What Is the Xbox Handheld?
The Xbox handheld are compact gaming devices made with ASUS’s ROG Ally PC line. The two versions differ in speed and storage:
- ROG Xbox Ally:
- AMD Ryzen Z2 A CPU
- 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD
- 7‑inch 1080p display, 120 Hz
- ROG Xbox Ally X:
- AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme CPU
- 24 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD
- Same screen, extra ports, larger battery
Both models include Xbox-style grips and buttons, HD motor haptics, and power management designs for handheld use.
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Key Features
Xbox-Friendly Design
They integrate Xbox buttons (A/B/X/Y, bumpers, triggers, and the Xbox button) and haptic feedback similar to console controllers for a familiar feel.
Windows 11 + Xbox Full-Screen UI
The devices run a trimmed-down Windows 11 with Xbox-style menus, Xbox Game Bar, and a special full-screen interface.
Game Access
You can:
- Download Xbox PC games via Game Pass.
- Stream games from Xbox Cloud
- Use Remote Play from Xbox consoles.
- Play PC games from Steam, Epic, and more.
But console-only Xbox games only work if they support Xbox Play Anywhere or can be streamed.
Why Microsoft Launched This
- Microsoft watched how well handhelds like Steam Deck and Switch are selling.
- They want to bring Xbox gamers “anywhere, anytime” gaming in line with PC platforms.
- Collaborating with ASUS lets them speed up development using proven hardware.
How It Works: Cloud, Install, or Remote?
- Game Pass: Install or a stream Xbox PC titles.
- Cloud Gaming: Stream Xbox console games via the internet.
- Remote Play: Mirror your home Xbox console.
- PC Games: Install native PC games for offline play from other stores.
When & Price
- Launch is set for Holiday 2025 (around November–December).
- Rumors suggest €599–€999 depending on the model.
- Official pricing hasn’t been confirmed by Microsoft yet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Portable Xbox experience with home console feel
- Strong performance, especially in the X version
- Wide game library from Xbox and PC platforms
- Multi-mode play: install, cloud, remote, PC
Cons
- Runs Windows 11, which some find clunky in handheld mode.
Many console Xbox titles are not installable; they are only streamable or require Xbox Play Anywhere. - Battery life may vary under heavy loads.
How It Stacks Up
DevicePerformance EcosystemPortability Price Estimate ROG Xbox Ally Mid-Range Xbox, PC High (€599?) ROG Xbox Ally X High-end Xbox, PC Medium-high €999 (?) Steam Deck Mid-Range Primarily PC High €449 Nintendo Switch 2 Console-level Nintendo High €469
Who Should Consider It?
- Xbox Game Pass users who want handheld gaming
- PC gamers who want a portable Windows gaming system
- Fans of Xbox titles who prefer physical control feel
- People seeking more power and flexibility than current Switch-like models offer
Conclusion
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X bring Xbox gaming into a new era of portability. They blend console-style controls, a large game library, and a flexible Windows PC base. Perfect for those who want to take Game Pass and PC gaming on the go, these devices are powerful yet compact. If you’ve ever wanted Xbox anywhere, this is it—but remember, the experience depends on having a good game library and strong battery usage.
Microsoft and ASUS are set to launch these handhelds in Holiday 2025.
FAQs
Will Xbox console games like Halo Infinite install locally?
No. Only games that support Xbox Play Anywhere can be installed. The rest require cloud streaming.
Can I play Steam games?
Yes! You can install Steam, Epic, and other PC store games with full offline support.
How’s battery life?
Exact figures are not confirmed, but it uses an efficient battery-system setup. Under heavy play, expect a few hours.
When can I pre-order?
Pre-orders will begin in late 2025. Exact dates and deals are expected near the holiday season.
How much will it cost?
Estimates range from $499 to $999 depending on the model, but the official price will be revealed at launch.