Overview
ASUS’ Republic of Gamers (ROG) division has expanded its handheld lineup with two new devices: the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X. Marketed as high-end handheld PCs rather than traditional consoles, these machines marry PC-grade performance with seamless Xbox ecosystem integration. They build on the foundation laid by previous ROG Ally generations, offering notable enhancements while continuing to blur the line between portable gaming and desktop-level power.
Design and Display
Both models feature a compact 7-inch IPS touchscreen with Full HD (1080p) resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals even in fast-paced titles. The displays are calibrated to deliver crisp colors and responsive touch input, a crucial advantage for on-the-go gaming. The ergonomics emphasize comfort during extended sessions, with textured grips designed to reduce fatigue and provide a secure hold.
Hardware and Performance
The two devices diverge in memory and storage. The ROG Xbox Ally (standard) starts with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of SSD storage, offering solid performance for most modern titles. The Ally X, positioned as the higher-end option, doubles down on memory with 24 GB of RAM and expands internal storage to 1 TB SSD. Both consoles are designed to deliver PC-like performance in a handheld form factor, making it feasible to run many Windows games natively or via streaming services.
Operating System and Xbox Experience
Both handhelds run Windows 11 Home, enabling access to Windows-based games and apps. ASUS teamed with Microsoft to implement a dedicated Xbox full-screen interface. This optimized UI provides a console-like experience—simplified navigation, a familiar Xbox asset layout, and a focus on gaming—while attempting to minimize power consumption and memory use. The result is a hybrid approach that honors the flexibility of a PC with the convenience of a living-room-style console.
Xbox Ecosystem and Software
ROG Xbox Ally devices are designed to integrate deeply with the Xbox ecosystem. Features like Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Remote Play are highlighted, allowing players to access a broad library of titles and stream titles from a connected Xbox console or PC. The intent is to offer a portable gateway to both PC gaming and the growing catalog of Xbox titles, all without being tethered to a traditional desktop setup. With Windows 11 underneath, users also retain the option to install non-Xbox games and other PC software, preserving the flexibility expected from a handheld PC.
Availability and Pricing
ASUS has opened pre-orders for both models, including in Romania, signaling a broader European rollout. Prices start from approximately 3,200 Romanian lei, with the Ally X commanding a higher price tag given its expanded RAM and storage. Availability details, regional configurations, and exact pricing may vary by market, but the official messaging positions these devices as ready for early adopters ready to embrace a hybrid handheld-PC experience.
What This Means for Portable Gaming
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X epitomize a trend in portable gaming: merging PC versatility with the accessibility of a handheld device. For players who want the option of PC games on the go, paired with Xbox cloud and streaming capabilities, ASUS’s approach offers a compelling middle ground. The 7-inch display, robust memory options, and Xbox-inspired software layer collectively help reduce the friction often associated with mobile gaming while expanding the catalog beyond mobile titles. As pre-orders begin, enthusiasts will be watching how the devices perform in real-world scenarios—from quick-hit titles to more demanding PC games—when paired with Xbox services and Windows 11 on a portable platform.
