Does Asus ROG Ally Have Thunderbolt? The Answer May Surprise You!

The ASUS ROG Ally is a powerful handheld gaming device that has taken the gaming world by storm. Its impressive specs and sleek design have made it a popular choice for gamers on the go. But one question that arises frequently is: does ASUS ROG Ally have Thunderbolt? This blog post will delve into the details of ROG Ally’s connectivity options and explore why Thunderbolt is absent.

The Power of Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt is a high-speed interface that offers a wide range of capabilities, including:

• High-speed data transfer: Thunderbolt 4, the latest version, can achieve transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps, making it ideal for transferring large files and connecting high-performance peripherals.
• Display output: Thunderbolt can drive multiple displays simultaneously, including 4K and 8K resolutions.
• Power delivery: Thunderbolt can deliver up to 100W of power, allowing you to charge your laptop or other devices.
• Versatility: Thunderbolt can connect to a wide range of devices, including external hard drives, displays, cameras, and more.

Why ROG Ally Doesn’t Feature Thunderbolt

While Thunderbolt offers numerous benefits, it’s not included in the ASUS ROG Ally. The reasons for this exclusion are multifaceted:

• Cost: Thunderbolt technology is more expensive to implement than other interfaces like USB-C.
• Target audience: The ROG Ally is primarily targeted towards gamers who prioritize performance and portability. While Thunderbolt offers advantages, it’s not a critical feature for the majority of Ally users.
• Power consumption: Thunderbolt can draw considerable power, potentially impacting the Ally’s battery life.
• Size limitations: Integrating Thunderbolt into the Ally’s compact design would require additional components, adding to the device’s overall size and weight.

Exploring the ROG Ally’s Connectivity Options

Despite the absence of Thunderbolt, the ROG Ally boasts a comprehensive suite of connectivity options:

• USB-C: The Ally features two USB-C ports. The primary port is used for charging and data transfer, while the secondary port can be used for connecting peripherals or an external display.
• Wi-Fi 6E: The Ally supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, providing fast and reliable wireless connectivity for online gaming.
• Bluetooth 5.2: The Ally supports Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting wireless peripherals like headphones, controllers, and more.
• 3.5mm audio jack: The Ally includes a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting wired headphones or speakers.
• MicroSD card slot: The Ally features a microSD card slot for expanding storage capacity.

Alternatives to Thunderbolt on the ROG Ally

While the ROG Ally doesn‘t have Thunderbolt, you can still achieve similar functionality using alternative methods:

• USB-C hubs: USB-C hubs can expand the Ally’s connectivity options, allowing you to connect multiple devices to a single port.
• External graphics cards: Connecting an external graphics card via USB-C can significantly boost the Ally’s gaming performance.
• Wireless display adapters: Wireless display adapters can connect the Ally to a monitor or TV without the need for cables.

The Future of ROG Ally Connectivity

The gaming landscape is constantly evolving, and it’s possible that future iterations of the ROG Ally might incorporate Thunderbolt. As technology advances and the demand for high-speed connectivity grows, ASUS may consider adding Thunderbolt to enhance the Ally’s versatility.

Finding the Right Connectivity Solution for You

The absence of Thunderbolt on the ROG Ally doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a dealbreaker. The Ally’s existing connectivity options are sufficient for most gamers, and alternative solutions can address specific needs. Assess your requirements and choose the connectivity solution that best suits your gaming style and preferences.

The Verdict: A Balanced Approach to Connectivity

The ASUS ROG Ally’s decision to exclude Thunderbolt is a strategic one, prioritizing features that resonate with its target audience. While Thunderbolt offers clear advantages, its inclusion would have added complexity and cost, potentially impacting the Ally’s accessibility and overall appeal. The Ally’s comprehensive connectivity options, combined with alternative solutions, provide a balanced approach that caters to a wide range of gaming needs.

Top Questions Asked

Q1: Can I connect an external monitor to the ROG Ally?
A: Yes, you can connect an external monitor to the ROG Ally using a USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort adapter.
Q2: Does the ROG Ally support charging while playing?
A: Yes, the ROG Ally supports pass-through charging, allowing you to charge the device while playing.
Q3: Can I use a USB-C hub with the ROG Ally?
A: Yes, you can use a USB-C hub to expand the Ally’s connectivity options. However, make sure the hub is compatible with the Ally’s power delivery capabilities.
Q4: Can I connect a Thunderbolt dock to the ROG Ally?
A: No, you cannot connect a Thunderbolt dock to the ROG Ally, as it doesn’t have Thunderbolt support.
Q5: Is there any way to add Thunderbolt to the ROG Ally?
A: Unfortunately, there is no way to add Thunderbolt support to the existing ROG Ally. However, future iterations of the device might include Thunderbolt as technology advances.