This $95 ROG Ally X accessory is expensive, but I promise it’s worth it


Summary

  • dbrand’s Killswitch case provides top-notch protection, a kickstand, and extra comfort for the ROG Ally X.
  • The case includes an optional travel cover and glass screen protector, offering full protection for the device.
  • Setup is easy but requires you to be careful. The precise fit and quality make the Killswitch case the best option for the Ally X.

I’ve always been obsessed with keeping my devices in as pristine condition as possible, whether it’s my brand-new

iPhone 16 Pro
, pricey Analogue Pocket, or in this case, the

ROG Ally X
. It probably stems from really scratching my Game Boy Color’s screen as a kid (it was a traumatic day I’ll never forget). While my habit of putting a screen protector and case on nearly everything might not always be the healthiest, even my most portable devices remain in top shape.

When I got my hands on the ROG Ally X a few months ago, I quickly started researching cases. Despite the Ally X being relatively niche, there are more options than I expected around, including the Mod Case from Jsaux and the Savage Raven from Skull & Co. I ultimately landed on dbrand’s kind of pricey Killswitch case because it offers the complete package.Analogue Pocket

It might be a bit more expensive than I’d like, but if you’re looking to protect your ROG Ally X when you’re on the go, the Killswitch case is by far the best option out there.

kill-switch-case

Dbrand Project Killswitch for ROG Ally X

As far as ROG Ally X cases go, dbrand’s Killswitch can’t be beat. It offers a ton of protection alongside a travel cover, kickstand, and front skin.

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Grippy protection that adds features to the powerhouse handheld

The killswitch actually makes the ROG Ally X more comfortable to hold

While I like the power and versatility the ROG Ally X offers, I find it the least comfortable of the handheld game consoles I’ve used, especially the Steam Deck. Its arms don’t have much grip to them or extend very far from the console. With the Killswitch, that’s no longer an issue thanks to its grippy rubber and the fact that it makes the Ally X’s arms stick out slightly farther. It also covers the entire rear of the console, complete with a mesh cutout for the Ally X’s sizable fans and M1/M2 back buttons.

On top of the fan vent is a kickstand that I find myself using a lot in docked mode when the ROG Ally X is sitting in front of my TV or if I’m gaming on a table and using an external controller. Thankfully, the kickstand feels solid and can be articulated pretty far back. The front of the Killswitch has a cutout for the Ally X’s speakers and buttons, but this can be covered by an easy-to-apply skin (more on this later). My favorite skin dbrand offers is the matte black option, but the X-Ray (Dark), which shows off a real scan of the Ally X’s internals, is pretty neat, too.

dbrand-killswitch-matte-skin

Since dbrand lets you make your own Killswitch package, I opted for the optional Travel Cover, which snaps over to the screen, alongside a glass screen protector. I think both of these options are worth it, especially the screen protector. It’s glass and feels very premium, and the snap-on Travel Cover ensures you don’t need a sleeve or other protective case for your ROG Ally X. Just snap it on, throw it in a bag, and you’re good to go.

This is one of the key benefits of cases like this that offer 360-degree protection with minimal additional bulk. There’s something to be said about the peace-of-mind that comes from tossing the ROG Ally X in a bag and knowing it’ll be totally fine. My only issue with the case is that it’s a bit of a dust and debris magnet. In particular, the gasket that runs across the top and bottom of the console collects a lot of debris in a short period. Thankfully, in both cases, it’s easy to clean off with a slightly damp cloth.

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dbrand offers optional stick grips, but I’m not 100 percent sold on them because they feel slightly slippery (the ROG Ally X’s stock sticks are fine).

Setup is easier than expected as long as you take your time

Make sure to use those pull tabs

dbrand-rog-ally-x-killswitch-back

Part of what makes dbrand’s Killswitch case so great is how tight its fit is. However, this also makes it a little difficult to get it on the handheld. Make sure you follow the instructions in this video from dbrand to avoid any potential missteps. My key tips are to use the pull tabs and ensure lift the case over the front skin so it doesn’t get bunched up at the top. On that note, applying the front protection skin is a simple process thanks to its precise cutouts.

Just make sure to smooth both sides out on the curved edges of the ROG Ally X and ensure the handheld is clean of dust and other debris. The same goes for the glass screen protector — as long as the screen is clean and you take your time, it’s a pretty easy process (also put it on the Ally X before doing anything else with the Killswitch kit).

As far as all-encompassing cases go, dbrand’s Killswitch case is the best I’ve been able to fit. The fit and overall build-quality of the case just can’t be beat if you’re looking for a solid way to protect your ROG Ally X. It might be a bit pricey, but in this case, you definitely get what you pay for.

dbrand’s Killswitch case is available in various configurations. My recommendation is the case, travel cover and tempered glass option, which comes to $95. dbrand also sells a Killswitch case for the standard ROG Ally X and the Steam Deck.

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This case was provided to Pocket-lint by dbrand.



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