Microsoft and Asus will showcase their collaborative Xbox ROG Ally gaming portables at Cologne’s Gamescom event starting August 20th, with global releases commencing October 16th. These devices combine next-gen AMD hardware with a customized Xbox interface for Windows, potentially positioning them as strong rivals to Valve’s Steam Deck. Early previews suggest impressive capabilities, while major retailers prepare to list both standard and X variants for pre-order.
While bearing Xbox branding, these handhelds function as Windows-based PCs rather than dedicated Xbox hardware. Compatibility extends to PC-compatible Xbox titles and cloud streaming services, distinguishing them from traditional consoles. The revamped Xbox dashboard aims to simplify navigation, addressing previous criticisms of Windows-based handheld ergonomics.
Notable hardware differences emerge between models, with the premium Ally X boasting AMD’s cutting-edge Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor featuring advanced AI capabilities. Both units share identical screen specifications but diverge in storage capacity, connectivity options, and battery size. The enhanced X model includes specialized Xbox controller triggers and expanded I/O possibilities despite minor weight increases.
UK Retail Availability
British consumers can currently register interest through Smyths Toys and Microsoft’s official store. Additional pre-order channels are expected to appear closer to launch, with pricing details pending confirmation from regional distributors.
US Retail Availability
American shoppers have access to preliminary product listings at Best Buy and the Xbox Store, though full specifications and pricing remain unconfirmed. Retail partners anticipate high demand given the devices’ hybrid PC-console functionality.
Technical Specifications Comparison
Performance expectations place the base model slightly above Valve’s Steam Deck, while the X variant demonstrates measurable improvements in thermal management and processing power through its advanced chipset architecture.
| Model | ROG Xbox Ally X | ROG Xbox Ally |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £££££ | £££ |
| Battery | 80Wh | 60Wh |
| Design | 715g, L/R Xbox Impulse triggers | 670g, L/R Hall Effect triggers |
| Dimensions | 291x122x51mm | |
| I/O | 1x USB 4 Type-C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, UHS-2 Micro SD card reader w/ UHS-1 DDR200 mode, 3.5mm | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, UHS-2 Micro SD card reader, 3.5mm |
| Screen | 7-inch 1080p 120Hz VRR display | |
| Storage | 1TB 2280 NVMe SSD | 512GB 2280 NVMe SSD |
| Memory | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 |
| Chipset | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (8 Zen 5/5c cores, 16 RDNA 3.5 GPU cores, 50 XDNA2 AI TOPS) | AMD Ryzen Z2 A (4 Zen 2 cores, 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores) |
The X model’s AI co-processor introduces new possibilities for performance optimization, though practical implementations remain undefined. Both devices maintain identical chassis measurements but differ in port selection and storage expandability.
Pricing Expectations
Industry insiders suggest approximate MSRPs of $900/€900/£800 for the Ally X and $550/€600/£520 for the standard model. Regional pricing variations may occur depending on import tariffs and local market conditions.