What Is the Xbox Handheld?
Microsoft and ASUS have collaborated to bring the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X—two high-performance handheld gaming PCs tailored for the Xbox ecosystem. These devices combine Windows 11 performance with a streamlined Xbox interface optimized for handheld play, offering a new frontier in portable gaming.
Xbox Ally Release Date & Models
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally X | ROG Xbox Ally |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Comfort and Input | Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers with impulse triggers, HD haptics, 6-Axis IMU, assignable back buttons, and full-size analog sticks | Same controller-inspired design with L & R Hall Effect analog triggers, HD haptics, 6-Axis IMU, and assignable back buttons |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor | AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor |
| Memory | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 |
| Storage | 1TB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable) | 512GB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable) |
| Display | 7″ FHD (1080p) IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits, 16:9, FreeSync Premium, Gorilla Glass Victus+ with DKC Anti-Reflection | Same as Ally X |
| IO Ports | 1x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0 / Thunderbolt 4 compatible 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0 1x UHS-II microSD card reader (SD, SDXC, SDHC; DDR200 mode) 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0 1x UHS-II microSD card reader (SD, SDXC, SDHC) 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack |
| Network & Communication | Wi-Fi 6E (2×2) + Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E (2×2) + Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm, 715g | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm, 670g |
| Battery | 80Wh | 60Wh |
| Included | ROG Xbox Ally X, 65W charger, Stand | ROG Xbox Ally, 65W charger, Stand |
Release Date: Both Xbox Ally models are scheduled for Christmas 2025.
Base Model (Xbox Ally):
Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 A
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 512 GB SSD
Battery: 60 Wh
Display: 7‑inch 1080p IPS, 120 Hz, VRR/FreeSync
Price: Estimated $499–$599
High-End Model (Xbox Ally X):
Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme
RAM: 24 GB
Storage: 1 TB SSD
Battery: 80 Wh
Same display as base model
Price: Estimated $749–$899
How Much Is the Xbox Handheld?
Expect premium pricing given its hardware. The base model is likely to start around $499–$599, with the upgraded Xbox Ally X expected to land closer to $799–$899. This places the handheld directly in competition with high-performance gaming laptops and Valve’s Steam Deck.
Xbox Handheld vs. Steam Deck
Performance & Hardware
Xbox Ally X boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU and 24 GB RAM, far outclassing the Steam Deck’s Zen 2 APU and 16 GB RAM.
Both devices feature a 7-inch display, but the Ally X edges out with a higher 80 Wh battery compared to the Steam Deck’s 40–50 Wh.
Software & Ecosystem
The Xbox Ally runs Windows 11 optimized for gaming with a custom Xbox launcher. It supports Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and cloud streaming, as well as Steam, Epic, and GOG.
The Steam Deck runs SteamOS, a Linux-based OS designed around the Steam library. It can support other launchers with tweaks, but Xbox Game Pass integration is limited.
Controls & Ergonomics
The Xbox Ally feels like a split Xbox controller with a screen in the middle — a full controller grip layout with impulse triggers and stick placement familiar to console gamers.
Steam Deck offers touchpads, compact controls, and is slightly more travel-friendly due to a slimmer profile.
Battery Life & Efficiency
Steam Deck typically delivers 2–3 hours of gameplay.
Xbox Ally X, with its 80 Wh battery, is expected to last longer under standard settings, but Turbo Mode (for performance) may shorten battery life. Full benchmarks are pending.
Why Choose Xbox Ally?
Xbox Integration: Built-in support for Xbox Game Pass and cloud gaming with zero setup.
Powerful Hardware: The Ally X’s APU and RAM make it ideal for modern AAA titles.
All-in-One Launcher: Xbox’s streamlined UI consolidates Steam, Epic, Xbox, and GOG in one place.
Console-Like Comfort: Ergonomics rival the best controllers on the market.
Caveats to Consider
Higher Price Tag: Positioned above the Steam Deck, making it less budget-friendly.
Windows UI Learning Curve: Despite the streamlined Xbox interface, it’s still Windows under the hood.
Portability vs. Power: The Ally X is heavier and larger, better suited for home or travel bags rather than pocket portability.
Xbox Ally Release Date & Availability
Reveal Timing: Expected during major 2025 gaming events such as Summer Game Fest.
Launch Season: Holiday 2025, with pre-orders likely opening in Q4.
Xbox Handheld vs Steam Deck Comparison
| Feature | Xbox Ally | Xbox Ally X | Steam Deck (OLED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU/APU | Ryzen Z2 A | Ryzen Z2 Extreme AI | Zen 2 custom APU |
| RAM | 16 GB | 24 GB | 16 GB |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD | 1 TB SSD | 512 GB NVMe |
| Battery | 60 Wh | 80 Wh | 40–50 Wh |
| Display | 7″ 1080p 120 Hz | Same | 7″ LCD/OLED 60–90 Hz |
| OS | Streamlined Windows + Xbox UI | Same | SteamOS 3 Linux |
| Game Support | PC and Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic, others | Same | Steam library |
| Expected Price | $499–$599 | $799+ | $649+ |
| Ergonomics | Full Xbox grip | Same | Compact, trackpads |
Final Verdict: Should You Pre-Order The Xbox Ally X?
The Xbox Ally lineup marks a major shift in Microsoft’s gaming strategy. By blending PC performance with Xbox’s rich ecosystem, it offers a new way to game on the go. While the base Ally gives cost-conscious players a powerful entry point, the Xbox Ally X is built for those who want top-tier performance in a portable package.
If you’re a Game Pass subscriber or someone seeking the most console-like handheld on the market, the Xbox Ally is a compelling option. But if you prioritize affordability, portability, or are already embedded in the Steam ecosystem, the Steam Deck remains a top-tier competitor.
