Microsoft and ASUS are launching two powerful gaming handhelds with the ROG Xbox Ally series, combining Xbox power with Windows flexibility. We’ve compiled all available information for you.
This year will see the release of the ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X, developed in collaboration between Microsoft and ASUS. These devices combine the user-friendliness of Xbox with the flexibility of Windows 11 and the hardware expertise of ASUS ROG. Here’s everything you need to know about release dates, specs, features, and more.
- Note: There are also early details and rumors about the PlayStation 6, but its release is not expected until 2027.
ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X Release: When Will the Handhelds Launch?
A few weeks ago, the first leaks surfaced revealing the exact release date of the ROG Xbox Ally. Leaker “Bilbill-kun” claimed that the launch was set for October 16, 2025. On August 20, the leak was confirmed as Microsoft officially announced the date.
You’ll also be able to try out the Xbox handheld at Gamescom 2025. In Hall 6, Microsoft is hosting a massive booth featuring more than 20 games and the ROG Xbox Ally. Among the titles you can test on the new console are Hollow Knight: Silksong and Hogwarts Legacy.
- Note: It was recently speculated that Xbox had put the production of its own handheld on hold due to improvements in Windows 11 gaming performance.
ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X: How Much Will They Cost?
Microsoft and ASUS have not yet provided official pricing. According to the previously mentioned leak, the devices are expected to cost the following in Europe:
- ROG Xbox Ally (white base version): €599 (around 699$)
- ROG Xbox Ally X (more powerful black version): €899 (around 1050$)
No reliable pricing information is available for the US market yet. The significant price gap between the two models is explained by their different hardware configurations. You’ll find the technical details of the handhelds below.
ROG Xbox Ally: Specs Compared
The two handhelds differ mainly in processor, RAM, and storage capacity:
| Specification | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 A | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme |
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24 GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Storage | 512 GB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable) | 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable) |
| Display | 7″ FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9, 120Hz, FreeSync Premium | 7″ FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9, 120Hz, FreeSync Premium |
| Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 | 1x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort 2.1, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Battery | 60Wh | 80Wh |
| Weight | 670g | 715g |
| Special Features | Contoured grips | Impulse Triggers, NPU for AI acceleration |
Both models feature the same 7-inch display with 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. ASUS deliberately chose not to use an OLED panel in order to retain VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support and optimize power consumption.
Features and Highlights of the ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds
The new handhelds offer a variety of innovative features designed to enhance the mobile gaming experience:
Xbox Full Screen Experience
The ROG Xbox Ally handhelds boot directly into an optimized Xbox full-screen interface. This new feature minimizes background activity and shifts non-essential tasks to free up more system resources for gaming. The result: more available RAM, higher frame rates, and a fully immersive gaming experience.
Aggregated Game Library
One standout feature is the aggregated game library, giving access to titles from Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other major PC stores. This keeps your Xbox library, hundreds of Game Pass titles (subscription required), and all installed games from other PC platforms in one place.
Xbox Integration and Ergonomics
The handhelds include:
- A dedicated Xbox button for quick access to chat, apps, and settings
- Contoured grips modeled after Xbox Wireless Controllers
- Accessibility features from Xbox and Windows
The ROG Xbox Ally X also features Impulse Triggers for more detailed haptic feedback in supported games, similar to Xbox controllers.
Game Compatibility and Steam Access
With the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, you can:
- Play games installed directly on the device
- Stream via Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta)
- Use Remote Play with your Xbox console
- Access over 1,000 Xbox Play Anywhere titles
- Use Steam, giving access to PlayStation titles that have been released on PC
Microsoft has also announced a partnership with Roblox: for the first time, Roblox will be playable on gaming handhelds.
Windows Flexibility with a Gaming Focus
Since the devices run Windows 11, they offer the full flexibility of a PC. You can:
- Download games from various stores
- Use apps like Discord
- Watch your favorite streamers on Twitch
- Play with mods
At the same time, the user interface has been optimized for handheld use, allowing smooth navigation with a controller.
Accessories and Pre-order
Both models come with a 65W charger and a stand. Information on additional compatible accessories will be announced in the coming months.
If you’re interested in pre-ordering, you can register on the official Microsoft website to be notified as soon as pre-orders open.
