ASUS ROG Ally / Ally X First Impressions + Must-Have Accessories

Hey Fam! 👋

I’ve been putting the ASUS ROG Ally X through its paces, and I’m excited to share my first impressions plus the must-have accessories I personally use.

All the product links below are not affiliate or sponsored links — they’re just where I bought my gear, and you’re welcome to shop around anywhere you like. I’m here to help you make the most of your Ally, no matter your tech level!

The Device Itself — P'Nick’s Take

✅ The Screen — IPS LCD, Explained

The Ally features a 7-inch IPS LCD display. While it’s not OLED (which has ultra-deep blacks), IPS LCD gives you excellent color accuracy, wide viewing angles, and good brightness — so games and media look vibrant and sharp, even when sharing the screen with friends.

✅ Controls — Full-Size, Satisfying Feel

The analog sticks feel smooth and precise, similar to PlayStation and Xbox controllers. The face buttons, D-pad, triggers, and bumpers are full-sized and satisfying to press — though they can sound a bit “clacky,” so keep that in mind if you’re gaming late at night next to someone asleep.

✅ Hand Feel + Weight

Surprisingly lightweight for its power and big battery, with a comfortable grip that makes long sessions easy on the hands.

✅ Battery Life — What to Expect

AAA games (big-budget, graphically intense games): ~2–3 hours
Retro games, productivity (Word, PowerPoint), YouTube: ~10 hours(AAA = blockbuster games from major studios; indie/retro = smaller or old-school games)

✅ Versatility

As a handheld PC, you can:

Use Bluetooth controllers (PS, Xbox, third-party)
Set it on a table using a stand or case
Connect it to a dock for full desktop or TV gaming!

🛡️ Must-Have Accessories

Here’s the gear I recommend — designed to protect, expand, and enhance your Ally experience.

🎒 Protective Cases

Why they matter:

A case keeps your Ally safe from scratches and bumps. Many have built-in stands, so you can set it on a table and use a wireless controller — perfect for travel or home setups.

1️⃣ Oxford + EVA Water-Resistant Case

Water-resistant shell + foam interior
Storage pockets for charger and cables💸 ฿192.03 → AliExpress

2️⃣ IPLAY Hard EVA Case (Black)

Tough exterior, compact design
Fits the Ally + essential accessories💸 ฿309.38 → AliExpress

3️⃣ APWIKOGER EVA Case (Gray)

Shockproof build
Mesh pocket for cables or small items💸 ฿34.18 → AliExpress

🛡️ Screen Protector

Roy Ally 9H Tempered Glass (2-pack)

Scratch + impact protection
Oleophobic coating to reduce smudges
No impact on touch or display clarity💸 ฿79.00 → Lazada

Why it’s smart:

Screens are expensive to replace — a small investment here prevents a major heartbreak later.

💾 Memory Card

SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC 512GB

Huge storage for games + media
200MB/s read, 140MB/s write → fast loads
A2 rating → runs apps/games directly from the card💸 ฿1,950.00 → BaNANA

Why this card:

Cheaper microSDs (Class 1) are slow and can bottleneck performance. This A2-rated card delivers the speed you need for smooth gaming and multitasking.

⚡ Dock / Hub

4K HDMI Docking Station Stand (6-in-1) with Cooling Fan + Gigabit Ethernet

Adjustable, collapsible stand for easy transport
Comes with a soft velvet/microfiber-style pouch for carrying
Dual-speed cooling fan (1400–1800 RPM) with quiet operation + blue backlight
Ports:• Gigabit Ethernet• PD 60W charging• HDMI 4K @ 60Hz• 3 × USB 3.0💸 ฿1,484.75 → Lazada

Why it’s awesome:

This dock transforms your Ally into a desktop or TV gaming machine. Thanks to its collapsible design, you can easily toss it in your bag using the included pouch and take it on the go. Once set up, you get a great viewing angle, fast cooling to prevent overheating, and plenty of connectivity — whether you’re plugging in a controller, keyboard, or external display. Perfect for hotel stays, desk setups, or gaming at a friend’s place.

💬 Join the Conversation!

Do you have the Ally or Ally X yet? Have you grabbed any accessories, or is something on your wishlist?

Tell me what you think of this list and what I should check out next! Come chat with us over at the ASUS Atrium forum — I’d love to hear from you!