The Asus ROG Ally features a thoughtful selection of ports designed to enhance its versatility, supporting everything from external displays and high-speed accessories to storage expansion and external GPUs.
Overview of ROG Ally Connectivity
The Asus ROG Ally, a powerful handheld gaming PC, is equipped with essential connectivity options to cater to a modern gamer's needs. These ports allow for easy expansion of storage, connection to external displays, and even integration with powerful external graphics solutions to boost performance.
Detailed Port Configuration
Here's a breakdown of the specific ports you'll find on the Asus ROG Ally:
| Port Type | Quantity | Key Features & Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack | 1 | Standard audio port for connecting headphones, headsets, or external speakers. Supports both audio output and microphone input, making it ideal for voice chat during gaming. |
| ROG XG Mobile Interface and USB Type-C Combo Port | 1 | This highly versatile port serves multiple functions: • USB 3.2 Gen2: Provides high-speed data transfer (up to 10 Gbps) for peripherals like external hard drives or docks. • DisplayPort™ 1.4: Supports video output to external monitors, allowing for high-resolution and high-refresh-rate gaming on a larger screen. • ROG XG Mobile Interface: A proprietary connection for the Asus ROG XG Mobile external GPU – a compact external graphics card solution that significantly enhances gaming performance and I/O capabilities. |
| UHS-II microSD Card Reader | 1 | Allows for expanding the internal storage of the ROG Ally using microSD cards. • UHS-II: Supports ultra-high-speed data transfer, crucial for loading games quickly directly from the card. • Compatibility: Supports SD, SDXC, and SDHC card formats. |
Understanding the Versatility of ROG Ally Ports
The port selection on the ROG Ally is designed for both on-the-go convenience and expanded desktop-like functionality.
The Multifaceted USB Type-C Port
The single USB Type-C combo port is arguably the most critical piece of hardware for expansion. Its ability to handle data, video, power, and the proprietary ROG XG Mobile connection makes it exceptionally powerful. For instance, you can:
- Connect a USB-C hub to expand into multiple USB-A ports, HDMI, and Ethernet.
- Directly output to a high-refresh-rate gaming monitor using a USB-C to DisplayPort cable.
- Charge the device while simultaneously using a dock for other peripherals.
- Transform your handheld into a desktop-class gaming rig by plugging in an ROG XG Mobile external GPU, which not only boosts graphics power but also adds an array of additional ports (like DisplayPort, HDMI, Ethernet, and more USB ports).
Storage Expansion with UHS-II microSD
The inclusion of a UHS-II microSD card reader is a significant advantage. While many devices offer microSD slots, the UHS-II standard allows for much faster read and write speeds compared to older UHS-I cards. This means you can install large game libraries on a microSD card and experience loading times comparable to an internal SSD, which is vital for a smooth gaming experience. It's an easy and cost-effective way to overcome the internal storage limitations often found in handheld devices.
Audio Connectivity
The 3.5mm combo audio jack provides universal compatibility for headsets and headphones, ensuring you can use your preferred audio gear for immersive gaming sound and clear communication with teammates.
The combination of these ports ensures that the Asus ROG Ally is not just a handheld console but a versatile computing device capable of adapting to various gaming and productivity scenarios. For more detailed specifications, you can always refer to the official Asus ROG Ally product page.
