Best performance handheld for demanding AAA games
ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X
Reviewed
If the question is "which mainstream handheld runs demanding new releases best," the Ally X is the answer. The Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, 24GB of fast RAM, and up to 35W of sustained power put it clearly ahead of the Steam Deck OLED and Switch 2 in raw performance, while the 80Wh battery — the largest in its class — keeps real-world play sessions respectable. The 1080p 120Hz screen, USB4 port for docks and eGPUs, and surprisingly comfortable grips round out a machine that's expensive but honest about what you're paying for: headroom.
$999
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What we like
- ✓Fastest mainstream handheld: Z2 Extreme with 24GB RAM and 1TB SSD
- ✓Huge 80Wh battery offsets Windows' efficiency penalty
- ✓1080p 120Hz display with VRR
- ✓USB4 for docking, fast storage, and eGPU setups
- ✓Full Windows compatibility including anti-cheat multiplayer titles
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