Guide to Installing or Upgrading SSD in Asus ROG Ally with Repair Tips

Looking to supercharge your Asus ROG Ally with more storage? Whether you’re juggling a massive game library or craving faster load times, upgrading your SSD is the ultimate way to boost your handheld PC’s performance. With just a few tools and some careful steps, you can swap out your existing drive for a larger, faster NVMe SSD and get back to gaming in no time. Here’s your complete guide to installing a new SSD in your Asus ROG Ally, from opening the device to reinstalling Windows and maximizing your gaming experience.

Now, taking apart your expensive piece of hardware can be intimidating, but with our step-by-step tutorial, which includes the necessary tools and components, we’ll get you and your ROG Ally to the finish line in no time. And, in case you haven’t already customized your ROG Ally, we’ve got a number of must-have ROG Ally accessories we think you’ll like.

Get your tools ready

Before starting your SSD upgrade on the Asus ROG Ally, make sure you have all the necessary tools and parts ready. You will need a size 0 Phillips head screwdriver and a thin plastic pry tool, like a guitar pick, to safely open the device without damaging the case. Also, have your compatible 2230 M.2 NVMe SSD on hand-1TB or 2TB sizes are common options. If you have the ROG Ally X model, note that it requires a 2280 M.2 NVMe drive instead. Preparing these tools and parts beforehand will ensure a smooth and efficient installation process.

Most of the tools you’ll need for this project, like spudgers and a #0 Phillips-head screwdriver, are easy enough to get piecemeal online or at your local hardware store. But if you want a tidier solution that contains everything you need in one place for dismantling the ROG Ally (and just about any other consumer gadget in your home), you might want to consider the Essential Electronics Toolkit from iFixit. For the purposes of this tutorial, I’m relying on my trusty Pro Tech Toolkit, which costs more as it contains additional pieces.

iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit

$75 $75 $75 at Amazon

Buy a new SSD

When buying a new SSD for your Asus ROG Ally, make sure to select a compatible model to ensure a smooth upgrade. The standard ROG Ally requires a compact 2230 M.2 NVMe SSD, available in 1TB or 2TB sizes, while the ROG Ally X needs a slightly larger 2280 M.2 NVMe drive. Popular choices include the Western Digital SN740 or SN770M series, which offer fast read speeds and reliable performance. It’s best to purchase from reputable retailers or official stores to guarantee authenticity. Keep in mind that upgrading your SSD will likely require a clean installation of Windows, so prepare accordingly by backing up your data if needed.

As for your replacement SSD, you’ve got plenty of options. But which one you should get depends on how much storage you’ll need, and which ROG Ally you have. If you’re working with the original white ROG Ally, which features a 512 GB SSD by default, we suggest doubling the internal storage with a 1 TB SSD, or quadrupling it to 2 TB if you can afford it. One spec that’s crucial to know is that the standard ROG Ally can only accommodate the 2230 size of M.2 SSDs.

If you own the newer black ROG Ally X, which is equipped with a 1 TB SSD out of the box, you’ll probably want something with 2 TB of storage. However, because this handheld is only compatible with the larger 2280 size of M.2 SSDs, there’s a wider range of options at multiple price points. Note: Some Ally X owners on Reddit report that there’s adequate internal space for an M.2 SSD that has a built-in heatsink, though some owners note that not using one doesn’t seem to impact performance.

Before we continue on with installation instructions, we’ve pulled together a handful of compatible models for the ROG Ally you can choose from, followed by recommendations for the Ally X.

2230-size SSDs for the ROG Ally

The Asus ROG Ally supports M.2 2230 NVMe SSDs for internal storage upgrades, with available capacities typically ranging from 1TB to 2TB. These compact 2230-sized SSDs fit perfectly inside the Ally without modification, unlike the larger 2280 drives required by the ROG Ally X model. Popular options include the Corsair MP600 Mini, Teamgroup MP44S, and Sabrent Rocket 2230, offering a balance of performance and price suitable for handheld gaming needs. When upgrading, it is important to use only 2230 form factor SSDs, as larger sizes will not fit without adapters or case modifications. This upgrade allows gamers to significantly expand their storage beyond the original 512GB, accommodating larger game libraries on the go.

WD Black SN770M

$102$13022% off $102 $102 at Best Buy (1 TB)$202 at Best Buy (2 TB)$180 at Amazon (2 TB)

2280-size SSDs for the ROG Ally X

The Asus ROG Ally X supports standard M.2 2280 SSDs, making it much easier to upgrade storage compared to the original ROG Ally, which used the smaller 2230 size. This compatibility opens up a wider range of high-performance SSD options, including popular models like the Samsung 990 Pro and WD SN850X NVMe. Users can install SSDs up to 8TB, with PCIe 4.0 drives offering blazing-fast read and write speeds around 7000 MB/s. Upgrading to a 2280 SSD not only increases capacity but can also improve overall system performance, although it requires reinstalling Windows and backing up data beforehand. The process is straightforward and quick, with Asus providing cloud recovery options for Windows reinstallation.

WD Black SN850X M.2 SSD

$140$19026% off $140 $140 at Amazon (2 TB)$600 at Amazon (8 TB)

Crucial P3 Plus M.2 SSD

$220$2367% off $220 $220 at Amazon (4 TB)

Samsung 990 Pro M.2 SSD

$169$24932% off $169 $169 at Amazon (2 TB)$280 at Amazon (4 TB)

Kingston Fury Renegade M.2 SSD

$145$19626% off $145 $145 at Amazon (2 TB)$280 at Amazon (4 TB)

Begin the disassembly – carefully

Start by powering off your Asus ROG Ally and placing it face down on a soft surface to avoid scratches. Use a small screwdriver to remove the six screws securing the back panel-three along the top and three along the bottom-keeping them safe to avoid loss. The bottom middle screw is captive and will stay attached to the panel when loosened. Gently pry open the back cover using a plastic pry tool or guitar pick, taking care not to damage the clips or any ribbon cables, especially if you have the Ally X model. Once the panel is loose, carefully lift it off to expose the internal components. Before proceeding, disconnect the battery by sliding back the metal retaining clip and pulling the battery connector out of its socket to ensure safety during the SSD replacement.

A general rule before opening any device is to first power it down. Not just that: Draining the battery is never a bad idea during this process. Asus recommends discharging the battery to around 25% before operating on the ROG Ally, as a charged battery is a potential fire hazard if something goes wrong.

Next, remove your microSD card from the slot. Doing so will minimize the chance of accidentally breaking it (I say this because, unfortunately, it has happened to me).

Lay the console face down on a table, or use any level surface that’s free of debris, ideally one like the anti-static silicone pad I’m using in the photos.

To access the internals of the ROG Ally, you’ll need to use a Phillips #0 screwdriver to remove five screws. Note that a sixth screw in the bottom center of the handheld is designed to be loosened, but not removed, so don’t persist.

Once the screws are removed (again, save for the bottom middle one), slide a soft flat edge (like a guitar pick, prying tool, or plastic card) gently between the plastic housing to loosen the clips around the edge of the back cover. You’ll know you’ve done this correctly when you hear them click and the back cover begins to separate from the chassis. Carefully lift the back cover away and place it somewhere safe.

Disconnect the battery

To safely install a new SSD in your Asus ROG Ally, the first crucial step is to disconnect the battery. After removing the back panel and lifting the black vinyl flap between the two fans, locate the battery connector-a white plug secured by a small metal latch. Using a spudger or a plastic pry tool, slide the metal retaining clip back and carefully pull the battery connector upward to disconnect it from the motherboard. This step ensures no power flows through the device during the SSD swap, preventing potential electrical damage and enhancing safety while handling internal components.

Before doing anything else, you need to disconnect the battery. The instructions are the same for both the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X, even though internally they look a bit different. To do this, simply use the flat edge of a plastic tool to carefully push the metal locking bar away from the connector that’s holding the ribbon cable in place. It’s important that you do not attempt to lift the bar, as this may damage it and prevent it from locking back in place.

Once the locking bar has been pushed back, use a flat tool underneath the connector and gently lift the cable away from the socket. This shouldn’t take much effort. Once you’ve disconnected the cable from the motherboard, you no longer need to worry about the battery.

Remove the plastic cover shielding the SSD

To remove the plastic cover shielding the SSD in your Asus ROG Ally, first open the back cover by removing the screws and carefully releasing the clips. Once inside, you will see a black plastic cover located between the fans that protects the SSD. Use your fingers to gently peel up and remove this plastic cover, setting it aside safely as you will need it during reassembly. This step exposes the SSD underneath, allowing you to proceed with unscrewing and removing the drive for replacement or upgrade.

Once you’re presented with the internals of the ROG Ally, you’ll see a sheet of plastic covering the SSD. This is attached with a small bit of adhesive, letting you easily pull it off. You might want to hang on to it instead of immediately throwing it in the trash, like I did. In the ROG Ally X, the SSD itself is covered with a thermal cover that you definitely shouldn’t throw away.

Remove the SSD

To remove the SSD from your Asus ROG Ally, first power off the device and place it face down on a soft surface. Unscrew the six screws on the back panel-three along the top and three along the bottom-and carefully lift off the bottom cover, using a plastic pry tool if necessary to release the clips. Next, disconnect the battery by sliding back the metal retaining clip on the battery connector and gently pulling it out to ensure safety. Underneath the black flap between the fans, locate the SSD secured by a small screw. Remove this screw, then carefully slide the SSD out at a slight angle, avoiding excessive force to prevent damage. Keep the screw safe for reinstalling the new drive. After removal, you can proceed with installing your new SSD by reversing these steps.

It’s time for the main event. Underneath the black sheet of plastic, the original SSD that came with your device will be visible next to the fan on the left side of the Ally (in the ROG Ally X, the rectangular 2280-size SSD is located in the middle of the device, oriented horizontally underneath the battery cable and a removable thermal covering). Using a Phillips #0 screwdriver, remove the single screw that secures the SSD in the M.2 socket. The SSD should lift up a bit, and you can then gently pull the SSD out of its socket. Do not attempt to lift the SSD up as you remove it, as this has the potential to damage your handheld and/or your SSD.

Set aside the old SSD, which you can reformat to use as you please.

Install your new SSD

To install your new SSD in the Asus ROG Ally, first ensure the device is completely powered off and remove the six screws on the back panel. Carefully pry open the case, starting near the triggers, and lift off the back shell. Next, disconnect the battery by sliding back the small silver latch on the white connector and lifting it out to prevent any electrical issues. Unscrew the single screw securing the original SSD and gently pull it out. Insert your new 2230 NVMe SSD with the sticker side facing up, align it properly, and secure it with the screw. Reconnect the battery connector by sliding it back into place and locking the latch. Finally, snap the back cover on and screw all six screws back in, remembering the bottom middle screw is shorter. Power on your device, which should boot normally, allowing you to proceed with reinstalling Windows via Asus Cloud Recovery or restoring your data.

At this point, you can seat your shiny new SSD in the now-vacant socket. Match the SSD’s pins with the socket, and then gently insert it without much pressure. You’ll know that you’ve done it correctly once the small indentation on the SSD’s bottom lines up with the hole for the screw you removed earlier. Screw it back in. You’re nearly finished!

Reassemble your device

To reassemble your Asus ROG Ally after installing the new SSD, start by reconnecting the battery connector carefully, ensuring the latch clicks securely into place. Next, if you removed any protective plastic sheets, reattach them or set them aside if unavailable, as they do not affect performance. Then, align the back cover and press it firmly until you hear the clips snap back into position. Finally, screw in all the screws you previously removed, including the one securing the SSD, to firmly close the device. Once assembled, power on your ROG Ally to proceed with reinstalling Windows or restoring your system.

Putting your ROG Ally back together means doing everything you just did to disassemble it, but in reverse.

To reconnect the battery, take the connector of the ribbon cable and reseat it in the socket. You can use your fingers or a soft tool to gently push it down into the socket until you hear a small click. Afterwards, use your flat edge to push the locking bar back into place over the connector.

If you held on to that small plastic sheet you removed earlier, you can stick it back into place. However, if you were like me and hastily discarded it, don’t worry; it won’t hamper the performance of your Ally.

Finally, you can reattach the back cover. Simply press the cover back into its original position until you hear the clips start snapping into place. If the back cover is still a little loose, that’s OK. Once you tighten all of the screws you removed earlier, it will be secured into its original position.

Perform a cloud recovery

To perform a cloud recovery on your Asus ROG Ally after installing a new SSD, first power off the device completely. Then, hold the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously to enter the BIOS. Press the Y button to switch to Advanced mode, and select “ASUS Cloud Recovery.” Connect to your Wi-Fi network and follow the prompts to download the recovery files. The process will erase all data on the new SSD and reinstall Windows 11 along with the necessary ROG software. This recovery may take some time and the device will reboot multiple times. Once complete, you can set up your ROG Ally as a new device.

The final step to getting your Ally game-ready is to restore the Windows operating system. To do this, plug the Ally back in and power it on. It should boot into the BIOS menu automatically. If it doesn’t, try powering on the system while holding down the power and volume-down buttons simultaneously.

Once you’re in the BIOS menu, use the touchscreen to navigate to the Advanced tab and select Asus Cloud Recovery. From there, you should be able to follow the prompts to download and reinstall the OS. While you’ll need to redownload and reinstall any games you had stored on the original SSD, you’re otherwise good to go. Good luck, and have fun.

What are the key steps to upgrade my Asus ROG Ally SSD safely

Key Steps to Safely Upgrade Your Asus ROG Ally SSD

Power Down and Prepare
Fully turn off your ROG Ally and discharge the battery to 25% or below. Remove any microSD cards to avoid damage or data loss.
Remove the Back Panel
Place the device face down on a soft, clean surface. Unscrew the six screws on the back-three on top, three on bottom-leaving the captive middle bottom screw for last. Use a plastic pry tool or guitar pick to gently separate the case clips and lift off the back panel.
Disconnect the Battery
For safety, disconnect the battery connector located under a black flap between the fans. Use a spudger or similar tool to slide back the metal clip and carefully unplug the battery cable to prevent electrical damage during the upgrade.
Remove the Existing SSD
Under the black flap, locate the SSD secured by a single screw. Remove this screw and gently slide the SSD out of its slot, taking care not to damage the connectors.
Install the New SSD
Insert your new M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle, press it down gently, and secure it with the original screw. Make sure it is firmly seated and aligned correctly.
Reconnect Battery and Close the Case
Plug the battery connector back in, replace the black flap, snap the back panel into place, and screw all six screws back in, ensuring the captive screw stays attached to the panel.
Boot and Reinstall Windows
Connect your charger and power on the device. The ROG Ally should detect the new SSD and boot into BIOS. Use the built-in Asus Cloud Recovery tool to download and install a fresh Windows image, or restore your data if you backed it up beforehand.

Following these steps carefully ensures a safe and successful SSD upgrade, enhancing your ROG Ally’s storage and gaming performance without risking hardware damage or data loss.

How do I safely disconnect the battery before SSD upgrade in my ROG Ally

To safely disconnect the battery before upgrading the SSD in your Asus ROG Ally, first lift up the black flap located between the fans inside the device. Then, using a spudger, pry tool, or even a guitar pick, carefully slide the metal retaining clip back to unlock the battery connector. Finally, pull the battery connector straight upward and out of its socket to fully disconnect it. This step helps prevent electrical damage during the upgrade process.