Recent tests reveal that the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming device performs significantly better when running a Linux-based operating system compared to its pre-installed Windows 11. A popular Linux distribution for handhelds, Bazzite, has shown remarkable improvements in frame rates, stability, and system responsiveness.
Key Takeaways
- Linux (Bazzite) offers up to 32% higher FPS in some games compared to Windows 11 on the ROG Xbox Ally.
- Linux provides more stable and consistent frame rates, reducing noticeable dips.
- System responsiveness, including sleep and resume times, is dramatically faster on Linux.
- Potential for a more streamlined and less bloated gaming experience.
Performance Gains with Linux
Independent testing by YouTuber Cyber Dopamine has demonstrated that installing Bazzite, a Linux distribution optimized for handheld gaming, on the ROG Xbox Ally results in substantial performance gains. In games like Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Linux achieved up to 32% higher frames per second (FPS) at 17W power mode compared to Windows 11. Similarly, Hogwarts Legacy saw a notable FPS increase on Linux.
While the performance difference narrows at lower wattages, the stability of frame rates remains a key advantage for Linux. The FPS graphs show a much flatter, more consistent line on Bazzite, whereas Windows 11 exhibited more frequent fluctuations. This translates to a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience, especially in demanding titles.
Enhanced System Responsiveness
Beyond gaming performance, Linux also excels in system responsiveness. Waking the ROG Xbox Ally from sleep is nearly instantaneous on Bazzite, mirroring the experience of devices like the Steam Deck. In contrast, Windows 11 can take up to 40 seconds to suspend and an additional 15 seconds to resume, often with issues like unresponsive controllers or game crashes.
Bazzite: A Streamlined Gaming OS
Bazzite, which visually resembles SteamOS by utilizing Steam’s Big Picture Mode, offers a console-like interface tailored for gaming. It allows for custom power profiles and a cleaner user experience, free from the background tasks and telemetry often associated with Windows. The active development community behind Bazzite has also been praised for rapidly addressing bugs and implementing improvements in real-time during testing.
Dual-Booting for Flexibility
For users who require Windows for specific games or applications, the ROG Xbox Ally supports dual-booting. This allows users to switch between Windows and Bazzite, leveraging the strengths of each operating system for different tasks. The ability to run Linux on the ROG Xbox Ally offers a compelling alternative for those seeking optimal performance and a more refined handheld gaming experience.
