Everything You Need to Know About the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X
Xbox Handheld 2025
The gaming world is buzzing with excitement as Microsoft and ASUS officially unveil the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, two powerful handheld gaming devices set to redefine portable gaming in 2025. Combining the best of Xbox and Windows 11, these handhelds promise seamless access to your favorite games, whether through native play, cloud streaming, or remote play from your Xbox console.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything from release dates, specs, pricing, and exclusive features to how Microsoft is optimizing Windows for handheld gaming. If you’re wondering whether the Xbox handheld is worth the wait, read on for all the details.
Xbox Handheld Release Date: When Can You Get One?
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are confirmed to launch in Holiday 2025 (likely November-December) in select markets, with a wider rollout expected in early 2026 1515. While an exact date hasn’t been announced, Microsoft and ASUS are targeting the peak holiday shopping season to maximize availability.
Pre-order details, pricing, and accessory bundles will be revealed in the coming months. If past ASUS handheld launches (like the original ROG Ally) are any indication, we can expect pre-orders to open around October 2025, with units shipping in time for Black Friday and Christmas.
Xbox Handheld Specs: How Powerful Is the ROG Xbox Ally?
Microsoft and ASUS have packed impressive hardware into the Xbox handheld, offering two distinct models:
1. ROG Xbox Ally (Base Model)
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A (Zen 2, 4 cores, 8 threads)
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X-6400
- Storage: 512GB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable)
- Display: 7″ FHD (1080p) IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits, FreeSync Premium
- Battery: 60Wh
- Weight: 670g
- Controls: Xbox-style contoured grips, Hall Effect triggers, 2x assignable back buttons
2. ROG Xbox Ally X (Premium Model)
- Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (Zen 4, 6 cores, 12 threads + NPU)
- RAM: 24GB LPDDR5X-8000
- Storage: 1TB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable)
- Display: Same as base model
- Battery: 80Wh (33% larger than base)
- Weight: 715g
- Controls: Impulse triggers (like Xbox Wireless Controller), enhanced grips
Both models feature Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, USB4/Thunderbolt support, and a microSD slot for expandable storage 1510. The Xbox Ally X stands out with its AI-enhanced processor, making it better suited for demanding games and future AI-powered features.
Xbox Handheld Price: How Much Will It Cost?
While official pricing hasn’t been confirmed, industry experts predict:
- ROG Xbox Ally: $599-$699 (similar to the original ROG Ally’s launch price)
- ROG Xbox Ally X: $899-$999 (competing with high-end handhelds like the MSI Claw 8 AI+) 1017.
Given the Xbox Ally X’s superior specs, it will likely be the preferred choice for hardcore gamers, while the base model offers a more budget-friendly entry point.
Xbox Handheld vs. Steam Deck & Other Competitors
How does the Xbox handheld stack up against rivals like the Steam Deck OLED, Lenovo Legion Go, and ASUS ROG Ally X?
Performance & Software
- The Xbox Ally X outperforms the Steam Deck (Zen 2) with its Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, offering better frame rates and efficiency 10.
- Unlike the SteamOS-based Steam Deck, the Xbox handheld runs Windows 11, meaning full compatibility with Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, and Battle.net 46.
- Microsoft has optimized Windows for handhelds with a new full-screen Xbox UI, reducing background processes to free up 2GB of RAM for games 46.
Battery Life
- The Xbox Ally X’s 80Wh battery is larger than the Steam Deck OLED’s 50Wh, potentially offering 3-5 hours of gameplay for AAA titles 13.
- The base Xbox Ally (60Wh) should last slightly longer than the original ROG Ally (40Wh) 17.
Game Library
- The Xbox handheld integrates Xbox Play Anywhere, meaning 1,000+ games can be played across Xbox console, PC, and handheld with cross-save 514.
- Hollow Knight: Silksong will be a launch title, alongside Gears of War: Reloaded, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and more 114.
Xbox Handheld Leaks & Early Hands-On Impressions
Early testers at IGN and The Verge got hands-on time with the Xbox Ally X and reported:
- The ergonomic grips feel like an Xbox controller, making long sessions comfortable 610.
- The Xbox UI is snappy, with quick access to Game Bar, Steam, and cloud gaming 46.
- Gears of War: Reloaded ran smoothly at 1080p/60FPS, showcasing the device’s power 6.
Leaked photos (prior to the official reveal) showed a sleek black design with RGB accents, resembling a portable Xbox Series S 15.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Xbox Handheld?
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are shaping up to be strong contenders in the handheld gaming market. If you’re deep into the Xbox ecosystem and want a portable Windows gaming PC, this could be your best bet.
Who Should Buy It?
- Xbox Game Pass subscribers who want cloud & native gaming on the go.
- PC gamers who want a Steam Deck alternative with better Windows integration.
- Travelers who need a powerful handheld with long battery life.
Who Should Wait?
- Budget gamers may prefer the Steam Deck OLED (if they don’t need Windows).
- Those wanting an OLED screen—the Xbox handheld sticks with IPS for now.
Conclusion: The Future of Xbox Handheld Gaming
The Xbox handheld 2025 marks Microsoft’s bold entry into portable gaming, blending Xbox’s ecosystem with Windows flexibility. With two models catering to different budgets, optimized software, and strong third-party support, the ROG Xbox Ally could become a must-have for gamers this holiday season.
Stay tuned for pre-order announcements, and get ready to experience Xbox on the go like never before!
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By covering every aspect of the Xbox handheld, this guide ensures you’re fully informed before making a purchase. Will you be getting an Xbox Ally this holiday? Let us know in the comments!
