The Xbox Ally X20’s OLED screen “takes the handheld to a completely new level,” offering a more vibrant and immersive gaming experience.
The X20’s design pays homage to ’90s tech aesthetics with a partially transparent chassis and gold-accented menu buttons, highlighting its anniversary edition status. It also features a unique transforming D-pad, allowing users to switch between traditional and concave styles, adding a tactile element to the gaming experience. The joystick technology has been upgraded to TMR sensors, promising longevity and reducing the risk of stick drift—a critical improvement for a handheld device.
Despite these advancements, the X20 is not without its drawbacks. The device runs on Windows 11, which can be cumbersome with a controller. Users have reported issues such as the controller malfunctioning when attempting to swipe between windows. These software glitches detract from the overall experience, though they may be addressed in future updates. For those primarily interested in gaming, alternatives like SteamOS or Bazzite could offer a more streamlined interface.
The price of the X20 might deter some, but it’s competitively positioned against other gaming handhelds. Compared to devices like the Lenovo Legion Go 2, which costs significantly more, the X20 offers similar specs for less, albeit with less RAM. Asus has managed to introduce these improvements without discontinuing the original Ally X, which remains a viable option at its original price point.
“If you have the cash for it, it’s hard to imagine a better handheld gaming PC that you could buy right now without stretching for a $2,000 device.”
In conclusion, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 stands out for its exceptional display and thoughtful design upgrades. While it doesn’t bring a performance leap over its predecessor, the visual enhancements alone make it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium handheld gaming experience. For existing Ally X owners, the decision to upgrade hinges on the value placed on the OLED screen and new design features.
Article Source: www.ign.com
