Introduction
The handheld gaming market has exploded in recent years, with devices like the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, and Lenovo Legion Go proving that portable PC and console gaming is here to stay. With the release of the original ASUS ROG Ally in 2023, it gave gamers a Windows-powered handheld that offered high-end specs in a sleek design. While the first model impressed many gamers with its performance and versatility, it also came with a few compromises—most notably in battery life and long-term ergonomics.
The world of handheld gaming is going through a major revival. Enter the ROG XBox Ally X, a device that combines the raw performance of ASUS’ Republic of Gamers hardware with Microsoft’s Xbox ecosystem.
For potential buyers, however, the question remains: is this just a minor refresh, or a must-have upgrade that can truly rival its competitors? To help you decide, we’ve broken down the 10 things you need to know about the XBox Ally X—from hardware upgrades and design changes to software, ecosystem support, and overall value for money.
10 Key Things Buyers Need to Know About the ROG XBox Ally X
1. Design and Build Quality
The ROG XBox Ally X is built with ergonomics in mind. Compared to bulkier handhelds, it strikes a balance between portability and comfort. Rounded grips, textured back panels, and well-spaced buttons make it easy to hold for long sessions without cramping your hands.
The build also feels sturdy, with premium materials that don’t scream “plastic toy.” If you’ve struggled with slippery or heavy handhelds before, this device might feel like an upgrade.
2. Display and Visuals
One of the biggest draws is the screen. The Ally X sports a high-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making games look fluid and responsive. Colors pop, details are crisp, and fast-paced titles feel smoother compared to devices locked at 60Hz.
Brightness levels are also solid, which means you can play in different lighting conditions — though direct outdoor sunlight might still be a challenge. For gamers who value visuals, this is one of the most impressive displays in handheld gaming.
3. Performance and Hardware Specs
At its heart, the ROG XBox Ally X packs serious hardware. Powered by the latest AMD Ryzen processor paired with a capable GPU, it can handle both indie games and demanding AAA titles without major hiccups.
Performance-wise, it often outpaces the Steam Deck, offering higher frame rates and better graphical fidelity in supported titles. Whether you’re into Halo Infinite, Cyberpunk 2077, or smaller indie hits, you’ll be surprised how close this handheld gets to a full gaming PC experience.
4. Battery Life
Of course, power comes at a cost: battery life. Real-world usage gives you around 4–6 hours for lightweight games or streaming, but heavier titles can drain the battery in just 2–3 hours. That’s better than some earlier handhelds but still means you’ll want to keep a charger nearby.
On the bright side, the Ally X supports fast charging via USB-C. A short charge can get you back in the game quickly, which is handy for travel.
5. Game Library and Compatibility
One of the strongest selling points is Xbox Game Pass integration. With a subscription, you instantly gain access to hundreds of games — from day-one releases to indie gems. The device runs Windows, which also means compatibility with PC game stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG.
Additionally, Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) lets you stream games without installing them, provided you have a solid internet connection. This flexibility makes the Ally X stand out for players who don’t want to be locked into one ecosystem.
6. Storage Options and Expandability
Modern games eat up space quickly, so storage matters. The Ally X comes with generous internal storage (up to 1TB in some models), and you can expand via microSD if you need more room.
Keep in mind, though, that AAA titles can easily take 80–120GB each. Serious gamers might need to manage their library carefully or invest in larger storage cards. The good news: load times are fast thanks to NVMe SSD technology.
7. Controls and Customization
The control layout will feel familiar to Xbox players, with responsive sticks, triggers, and buttons. Feedback is tight and satisfying, and the device also supports button remapping for customization.
For longer sessions, you can connect external controllers via Bluetooth or USB-C, making it possible to switch between handheld and docked play with ease. Competitive gamers might still prefer a full-size controller, but for on-the-go, the built-in setup is more than solid.
8. Software Experience and OS
Because it runs on Windows 11, the Ally X is more than a gaming console — it’s essentially a mini PC. This means you can install not only games but also apps like Spotify, Discord, or even productivity tools.
That said, Windows isn’t as streamlined for handheld gaming as custom operating systems. Navigating menus can sometimes feel clunky compared to the plug-and-play nature of the Nintendo Switch. ASUS has added a custom gaming hub to simplify things, but if you want pure console-like simplicity, there’s a learning curve.
9. Connectivity and Accessories
The ROG XBox Ally X is generous with ports: USB-C, headphone jack, and expansion options are all included. You can dock it to a monitor or TV for a console-style setup, and external GPU compatibility means you can boost its power even further at home.
ASUS and Xbox offer compatible accessories like charging docks, protective cases, and extra controllers. If you enjoy customizing your gaming setup, the Ally X won’t disappoint.
10. Price and Value for Money
The price has yet to be confirmed and may differ by region due to taxes, tariffs, exchange rates, shipping costs, etc. What’s true for the US/EU may not map exactly to the UK or other countries. So far rumors suggest it will be around US$1000 or £800 in the UK, aligning with the current price of the ASUS ROG Ally X in the UK.
If you’re invested in the Xbox or PC gaming ecosystem, the value is clear. However, for casual players or those who mostly want Nintendo exclusives, the Switch 2 may still be a better fit.
Buyer’s Verdict: Is the ASUS ROG Ally X Worth It?
The XBox Ally X is one of the most powerful handheld gaming devices on the market today. With its sharp display, robust performance, and Xbox Game Pass integration, it delivers a gaming experience that blurs the line between portable and desktop play.
However, it’s not for everyone. Battery limitations, Windows quirks, and a higher price point mean it’s best suited for hardcore gamers, Xbox fans, and PC players who want gaming freedom on the go.
If that sounds like you, the ROG XBox Ally X is more than just a handheld console — it’s a portable powerhouse.
Confirmed Release Date
The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will officially launch on 16 October 2025 in many key markets including the UK, US, Australia. Some regions may have regional delays or staggered availability (for example, China for the base Ally might come later) depending on local supply, regulations, etc.
