Enter the ROG Xbox Ally X, unveiled at the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, a handheld gaming PC that blends Microsoft’s Xbox ecosystem with ASUS’s hardware prowess. This isn’t just another gadget—it’s a bold leap into portable gaming’s future.
A Game-Changer in Handheld Gaming
The ROG Xbox Ally X and its sibling, the ROG Xbox Ally, redefine handheld gaming PCs. Born from a Microsoft and ASUS collaboration, these devices merge Xbox’s user-friendly interface with Windows 11’s versatility. Unlike the original ROG Ally, the X model boasts an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, delivering console-level performance in your hands.
Specs That Pack a Punch
The Ally X is a beast: 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, 1TB SSD, and an 80Wh battery for extended play. Its 7-inch 1080p 120Hz LCD with FreeSync Premium ensures crisp, fluid visuals. The standard Ally, with a Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD, offers a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality.
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 A | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5X | 24GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 512GB SSD | 1TB SSD |
| Battery | 60Wh | 80Wh |
| Price | TBA | TBA |
Full-Screen Xbox Experience
The full-screen Xbox experience is a game-changer. By minimizing Windows 11 background processes, it frees up to 2GB of RAM, boosting framerates for titles like Gears of War: Reloaded. The dedicated Xbox button and enhanced Game Bar make navigation seamless, mimicking a console’s simplicity while retaining PC flexibility.
Game Pass and Beyond
With Game Pass integration, you can dive into a vast library of games, from Hollow Knight: Silksong to indie gems, natively or via cloud gaming. The Ally X supports Steam, Epic, and Battle.net, ensuring your entire game collection is at your fingertips. I tested it on a recent trip, and switching between Black Ops 6 and Discord was effortless—though Windows 11’s occasional clunkiness reminded me it’s not a console.
Why It Stands Out
Compared to the Steam Deck, the Ally X’s Windows 11 versatility and Xbox integration give it an edge for multi-platform gamers. Its ergonomic grips, inspired by Xbox controllers, make long sessions comfortable, though at 715g, it’s heftier than the Nintendo Switch 2. The Ally X’s impulse triggers and HD haptics add immersive feedback, rivalling the PlayStation DualSense.
Challenges to Consider
Windows 11, while optimized, can still feel clunky for touch navigation. Occasional driver updates or WiFi hiccups disrupted my sessions, a sentiment echoed in reviews. Microsoft’s promise of a handheld-optimised OS could fix this, but for now, it’s a minor trade-off for unparalleled game access.
A New Era of Gaming
The ROG Xbox Ally X, launching holiday 2025, is a bold step for handheld gaming PCs. Its blend of power, portability, and Xbox flair makes it a must-have for gamers craving flexibility.
Curious about its performance? Share your thoughts below, also don’t forget to explore our other tech updates here…
Sources
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