In a striking move that highlights the growing trend toward handheld gaming devices, Microsoft has partnered with Asus to unveil the innovative ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. This announcement, made during the Xbox Games Showcase, marks Microsoft’s first venture into the handheld market, showcasing their commitment to diversifying their gaming platform offerings.
Design and Features
Both the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X feature an ergonomic design that incorporates large, contoured grips, reminiscent of the Xbox controller. This user-focused design emerges from feedback gathered on previous models, specifically the ROG Ally and Ally X, leading Asus to create a device that seamlessly merges their gaming know-how with Microsoft’s gaming philosophy.
Asus claims these new devices are the most comfortable and immersive handheld consoles they’ve developed, despite being thicker and slightly heavier than their predecessors and competitors, including the Steam Deck. The layout of the joysticks remains similar, yet a notable addition is the dedicated Xbox button positioned near the left joystick, simplifying access to the updated Game Bar tailored for handheld usage. This incorporation reflects a growing trend to enhance the gaming experience on portable devices.
Technical Specifications
The ROG Xbox Ally X is powered by the latest AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chipset, boasting an 8-core, 16-thread CPU, and 16 RDNA 3.5 graphics cores, alongside an impressive NPU capable of 50 TOPS of AI compute power. This hardware is complemented by 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 memory and a large 1TB M.2 2280 SSD, offering gamers a high-quality experience with ample storage for modern gaming demands.
Conversely, the original ROG Xbox Ally serves as a more budget-friendly option, featuring the entry-level Ryzen Z2 A processor, comprising a 4-core, 8-thread CPU and 8 RDNA 2 graphics cores. Its specifications also include 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 memory and a 512GB M.2 2280 SSD, with a smaller 60Wh battery to power the device.
Interestingly, both models retain the same high-quality 7-inch display with a 1080p resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 500 nits brightness, ensuring an engaging visual experience. The screen also supports FreeSync Premium, enhancing gameplay by minimizing stuttering and tearing.
Connection and Battery Life
With connectivity being a crucial aspect of gaming devices, the ROG Xbox Ally X features up-to-date I/O options, including one of its USB Type-C ports upgraded to USB 4, while the other follows the previous model’s configuration. The ROG Xbox Ally also mirrors this setup but falls slightly short on the battery front with its smaller 60Wh battery compared to the 80Wh unit found in the Ally X, promising longer gaming sessions.
Additionally, both models are equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring robust and speedy connectivity options for online gaming and accessory pairing.
Software and Functionality
The ROG Xbox Ally devices come pre-installed with a tailored Xbox interface, allowing users to dive straight into their gaming experience. However, Windows 11 runs in the background, offering the flexibility to install other gaming platforms like Steam and Epic Games. An updated ROG Armoury Crate Special Edition software will also provide quick access to device settings and customizable widgets through the Game Bar, further enhancing user experience.
Market Availability
While precise pricing remains undisclosed, both models are set to launch during the holiday season across 28 countries, including major markets such as the United States, Germany, and Japan. Following this initial rollout, an expansion to other regions where the original ROG Ally models are available is anticipated.
An insightful quote from Asus during the announcement stated, “We aim to redefine handheld gaming with our collaboration with Microsoft, providing gamers with the freedom to play and connect like never before,” showcasing their dedication to enhancing the handheld gaming experience.
Market Reaction
The announcement of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X has captured significant attention in the gaming community, particularly in light of the growing demand for handheld devices. As Nintendo’s Switch and Steam Deck continue to dominate, the entry of Microsoft and Asus into this space signifies a competitive expansion which could reshape consumer expectations. According to a recent report by Statista, the global handheld gaming device market is projected to reach $1.4 billion by 2026, signaling strong growth potential and consumer interest in portable gaming solutions.
This collaboration not only illustrates a blend of leading gaming and technology brands but also sets a robust platform for future innovations in the gaming landscape. As gamers await the rollout of these devices, the anticipation surrounding their capabilities and unique features continues to build.
Quick Reference Table
| Specifications | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 7-inch (1080p), 120Hz | 7-inch (1080p), 120Hz |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen Z2 A | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme |
| Memory | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Storage | 512GB M.2 SSD | 1TB M.2 SSD |
| Battery | 60Wh | 80Wh |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 |