The world of mobile gaming is getting an impressive upgrade: ASUS and Xbox are jointly presenting the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X – two handhelds that further blur the boundaries between console, PC and cloud. With full Windows 11, powerful AMD processors and direct integration of the Xbox experience, they are set to revolutionize gaming on the go.
Whether casual gamers or performance fanatics – the duo offers exciting options for both groups. But what’s really inside and how do the models differ?
- Full Windows integration: Access to Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, Steam and more – all in one device.
- Optimized gaming experience: Special Xbox full-screen mode, customized Game Bar and Armoury Crate for easy control.
- Two performance classes: The ROG Ally for price-conscious gaming, the Ally X for high-end demands with more RAM and storage.
- Mobile gaming without compromise: Game Pass, Cloud Gaming and Remote Play make gaming possible almost anywhere.
New standards for handheld gaming with Windows
With the ROG Xbox Ally series, ASUS takes the handheld experience to a new level. At the heart of both devices is Windows 11, which has been specially adapted for use on a handheld: From launching directly into the new Xbox full-screen mode, to revised task switching with controller, to seamless Game Bar integration. The latter has been complemented by the ASUS Armoury Crate and now allows quick access to input settings, device configurations and more.
A real highlight is the aggregated games library, which brings together titles from Game Pass, Xbox, Battle.net and other platforms. This eliminates the need for tedious jumping between different launchers – everything is immediately available. And those who are already at home in the Xbox world will also benefit: thanks to Xbox Play Anywhere, over 1,000 games with synchronized progress can be played on console, PC and the new handheld.
Two models, two approaches: Ally and Ally X in comparison
ASUS offers two versions: The ROG Xbox Ally is aimed at users looking for a compact, powerful device at a fair price. The Ally X, on the other hand, relies on high-end components for maximum performance and future-proofing – for example with AI-capable hardware.
Both models share the same 7-inch FHD display with 120Hz and FreeSync Premium as well as comfortable, Xbox-inspired handles. However, there are clear differences in the processor, RAM, memory and battery:
| ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X | |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Comfort & Input | Ergonomic grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers provide all-day comfort. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R Hall-effect analog triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2 assignable back buttons / 2 full analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-axis IMU | Ergonomic grips inspired by Xbox wireless controllers provide all-day comfort, complemented by pulse triggers for enhanced control. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R impulse triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2 assignable back buttons / 2 full analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-axis IMU |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A processor | AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme processor |
| Memory | 16 GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24 GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Memory | 512 GB M.2 2280 SSD (easily upgradeable) | 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD (easily upgradeable) |
| Display | 7″ FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9 120 Hz refresh rate FreeSync Premium Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC anti-reflective coating |
7″ FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9 120 Hz refresh rate FreeSync Premium Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC anti-reflective coating |
| Connections | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 1.4 / Power Delivery 3.0 1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC) 1x 3.5mm combo audio connection |
1x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0, Thunderbolt™ 4 compatible 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0 1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC; UHS-I with DDR200 mode) 1x 3.5mm combo audio connection |
| Network & Communication | Wi-Fi 6E (2×2) + Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E (2×2) + Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm |
| weight | 670 g | 715 g |
| Battery | 60 Wh | 80 Wh |
| Scope of delivery | ROG Xbox Ally 65W charger Stand |
ROG Xbox Ally X 65W charger Stand |
Frequent gamers and power users in particular will benefit from the Ally X with twice as much memory, more RAM for modern AAA titles and a larger battery for longer sessions.
Xbox meets mobility: functions, convenience and the future
In addition to the hardware, the new Ally series scores with well thought-out features: The ergonomic design with familiar Xbox buttons (including programmable back buttons) ensures comfortable control, even during longer sessions. The specially developed Xbox full-screen mode minimizes background processes and focuses resources on the game – for smoother gameplay and higher frame rates.
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Xbox is also working on a new optimization program for developers that will make it easier to recognize games that have been adapted for handheld experiences. Roblox will also be fully playable natively on the device at launch – another sign of how seriously Xbox is taking the topic of mobile platforms.
The integration of Gaming Copilot – a digital gaming assistant – rounds off the experience. It not only helps with navigation, but also offers tips, tutorials and community access in real time.
Conclusion: Versatile gaming power on the go
With the ROG Xbox Ally series, ASUS and Xbox are making a strong statement in the growing mobile gaming PC market. Whether beginner or professional – both devices offer a convincing mix of performance, user-friendliness and flexibility. While the regular Ally is a solid overall package for anyone who wants to enjoy their favorite games on the go, the Ally X is aimed at ambitious gamers with high performance and memory requirements.
Price and pre-order: Official prices and accessory details are still pending. The sales launch is planned for Christmas 2025, with availability in over 30 countries – including Germany, Austria and Switzerland. If you are interested, you can already sign up for pre-order notifications.
