Yes, it is technically possible to increase the RAM on the ROG Ally, but it is not a user-friendly or officially supported upgrade. This process involves highly complex modifications that require specialized skills and equipment, making it unfeasible for most users.
The Complexity of ROG Ally RAM Upgrades
Unlike some traditional laptops or desktop PCs where RAM modules can be easily swapped, the memory (RAM) on the ROG Ally is soldered directly to the motherboard. Furthermore, upgrading it involves significant technical hurdles:
- Memory Module Swapping: The ROG Ally is equipped with four memory modules. To increase the RAM, these existing modules must be carefully desoldered and removed from the motherboard. New, higher-capacity memory modules then need to be precisely soldered in their place. This is a delicate operation that carries a high risk of damaging the device.
- BIOS Reprogramming: Simply swapping the physical memory modules is not enough. After installing new memory with updated capacity or speed, it is necessary to remove and reprogram the BIOS chip. This step is crucial for the device's system to properly recognize and utilize the updated memory. Failure to reprogram the BIOS chip correctly can lead to various issues, such as:
- Unforeseen system errors.
- Instability or crashes.
- The device failing to boot.
- Lower performance than expected, as the system may not fully leverage the new RAM's capabilities or speed.
This intricate process transforms a theoretical upgrade into a highly specialized modification, typically performed only by expert technicians or enthusiasts with advanced soldering and firmware manipulation skills.
Key Differences: Original vs. Modified ROG Ally RAM
Here's a comparison highlighting why a RAM upgrade on the ROG Ally is not straightforward:
| Aspect | Original ROG Ally RAM | Modified ROG Ally RAM (via specialized mod) |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity (Typical) | 16GB LPDDR5/LPDDR5X | Potentially 32GB LPDDR5X |
| Upgradeability | Not user-upgradeable | Possible via highly complex and risky mod |
| Installation | Integrated/soldered on motherboard at factory | Requires desoldering old, soldering new modules |
| System Recognition | Automatically recognized | Requires BIOS chip removal and reprogramming |
| Skill Level | N/A | Expert-level, specialized tools, and knowledge needed |
| Warranty Impact | Maintained | Likely voided due to unauthorized modifications |
| Risk of Damage | Low (under normal use) | High (potential for permanent device damage) |
Why Consider a RAM Upgrade (Despite the Difficulty)?
For some power users and modding enthusiasts, the allure of increased RAM on a device like the ROG Ally stems from the potential for:
- Improved Multitasking: Running more applications or background processes simultaneously without slowdowns.
- Enhanced Gaming Performance: While 16GB is generally sufficient for most games, some demanding titles or future games might benefit from more VRAM (which is shared from system RAM on APUs) or overall system memory for smoother gameplay, especially at higher settings or resolutions.
- Future-Proofing: Preparing the device for more memory-intensive software or games that may emerge in the future.
However, the significant risks and technical barriers mean that for the vast majority of ROG Ally owners, the existing 16GB of LPDDR5/LPDDR5X RAM is more than adequate for its intended purpose as a handheld gaming PC.
