The ASUS ROG Ally Xbox and ROG Xbox Ally X are Microsoft’s handheld devices, aiming to compete with the Valve Steam Deck. Both run on Windows, but early testing shows that Linux-based systems, like Bazzite, might have the edge.
YouTuber Cyber Dopamine recently put the Xbox Ally X to the test using Bazzite, a Linux distribution that closely resembles SteamOS. The results were impressive. The device woke up faster and resumed gameplay quicker with Bazzite compared to Windows. Plus, users on Reddit have echoed similar experiences, noting controller issues when waking from sleep in Windows, which weren’t present on Bazzite.
Performance-wise, Bazzite delivered better frame rates. For example, while playing Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, the Xbox Ally X achieved around 47 FPS on Windows. But with Bazzite, it jumped to about 62 FPS. Even at lower power settings, Bazzite outperformed Windows — hitting 37 FPS compared to 35 FPS on Windows.
With titles like Hogwarts Legacy, Bazzite again showed its strength, achieving 62 FPS versus Windows’s 50 FPS at similar power levels. Notably, Bazzite maintained a steadier frame rate, while Windows experienced noticeable drops in performance.
However, Bazzite isn’t without flaws. Certain features, like joystick LED control, aren’t yet supported, but developers have promised improvements soon.
This performance gap highlights why many gamers are excited about switching to Linux for their handheld gaming needs. It’s a growing trend, as more users seek out tailored experiences that maximize hardware capabilities. As gaming technology evolves, the conversation around operating systems will continue to shape how we play.
For those curious about the tests, you can catch the full rundown in Cyber Dopamine’s YouTube video here. The community’s feedback underscores a significant shift in how we perceive and utilize handheld gaming devices today.
