## Before We Begin

You will need the following tools:

* A 0# Phillips screwdriver

* A plastic case opener (can also be used in an emergency with a guitar pick)

* A Ziploc resealable bag or similar container for storing screws

* An M.2 2280 NVMe SSD

Kingston's NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD offers up to 4TB of capacity and uses the 2280 form factor, making it a good upgrade option. It's important to note that the ROG Ally and Ally X automatically limit PCIe speeds to match the handheld's specifications.

Before you begin, please back up any existing data on your new SSD, as the installation process will format it and erase all previous data. For safety, reduce the device's battery level to below 25% and completely power off before disassembling. Then, place the device face down on a soft surface and use a screwdriver to remove the screws on the back panel. The screw in the center of the bottom won't come off completely at first, but it must be loosened before removing the back cover; it will automatically detach when the back cover is removed. It's recommended to store all screws in a sealed bag to prevent loss.

If the case is still difficult to open after removing the screws, use a pry bar to slide along the edges to loosen the retaining clips. Be careful when opening the back cover, as there is a ribbon cable connecting the back panel and the motherboard. Avoid breaking the ribbon cable during disassembly.

## Opening the Ally's Interior

A Kingston NV3 SSD is placed next to the ROG Xbox Ally and a screwdriver.

The next step is to disconnect the battery. You'll see the battery connector below the right-side fan.

For the ROG Xbox Ally, you'll need to use a case opener to slide the metal clips backward and then pull the battery connector upward. The ROG Xbox Ally X doesn't have metal clips, so simply lift the connector upward to disconnect.

Some ROG Xbox Ally models don't require battery removal because the SSD is located above it. If you need to remove the battery, simply unscrew the five screws securing it and carefully remove it.

Similarly, some models may have a conductive cloth covering the motherboard and SSD. You can peel it off and remove the SSD. This conductive cloth doesn't need to be reinstalled and can be discarded. After installing and securing the new SSD, reinstall the battery (if necessary).

The ROG Xbox Ally X's SSD has a black protective cover above it. Unscrew the screws securing the SSD, carefully slide the SSD out, insert the new SSD, and secure it with the same screw. Afterward, reconnect the battery connector, close the chassis (ensuring all clips are properly engaged), and then tighten the six screws on the back panel. It's very simple.

## New Hard Drive, New System

An ROG Xbox Ally is placed behind the Kingston NV3 SSD.

The next step is to reinstall Windows on the new SSD. First, remove the SD card from the device, then connect the Ally to power using the included 65W charger.

Press and hold the volume down button while pressing the power button. This will enter the BIOS menu. Press the Y button to enter Advanced Mode, then enter the Advanced menu. Here you can select ASUS Cloud Recovery to begin the system installation.

The installation process requires a Wi-Fi connection, and the device will restart several times until the installation is complete.

Once the Ally has finished downloading and installing the disk image, the device will re-enter the initial setup process as if it were just shipped from the factory. The difference is that it can now accommodate more games.