or iOS devices, which may have limitations in this regard.
To effectively use the ROG Ally X, you will need a case with a stand, such as the Jsaux Modcase. Alternatively, you can use a standard phone or tablet stand. Connecting a physical keyboard and mouse via Bluetooth will give you the tactile control you need for enhanced productivity.
When it comes to everyday tasks like web browsing or document editing, the ROG Ally X performs exceptionally well. Its powerful hardware ensures smooth performance, and the upgraded battery introduced this year offers impressive longevity, allowing for several hours of productive work.
What We Don’t Like
However, there are some notable drawbacks to consider. The 7-inch screen may be a significant concern for many users, especially compared to typical laptops that feature screens ranging from 14 to 16 inches. This smaller display can be challenging for individuals with poor eyesight, particularly when using a physical keyboard on a desk.
Another limitation is the number of ports available. While most laptops come with three or more ports, including standard USB Type-A, HDMI, or RJ-45, the ROG Ally X is equipped with only two USB Type-C ports. This means you may need to carry an adapter if you require additional connectivity options.
Lastly, to fully utilize the device for work, it’s advisable to bring along a keyboard and mouse. The touchscreen interface of Windows OS is not ideal for productivity, making physical controls essential for a smoother experience.
Conclusion
While the ROG Ally X may not be the perfect solution for every user, it presents a promising option for those seeking a device capable of both work and play. With its impressive performance and ability to function as a gaming machine after work, it is indeed a versatile device. However, it’s crucial to consider its limitations, such as the smaller screen size. Overall, the ROG Ally X is a welcome addition for anyone looking for a portable yet powerful device for both work and leisure.
