Asus ROG Ally Will Not Charge

Before undertaking any of the more time-consuming solutions below, these are a few fundamentals to get you started.

• Swap your charger, or USB cable for a different one.
• Power cycle the device by pressing and holding the power button until the Ally turns off. Then turn it back on and try to charge again.
• Is the power LED lit? It should be orange if the battery is charging properly.

Ever notice all the text printed on power adapters? This information is not just model number and manufacturer specific data; it also includes the adapter’s specifications–what voltages can it change to what? The amount of power the charger can output is strongly related to the rate a device can charge.

• Look for text on your charger. Flip to whichever side has electrical data and look for key information.
  • Output Voltage and Amperage: These will be listed together. The adapter may be capable of outputting multiple voltages, including 5V DC—typical voltage for USB charging. Higher voltages may be utilized on larger devices or to support fast charge standards. The current (amperage) rating will be listed per voltage.
  • Wattage: Some manufacturers, like Apple, list this plainly on the adapter. But if not, you can calculate it yourself! Wattage is simply volts multiplied by amps. In the case of a basic Apple iPhone charger, the USB brick is rated for 5V and 1A. Therefore, it would be a 5 watt charger (5x1=5).
  • Save some brain cells and use a wattage calculator if your numbers aren’t as easy.
• The ROG Ally can be temperamental about chargers. Issues charging can often be resolved by using the original power adapter. Failing that, you’ll need one that’s 65 watts and capable of outputting 20 volts.

Under the back cover, the ROG Ally houses a secret sensor which is intended to tell if the back panel has been removed.

• Ensure the back cover is firmly in place. Not only does exposing this sensor prevent power, it prevents charging.

• This sensor is located on the left thumbstick assembly. It intended as a safety measure to keep the unit from powering on if the unit is being repaired or modified. But it will also be the biggest gotcha during testing. Be sure to secure the back cover to the Ally, or cover the sensor during repair testing.

The ROG Ally (and most portable gaming devices) are especially prone to battery issues. Gaming on your Ally while it’s charging is an expected part of the experience, but can negatively impact battery longevity.

• A faulty battery may manifest as a non-responsive unit, or one that only gives the battery charging logo on screen, but never powers on.
• Check your battery’s status. In Windows use the myASUS app to run a battery diagnostic. Or use the built in Windows tools.
• Look for signs of battery swelling. Separation of the enclosure, localized screen discoloration, or unexplained bowing of the housing are indicators of battery expansion.
• No Swelling? Disconnect the battery, then reconnect it. This removes power from the board altogether, and will reset the charging circuitry.
• Batteries in Allies are a quick fix. If you have any inkling the battery is a dud, just replace it. You'll thank us later.

Since the Ally is not wireless charge capable, all power and charge functions go through the USB-C port on the top of the unit. Wear on USB-C ports is common, so it’s worth inspecting.

• Verify the USB-C port is clean. Does a charger sit flush against the edge of the shell? The port may be clogged if it sits at an angle or has a loose fit. Use a flashlight to inspect.
  • Removing debris from a USB-C port can be tricky due to its narrow clearance. Use an air duster and a toothpick (shaved to fit) to avoid damaging the port. Other non-conductive tools can be used in place of a toothpick, but avoid inserting anything metal.
  • Once the debris has been removed, give charging another go.
• Checking power draw with a USB multimeter can give some valuable data. A fully booted Ally would charge at 19 Volts and about 3 Amps. Depending on your power source, you may be able to get away with a standard USB multimeter. Otherwise, you’ll need to source a USB-C type meter.
  • Incorrect voltage, low charging current, or no power through this meter can indicate a port issue (or a board issue).

Sadly, if you determine your port is the issue, you’re in for a rough time. Not only is the port soldered to the motherboard, but because it’s coupled with the XG mobile port, it’s difficult to replace. You can purchase the part directly from Asus, but you’ll want some serious soldering skills to install it.

The motherboard is the hub for most of a the Ally's functionality. Any of the tiny components on the board may have failed or become damaged. Motherboard fault is a safe assumption of cause if nothing else on this page has worked.

• Check for signs of a board issue—burned or cracked components, liquid residue, corrosion, or bend. If there are signs of liquid, there’s still hope your Ally can be resurrected.
• Replacing the motherboard is often the most practical solution for a DIYer whose board has failed.
• Be sure your device is not under warranty. Contact Asus support if necessary. Board faults in the first year without accidental damage are rare and should be covered.