Asus and Microsoft have officially opened global preorders for the ROG Xbox Ally X and the standard ROG Xbox Ally, marking one of the most significant moves in the handheld gaming market this year. Both models are set to launch on October 16, 2025, positioning themselves as serious contenders against rivals like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion Go.
Pricing and Availability
The two devices are tailored to different segments of gamers:
ROG Xbox Ally – priced at $599.99 (approx. £479/₹49,900), designed for gamers seeking powerful performance at a mid-range cost.
ROG Xbox Ally X – priced at $999.99 (approx. £799/₹82,900), aimed at enthusiasts who want uncompromised specs and future-proof hardware.
Preorders are now live through the ASUS eShop, Microsoft Store, and select retailers including Best Buy and Flipkart, depending on the region. Asus confirmed that preorder payments will only be finalized once units are ready to ship.
Specifications: Power Meets Portability
1. Shared Features
Both models are built around Windows 11, giving gamers access to the entire PC gaming ecosystem, including Xbox Game Pass, Steam, and Epic Games Store. Each device is fitted with a 7-inch 1080p 120 Hz display, promising smooth gameplay with FreeSync support. Storage can be expanded via a UHS-II MicroSD slot, making it easy to carry larger libraries.
2. What Sets the Ally X Apart
The ROG Xbox Ally X is being positioned as the flagship:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme with a dedicated NPU for AI-powered optimizations.
- Memory & Storage: 24 GB LPDDR5X RAM and 1 TB SSD, compared to the 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD on the standard Ally.
- Battery: A larger 80 Wh battery, designed for extended gaming sessions without compromise.
- Cooling System: Upgraded thermal design for stable performance under heavy loads.
The standard ROG Xbox Ally runs on the AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip and ships with 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, and a slightly smaller battery, making it a balanced choice for gamers who value affordability without losing key features.
Why This Launch Matters
The preorder announcement signals more than just another hardware release. It reflects Microsoft’s growing ambition to bridge the console and PC gaming worlds, while Asus leverages its Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand reputation for high-end innovation.
By combining Xbox services with the flexibility of Windows, both handhelds promise gamers the ability to:
- Play AAA titles natively or stream via Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Sync seamlessly with existing Xbox consoles and PCs.
- Access cross-platform libraries without ecosystem lock-in.
Market Impact and Early Reactions
The pricing strategy makes the standard Ally competitive with the Steam Deck OLED, while the Ally X sits in the premium tier for those demanding longer battery life, AI-driven performance, and expanded storage.
Early reactions from preorder listings show strong interest, particularly in regions where portable gaming continues to grow rapidly. Analysts suggest this launch could push the handheld category closer to mainstream adoption, especially with Microsoft’s backing.
The official launch of the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally on October 16 is set to redefine expectations for handheld gaming. Whether it’s the accessible entry-level Ally or the powerhouse Ally X, Asus and Microsoft are signaling that portable gaming is no longer a niche—it’s the next frontier.
