Xbox / ROGMicrosoft and ASUS launched the ROG Xbox Ally gaming handhelds in October 2025, giving two impressive options for PC gaming on the go, the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. Which should be on your Christmas list?
Both models feature a 7-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Windows 11 with the Xbox full screen experience – which helps minimize background activity and defer nonessential tasks, so more system resources are dedicated to gameplay – and access to games from Xbox, Game Pass (where available), Battle.net and other leading PC storefronts, all in one place. In addition, both models come with 3 months of Xbox Game Pass Premium (where available) or PC Game Pass*. The key differences come down to performance, design, and endurance.
Ahead of Black Friday and the holiday season, we’ll help you make the right call on the best option for your next handheld.
ROG Xbox Ally: Compact and approachable
Priced at $599, the ROG Xbox Ally is the more affordable option in the lineup. It runs on AMD’s Ryzen Z2 A processor with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, making it less powerful than the ROG Xbox Ally X, but still capable of running most Xbox Game Pass and PC titles. The essential handheld for everyone from the casual player to the avid enthusiast, it’s designed for players who prefer portability and lighter workloads over maximum performance.
By default, it runs at 720p to improve efficiency and battery life, though the screen can output up to 1080p at 120Hz. The Xbox full screen experience keeps navigation simple, and recent upgrades to Xbox Cloud Gaming make streaming more viable than ever. The device supports 1440p resolution, 60 frames per second, and higher bitrates, which means smoother visuals and less input lag even when streaming demanding games.
The device is a strong entry point for anyone who wants a handheld built around the Xbox ecosystem without the higher price tag.
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ROGROG Xbox Ally X: Performance and endurance
The ROG Xbox Ally X, priced at $999, is built for players who are seeking the most advanced handheld with more power and ready for longer sessions. It upgrades to a 1TB SSD, 24GB of RAM, and AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, offering a clear boost in performance. Games like Forza Horizon 5 and Cyberpunk 2077 run at high settings with smooth frame rates, while the 80Wh battery keeps the system running for extended playtime.
Much like the ROG Xbox Ally, its contoured grips mirror the feel of an Xbox controller, adding comfort during longer sessions. The Xbox full screen experience completes the setup Commented [GJ1]: shifted this lingo so as not to confuse with game accessibility by giving players a console-like interface, while the aggregated gaming library integrates Game Pass, Steam, Epic, and other launchers from leading PC stores all in one place.
Head-to-head specs
Category | ROG Xbox Ally X | ROG Xbox Ally |
|---|---|---|
Operating System | Windows 11 Home w/ Xbox Experience for handheld | Windows 11 Home w/ Xbox Experience for handheld |
Comfort and Input | Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort, complete with impulse triggers for enhanced control. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R impulse triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU | Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R Hall Effect analog triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU |
Choosing the right ROG Xbox Ally for you
Both versions deliver the same all-in-one Xbox experience on the go. The choice ultimately comes down to how you play. The ROG Xbox Ally suits those who value portability and affordability above all, while the ROG Xbox Ally X caters to those players who want maximum performance and battery life.
If you primarily play on your console or PC setup, and only expect to be an occasional handheld player, the ROG Xbox Ally will tick all the boxes and then some.
However, if you’re always on the move and want the very best experience from your handheld, there’s no better option on the market than the ROG Xbox Ally X.
As the holiday season and Black Friday approach, both models offer a seamless way to take Xbox gaming anywhere, with cloud saves, cross-play, and a shared library across devices.
Requires internet connection (ISP fees apply). Products may not be available in all markets. Images are illustrative. See specification pages for details. Device specifications vary by model and are subject to change.
*Claim within 30 days of device activation. Valid payment method required. Subscription continues automatically at regular monthly price unless cancelled. Subject to xbox.com/subscriptionterms. Eligible existing Essential membership(s) will upgrade to Premium. For existing Ultimate members, the code will convert at a ratio. See xbox.com/code-conversion. Terms and exclusions apply. Game catalog varies over time, by region, device, and plan. xbox.com/gamepass. Game Pass Premium: terms and exclusions apply. Game catalog varies over time, by region, device, and Game Pass plan. xbox.com/gamepass. Xbox Cloud Gaming: Requires Game Pass subscription and supported device (both sold separately). Cloud playable games not included with Game Pass are sold separately, and may be made available with Game Pass in the future. Game catalog varies. Stream directly on Xbox consoles, or with the Xbox app or at xbox.com/play on supported devices. Select regions (xbox.com/regions) and devices at xbox.com/clouddevices. See cloud gaming catalog (xbox.com/play).