Handheld gaming is heating up in 2025, with the Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck, and Sony’s PlayStation Portal dominating headlines. Now, Xbox is officially entering the race through a collaboration with Asus to launch the ROG Xbox Ally, a next-gen handheld gaming device built on the success of the ROG Ally series.
At Gamescom 2025, Microsoft confirmed that the ROG Xbox Ally X (the premium version) will launch later this year, alongside a more affordable standard ROG Xbox Ally. While specs were revealed, pricing remains under wraps, leaving gamers eager for details.
ROG Xbox Ally vs. ROG Xbox Ally X Specs
Just like the Xbox Series X and Series S, the handheld will come in two versions:
ROG Xbox Ally X (High-End Model)
- Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme
- RAM: 24GB LPDDR5X-8000
- Storage: 1TB M.2 SSD (expandable)
- Battery: 80Wh
- Weight: 715g
- Ports: USB4, USB-C Gen 2, DisplayPort 2.1, UHS-II microSD, 3.5mm audio
- Display: 7-inch FHD IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits, Gorilla Glass Victus
ROG Xbox Ally (Standard Model)
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X-6400
- Storage: 512GB M.2 SSD (expandable)
- Battery: 60Wh
- Weight: 670g
- Ports: Dual USB-C Gen 2, DisplayPort 1.4, UHS-II microSD, 3.5mm audio
- Display: 7-inch FHD IPS, 120Hz
Both models will feature Xbox-style grips, impulse triggers, haptic feedback, and back buttons for a true console feel.
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ROG Xbox Ally Features
The biggest upgrade over the original ROG Ally is its Xbox-first software experience. Instead of launching directly into Windows, the device boots straight into the Xbox GameBar, offering:
- Seamless access to Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Battle.net, and Epic Games Store.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming for instant streaming without downloads.
- Optional Windows 11 desktop mode for PC gamers who want full control.
This hybrid design makes the ROG Xbox Ally appealing to both casual players seeking console-like simplicity and hardcore users looking for PC flexibility.
ROG Xbox Ally Price Leaks
While Microsoft hasn’t revealed pricing, industry leaks suggest:
- Standard ROG Xbox Ally: Around $700
- ROG Xbox Ally X: Around $1,000
However, factors like tariffs and Xbox’s Game Pass strategy may influence final pricing. Given its premium specs, the ROG Xbox Ally likely won’t undercut the Steam Deck or Switch 2, but Microsoft could price it competitively to grow its ecosystem.
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Game Library and Compatibility
The ROG Xbox Ally supports:
- All Xbox Game Pass titles
- PC games via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Battle.net
- Cloud streaming for blockbuster titles without storage limits
This makes it one of the most versatile handhelds on the market, combining console convenience with PC-level game availability.
Will Xbox’s Handheld Strategy Work?
The ROG Xbox Ally marks Microsoft’s boldest handheld gaming move yet. With powerful specs, seamless Game Pass integration, and Asus’s proven ROG hardware, it has the potential to rival the Steam Deck and Switch 2.
The only remaining questions are: Can Microsoft price it competitively? And will gamers embrace another handheld in an already crowded market?
One thing is certain — the ROG Xbox Ally could reshape handheld gaming in 2025.
