ROG Xbox Ally X : Microsoft brings heavy firepower to the handheld console market 🎮

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It’s official: Microsoft is stepping into the handheld gaming arena with the ROG Xbox Ally X, developed in close partnership with ASUS. After years of rumors and prototypes, Xbox unveils a console that aims to combine power, ergonomics, and a custom software experience. But with well-established competitors, does the ROG Xbox Ally X have what it takes to stand out? Let’s dive into this ambitious new contender.

A design that feels like an Xbox controller  🎮

The ROG Xbox Ally X isn’t just a pocket-sized PC—it’s purpose-built for Xbox fans, and the attention to detail is clear. The grips mimic the ergonomics of an Xbox controller, with familiar ABXY buttons, a precise D-pad, offset analog sticks, and, in the X model, the signature Impulse Triggers for immersive haptic feedback.

© Microsoft

© Microsoft

There are two versions to choose from:

• ROG Xbox Ally : AMD Ryzen Z2A (Zen 2/RDNA 2), 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, 512GB SSD (user-replaceable), 60Wh battery, 7-inch Full HD (1080p) 120Hz IPS display, 670g.
• ROG Xbox Ally X : AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (Zen 5/RDNA 3.5, 50 TOPS NPU), 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, 1TB SSD (also user-replaceable), 80Wh battery, 7-inch Full HD 120Hz IPS display, 715g, USB4, and Hall effect triggers.

© Microsoft

Both models feature Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for durability and an anti-glare coating for outdoor use. Connectivity is robust: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, two USB-C ports (including USB4 on the X), a microSD slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The result? A premium, travel-ready device designed for both quick play sessions and extended gaming marathons.

A software experience built for gaming on the go 💻

Where the ROG Xbox Ally X truly sets itself apart is its software experience. Gone is the standard Windows interface that never quite fit handhelds. Instead, you boot straight into a full-screen Xbox dashboard, giving you instant access to Game Pass, cloud gaming, and your Xbox library. But it doesn’t stop there: Steam, Epic, Ubisoft, Battle.net, and more are all natively accessible—no workarounds needed.

© Microsoft

© Microsoft

Microsoft touts smart resource management to keep things smooth and battery-friendly, while still offering the openness and flexibility of a real PC. It’s a handheld that refuses to compromise on either performance or versatility.

© Microsoft

© Microsoft

The handheld console market: the new gold rush 🎯

The ROG Xbox Ally X launches at a pivotal time: the handheld gaming market is booming, with 12% annual growth and millions of gamers demanding mobility, power, and flexibility. Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, PlayStation Portal, iPad Pro—each brings its own vision, but appetite for portable gaming shows no sign of slowing.

Microsoft’s strategy? Leverage the Xbox ecosystem and ASUS’s hardware expertise, all while embracing the broader PC landscape.

SteamOS: the software lead that’s tough to catch 🐧

Despite all the ambition, Microsoft still lags behind in one crucial area: the OS. Valve’s SteamOS has won over gamers with its lightweight, handheld-first interface and ever-expanding compatibility. Even with improvements, Windows remains resource-hungry and less intuitive on small screens.

The ROG Xbox Ally X’s custom Xbox overlay helps close the gap, but for many, the Steam Deck’s plug-and-play simplicity is still unmatched. Microsoft has work to do if it wants to deliver an experience that’s just as seamless.

A fresh start for Xbox, but the real challenge begins now 🏁

The ROG Xbox Ally X marks a major shift for Microsoft, finally entering the handheld gaming fray with strong arguments: refined design, serious power, a custom interface, and real software openness. But the real test will be delivering a software experience that can truly rival SteamOS. The market’s ready, and so are the players. Now it’s up to Microsoft to prove it can earn a spot in gamers’ pockets for the long haul.

What’s your take on the new ROG Xbox Ally X ? Does the design, power, or openness win you over—or is Steam Deck still king? Sound off in the comments! !