What Should You Know About the Xbox ROG Ally Before Its October Launch?

The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X are new handheld gaming PCs co-developed by Xbox and Asus, designed to bring Xbox gaming on-the-go. These devices are equipped with AMD processors and are positioned as competitors to existing handhelds like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion Go, boasting unique features tailored for Xbox gamers.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The ROG Xbox Ally features a 60Wh battery, better than its Asus counterpart.
• Both the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X share similarities with the existing Asus ROG Ally.
• The ROG Xbox Ally X has an upgraded processor and larger storage compared to the base model.
• Lenovo Legion Go offers unique features like detachable controllers but comes at a higher price point.
• The Steam Deck remains a strong contender in the portable gaming market, offering competitive pricing.

Introduction to Handheld Gaming PCs

The market for handheld gaming PCs has been growing, yet it remains relatively niche compared to traditional consoles. Devices like the ROG Xbox Ally aim to bridge the gap between console gaming and portability. With the increasing popularity of gaming on the go, Microsoft’s partnership with Asus marks a significant step in catering to this demand.

ROG Xbox Ally Overview

Unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase, the ROG Xbox Ally is built on the foundation of the Asus ROG Ally but comes with Xbox branding. This collaboration brings unique features aimed at Xbox gamers, such as an immersive full-screen experience and a comprehensive gaming library integration.

Technical Specifications

The ROG Xbox Ally is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor, paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. While many may question its superiority over the Asus ROG Ally, the differences are minimal. Notably, the Ally boasts a larger battery (60Wh) compared to the 40Wh of the original Asus model, which should lead to better gaming sessions without frequent recharging.

Size and Comfort

Weighing in at 670g, the ROG Xbox Ally is heavier than the Asus ROG Ally (608g), attributed to its ergonomic design that mimics the Xbox controller’s contoured grips. This design choice makes it more comfortable for extended gaming sessions, a crucial factor for portable devices.

ROG Xbox Ally X: The Premium Option

The ROG Xbox Ally X steps up the performance with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor and 1TB of storage, accompanied by an even larger 80Wh battery. At 715g, this model is also heavier, but the upgraded specs may cater to hardcore gamers seeking more power.

Pricing Expectations

While official prices are yet to be confirmed, speculation suggests the ROG Xbox Ally will retail around £499, offering a lower entry point than the Asus ROG Ally. The ROG Xbox Ally X is expected to be priced similarly to the Asus ROG Ally X, around £799. This pricing strategy may influence buyer decisions, especially when compared to competitors.

Comparing with Competitors

Lenovo Legion Go vs. ROG Xbox Ally

The Lenovo Legion Go presents a strong alternative to the ROG Xbox Ally, featuring an AMD Ryzen Z1 processor and a detachable controller system reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons. It runs on Windows 11 and offers 512GB of storage that can also be upgraded. However, it has a lower battery capacity (49.2Wh) and is priced higher at £699.

Steam Deck: The Established Contender

The Steam Deck, with its established market presence, is a significant competitor. Priced at £349 for the base model and £479 for the version with 512GB storage, it remains the more economical option. Despite its lower specifications, the Steam Deck offers a smooth gaming experience, albeit with a more complicated setup for Xbox Game Pass.

Real-World Performance and User Experience

Initial hands-on experiences at Gamescom 2025 indicated that the ROG Xbox Ally delivers a quality gaming experience, with smooth performance in titles like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 and Hollow Knight: Silksong. However, the true test will be the device's performance in real-world scenarios, especially with popular titles and during prolonged use.

What’s Unique About the ROG Xbox Series?

The ROG Xbox Ally’s standout feature is its integration with Xbox’s gaming ecosystem. This includes quick access to a library of Xbox Game Pass titles and a user-friendly interface for managing games from various storefronts. This could be a decisive factor for gamers heavily invested in the Xbox ecosystem.

Conclusion

As the handheld gaming market continues to evolve, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X position themselves as competitive options for gamers seeking portability. While they may not significantly outpace their rivals in terms of performance, the convenience of seamless Xbox integration could attract a dedicated user base. Ultimately, the pricing strategy will play a critical role in determining their success in a landscape populated by strong competitors like the Steam Deck and Lenovo Legion Go.

As the launch date approaches, gamers will be keen to see how these devices perform in a crowded market. What will be your choice for portable gaming? Will you opt for the ROG Xbox Ally, or stick with the established alternatives? #GamingNews #Xbox #HandheldGaming

FAQs

What is the release date for the ROG Xbox Ally?

The ROG Xbox Ally is set to launch on 16 October 2023, bringing new features designed specifically for Xbox gamers.

How does the ROG Xbox Ally compare to the Steam Deck?

While both devices offer portable gaming, the Steam Deck is currently cheaper and has a more established user base, though the ROG Xbox Ally boasts better integration with Xbox services.

What are the key features of the ROG Xbox Ally?

The ROG Xbox Ally features a 60Wh battery, Xbox Game Pass integration, and ergonomic design to enhance comfort during gameplay.

Is the Lenovo Legion Go a better option than the ROG Xbox Ally?

The Lenovo Legion Go offers unique features like detachable controllers but is generally more expensive and has lower battery capacity than the ROG Xbox Ally.

What is the expected price for the ROG Xbox Ally?

The ROG Xbox Ally is rumoured to be priced at approximately £499, making it more affordable than some of its competitors.