Introducing the Asus ROG Xbox Ally: A New Contender in Handheld Gaming
Asus is set to start pre-orders for its highly anticipated Xbox-branded ROG Ally handheld gaming devices on August 20, 2025, coinciding with the opening day of Gamescom 2025. This new partnership between Asus and Microsoft was unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase earlier this year, and it marks a significant addition to the handheld gaming market.
There are two models available for preorder: the standard ROG Xbox Ally and the premium ROG Xbox Ally X. The standard model is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage—providing solid performance on the go. The high-end Ally X ramps up the specs with an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB high-speed RAM, and 1TB storage, catering to hardcore gamers demanding top-tier power.
Both devices run on Windows 11, giving users access to a broad range of PC gaming platforms such as Steam, Battle.net, and GOG. This makes the Ally series versatile machines that go beyond typical console ecosystems.
The pricing reflects the premium nature of these devices. The standard Ally comes in at around €599 (about $690), and the Ally X is priced at €899 (roughly $1,050). While these prices place the Ally devices at a higher tier compared to competitors like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch 2, Asus aims to justify this with higher-end hardware and broader software compatibility.
The official launch is expected in October 2025, with gamers attending Gamescom 2025 getting hands-on opportunities playing titles including Hollow Knight: Silksong, Roblox, Sea of Thieves, and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4.
For gamers looking to invest in a powerful, Windows-based handheld console, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally promises to be an exciting option in the crowded portable gaming space.
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