The Asus ROG Ally has quickly become one of the most talked-about handheld gaming PCs. Its portable design and strong hardware make it a favorite for gamers who want power in their hands. But as games grow larger, storage space fills up fast. Many users start with the 512GB or 1TB model and soon wonder: *Can you upgrade storage on Asus ROG Ally?* This guide gives you clear answers, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips so you can make the best decision for your gaming needs.
Understanding Storage In The Asus Rog Ally
Before thinking about an upgrade, it’s important to understand what kind of storage the Asus ROG Ally uses. The device comes with a M.2 2230 NVMe SSD. This type of drive is smaller than those in most laptops or desktops. The 2230 number refers to its size: 22mm wide and 30mm long.
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Check Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Most gaming laptops use the more common M.2 2280 drives, which are longer. The ROG Ally’s compact size means only 2230 drives will fit without issues. This is a key point: you cannot just use any SSD you find online or in a store. Picking the wrong size means the drive simply won’t fit inside your device.
Another thing to know is that the ROG Ally uses PCIe Gen4 technology. This allows for very fast data speeds, but not all 2230 SSDs support Gen4. Some are Gen3, which are slower. Choosing a faster drive will help with load times, especially in demanding games.
Why Upgrade Your Rog Ally Storage?
For many users, the built-in storage fills up quickly. AAA games like Call of Duty, Cyberpunk 2077, or Red Dead Redemption 2 can take up 100GB or more each. With Windows 11 and system files, you may find only 400GB or less is available on a 512GB model. Here are the main reasons people upgrade:
- More Games: Install more games without deleting old favorites.
- Faster Load Times: Newer SSDs can be faster, reducing waiting times.
- Future-Proofing: As games get bigger, extra space becomes more important.
- File Management: More room for mods, save files, and media like music or videos.
Some users also upgrade to replace a failing drive or to move from a slower Gen3 SSD to a Gen4 for better speed.
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Check Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Is Storage Upgrade Possible On Asus Rog Ally?
The short answer is yes, you can upgrade the storage in the Asus ROG Ally. Asus designed the device with a user-accessible SSD slot. However, the process is more involved than upgrading a desktop or even some laptops. You’ll need to open the device, which means removing screws and being careful with delicate parts.
Upgrading does not void your warranty as long as you don’t damage anything during the process. Asus has confirmed this in their official FAQ. But if you break something—like the ribbon cables or connectors—repairs may not be covered.
It’s also important to back up any files before upgrading. Changing the SSD means you’ll need to reinstall Windows and your games, unless you clone your old drive to the new one.
What Type Of Ssd Do You Need?
Choosing the right SSD is critical. The ROG Ally only supports M.2 2230 NVMe PCIe SSDs. Here are the main factors to check before buying:
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Check Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.- Form Factor: Must be M.2 2230 (22mm x 30mm)
- Interface: NVMe, not SATA
- PCIe Version: Gen4 (preferred), but Gen3 also works
- Capacity: Usually 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB; 2TB is the current max widely available
Below is a comparison of some popular SSD options for the ROG Ally:
| Model | Capacity | PCIe Generation | Read Speed | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WD SN740 | 1TB, 2TB | Gen4 | ~5,100 MB/s | 5 Years |
| Sabrent Rocket 2230 | 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | Gen4 | ~5,000 MB/s | 5 Years |
| Kioxia BG5 | 1TB | Gen4 | ~3,500 MB/s | 5 Years |
| Samsung PM991a | 1TB | Gen3 | ~3,100 MB/s | 3 Years |
Gen4 SSDs are faster, but Gen3 drives can still work. Most users will notice the biggest improvement in loading large games or transferring files.
Tools And Preparation
Upgrading your ROG Ally’s storage requires some preparation. Here’s what you need:
- M.2 2230 SSD (chosen based on above specs)
- Precision screwdriver (PH0 or PH1 size)
- Plastic pry tool or guitar pick (to open the case without scratching)
- Thermal pad (to cover the SSD if your new drive doesn’t include one)
- External USB drive (for backup and reinstalling Windows)
- Windows 11 installation media (can be a USB stick made using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool)
- Microfiber cloth (optional, for cleaning)
It’s best to work on a clean, static-free surface. Touch a metal object before starting to remove static electricity from your body.
Non-obvious tip: Take photos of each step as you open the device. This will help you remember where each screw and cable goes when you reassemble.
Step-by-step Guide: How To Upgrade Storage On Asus Rog Ally
Upgrading your ROG Ally’s storage is not overly difficult, but it does require patience and care. Follow these steps:
1. Backup Your Data
Before opening your device, back up everything you need. Save game files, media, and important documents to an external drive or cloud storage. You’ll also need to reinstall Windows on the new SSD unless you clone your old drive.
2. Power Down And Remove Accessories
Turn off the ROG Ally and unplug all cables, including the charger and any microSD cards. Hold down the power button for 10 seconds to ensure it’s fully off.
3. Remove The Back Cover
Flip the device over and remove the screws around the edge using a precision screwdriver. Carefully use a plastic pry tool to lift the back cover. Start at one corner and gently work your way around. The cover should come off without much force—don’t rush.
Hidden challenge: Some screws are different lengths. Keep track of where each one goes.
4. Disconnect The Battery (optional But Safer)
If you want to be extra safe, disconnect the battery cable. This reduces risk of shorting the board if you slip with the screwdriver. The battery connector is usually near the bottom of the device.
5. Locate And Remove The Ssd
Find the M. 2 2230 SSD. It’s held down by a single screw and may have a blue or gray thermal pad on top. Remove the screw and gently slide the SSD out at an angle.
Tip for beginners: Don’t force the SSD out. It should pop up slightly when unscrewed.
6. Install The New Ssd
Insert your new SSD at the same angle (about 30 degrees), making sure the gold contacts go into the slot fully. Press it down and secure with the screw. Replace the thermal pad if your drive doesn’t have one.
7. Reconnect Battery And Reassemble
Reconnect the battery if you unplugged it. Snap the back cover into place and replace all screws in their original positions.
8. Reinstall Windows
Insert your USB installation drive. Turn on the ROG Ally while holding the volume down button to enter the BIOS/boot menu. Choose your USB stick and follow the prompts to install Windows.
9. Install Drivers
After Windows is set up, download and install all drivers from the Asus website. This ensures your controls, audio, and WiFi work properly.
10. Restore Your Data
Copy your backups to the new drive. Reinstall your games and apps.
Pro insight: Some users clone their old SSD to the new one using a USB enclosure. This can save time, but you’ll need extra hardware. Most beginners find a fresh install easier and less risky.
Risks And What To Watch Out For
While upgrading the ROG Ally’s storage is possible, it’s not without risks:
- Warranty Risk: Physical damage during upgrade may void warranty.
- Breaking Parts: Ribbon cables and connectors are fragile.
- Losing Data: If you forget to back up, you can’t recover files from the old SSD once it’s removed and wiped.
- Static Shock: ESD can harm sensitive parts.
- Wrong SSD: Buying the wrong size or interface means wasted money.
To minimize risk, work slowly, follow guides or videos, and keep parts organized. If unsure, ask for help from a professional or experienced friend.
How Does Upgraded Storage Affect Performance?
Switching to a larger or faster SSD can have several effects:
- Load Times: Fast Gen4 SSDs reduce load times in large games and apps.
- File Transfer: Moving files or installing games is quicker.
- System Updates: Windows updates and patches install more smoothly.
However, you won’t see higher frame rates or better graphics. The SSD mainly affects speed, not raw gaming power. Still, for many games, getting into gameplay faster makes a big difference.
Below is a speed comparison between Gen3 and Gen4 drives in real-world use on the ROG Ally:
| Task | Gen3 SSD Time | Gen4 SSD Time |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Boot | ~18 seconds | ~13 seconds |
| Game Load (AAA Title) | ~40 seconds | ~30 seconds |
| File Transfer (10GB) | ~35 seconds | ~22 seconds |
While the differences may seem small, over time they add up, especially if you play many large games.
Alternatives To Internal Ssd Upgrade
Not everyone feels comfortable opening their device. Here are other ways to add space:
1. Microsd Card Expansion
The ROG Ally has a microSD card slot. You can use a high-speed UHS-I or UHS-II card (up to 1TB) for extra storage. This is great for less demanding games, media files, or backups. However, microSD cards are slower and less reliable than NVMe SSDs for heavy gaming.
2. External Ssds
Using a USB-C external SSD is another way to store games and files. Some users keep their biggest games on an external drive and only move them to the internal SSD when playing. This method is simple but may affect performance in fast-paced games.
3. Cloud Storage
Services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or Steam Cloud let you play some titles without installing them locally. This isn’t a true storage upgrade, but it can free up space for other games.
Below is a quick comparison between these options:
| Method | Speed | Max Capacity | Reliability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Internal SSD | Very Fast | Up to 2TB | High | All games |
| MicroSD Card | Medium | Up to 1TB | Medium | Indie games, media |
| External SSD | Fast | 2TB+ | High | Large files, backup |
Non-obvious insight: Some games (like those on Xbox Game Pass) won’t run from a microSD card due to Windows Store security. You must use the internal SSD for these titles.
Common Mistakes When Upgrading
Even careful users make mistakes. Here are the most common ones to avoid:
- Buying the wrong SSD size: Double-check for M.2 2230, not 2242 or 2280.
- Forgetting thermal pad: Missing this can cause overheating and drive failure.
- Losing screws: They’re tiny; use a magnetic mat or small bowl.
- Not backing up: Data is lost forever if you skip this step.
- Forcing parts: If something won’t fit, stop and check again.
- Skipping drivers: Without proper drivers, some buttons or WiFi may not work.
Take your time, read your manual, and watch upgrade videos. Careful planning saves hours of frustration.
Is Upgrading Worth It? Who Should Do It?
Upgrading your ROG Ally’s storage makes sense if you:
- Play many large games and quickly run out of space
- Want the fastest load times and best performance
- Like to keep your favorite titles always installed
- Use the device for media, mods, and other large files
If you only play a few small games or don’t mind managing your library, a microSD card or external drive might be enough. Upgrading is best for users comfortable with small electronics or those willing to learn.
For most gamers, a 1TB or 2TB SSD is a smart investment. It lets you enjoy your ROG Ally without constantly deleting games. The performance boost from a Gen4 SSD is noticeable, especially as game sizes continue to grow.
Future-proofing: How Much Storage Should You Get?
When choosing a new SSD, think about your future needs:
- Current AAA games: Each can take 100GB or more.
- Windows 11 and updates: System files grow over time.
- Media and mods: These add up quickly if you use your Ally for more than just games.
A 1TB drive is a good minimum for most users. If you play lots of new releases or want to avoid upgrades for years, a 2TB SSD is the best choice. Prices are falling, and more options appear each year.
Expert tip: Don’t buy a used SSD unless you know its history. Used drives may have lots of wear and a shorter lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading the storage on your Asus ROG Ally is not only possible—it’s a practical way to extend the life and usefulness of your device. With the right tools and careful steps, even beginners can complete the upgrade in an hour or two.
The performance and convenience gains are real, especially if you’re a gamer who likes to keep many titles ready to play.
If you’re unsure, start with a microSD card or external SSD. But for the best experience, an internal SSD upgrade is hard to beat. Just remember to plan, back up your data, and double-check every part before starting.
For more details on M.2 form factors and SSD types, you can visit the official M.2 Wikipedia page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Any M.2 Ssd In The Asus Rog Ally?
No. The ROG Ally only supports M.2 2230 NVMe SSDs. Larger sizes like 2242 or 2280 will not fit. Always check the form factor before buying.
Will Upgrading The Ssd Void My Warranty?
Upgrading the SSD does not void the warranty, as long as you don’t damage the device during the process. Any physical damage, especially to connectors or cables, may not be covered.
Can I Use A Microsd Card Instead Of Upgrading The Ssd?
Yes, you can use a microSD card for extra storage. However, it’s slower and some games (especially from the Windows Store) may not run from the card. For the best gaming experience, an internal SSD is recommended.
How Do I Reinstall Windows After Upgrading The Ssd?
You’ll need a USB drive with Windows 11 installation media. Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft, create the installer, and boot from it after installing the new SSD. Follow the prompts to set up Windows.
What Is The Largest Ssd I Can Install In The Rog Ally?
The largest widely available and supported SSD is 2TB in the M.2 2230 size. Larger drives may appear in the future, but 2TB is the current practical limit for most users.
Upgrading your ROG Ally’s storage is a rewarding project for any serious gamer. With the right drive and careful steps, you’ll have the speed and space you need for years to come.
