Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 Review: OLED Shines at $1,300

What is the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20?

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 is a new Windows gaming handheld from Asus, part of the ROG Xbox Ally line. It features a 7-inch OLED display, 24GB RAM, 1TB storage, and a redesigned translucent shell with gold accents. It's the premium 20th-anniversary model of the Xbox Ally X.

The X20 is the latest iteration of Microsoft and Asus' collaboration on Windows handhelds. It keeps the same layout and controls as the original Xbox Ally X but upgrades the screen to OLED and adds a fresh aesthetic.

It comes in a single configuration: 24GB RAM and 1TB storage. You can buy it standalone for $1,300 or in a bundle with Xreal R1 glasses and two cases for $2,500.

The device is slightly larger and heavier than the original to accommodate a 0.4-inch larger screen. The grips are more pronounced, which may suit some hands better than others.

How much does the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 cost?

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 costs $1,300 for the standalone model. A bundle with Xreal R1 glasses and two cases (a protective enclosure and a Pelican carrying case) is priced at $2,500. The older Xbox Ally X remains $1,000.

The $1,300 price is $300 more than the original Xbox Ally X, which launched at $1,000 in October 2025. The extra cost mainly covers the OLED screen and the new design.

The bundle at $2,500 is aimed at users who want the Xreal R1 glasses for a large-screen experience. The standalone model does not include a case, which is a notable omission at this price.

Asus has not raised the price of the older Ally X, so budget-conscious buyers can still get the previous model for less.

Is the OLED screen worth the extra $300?

Yes, for most people the OLED screen is worth the extra $300. It delivers DisplayHDR 1400 brightness, wide color gamut, and high contrast, making games look significantly better than on the original's IPS panel. The screen is also slightly larger at 7 inches.

The OLED panel is the standout feature of the X20. It supports HDR and produces deep blacks and vibrant colors that the IPS screen on the Ally X cannot match.

In practice, games like Control Resonant look much more immersive with HDR enabled. The brightness is high enough to make highlights pop even in well-lit rooms.

If you already own the original Ally X, the screen alone might not justify the upgrade, but for new buyers, the OLED makes the X20 the better choice if budget allows.

How does the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 perform?

The X20 performs almost identically to the original Xbox Ally X, within about 4%, because it uses the same AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor and 24GB RAM. It handles lightweight games well, but the MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus with Intel Arc G3 outperforms it in some titles.

Since the internal components are unchanged, the X20 delivers the same frame rates as the Ally X. In lightweight and indie games, it runs smoothly at high settings.

For demanding AAA games, you may need to lower settings to maintain playable frame rates. The device can run many modern titles, but it's not a match for dedicated gaming laptops.

The competition has moved forward: the MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus with Intel Arc G3 offers better performance in some scenarios. However, the X20's OLED screen and refined controls give it an edge in overall experience.

What are the downsides of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20?

The main downsides are the high price, Windows setup quirks, and the confusing transforming D-pad. Setup takes about 30 minutes with numerous updates, and switching between Windows and Xbox modes can be frustrating. The D-pad lacks a mode indicator, making it hard to know which mode is active.

Windows on a handheld still feels grafted onto a general-purpose OS. Simple tasks like connecting a Bluetooth headset require diving into desktop settings, and some apps like Epic Games Launcher only run in Windows mode.

The included stand is flimsy: the rubber pad peeled off within a day. For a $1,300 device, this is disappointing.

The transforming D-pad, a throwback to the Xbox 360, allows switching between 4-way and 8-way modes, but there's no visual indicator and it feels the same in both modes. It's a novelty that adds little value.

Bottom line

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X20 is a premium Windows gaming handheld that excels with its stunning OLED screen and refined design. However, the $1,300 price, unchanged performance, and Windows software quirks make it a tough sell for everyone. If you value display quality above all and have the budget, it's a standout choice. Otherwise, the original Ally X or a Steam Deck OLED may serve you better.