The Asus ROG Ally really sets itself apart in the handheld gaming world, surpassing the performance of devices like the Steam Deck and several others. With the launch of the more robust ROG Ally X in 2024, the difference becomes even more apparent. This new iteration not only boasts stronger performance but also features a better display and refined ergonomics. One particularly noteworthy aspect of the ROG Ally line is the inclusion of a UHS-II microSD card slot, which allows for much faster read and write speeds compared to the standard UHS-I slots you’ll find on the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, and similar gadgets. Essentially, this means you can expect significantly quicker download speeds if you’re using the right card.
Lexar highlights that UHS-II technology can triple the maximum transfer speed of UHS-I, reaching up to 312 MB/s instead of a mere 104 MB/s. Despite the widespread availability of microSD cards, UHS-II options are notably scarce. Major players in the storage game, such as Samsung and SanDisk, still don’t offer UHS-II microSD cards. The limited UHS-II cards on the market come with a hefty price tag compared to what many are accustomed to paying. On top of that, these options don’t quite hit the maximum speeds that the UHS-II interface can support.
For those comfortable with tinkering, opening up your ROG Ally to install an M.2 SSD could be a smart move. It doesn’t affect your warranty and offers a better value for storage, in addition to providing faster performance than microSD cards. But if you prefer a simpler solution and don’t mind shelling out a bit more for a speed boost, we’ve pinpointed a few easily accessible models that fit the bill.
If high capacity is what you’re after and cutting-edge speed isn’t a priority, there’s no shortage of microSD options available. Brands like SanDisk, Samsung, and Lexar offer plenty of choices, with cards offering as much as 1.5 TB of extra space for your handheld gaming device.
