We’ve already got a ton of controller options, mostly from the likes of GameSir, but the handheld gaming space is about to get a major new contender, backed by two of the biggest names in the business. But are you ready for the Xbox Ally handheld?
Xbox and ASUS have officially announced a landmark collaboration to release two new handheld gaming devices: the ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X.
Launching this holiday season, these devices are built from the ground up to make the Xbox experience truly portable.
This partnership combines the power of the Xbox ecosystem and the freedom of Windows with the hardware expertise of ASUS’s Republic of Gamers (ROG) division, aiming to create the most seamless handheld gaming experience yet.
More Than a PC, It’s an Xbox Handheld
While built on the Windows 11 platform, these devices are designed to feel like a dedicated Xbox from the moment you turn them on.
The key innovation is the Xbox full screen experience, a new feature optimised specifically for handhelds.
You see, instead of booting to a standard Windows desktop, the device loads directly into a familiar, controller-friendly Xbox interface.
This experience also features an aggregated gaming library, which solves a major pain point for PC handheld users. It brings together all your installed games from Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other leading PC storefronts into one easy-to-navigate location.
The hardware itself echoes this deep integration. Both models feature contoured grips inspired by official Xbox Wireless Controllers, and a dedicated, physical Xbox button for quick access to chat, settings, and more via an enhanced Game Bar overlay.
Two Tiers of Power: Ally vs. Ally X
Xbox and ASUS are offering two distinct models to cater to different types of players.
- ROG Xbox Ally: This is positioned as the essential handheld, offering great value for both casual players and avid enthusiasts. It’s powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor, with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD.
- ROG Xbox Ally X: This is the ultimate high-performance model for the most demanding players. It features the more powerful AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, an increased 24GB of high-speed RAM, and double the storage with a 1TB SSD. The Ally X also includes immersive impulse triggers for enhanced control in your favourite games.
The Full Specs
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the two models compare:
| ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Comfort & Input | Contoured grips. ABXY/D-pad/Hall Effect triggers/bumpers/Xbox button/etc. 2x assignable back buttons. HD haptics. | Contoured grips with impulse triggers. ABXY/D-pad/bumpers/Xbox button/etc. 2x assignable back buttons. HD haptics. |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor | AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor |
| Memory | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Storage | 512GB M.2 2280 SSD | 1TB M.2 2280 SSD |
| Display | 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 120Hz, FreeSync Premium, Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC | 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 120Hz, FreeSync Premium, Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC |
| I/O Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | 1x USB4 Type-C (Thunderbolt™ 4 compatible), 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Network | Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions/Weight | 290.8×121.5×50.7mm / 670g | 290.8×121.5×50.7mm / 715g |
| Battery | 60Wh | 80Wh |
The Power of the Ecosystem
This partnership extends beyond just the hardware. For the first time ever, Roblox will be playable natively and optimised for a gaming handheld at launch. Furthermore, Xbox is launching a new program to help players easily identify which games have been optimised for handhelds.
With full support for Xbox Play Anywhere, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Remote Play, your entire library and progress sync effortlessly. Newcomers to Game Pass who purchase an Ally will also get started at no additional cost, and both devices will feature Gaming Copilot; your personalised AI gaming companion accessible via the Game Bar.
Pricing, specific accessory details, and pre-order dates will be shared in the coming months – and we’ll be sure to bring you them.
For now, there is no doubt that this is a major statement of intent from Xbox and ASUS, signalling a bold new chapter for gaming wherever you are.
You’ll find even more details over on the Xbox News Wire.
