ROG Xbox Ally & Ally X: Microsoft and Asus Revolutionize Handheld Gaming

Introduction: Xbox Enters the Handheld Arena

The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are Microsoft’s revolutionary 2025 handheld gaming consoles, combining Xbox Game Pass, PC gaming power, and portability in one device. After years of anticipation, Microsoft has officially stepped into the handheld gaming market with the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. In collaboration with Asus’ Republic of Gamers (ROG), these new Windows 11-based gaming handhelds aim to bring PC and Xbox experiences on the go, redefining portable gameplay.

What Are the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X?

Both models are handheld gaming PCs running Windows 11 Home, built specifically to blend the Xbox ecosystem with portable power and performance.

They feature:

• A 7-inch Full HD IPS display with 120Hz refresh rate
• Xbox-style controls with ABXY buttons, D-pad, analog sticks, and assignable rear buttons
• Custom Xbox full-screen mode for focused, high-performance gameplay
• Seamless access to Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, GOG, and more

These devices promise PC-grade power, immersive visuals, and cloud-ready convenience in your hands.

Models & Specifications: Standard vs. Premium

🔹 ROG Xbox Ally (Standard Model)

• Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A
• RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Battery: 60Wh
• Weight: 670g

Best For: Everyday gamers, cloud gaming, Game Pass users

🔸 ROG Xbox Ally X (Premium Model)

• Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme
• RAM: 24GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: 1TB SSD
• Battery: 80Wh (Longer life)
• Impulse Triggers: Yes
• Weight: 715g
• Best For: Hardcore gamers, native PC gaming, longer sessions

Both devices offer Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C with DisplayPort 2.1, microSD expansion, and 3.5mm audio jack support.

Xbox and PC Gaming in One Portable Console

Thanks to Windows 11, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X support:

• Native PC games
• Cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
• Remote Play from your Xbox console
• Steam, EA Play, Epic Games, and GOG integration

This makes them ideal for Xbox enthusiasts, PC gamers, and anyone looking for maximum flexibility in a single portable device.

Design & Comfort: Ergonomic and Durable

Built for long play sessions, both versions feature:

• Xbox-style contoured grips
• HD haptics, 6-axis IMU sensors, and (for Ally X) impulse triggers
• Corning Gorilla Glass Victus with anti-reflection coating

Sleek black design with accessible layout

How They Compare: Xbox Ally vs. Switch 2 vs. Steam Deck

Feature	ROG Xbox Ally	ROG Xbox Ally X	Nintendo Switch 2	Valve Steam Deck
Display	7″ FHD 120Hz IPS	7″ FHD 120Hz IPS	~7″ LCD 720p	7″ LCD 800p
Processor	AMD Ryzen Z2 A	AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme	Custom Nvidia GPU	AMD APU
RAM	16GB LPDDR5X	24GB LPDDR5X	4GB–8GB	16GB LPDDR5
Storage	512GB SSD	1TB SSD	64–512GB eMMC/SSD	64–512GB NVMe SSD
Weight	670g	715g	534g	669g
OS	Windows 11	Windows 11	Nintendo OS	SteamOS (Linux)
Game Library	Xbox + PC	Xbox + PC	Nintendo only	PC (Steam, etc.)

Takeaway: Xbox Ally handhelds offer unmatched versatility by merging console and PC libraries, with superior displays and hardware over their rivals.

Pricing & Availability (Expected)

Microsoft has yet to confirm official pricing or release dates. However:

• Launch window: Late 2025 expected
• Price range: Likely between £499–£799, depending on model
• Reasoning: Xbox software integration and premium build may result in a higher MSRP than the original ROG Ally devices

Why the ROG Xbox Ally Devices Matter

The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are more than just portable consoles — they’re portable Xbox and PC hybrids. For Xbox fans, PC gamers, or mobile gamers wanting power on the go, these handhelds offer:

• Game Pass support
• Triple-A native gameplay
• Cloud, remote, and local play
• Custom Xbox experience on Windows

Whether you’re gaming on a train or streaming across the world, these devices promise to make the entire Xbox and PC gaming ecosystem mobile.

Final Thoughts

With the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, Microsoft and Asus have delivered a compelling vision of the future of handheld gaming, powerful, flexible, and deeply integrated with Xbox. As the competition heats up in 2025, these devices might just become the go-to option for serious portable gaming.