The Alliance That Changes the Game
In a move many gamers anticipated, ASUS’s ROG and Microsoft Xbox have teamed up to redefine handheld gaming with the ROG Xbox Ally X. Designed to fuse console simplicity with PC-grade performance, this device isn’t just a new handheld—it’s a bold statement about where portable gaming can go in 2025. Retailing at Dh3,499, it’s positioned as a premium option for players who want desktop-class power without leaving the couch, airport lounge, or train cabin.
Performance, Portability, and a New Standard
The Ally X (model RC73XA) ships with the latest AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and RDNA 3 graphics, delivering console-like visuals and PC-like frame rates on the go. The redesigned chassis emphasizes cooling efficiency, a larger 80Wh battery, and a 1TB SSD for fast load times and ample game storage. The 7-inch Full HD touchscreen runs at 120 Hz, ensuring smooth, responsive gameplay whether you’re racing through a hot new title or revisiting a beloved classic.
With this device, ASUS and Xbox aim to solve a long-standing dilemma in handheld gaming: power versus portability. The Ally X balances both, providing the performance needed to run demanding titles and the mobility to take gaming beyond a traditional living room setup. The ergonomic redesign—improved grips and refined triggers—means longer sessions won’t come at the expense of comfort.
Open-Platform Freedom: A True Mini-PC
One of the Ally X’s core attractions is its open-platform design. Gamers can move seamlessly between Steam, Epic Games, Battle.net, and Xbox Game Pass without barriers. This open ecosystem transforms the device from a single-library handheld into a true mini-PC that adapts to each player’s library and preferences. The experience is made even more compelling by the device’s storage and processing headroom, which allows users to install and run diverse titles—from indie gems to blockbuster adventures.
Xbox Experience, Optimized for Handheld Use
The collaboration between ROG and Xbox gives the Ally X a distinctly Xbox feel while tailoring it to handheld use. On startup, users encounter an Xbox-inspired full-screen interface, streamlined to work in Windows 11. Background processes are minimized to maximize in-game performance, and a dedicated Xbox button opens an enhanced Game Bar overlay for quick access to libraries, settings, and communications. ROG’s Armoury Crate SE is integrated to manage peripherals, profiles, and system tuning without interrupting the gameplay session.
Navigation is designed for handheld play. A handheld-optimized control scheme, along with on-screen PIN pad options and a controller-friendly Task Switcher, means users can switch between apps, streaming services, or games with minimal friction. The result is a polished, cohesive experience that feels both familiar to Xbox fans and new to those who want PC-grade power in their hands.
Pricing, Availability, and What It Means for Portability
The Ally X lands at a price point of Dh3,499, a figure that reflects its premium hardware, open-platform flexibility, and the prestige of a high-profile collaboration. Availability is targeted at the ASUS UAE eShop and major UAE retailers, making it accessible to gamers across the United Arab Emirates. For enthusiasts who want extra peace of mind, ASUS Premium Care – All Ally Warranty Packages are available with a 20% discount through November 30, offering extended protection as you transport, travel, and game around the world.
Final Verdict: A Hybrid That Defines a New Category
Rather than trying to replace consoles or gaming PCs, the ROG Xbox Ally X repositions portable gaming as a legitimate, flexible category. Its combination of high-end performance, open-platform freedom, ergonomic design, and Xbox-forward software experience shows what the future of handheld gaming can look like: a device that behaves like a console in the living room, a PC on the road, and a capable gaming station in between. For gamers who want the best of both worlds in one compact form factor, the Ally X is a compelling case study in portable power, versatility, and future-ready design.
In short, the Ally X isn’t just another handheld—it’s a statement that the best experiences don’t require compromise. With a strong price point, robust feature set, and a seamless blend of Xbox familiarity and ASUS engineering, this device sets a new bar for handheld gaming in 2025 and beyond.
