Microsoft didn't make its own portable Xbox - it decided to partner with ASUS. The result is the ROG Xbox Ally and its more powerful sibling, the ROG Xbox Ally X. Equipped with Xbox buttons, Windows 11 and next-generation AMD chips, they support Game Pass, Steam, Epic - and even PlayStation games. The price is not yet known, but the hardware suggests a price range between $ 599 and $ 999.
For years, there have been rumors about a portable Xbox more of an urban legend than a serious project. But now Microsoft is finally entering the handheld gaming scene – not with its own product, but with a reimagined version of ASUS's hit ROG Xbox AllyAnd it comes in two flavors: the regular Ally and the more powerful Ally X. Both devices offer complete Xbox experience – only this time in pocket format.
Specs not to be underestimated: ROG Xbox Ally
| Model | Processor | RAM | Warehouse | Battery | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ally | AMD Ryzen Z2 A | 16 GB | 512 GB | 60Wh | 670g |
| Ally X | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme + NPU | 24GB | 1 TB | 80Wh | 715g |
| Both of them | 7-inch IPS 1080p, 120Hz, FreeSync | – | – | – | – |
The Ally X is a beast among handheld consoles – more memory, more space, and more battery. The weight is not negligible, but for gamers with muscles in their wrists, this will only be an added value.
What can be played on ROG Xbox Ally?
The short answer: almost everything. ROG Ally runs on Windows 11 and includes Xbox Full-Screen mode. You can connect to Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, GOG… as well as PlayStation titles available for PC. God of War on an Xbox device? No problem. The vision of “Xbox Anywhere” is becoming a reality.
Design and User Experience – ROG Xbox Ally
Ally X has built-in pulse triggers, similar to the feel of a real Xbox controller. The controllers are ergonomically designed, the buttons are responsive, and the screen is bright and fluid. You'll have a hard time playing with one hand, but with two? Perfect comfort for gaming on the go.
Price and availability
There is no official price for the ROG Xbox Ally yet, but insiders expect it to range between $599 and $999, depending on the model. The devices are expected to be available during the 2025 holiday shopping season, initially in the US and major European countries.
First impressions from the field – what the experts say
Initial tests were conducted by Polygon and Game File. They found the device powerful, the user interface intuitive, and the screen impressive. Criticism was mainly directed at the weight - after 20 minutes of playing, your hands start to complain.
Conclusion: Xbox Ally
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are the most serious attempt to merge the worlds of PC, Xbox, and portable gaming. If the price is affordable and Microsoft continues to optimize the Full-Screen experience, This could be the most versatile gaming device of the decadeWill we finally be able to play Halo and Spider-Man on the same device? It seems like it will.
