ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X: Microsoft and ASUS Step Into Handheld Gaming
By
Jagansai | June 9, 2025
After months of speculation, Microsoft and ASUS ROG have
officially revealed their new handheld gaming devices: the ROG Xbox Ally
and the more advanced ROG Xbox Ally X. Unveiled during the Xbox Games
Showcase at Summer Game Fest 2025, these systems mark Microsoft's bold entry
into the handheld gaming space—taking direct aim at competitors like the Steam
Deck and Nintendo Switch.
Specifications: Two Models, One Vision
ROG Xbox Ally:
- Processor:
AMD Ryzen Z2 A
- RAM:
16GB LPDDR5
- Storage:
512GB SSD
ROG Xbox Ally X:
- Processor:
AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme with integrated AI acceleration
- RAM:
24GB LPDDR5
- Storage:
1TB SSD
- Battery:
80Wh (vs. 60Wh in the standard Ally)
- Ports:
Dual USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 on Ally X
Both models also support microSD expansion for flexible
storage upgrades.
Design and Display
With identical dimensions (290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7mm), the
Ally weighs 670g, while the Ally X is slightly heavier at 715g. The devices
feature ergonomically contoured grips inspired by the Xbox Wireless Controller,
ensuring comfort during long play sessions.
Key display specs:
- 7-inch
1080p screen (16:9 aspect ratio)
- 120Hz
refresh rate
- 500
nits brightness
- Gorilla
Glass Victus
- FreeSync
Premium support
- Anti-reflective
coating for better visibility
Software and Ecosystem Integration
Both devices run a custom-optimized version of Windows
11, allowing access to:
- Xbox
Game Pass
- Xbox
Cloud Gaming and Remote Play
- Xbox
Play Anywhere for synced progress across devices
- Support
for third-party storefronts like Steam, Battle.net, and more
The Xbox UI has been tailored for touch and controller
inputs, featuring a dedicated Xbox button for the Game Bar overlay and easy
multitasking.
Connectivity and Features
Feature-rich from top to bottom, both models offer:
- Dual
USB-C ports (Ally X includes Thunderbolt 4)
- Wi-Fi
6E and Bluetooth 5.4
- 3.5mm
combo audio jack
- HD
haptics
- 6-axis
gyro (IMU)
- Two
assignable back buttons
- Impulse
triggers on Ally X, hall effect triggers on Ally
Users also get full control over performance and device
settings via ASUS Armoury Crate software.
Global Availability
Microsoft has confirmed a Holiday 2025 launch window,
with initial availability in:
- United
States
- United
Kingdom
- India
- Germany
- Japan
- Singapore
- Canada,
Australia, and several European and Asian markets
Pricing and pre-order information will follow in the
coming months.
Final Take
With the ROG Xbox Ally series, Microsoft and ASUS are
delivering more than just portable hardware—they're creating a powerful bridge
between console, PC, and mobile gaming. Strong specifications, native Xbox and
Windows 11 integration, and compatibility with multiple storefronts make these
devices a serious contender in the handheld gaming market.
The real test will be in hands-on usage—particularly
around battery life, sustained performance, and overall software fluidity—but
early signs are promising. For gamers seeking high-end performance on the go,
the Xbox Ally lineup looks ready to impress.
