Asus is using an OLED screen with 120Hz and VRR for the first time in the new Ally X20. Image quality is excellent, but overall performance with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme remains unchanged.
Andreas Osthoff (translated by Andreas Osthoff), Published 🇩🇪
Asus has updated its gaming handheld, retaining last year's proven design with its distinctive controller grips. However, there are some subtle refinements: The chassis of the ROG Xbox Ally X20 is now slightly translucent, and rubberized surfaces on the backs of the grips make the new model feel noticeably more secure and comfortable to hold. The analog sticks have also been further improved. The new D-pad responds more precisely than its predecessor, although it is also slightly louder when pressed.
The biggest change is the display: The predecessor's 7-inch IPS panel has been replaced by a 7.4-inch OLED screen. This also offers 120Hz and VRR, and image quality is excellent. HDR games also visibly benefit from the increased peak brightness. Despite the larger screen, Asus has managed to maintain the same battery life.
The main problem, however, is performance, as the device still uses the same Ryzen Z2 Extreme. While performance remains solid, Intel's current handheld processor with the Arc B390 GPU delivers noticeably better gaming performance. To be fair, these competing devices are also significantly more expensive.
At €1,400, the current ROG Ally X20 is certainly no bargain in today's market, but it is not outrageously overpriced either. Nevertheless, you should carefully consider whether the better screen and slightly more comfortable chassis are really worth paying €400 more than for the 2025 model, which is still available to buy.
I grew up with modern consumer electronics and my first computer was a Commodore C64, which encouraged my interest in building my own systems. I started working as a review editor for Notebookcheck during my dual studies at Siemens. Currently, I am mainly responsible for dealing with business laptops and mobile workstations. It’s a great experience to be able to review the latest devices and technologies and then compare them with each other.