Unlock More Space: How to Add Storage to Asus ROG Ally Like a Pro

The ASUS ROG Ally is a powerhouse of a handheld gaming device, but even the most powerful beast needs space to roam. If you’re finding yourself running out of storage on your ROG Ally, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through the different ways to expand your storage options and ensure you can carry your entire game library with you wherever you go.

Understanding Your Storage Options

The ROG Ally comes with a generous 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, but for avid gamers, that can quickly disappear. Thankfully, there are several ways to add more storage:

• MicroSD Card: The ROG Ally features a microSD card slot, allowing you to expand your storage with a readily available and affordable option.
• External SSD: Connect an external SSD via USB-C for a faster and more spacious storage solution.
• Internal SSD Upgrade: For the most dedicated gamers, you can replace the internal SSD with a larger capacity drive.

The MicroSD Card Advantage: Simple and Affordable

The most straightforward way to add storage to your ROG Ally is through a microSD card. This method is budget-friendly and offers a decent amount of additional storage.
Here’s how to use a microSD card:
1. Choose the right card: Look for a microSDXC card with a high read and write speed for optimal performance. The ROG Ally supports UHS-II cards, so opting for one will maximize transfer speeds.
2. Insert the card: Locate the microSD card slot on the bottom of the ROG Ally and gently insert the card until it clicks into place.
3. Format the card: Once inserted, navigate to the “Settings” menu on your ROG Ally, go to “Storage,” and format the microSD card as internal storage. This will allow your games to be installed directly on the card.
Advantages:

• Cost-effective: microSD cards are generally less expensive than other storage options.
• Easy to use: Simply insert the card, format it, and you’re good to go.
• Portable: You can easily swap out microSD cards to manage different game libraries.

Disadvantages:

• Limited capacity: MicroSD cards typically have lower storage capacities than internal SSDs.
• Slower speeds: While UHS-II cards offer decent performance, they are still slower than internal SSDs.

External SSD: Speed and Capacity at Your Fingertips

For those needing more storage and faster speeds, an external SSD is a great option. You can connect a portable SSD via the ROG Ally‘s USB-C port, allowing for quick file transfers and seamless game loading.
Here’s how to use an external SSD:
1. Choose a USB-C SSD: Ensure the external SSD you choose has a USB-C connection and supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher for optimal transfer speeds.
2. Connect the SSD: Plug the SSD into the USB-C port on your ROG Ally.
3. Format the SSD: Once connected, you can format the SSD as internal storage through the “Settings” menu on your ROG Ally.
Advantages:

• High capacity: External SSDs offer significantly larger storage capacities compared to microSD cards.
• Fast performance: USB-C SSDs can provide speeds close to those of the internal SSD, ensuring smooth game loading.
• Versatile: You can use the external SSD with other devices, making it a versatile storage solution.

Disadvantages:

• More expensive: External SSDs are generally more costly than microSD cards.
• Requires a connection: You need to keep the SSD plugged in to access its storage.

Internal SSD Upgrade: Unleash the ROG Ally’s Full Potential

For the ultimate storage upgrade, you can replace the internal SSD in the ROG Ally with a larger capacity drive. This is a more advanced procedure, but it offers the most significant performance boost and storage expansion.
Before attempting this, remember:

• Voiding warranty: Replacing the internal SSD will void your device’s warranty.
• Technical expertise: This process requires some technical knowledge and comfort with disassembling electronic devices.

Here’s a general overview of the process:
1. Purchase a compatible SSD: Research and purchase an NVMe SSD with a compatible form factor and size.
2. Disassemble the ROG Ally: Carefully open the ROG Ally following a detailed guide to avoid damaging the device.
3. Replace the SSD: Remove the original SSD and replace it with the new drive.
4. Reassemble the device: Securely reassemble the ROG Ally and test the new SSD.
Advantages:

• Maximum capacity: You can install a significantly larger SSD, allowing you to store an extensive game library.
• Fastest speeds: This method offers the fastest storage speeds, resulting in lightning-fast game loading and performance.

Disadvantages:

• Complexity: This procedure requires technical expertise and can be risky if not done correctly.
• Warranty void: Replacing the internal SSD will void the ROG Ally’s warranty.

Choosing the Right Storage Solution

The best storage solution for your ROG Ally depends on your individual needs and budget.

• MicroSD card: Ideal for budget-conscious gamers who need a small amount of additional storage.
• External SSD: Perfect for those who need more storage and faster speeds than a microSD card.
• Internal SSD upgrade: The ultimate solution for dedicated gamers who want maximum performance and storage capacity.

Maximizing Your ROG Ally’s Storage

Beyond adding more storage, you can also optimize your ROG Ally‘s storage by:

• Deleting unnecessary files: Remove unused games, applications, and data to free up space.
• Using cloud storage: Store game saves and other data in the cloud to free up space on your device.
• Compressing files: Compress large files to reduce their size and save storage space.

Beyond Storage: Enjoy Your ROG Ally’s Power

Adding storage is just one step in maximizing your ROG Ally experience. Explore the world of handheld gaming, connect with other gamers, and enjoy the freedom of playing your favorite games anywhere, anytime.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a USB flash drive with my ROG Ally?
A: While you can technically connect a USB flash drive, it’s not recommended due to slower speeds and potential compatibility issues. It’s best to use a microSD card or external SSD for optimal performance.
Q: Does the ROG Ally support external hard drives?
A: The ROG Ally does not officially support external hard drives. It’s recommended to use a portable SSD for faster data transfer speeds.
Q: Can I install games on the microSD card?
A: Yes, you can format the microSD card as internal storage, allowing you to install games directly on the card.
Q: Can I use the ROG Ally’s storage for other purposes?
A: Yes, you can use the ROG Ally’s storage for storing photos, videos, and other files. However, it’s recommended to keep your game library separate from other data to prevent potential performance issues.
Q: How can I ensure my ROG Ally’s storage is secure?
A: Consider using password protection and encryption for your ROG Ally to protect your data. You can also use a microSD card reader to back up your data to another device.