How to Upgrade ASUS ROG Ally SSD Without Reinstalling

The ASUS ROG Ally is a powerhouse handheld gaming console, that offers a robust gaming experience with its powerful internals. However, as modern games continue to grow, storage space on the device may quickly run out. This is where upgrading the SSD on your ROG Ally comes in—providing more storage and enhancing performance. One of the major concerns users have is whether they need to reinstall everything when upgrading the SSD. Fortunately, with the right process and tools, you can easily perform an ROG Ally SSD upgrade without losing data or reinstalling the operating system and applications.

Can You Upgrade the ASUS ROG Ally SSD?

Yes, you can upgrade the SSD in your ASUS ROG Ally. The device comes with an M.2 NVMe slot, making it easy to swap out the existing SSD for a new, larger, or faster model. This is particularly useful for gamers and professionals who require more storage space for games, software, or media. It’s important to note that while upgrading, you’ll need to ensure compatibility with the device’s SSD size (typically M.2 2230 or 2280 NVMe).

Upgrading your ROG Ally SSD is a cost-effective way to improve the overall performance of your system, especially when combined with faster read/write speeds. By upgrading, you'll benefit from quicker boot times and faster load times for your games and applications.

How to Run ASUS ROG Ally SSD Upgrade Without Data Loss

If you want to upgrade the SSD without reinstalling your operating system and losing any data, the key is disk cloning. Disk cloning allows you to create a replica of your old SSD and transfer it to the new one. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Although cloning minimizes the risk of data loss, it's always a good idea to back up your files to an external drive or cloud storage, just in case something goes wrong.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Tools

You’ll need:

• A new M.2 NVMe SSD that is compatible with your ROG Ally.
• Disk cloning software (e.g., AOMEI Backupper). The tool is extremely compatible and supports all SSD clones. With the help of an effective cloning feature, you can transfer all the data from your old hard disk to the new computer including system, files, settings, etc.

• A USB-to-M.2 adapter if you need to connect the new SSD externally during the cloning process.
• A small Phillips screwdriver to access the internals of the ROG Ally.

Step 3: Create a Bootable USB Drive (Optional)

For extra security, you may want to create a bootable USB drive with Windows or your preferred operating system. This can serve as a fallback option if the cloning process fails and you need to reinstall the OS.

Step 4: Open the ROG Ally

Power off the ROG Ally and disconnect it from any power sources. Using the Phillips screwdriver, remove the screws from the back panel to access the internal components of the device.

Step 5: Remove the Old SSD

Once the device is open, locate the existing SSD. Gently remove any screws holding it in place and carefully slide it out of the M.2 slot.

Step 6: Install the New SSD

Insert the new SSD into the M.2 slot at a slight angle. Once it’s securely in place, screw it back down.

Step 7: Clone the Old SSD to the New One

To transfer all your data, use disk cloning software like AOMEI Backupper. With advanced and efficient programs and simple guides, you can easily upgrade ASUS ROG Ally without reinstalling Windows, whether you're new or experienced. Here's how:

1. Install the cloning software on your ROG Ally.

2. Connect the new SSD using the USB-to-M.2 adapter if necessary.

3. Open the cloning tool, on the Clone interface, and click Disk Clone.

4. Select the source disk (your old SSD), and the destination disk (the new SSD).

5. You can also choose the “sector-by-sector” cloning option to ensure all data, including the operating system, is copied.

6. Start the cloning process and wait for it to complete. This may take some time, depending on the size of the data being transferred.

Step 8: Reassemble the Device

Once the cloning process is finished, carefully replace the back panel of your ROG Ally and screw it back into place.

Step 9: Boot the Device and Check

Power on your device and verify that it boots up correctly from the new SSD. You should see all your applications, games, and files intact. You can confirm that the new SSD is recognized by going to Settings > System > Storage.

Conclusion

Upgrading your ASUS ROG Ally SSD doesn’t need to be a daunting task. By cloning your old SSD onto a new one, you can enjoy more storage and improved performance without the need to reinstall your operating system or applications. With the right tools and a little bit of time, your ROG Ally can be running smoother and faster with more space for your favorite games.

FAQs About ASUS ROG Ally SSD Upgrade

1. Can I upgrade the SSD in my ASUS ROG Ally?

Yes, the ROG Ally supports M.2 NVMe SSD upgrades. You can replace the existing SSD with a larger or faster one to enhance performance and storage.

2. Will upgrading the SSD require reinstalling Windows?

No, if you use disk cloning software like AOMEI Backupper, you can clone your old SSD to the new one, preserving your operating system, games, and files.

3. What size SSD should I get for the ROG Ally?

Check the specifications of your ROG Ally to confirm whether it supports M.2 2230 or 2280 NVMe SSDs. The most common size is 2230, but it's always best to verify before purchasing.

4. How long does the SSD cloning process take?

The cloning process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the size of the data being transferred. Be patient and allow the software to complete the process without interruption.