Microsoft has officially stepped into the handheld gaming arena with the announcement of the ROG Xbox Ally, a collaboration with Asus unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025. This move marks Microsoft's entry into a growing market of portable gaming devices, aiming to deliver a true Xbox experience on the go.
The ROG Xbox Ally will be available in two variants: the base model, simply named ROG Xbox Ally, and the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X. Both devices run Windows 11 Home and feature Xbox-themed user interfaces, bringing the familiar Xbox ecosystem to a handheld form factor.
The standard ROG Xbox Ally boasts an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM and 512GB of M.2 2280 SSD storage. Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally X steps up the performance with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, and a generous 1TB SSD. According to AMD, both processors leverage Radeon’s comprehensive software suite for enhanced graphics and performance, including AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), Radeon Super Resolution (RSR), and AMD Fluid Motion Frames (AFMF) frame generation, promising smooth and visually rich gameplay.
Design-wise, the handhelds feature contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers, intended to provide all-day comfort. Controls include ABXY buttons, a D-pad, dual full-size analog sticks, and a range of triggers and bumpers—Hall Effect analog triggers on the base model and impulse triggers on the Ally X. Additional buttons include the Xbox button, View, Menu, Command Center, Library, and two assignable back buttons, complemented by HD haptics and a 6-Axis IMU for motion sensing.
Both models sport a 7-inch Full HD (1080p) IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, FreeSync Premium support, and protection from Corning Gorilla Glass Victus with DXC Anti-Reflection coating. This combination aims to deliver vivid visuals with reduced glare, ideal for gaming in various lighting conditions.
Connectivity is robust, with both devices supporting Wi-Fi 6E (2x2) and Bluetooth 5.4. The ROG Xbox Ally includes two USB-C ports (each supporting DisplayPort 2.1 and Power Delivery 3.0), a micro SD slot, and an analog audio jack. The Ally X upgrades one USB-C port to USB4 and the other to USB 3.2, maintaining the same additional ports. Battery capacity differs between the two, with the base model housing a 60Wh battery and weighing 670 grams, while the Ally X carries an 80Wh battery and tips the scales at 715 grams. Both measure 29.1 by 12.2 by 5.1 centimeters, striking a balance between portability and screen real estate.
One of the standout announcements alongside the hardware reveal was the confirmation that the eagerly awaited sequel to the cult hit Hollow Knight, titled Silksong, will be available on the ROG Xbox Ally from day one. This is a significant draw for fans of the original game and highlights the device's capability to handle high-quality indie titles.
Microsoft's approach with the ROG Xbox Ally reflects a strategic partnership rather than building hardware from scratch. The device is essentially a rebranded Asus ROG Ally, tailored with Xbox branding and software to provide a seamless Xbox gaming experience. This decision follows the footsteps of other companies entering the portable gaming market, such as Valve with the Steam Deck, Lenovo with the Legion Go, and MSI with the Claw.
Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, has been candid in interviews about Microsoft's intention to release a handheld device, and the ROG Xbox Ally confirms those plans. The gaming community had seen leaks and rumors swirling for months, but the official announcement puts an end to speculation and sets the stage for a new chapter in Xbox gaming.
The devices are scheduled for release during the 2025 holiday season, with availability spanning a broad range of countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, various European nations, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, among others. This wide launch underscores Microsoft's ambition to make the handheld a global product.
Pricing details were not disclosed during the showcase, but industry analysts speculate that the ROG Xbox Ally could be priced around $600, similar to the original ROG Ally's launch price. This positions the device competitively within the portable gaming market, offering a blend of performance and portability at a premium but accessible price point.
The ROG Xbox Ally is designed to play every game showcased during the Xbox Games Showcase on the fly, bringing the full breadth of Xbox Game Studios’ offerings into a handheld format. This includes not only blockbuster titles but also indie gems, expanding the possibilities for gamers who want to play anywhere without sacrificing game library or quality.
While some gamers may already own devices like the Steam Deck or various Nintendo Switch models, the ROG Xbox Ally introduces a unique proposition by combining Windows 11 flexibility, Xbox ecosystem integration, and powerful AMD hardware in a sleek, portable package. It also represents Microsoft's first significant push into this segment, signaling a commitment to diversifying how and where players can enjoy Xbox games.
In summary, the ROG Xbox Ally and its more powerful sibling, the Ally X, offer a compelling new option for portable gaming enthusiasts. With robust hardware, extensive game compatibility, and a comfortable, familiar control scheme, Microsoft and Asus are poised to make a strong impression in the handheld market this holiday season.
