In recent weeks, ASUS introduced the ROG Ally X, a compact portable gaming device that has sparked ongoing comparisons with its closest rival, the Steam Deck. Across a range of popular titles and varied graphical settings, the two handhelds are pitted against each other to reveal how each system handles modern games on the go.
From the showcased footage, the ROG Ally X often demonstrates higher frame rates in demanding titles. Players notice this advantage most clearly in action RPGs and sprawling open worlds. Titles like Elden Ring, Baldur’s Gate 3, The Witcher 3, Starfield, and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade tend to run smoother on the ASUS device when turbo mode is enabled, delivering frame rate gains in the vicinity of 10 to 20 FPS in favorable scenarios.
The display resolution also stands out in comparisons. The ROG Ally X renders at a crisp 1080p, while a substantial share of Steam Deck games operates at 800p, which affects perceived sharpness and image clarity on the same screen size.
Loading screen speed is another area of difference highlighted in independent tests. In a well-known action title, loading times lagged on the Steam Deck, while the ROG Ally X completed transitions noticeably quicker, shaving several seconds off the wait time during entry into new game segments.
Battery efficiency is a recurring point in these discussions. In a demanding open-world game, the ROG Ally X extended play sessions beyond what the Steam Deck could sustain. Where one device might run for just over an hour in high-performance mode, the other reliably pushed well past two hours, offering a practical edge for longer sessions away from a power source.
Price remains a deciding factor for many buyers. In the United States market, the base model of the Steam Deck often lands at a lower price point, while higher-capacity configurations push upward toward premium levels. The ROG Ally X carries a higher price tag, reflecting its higher peak performance and display capabilities, which appeals to gamers prioritizing frame rate headroom and image fidelity on the go.
Recently, a separate comparison also evaluated the ROG Ally X against the standard ROG Ally, providing additional context on how ASUS has evolved its handheld lineup and what each version prioritizes in terms of mobility, performance, and battery life.
The distinctive features of the ROG Ally X can be explored in a dedicated overview, while a comprehensive article on the Steam Deck covers its advantages and trade-offs. Readers who follow this space will find insights into how the two devices compare on core metrics such as performance per watt, load times, display quality, and practical usability in Canada and the United States.
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