The ASUS ROG Ally X has already solidified its place as one of the best handheld gaming PCs on the market, and a key factor contributing to this is the ease with which its SSD can be upgraded. Replacing the SSD inside the ROG Ally X only takes a few minutes, and this guide will walk you through the process. ASUS makes upgrading the SSD in the ROG Ally X incredibly user-friendly, not just by utilizing an M.2 2280 SSD – the standard size you’ll find in most devices – but also by offering a cloud-based reinstall of Windows 11 and Armoury Crate SE. Here’s how to replace the SSD in the ROG Ally X.
Removing the SSD in the ROG Ally X
Removing the SSD from the ROG Ally X is simpler than in the original model. The actual removal and replacement process shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. However, it’s essential to be patient when working inside the ROG Ally X, as there are several small screws and delicate ribbon cables to navigate. The ROG Ally X supports an M.2 2280 SSD, the same size found in most laptops and desktops. It exclusively supports M.2 2280, so you can’t install a smaller SSD. ASUS claims you can use up to an 8TB SSD, but be sure to check the clearance before installation and avoid SSDs with their own heat sinks. Before you start, remember to back up any data you wish to retain or move it to a secure location, such as cloud storage or a microSD card. After replacing the SSD, you’ll have to set up the ROG Ally X as if it were a brand new device.
Step 1: Power Down the ROG Ally X
Completely power down the ROG Ally X from within Windows 11. Don’t just use the power button. Ensure you remove the microSD card and any devices plugged into the USB-C ports or headphone jack.
Step 2: Remove the Back Shell
Turn the ROG Ally X around and remove the six screws visible in the image. Place these screws on a piece of paper in a safe location, keeping them in the order you removed them (top left screw on the top left of the paper, and so on).
Step 3: Separate the Back Shell
After removing the screws, the back shell of the ROG Ally X will naturally lift slightly away from the rest of the device. Starting at the bottom, use a plastic pry tool or a guitar pick to gently work your way around the seam and detach the back shell. Be cautious not to insert your pry tool too deeply into the device.
Step 4: Detach the Ribbon Cable
With the back shell loose, gently flip it over the top side of the device. A thin ribbon cable connects the back of the device to the rest of the ROG Ally X. It’s long enough to reach, but you’ll want to make sure not to rip it by pulling the back shell away abruptly.
Step 5: Disconnect the Battery
Locate the battery connector and slide down the metal lock (the connector is locked in the image you can see). Once unlocked, gently lift the battery connector out, disconnecting power from the rest of the device.
Step 6: Remove the Original SSD
The SSD is located in the middle of the ROG Ally X, just above the battery. Carefully peel back the thermal cover and set it aside. Don’t discard it. Undo the screw securing the SSD in place, setting it on your piece of paper for easy tracking. The SSD will be angled upwards. Gently pull it away from the slot to remove it.
Installing an SSD in the ROG Ally X
With your ROG Ally X partially disassembled, it’s time to install your new SSD.
Step 1: Insert the New SSD
Remove your new SSD from its packaging, setting the included screw aside in a safe place. Insert it at an angle inside the SSD slot in the ROG Ally X.
Step 2: Secure the New SSD
Gently press down on the raised end until it makes contact with the screw area, aligning the semicircle of the SSD with the screw hole’s edge. Grab the SSD screw from your sheet of paper and tighten it down. There’s no need to overtighten. Just securely fasten the SSD in place.
Step 3: Reattach the Thermal Shield
Retrieve the thermal shield you set aside from the original SSD and gently press it down on top of the new SSD. It should loosely adhere to your new SSD.
Step 4: Reconnect the Battery
Reattach power by inserting the power connector from the top. Gently press down on both ends to ensure it’s secure before sliding the metal lock over the top.
Step 5: Reattach the Back Shell
Carefully press the back shell of the ROG Ally X back into place. It should snap in place without much effort, so don’t force it. After aligning the back shell, double-check the edges to ensure you’re not clamping down on any internal wires – some are very close to the edge.
Step 6: Tighten the Screws
Referring to the screw arrangement on your sheet of paper, tighten down the back shell screws. You don’t need to overtighten these screws, as you risk stripping them.
Step 7: Power On (After the Next Step)
Technically, you can power on your ROG Ally X at this point, but wait until the next step before doing so.
Windows and Armoury Crate SE
Installing a new SSD in the ROG Ally X means you’ll need to reinstall Windows 11 and the Armoury Crate SE utility. While there is a comprehensive guide on installing Windows 11, fortunately, you don’t have to go through the process manually.
Step 1: Boot into BIOS
Plug your ROG Ally X into the included charger. Hold down the volume button and press the power button to boot into the BIOS menu.
Step 2: Exit EZ Mode
Press the Y button to exit EZ mode and locate the Advanced tab.
Step 3: Select ASUS Cloud Recovery
Choose the ASUS Cloud Recovery option by pressing A.
Step 4: Wait for Reinstallation
Leave the ROG Ally X alone for a while. It will reinstall Windows 11 and Armoury Crate SE, allowing you to set it up as if it were a new device.
