The handheld gaming market has exploded in recent years, and ASUS’s latest collaboration with Microsoft—the ROG Xbox Ally—is a bold new entry. Designed to deliver console-quality Xbox gaming in a portable form, this device blends ASUS’s hardware expertise with Microsoft’s Xbox ecosystem. Whether you’re a Game Pass subscriber or a PC gamer on the go, the Xbox Ally offers a compelling mix of performance, design, and software integration.
Key features:
- Portable PC Handheld: Runs on Windows 11 and powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 series processors, allowing you to play PC games from various launchers, including Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, etc.
- Xbox Full Screen Experience: A major feature of this collaboration is that the devices can boot directly into a full-screen Xbox interface, which is optimized for controller navigation, making it feel more like a dedicated console.
- Ergonomics: The chassis and grips are redesigned, inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers, for comfort during long gaming sessions.
- Display: Both models feature a 7-inch FHD (1080p) touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium.
Models:
ROG Xbox Ally: Features the AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor and a 60Wh battery, generally aimed at 720p gaming.
ROG Xbox Ally X: The higher-end model with the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor and a larger 80Wh battery, designed for higher performance up to 1080p gaming.
Related: What’s the Best Handheld Gaming Console On the Market?
Design & Build: Premium Feel, Portable Form
The Xbox Ally features a 7-inch Full HD IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate, housed in a sleek magnesium alloy chassis. Weighing just 1.58 pounds, it’s lighter than most gaming laptops and ergonomically shaped for long play sessions. The button layout mimics the Xbox controller, complete with offset analog sticks, tactile triggers, and responsive face buttons. ASUS also added customizable rear paddles and improved haptics for a premium feel.
Cooling is handled by dual fans with vapor chamber tech, keeping thermals in check even during intense gaming. While the fans can get loud under load, the performance payoff is worth it.
Performance: Ryzen Z2 + Xbox UI = Seamless Gaming
Powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 APU (Zen 5 + RDNA 3), the Xbox Ally handles AAA titles like Starfield, Forza Motorsport, and Hogwarts Legacy with ease. Frame rates are stable at medium to high settings, and AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) helps upscale visuals without taxing the hardware.
What makes the Ally unique is its Xbox-first UI. Instead of booting into full Windows, users are greeted by a streamlined Xbox dashboard optimized for Game Pass, cloud gaming, and quick access to installed titles. Windows 11 is still accessible for installing Steam, Epic Games, or emulators, but the default experience is tailored for Xbox fans.
Display & Audio: Crisp, Fast, and Immersive
The 7-inch 1080p IPS display supports 120Hz refresh rates and delivers vibrant colors and sharp contrast. While it’s not OLED, the panel performs well in various lighting conditions and excels in fast-paced games like Halo Infinite.
Audio is delivered through front-facing stereo speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos. They’re loud and clear, though lacking in bass. Most users will prefer Bluetooth headphones or the 3.5mm jack for immersive sound.
Gaming Experience: Game Pass at Its Best
The Xbox Ally is built around Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and it shows. Cloud gaming is seamless with Wi-Fi 6E support, and local installs run smoothly thanks to the Ryzen Z2 chip. Features like Quick Resume, cross-save, and achievements mirror the full Xbox console experience.
With up to 1TB SSD storage and microSD expansion, offline play is robust. The Ally also supports external GPUs via USB-C, allowing docked play at higher resolutions. Whether you’re grinding through Diablo IV or exploring Microsoft Flight Simulator, the experience feels console-grade.
Battery Life: Good, Not Great
Battery life is decent but not groundbreaking. The 65Wh battery delivers around 2.5 to 4 hours of gameplay, depending on settings and game intensity. Lighter indie titles can stretch that to 5 hours, but demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 will drain it faster.
ASUS includes a 65W fast charger, which tops up the device in under 90 minutes. A performance mode toggle lets users balance power and battery life, but extended play sessions will still require a charger nearby.
Software & Ecosystem: Xbox Integration Done Right
The Xbox Ally’s software experience is its standout feature. The Xbox UI overlay is intuitive, fast, and optimized for touch and controller input. It seamlessly integrates Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and local installs. Users can jump between games, check achievements, and manage downloads without diving into Windows menus.
For power users, full Windows 11 access allows installation of Steam, GOG, and other storefronts. ASUS’s Armoury Crate SE software lets users customize performance profiles, RGB lighting, and controller mappings.
Upgradability & Accessories
The Ally supports microSD expansion, external GPUs, and USB-C docks. ASUS offers a range of accessories, including a travel case, a dock with HDMI out, and a clip-on keyboard for productivity. While RAM is soldered, storage is upgradeable via the M.2 slot.
Pricing & Value
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally starts at $699 for the 512GB model and goes up to $899 for the 1TB version. Although it’s more expensive than the Steam Deck and Switch 2, it offers better performance and deeper Xbox integration.
For Xbox Game Pass subscribers, the value proposition is strong. You’re essentially getting a portable Xbox console with PC flexibility. ASUS and Microsoft also offer bundle deals with Game Pass Ultimate and accessories, sweetening the deal for early adopters.
One smart way to offset the cost of the new ASUS ROG Xbox Ally is by selling your old gaming console or other used electronics through platforms like Gadget Salvation. Whether you’re upgrading from a previous ROG Ally model, a PlayStation 5, or even a Switch, Gadget Salvation offers competitive cash payouts based on your device’s condition and model. The process is simple: get an instant quote, ship your console for free, and receive payment via PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, or check. Many users report earning between $50 and $220 for well-maintained consoles, which can significantly reduce the Ally’s $699–$899 price tag. It’s a win-win—less e-waste, more cash in your pocket, and a smoother transition to next-gen portable gaming.
How Does Xbox Ally Compare to Other Handhelds?
ROG Xbox Ally vs. Steam Deck OLED
- Display: Steam Deck OLED offers richer blacks and better contrast, but the Ally’s 120Hz IPS panel is brighter and more responsive for fast-paced titles.
- OS & Ecosystem: Steam Deck runs SteamOS, optimized for Valve’s library. The Ally runs Windows 11 with a custom Xbox UI, giving access to Game Pass, Steam, Epic, and more.
- Battery Life: Steam Deck OLED lasts longer (up to 6 hours), while the Ally averages 2.5–4 hours depending on usage.
- Upgradability: Steam Deck wins with easier SSD swaps and repairability. Ally offers microSD and M.2 SSD upgrades but has soldered RAM.
Xbox Ally vs. Lenovo Nintendo Switch 2
- Display: Switch 2 features a sharp OLED screen with excellent color, but a lower refresh rate and resolution than the Ally’s 1080p 120Hz panel.
- Game Library: Switch 2 shines with exclusives like Zelda and Mario. Ally offers Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, and full PC compatibility.
- Portability: Switch 2 is lighter and more travel-friendly. Ally is bulkier but more versatile.
- Battery Life: Nintendo Switch 2 lasts longer (up to 8 hours), while Ally’s battery is more limited.
Asus ROG Xbox Ally vs. Lenovo Legion Go 2
- Display: Legion Go 2 has a larger 8.8″ QHD+ screen with a 144Hz refresh rate, ideal for docked or tabletop play. Ally’s 7″ 1080p screen is more compact but still vibrant.
- Software: Ally’s Xbox UI is more intuitive for Game Pass users. Legion Go leans into Windows 11 with more customization but less console-like simplicity.
- Battery & Cooling: The Lenovo Legion Go 2 has better battery optimization and quieter fans. Ally’s fans are louder under load but effective.
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally | Steam Deck OLED | Switch 2 | Lenovo Legion Go 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | High-end Ryzen Z2 | Mid-range APU | Custom Nintendo | High-end Ryzen Z2 |
| Display | 7″ 1080p 120Hz IPS | 7.4″ OLED 60Hz | 7″ OLED 60Hz | 8.8″ QHD+ 144Hz IPS |
| Battery Life | 2.5–4 hrs | 4–6 hrs | 6–8 hrs | 3–5 hrs |
| Game Library | Xbox + PC | Steam + Linux | Nintendo exclusives | PC + cloud |
| OS/UI | Xbox UI + Windows | SteamOS | Nintendo OS | Windows 11 |
| Price Range | $699–$899 | $549–$649 | $399–$499 | $699–$1099 |
Verdict: A Handheld for Xbox Diehards and PC Gamers Alike
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally is a bold, well-executed entry into the handheld gaming space. It’s not perfect—battery life and fan noise are notable drawbacks—but its strengths in performance, design, and Xbox ecosystem integration make it a compelling choice.
If you’re already invested in Game Pass or want a handheld that feels like a true Xbox console, the Ally delivers. For PC gamers, it’s a versatile device that can run Steam, emulators, and productivity apps. It’s not just a gaming handheld—it’s a portable entertainment hub.
Final Thoughts
- Pros: Excellent performance, Xbox UI, Game Pass integration, premium build
- Cons: Loud fans, no OLED, battery life could be better
- Best For: Xbox fans, Game Pass subscribers, PC gamers on the go
Frequently Asked Questions
Olena is an operations manager at Gadget Salvation, wearing many hats and navigating the intersections of efficiency and innovation. With a deep passion for tech and sustainability, they thrive on exploring solutions that drive progress while protecting our planet.
