Microsoft and Xbox have released an official statement regarding why the upcoming Xbox ROG Ally and Ally X handheld consoles do not yet have a price, despite now being confirmed for an October 16 release. The two devices were announced during Summer Game Fest, and as Xbox ushers in a new era focused on Windows, some fans are on pins and needles, and not just about the price.
Speaking to IGN during Gamescom, Microsoft and Asus (the handheld’s developer) stated both companies needed more time to “figure out the macro-economic impact to pricing.” The ROG Ally line was previously leaked by billbil-kun on Bluesky to cost $549.99 for the Ally and $899.99 for the Ally X, but given the recent economic impacts of U.S. tariff policies, it seems the final price is far from set in stone.
Microsoft Says It Can’t Put A Price On ROG Ally (Yet)
But Leaks Suggest It Will Be Expensive
Given the leak from billbil-kun and the ending of the Xbox Series X/S, it’s reasonably safe to assume that the ROG Ally handhelds will be the first glimpse into Xbox’s future, and it’s likely going to be an expensive one. Asus senior vice president Shawn Yen told IGN and attendees that “we’ll be sharing more later, in September and October.”
Pre-orders are not open yet, despite the release date being confirmed, and with Ronald’s comment suggesting it could be September or October before we get final pricing, it seems that tariffs and market conditions are of great concern. Today, PlayStation is increasing its console prices in the US, citing tariffs and an unstable market as the main reasons.
“Macro Economic” Factors Mean ROG Ally Price Could Change
Prices Are Unstable Across The Board
With a concerning market and ongoing tariff policies and changes, even when the Xbox ROG Ally and Ally X get final prices, they could very well change. Nintendo recently increased the price of its Switch 1 offerings, and also stated that an increase in game prices and console prices for the Switch 2 was not off the table in the future. Xbox also increased its console prices, so the ROG Ally and Ally X are likely not immune to price increases.
The ROG Ally and Ally X, if the leaks are true, are already premium, expensive devices. Other handheld competitors, such as the Switch 2 and Steam Deck, are significantly cheaper, if the rumors prove to be true. Rumored high prices are running rampant, and with no direct pricing comment from Xbox, Asus, or Microsoft, fans are likely on edge to see the final pricing of Xbox‘s newest console.
- Brand
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Xbox
- Original Release Date
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November 10, 2020
- Original MSRP (USD)
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Series X priced at US$499 and the Series S priced at US$299
- Weight
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9.8 lb
