Linux-based Bazzite OS Boosts ASUS ROG Ally X Performance by Up to 32%

A recent evaluation highlights that the ASUS ROG Ally X handheld gaming device experiences considerable performance enhancements when utilizing Bazzite, a Linux-based operating system akin to SteamOS. This alternative OS not only delivers improved frame rates but also offers more efficient sleep and wake functionalities compared to the device's standard Windows operating system. While Windows offers broader game compatibility, the option to dual-boot Bazzite provides gamers with the flexibility to choose the best operating environment for their needs, optimizing performance for a selection of titles.

ASUS ROG Ally X Gains Significant Performance with Linux-Based Bazzite OS

In a recent series of tests, tech YouTuber Cyber Dopamine demonstrated that the ASUS ROG Ally X handheld gaming PC can achieve notable performance improvements by switching from its native Windows operating system to Bazzite, a Linux-based OS that closely mirrors SteamOS. These ad-hoc tests, which were also highlighted by Tom's Hardware, reveal that Bazzite can boost frame rates by as much as 32% and significantly enhance the device's sleep and wake capabilities.

The performance gains were particularly evident at a 17W Thermal Design Power (TDP) setting, a sweet spot for many gamers seeking a balance between battery life and gaming performance. For instance, Cyber Dopamine observed an increase in frame rates from 47 to 62 frames per second (fps) in \"Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2,\" a 32% jump. Similarly, \"Hogwarts Legacy\" saw its fps rise from 50 to 62, marking a 24% improvement. Beyond just higher numbers, Bazzite also delivered more consistent and stable frame rates, contributing to a smoother overall gaming experience.

Cyber Dopamine collaborated with a Bazzite developer to iron out initial bugs, ensuring the OS ran optimally on the ROG Ally X. The resulting system, while not identical to SteamOS, operates on a custom Fedora Linux distribution with Steam's Big Picture Mode, providing a similar user experience with additional customization options. This mirrors the user-friendly interface praised in devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S SteamOS edition.

While the ROG Ally X's custom Windows version already offers better sleep and resume functions than many other Windows handhelds, Bazzite still proved superior in speed and ease for these functions. However, it's important to note that Linux generally offers a narrower selection of compatible games and applications compared to Windows. The good news for users is the possibility of dual-booting both operating systems, allowing them to select their preferred environment at startup. This flexibility allows gamers to optimize performance for specific titles on Bazzite while retaining Windows for broader compatibility, albeit with an inherent risk associated with dual-boot setups.

The Dual-Boot Advantage: Flexibility Meets Performance for Handheld Gamers

The discovery that a Linux-based operating system like Bazzite can significantly enhance the performance and user experience of the ASUS ROG Ally X opens up fascinating possibilities for the handheld gaming PC market. This scenario highlights a growing trend where community-driven software solutions can unlock latent potential in hardware, often surpassing the capabilities of official, pre-installed systems. For gamers, this means a new level of customization and optimization is within reach, allowing them to tailor their devices not just for broad compatibility, but for peak performance in their favorite titles. The ability to dual-boot offers a pragmatic solution, mitigating the limitations of a single OS and empowering users with choice. This development could inspire hardware manufacturers to explore more open-source collaborations, ultimately benefiting the end-user with more efficient and adaptable gaming platforms.