Portable PC gaming just got its Diwali refresh. The ROG Ally X and the Xbox-skinned Ally X have opened pre-orders in India with retail availability lined up for mid-October. Under the shell you get more grunt, bigger storage options, and a design that finally admits your thumbs get tired on long sessions.
What is actually better
The X chassis gains battery and ergonomics. Thermals are saner under sustained load. Storage bumps to a roomy SSD on the top trim. Both models keep the 7-inch 120 Hz panel and the Windows base that lets you bounce between PC libraries and the Xbox ecosystem without hacks. The Xbox variant leans into a full-screen console-style UI and a hardware button for fast menu hops.
Who should upgrade
If you stream or record on the go, the X line’s endurance alone is worth it. If you already own the original Ally and play short sessions, you can wait. If you are console-first and want a travel rig for your library, the Xbox edition is the smoothest on-ramp.
Creator setup that just works
Cap your capture at 1080p60 with a 20–25 Mbps bitrate to keep thermals chill. Use variable refresh in supported titles and lock frames to your capture target. Map a quick profile switch for silent fan mode when you are recording voiceovers. Keep HDR off for capture unless you really need it. For handheld reviews, film B-roll at 60 fps in bright shade so the 120 Hz screen does not strobe on camera.
Practical buying tips
Pre-order windows tend to move fast on the top trim. If you do not need the largest SSD, the lower variant with a user upgrade path is the value play. Grab a tempered glass that does not rainbow on camera and a USB-C hub with HDMI for hotel-TV sessions. Budget for a fast UHS-II card only if your workflow truly needs it. Internal SSD is king for heavy games.
Bottom line
This is the best moment yet to try handheld PC gaming in India. Whether you are chasing airport lobbies or YouTube shorts, the X line gives you fewer excuses and more frames.
Follow Gaming Moves on Instagram and Facebook for day-one benchmarks, plug-and-play capture kits, and game settings that hit the 60 fps sweet spot on the Ally X.
