
Asus, working with Microsoft, has announced two new handheld gaming devices called the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. These will be part of Asus’s ROG (Republic of Gamers) series and are expected to come out during the 2025 holiday season. Details about prices and pre-orders will be shared soon.
What’s Special About These Consoles?

These handhelds combine the Xbox and Windows gaming experiences into one small, easy-to-use device. Instead of showing the usual Windows desktop, the consoles start with a simple Xbox screen that is easier to use on a small display. This also helps save battery life. If users want, they can switch back to the regular Windows desktop.
The new screen lets gamers see all their games in one place—from Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and others—in a layout made for using a controller. You can also use Xbox Game Bar to quickly check settings, notifications, or apps like Discord using just the controller. Logging in with a PIN is also possible through the controller, just like on an Xbox console.
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ROG Xbox Ally vs. ROG Xbox Ally X
Both models have Xbox-style grips and buttons that feel comfortable and responsive. The Ally X model adds extra vibration features that simulate game effects like terrain and fighting, making the experience more immersive.
Microsoft says these new consoles use about one-third less power when in sleep mode, so the battery lasts longer.
- ROG Xbox Ally (White model): Best for playing games at 720p resolution.
- ROG Xbox Ally X (Black model): More powerful, designed for 1080p gaming.
Main Features of Both Consoles:
- 7-inch Full HD screen with 120Hz refresh rate and special glass to reduce reflections.
- Both run Windows 11 Home.
- Both support fast Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4.
ROG Xbox Ally (White) Specs:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A
- Memory: 16GB RAM
- Storage: 512GB SSD (can be upgraded)
- Battery: 60Wh
- Ports: 2 USB-C, microSD card slot, headphone jack
- Size & Weight: About 29 x 12 x 5 cm, 670 grams
ROG Xbox Ally X (Black) Specs:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (faster)
- Memory: 24GB RAM
- Storage: 1TB SSD (can be upgraded)
- Battery: 80Wh
- Ports: 1 USB4 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-C, microSD card slot, headphone jack
- Size & Weight: Same size as Ally but weighs 715 grams