Tag: ROG Xbox Ally X

  • Pre-Orders for ROG Xbox Ally Launch Soon: Asus Update Inside

    Pre-Orders for ROG Xbox Ally Launch Soon: Asus Update Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds will release on October 16.
    2. Pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally are expected to start soon, with a countdown ending on September 25.
    3. Pricing speculations suggest the ROG Xbox Ally may cost between $500 and $600, while the Ally X could be around $900.
    4. A Facebook update about pre-orders was noted, but it was not visible on the US Asus ROG account.
    5. Both devices feature a 7-inch 1080p/120Hz display, with different processors and battery capacities.


    Ever since the unveiling of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handhelds, chatter about their costs and pre-order info has been spreading on the internet. Microsoft and Asus have announced that both devices are set to release on October 16, but up until now, there was no news about when pre-orders would start. It appears that the wait is almost over.

    Pre-Order Tease

    Asus has hinted on Facebook that pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally will be “dropping soon.” A countdown is set to finish at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT today (September 25). So, in just a few hours, fans eager for the new handhelds can secure their units, and the price details will be revealed. The post specifically talks about the white ROG Xbox Ally but doesn’t mention the ROG Xbox Ally X, suggesting that pre-orders for the more advanced model might begin a day or two later.

    Facebook Update

    This Facebook update was noticed by The Verge, but it appears that it’s not shown on Asus ROG’s US account. The Singapore account does feature the post, but only as a story.

    Pricing Speculations

    Speculation and leaks have suggested what the prices for the two handhelds might be. Last month, it was indicated that the ROG Xbox Ally could be priced between $500 and $600. Best Buy, at one point, mistakenly listed a price of $550 for the standard model and $900 for the Xbox ROG Ally X. Recently, a UK retailer’s leaked ad showed the non-X model priced at £500 (about $667 USD).

    Awaiting Official Confirmation

    In any case, we should receive official details soon. The ROG Xbox Ally is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2A processor and a 60Wh battery, while the ROG Xbox Ally X has the Ryzen Z2 Extreme with an 80Wh battery. Both devices feature a 7-inch 1080p/120Hz 500-nit display and come with dual USB Type-C ports.

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  • Ultrawide Handheld Device Powered by Z2 Extreme Released

    Ultrawide Handheld Device Powered by Z2 Extreme Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. An innovative creator has introduced the first ultrawide gaming handheld with a 32:9 display, designed for a unique gaming experience.
    2. The device features detachable controllers and uses the same AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme SoC as the ROG Xbox Ally X.
    3. Videos shared by PureDIY show gameplay with titles like Asphalt 9 Legends and music creation with FL Studio Mobile.
    4. The handheld has a small kickstand, but it’s unclear if controllers can be used when detached.
    5. While the device offers an immersive experience, it is larger than typical handhelds, making it less portable and user-friendly.


    DIY gaming handhelds have been around for a while, but they typically stick to what people see as a normal aspect ratio. This makes the devices easier to handle and lets them play all kinds of games. However, there’s no strict rules when it comes to having fun and trying new things. An innovative creator has introduced the first ultrawide gaming handheld, which comes with detachable controllers and uses the same system on chip (SoC) as the ROG Xbox Ally X.

    Videos Showcasing the New Device

    PureDIY, the mind behind this unique handheld, has shared some videos on BiliBili demonstrating the unnamed gadget in action. It sports a 32:9 display, matching the aspect ratio found in 49-inch or bigger monitors. Obviously, the resolution is much lower, but the specific details are still a bit vague. What we do know is that it operates on Windows and is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme SoC, the identical chip found in the soon-to-be-released ROG Xbox Ally X and the MSI Claw A8.

    Gameplay and Features

    In the clips, users can be seen sliding in the controllers and enjoying Asphalt 9 Legends along with another racing game. They even switch over to making some music using FL Studio Mobile. There’s a small kickstand located at the back, but it’s uncertain if the controllers can be utilized when they’re not attached to the handheld.

    All in all, this project is impressive and highlights the limitless possibilities of DIY creations. However, when it comes to practicality, it’s not the most user-friendly or portable device. It’s actually larger than a car’s rearview mirror and even bigger than the creator’s forearm when the controllers are attached. While it may not become the new standard design, it does provide a more engrossing experience compared to traditional handhelds, at least in games that support the 32:9 aspect ratio.

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  • Asus ROG Xbox Ally X: Digital Foundry Warns of Poor Performance

    Asus ROG Xbox Ally X: Digital Foundry Warns of Poor Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming devices will be released on October 16th.
    2. Digital Foundry’s performance tests revealed that the ROG Xbox Ally X is still a work in progress and may not meet all gamers’ expectations.
    3. Doom: The Dark Ages ran at around 50 FPS at 540p upscaled to 1080p, while Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 performed poorly at 27-30 FPS at 1080p.
    4. Digital Foundry recommends managing expectations, as the ROG Xbox Ally X is a portable device with limited thermal design power, not a home console equivalent.
    5. The performance of the ROG Xbox Ally X may improve by the release date, but current evaluations are based on pre-release software.


    The first Xbox-branded handheld gaming devices, the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, are set to be released on October 16th. At Gamescom, various media outlets had their first experience with these portable consoles, showcasing what the new Xbox gaming experience looks like on Windows handheld devices.

    Performance Insights from Digital Foundry

    Digital Foundry took some time to evaluate the ROG Xbox Ally X. Their investigation into the console’s software suggested that it is still a work in progress. Known for their performance testing of games on both PC and console setups, they ran titles such as Doom: The Dark Ages and Clair Obscur Expedition 33 on the ROG Xbox Ally X. The findings, shared in the latest DF Direct, might not meet the expectations of some gamers.

    Game Testing Results

    DF tested Doom: The Dark Ages on the ROG Xbox Ally X at a resolution of 540p upscaled to 1080p, using low settings along with DRS and FSR 3 “Performance.” Under these conditions, the ROG Xbox Ally X was hitting around 50 FPS, which is commendable for a handheld gaming console with a limited thermal design power (TDP). The outlet pointed out that aiming for a 1080p resolution seems a tad excessive for a portable device. Aiming for a resolution of 720p would likely be more appropriate given the small 7-inch screen size.

    On the other hand, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 did not perform as well as Doom: The Dark Ages. Running at 1080p with low settings and utilizing Unreal Engine 5’s Temporal Super Resolution, the ROG Xbox Ally X managed only about 27-30 FPS in the game’s initial level.

    Managing Expectations

    Based on this performance, DF cautioned that gamers anticipating the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X to deliver a home console experience with consistent frame rates in AAA titles “should temper their hopes.” Even with a robust Z2 Extreme APU featuring Zen 5 CPU cores and an RDNA 3.5 iGPU, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X remains a portable gaming device with a constrained power budget.

    That being said, the ROG Xbox Ally X units that DF evaluated were likely operating on pre-release software. Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if the performance improves a little by the time the ROG Xbox Ally X is officially released. Nonetheless, this remains speculation, and we’ll need to get our hands on the console before making any final assessments.

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  • MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Top Handhelds Get Windows 11 Gaming Boost

    MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Top Handhelds Get Windows 11 Gaming Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus and Microsoft’s partnership launched the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X during Gamescom 2025, showcasing Handheld Gaming Mode for Windows 11.
    2. Microsoft plans to extend the new handheld mode to three additional gaming handhelds currently available on the market.
    3. The Xbox full-screen experience will first be available for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, with updates for existing models to follow.
    4. The Xbox on Handhelds website has been updated but does not include the ROG Ally, focusing instead on the Legion Go S and MSI Claw 8 AI+.
    5. A clear timeline for when the Handheld Gaming Mode will be available for existing devices has not yet been provided.


    The recent launches of the ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X during Gamescom 2025 have finally wrapped up. Asus and Microsoft’s partnership is set to be the first to demonstrate the Handheld Gaming Mode of Windows 11, but they won’t be the only ones.

    Upcoming Updates for Existing Devices

    Microsoft has now subtly let it be known that three other gaming handhelds currently on the market will also get the new handheld mode for Windows 11. In June, the company shared some details, mentioning:

    The Xbox full-screen experience will debut with the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, and our next priority will be to update the available ROG Ally and ROG Ally X… Similar full-screen Xbox experiences are planned for other Windows handhelds, beginning next year.

    Details from the Xbox on Handhelds Website

    Interestingly, the Xbox on Handhelds website has updated to match Microsoft’s previous announcement about the ROG Ally X. However, the ROG Ally is oddly missing from the site. Instead, it features the Legion Go S and MSI Claw 8 AI+ (currently priced at $999 on Amazon) alongside the ROG Ally X. Sadly, we still don’t have a clear timeline for when Windows 11’s new Handheld Gaming Mode will reach existing devices. For further information, you can check the Xbox website and watch the hands-on videos linked below.

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  • US Pricing Leaked for Asus ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds

    US Pricing Leaked for Asus ROG Xbox Ally Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. The expected prices for the Xbox handhelds are $549.99 for the ROG Xbox Ally and $899.99 for the ROG Xbox Ally X, though not officially confirmed.
    2. A tentative launch window is set for October, with pre-orders possibly starting in August.
    3. Microsoft is focusing on an “Xbox on Windows” strategy rather than a custom Xbox handheld.
    4. The ROG Xbox Ally X features high-end specs, including an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage.
    5. The more affordable ROG Xbox Ally has a Ryzen Z2A chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage, sharing display features with the Ally X.


    A recent update from well-known tipster billbil-kun has revealed the expected U.S. prices for Microsoft’s Xbox handhelds made in collaboration with Asus. The ROG Xbox Ally is priced at $549.99, while the ROG Xbox Ally X has a price tag of $899.99. Although these prices haven’t been officially confirmed by Microsoft or Asus, they align with earlier reports from leaker eXtas1s, who mentioned indicative European prices of €599 and €899, respectively. There’s also a tentative launch window mentioned for October, with pre-orders possibly starting in August, all of which are still subject to change.

    Microsoft’s Exciting Announcement

    During the Xbox Games Showcase 2025, Microsoft introduced two new Xbox-branded handhelds and affirmed a Windows-based Xbox experience that includes a special Xbox button. Initially, we were only given a vague “Holiday 2025” timeframe for the launch, and no official pricing was provided. Earlier reports indicated that the company has opted to abandon a custom Xbox handheld, choosing instead to focus on an “Xbox on Windows” strategy. This approach aims to deliver the Xbox experience on third-party portable gaming PCs like the ROG Xbox Ally series.

    Specifications of the ROG Xbox Ally Devices

    At the reveal in June, the ROG Xbox Ally X featured an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, and 1TB of storage. It boasts a 7-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits brightness. Connectivity includes dual USB-C ports (USB4 + USB 3.2) and it is powered by an 80Wh battery. In contrast, the more budget-friendly ROG Xbox Ally comes with a Ryzen Z2A chip, 16GB of LPDDR5X-6400 RAM, and 512GB of storage. It shares the same display features, dual USB 3.2 Type-C ports, and is equipped with a 60Wh battery. Until Microsoft or Asus provide official confirmations, the pricing should be treated as speculative.

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  • Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X Release Date Leaked Details

    Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X Release Date Leaked Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pre-order Timeline: Customers can pre-order the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally from August 20 to 25, ahead of their unveiling at Gamescom.

    2. Release Date: Both devices will be available for purchase starting October 16, primarily in the European market, with a global launch expected around the same time.

    3. Pricing: The ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $899, while the ROG Xbox Ally starts at $599, differing in RAM and storage capacity.

    4. Performance Differences: The ROG Xbox Ally X features a more advanced Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, while the standard ROG Xbox Ally uses the older Ryzen Z2 A chip, affecting gaming performance.

    5. Storage Options: The ROG Xbox Ally X offers 1 TB of storage and 24 GB of RAM, while the ROG Xbox Ally has 512 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM, with limited upgrade options for buyers.


    Previous leaks have shared the pre-order timeline for the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally. It was mentioned that customers could book either handheld device between August 20 and 25, just in time for their unveiling at Gamescom. Now, Dealabs has revealed when these devices will actually be available for sale to everyone.

    Release Date

    The ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally will be available for purchase starting on October 16, which is almost two months after their first announcement. This date is specific to the European market, but it’s expected that the global launch will align. Waiting two months from the announcement to the launch seems like a long time, especially since products powered by the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, like the MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM, are already on the market.

    Pricing Details

    Another leak suggested that the starting price for the ROG Xbox Ally X would be $899, while the ROG Xbox Ally would begin at $599. The former includes 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1 TB of storage, while the latter offers 16 GB of RAM with 512 GB of storage. Currently, MSI’s website doesn’t show any other variations, which means buyers will be limited to the existing high-speed storage unless they opt for a complete SSD replacement. Alternatively, users could add a SD card using the UHS-II microSD card reader for older games that don’t require fast read/write speeds.

    Performance Differences

    Aside from RAM and storage, the main distinction between the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X lies in their System on Chips (SoCs). The Ryzen Z2 A in the latter is a somewhat older chip featuring a Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 integrated graphics, which may struggle to match the more advanced Zen 5 and RDNA 3.5 components in the former’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme. Overall, the standard ROG Xbox Ally appears to be a less appealing option compared to its more powerful sibling, particularly for 1080p gaming.

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  • ROG Xbox Ally Price Leak at Asus Store Sparks Xbox Handheld Debate

    ROG Xbox Ally Price Leak at Asus Store Sparks Xbox Handheld Debate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus Store suggests the ROG Xbox Ally X will cost €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally will be priced at €899.
    2. U.S. pricing remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from $499 to $799, potentially higher due to tariffs.
    3. Microsoft announced a Holiday 2025 launch for the ROG Xbox Ally series, with possible earlier availability in October.
    4. The new handhelds resemble the Asus ROG Ally series and feature 7-inch 1080p/120Hz displays, lacking OLED screens.
    5. Industry skepticism exists regarding the handhelds, with concerns about limited exclusive titles and competition from devices like the Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck.


    After the leaker eXtas1s disclosed the prices for the upcoming Xbox handheld options in June, evidence has emerged that backs up his statements. The Asus Store by MacMan, an official Spanish partner for the handheld gaming PC maker, reveals information when you type “Xbox Ally” into the search feature. If this store is accurate, the cost for the ROG Xbox Ally X will be €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally comes in at a higher €899.

    Pricing Uncertainty in the U.S.

    The pricing for the U.S. market remains unclear, though eXtas1s has proposed $499 and $799 as potential prices. Other experts have predicted that the systems might be a bit pricier due to tariff uncertainties. Microsoft has announced a Holiday 2025 launch for the ROG Xbox Ally series, but Jez Corden from Windows Central believes that an October release could be on the table.

    Official Announcement

    Microsoft officially introduced the devices during its Xbox Games Showcase on June 8. Instead of launching a brand-new console, the Xbox handheld products resemble the existing Asus ROG Ally series. Gamers can look forward to the same 7-inch 1080p/120Hz displays, as Asus opted not to use more expensive OLED screens. However, in addition to an Xbox control layout, Microsoft guarantees grips designed for better comfort.

    Skepticism Among Gamers

    Many gamers and industry insiders express doubts regarding these new devices. Former Microsoft Executive Laura Fryer sees the handhelds as a strategy for the company to move away from hardware. Fryer emphasizes that the ROG Xbox Ally options do not offer the straightforwardness typical of traditional consoles. Furthermore, with a shift towards a cross-platform model, there will be limited exclusive Xbox titles to attract buyers.

    To draw in a broader audience, Microsoft plans to roll out a full-screen interface that provides access to various marketplaces. Still, the prices of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X could determine their success. The potentially less expensive Nintendo Switch 2, which supports more AAA games, is a tempting alternative for console gamers. Meanwhile, the market for handheld gaming PCs is competitive, featuring the Steam Deck and several Windows-based options.

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  • New Xbox Handheld Prices Leak: €599/€899 for ROG Ally Models

    New Xbox Handheld Prices Leak: €599/€899 for ROG Ally Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Xbox Ally is expected to be priced at €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally X may cost €899, with U.S. prices potentially being $499 and $799, respectively.
    2. Pre-orders for the Xbox handheld lineup are likely to start in August, with a release set for October.
    3. The ROG Xbox Ally will use a Ryzen Z2 A processor, while the ROG Xbox Ally X will feature the AI Z2 Extreme processor, marking a difference from the original ROG Ally.
    4. The cheaper ROG Xbox Ally is anticipated to have a larger battery, improving performance, and both devices will include an upgraded Microsoft gaming interface.
    5. Potential buyers should remain cautious about rumors, as the leaker eXtas1s has had varying accuracy in the past.


    Many gamers are uncertain if the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X will be popular with buyers. However, a compelling price might persuade some to explore these new handheld gaming PCs. According to a reliable leaker named eXtas1s, the less powerful ROG Xbox Ally is expected to be priced at €599. In contrast, the more advanced ROG Xbox Ally X could have a price tag of €899. After consulting with retailers in Europe, eXtas1s shared that the Xbox handheld lineup is set to debut in October, with pre-orders likely starting in August.

    Cautious Optimism

    It’s wise for potential buyers to take the latest rumors with a grain of salt since eXtas1s isn’t always spot on. Nevertheless, the prices for the new handhelds in Europe should compete with those of the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. In the U.S., however, the pricing might be even more appealing. Although not officially confirmed, eXtas1s hinted at a price range of $499 for the base model and $799 for the X version during a podcast on YouTube. Gamers often see discounts on the ROG Ally, but the AMD Z1 Extreme variant has a suggested retail price of $700. The ROG Ally X, which offers more memory and storage, retails for $899 without any deals.

    Processor Differences

    Comparing the ROG Xbox Ally to its predecessor presents a challenge, as they are built on different processors. The original, more affordable ROG Ally was launched with the Ryzen Z1 chip, but that model is now hard to find, unlike the $700 Z1 Extreme. The new ROG Xbox Ally will feature the Ryzen Z2 A, which has fewer cores and threads than its predecessor. Conversely, the ROG Xbox Ally X will make use of the AI Z2 Extreme, an upgrade over the Z1 Extreme in the non-Xbox version.

    Battery and Software Enhancements

    The cheaper ROG Xbox Ally is expected to come with a bigger battery, which should improve its overall performance. Additionally, both Asus Xbox handheld devices will include Microsoft’s upgraded user interface for gaming along with revamped controls. Even so, Asus may roll out better software for other Windows devices in 2026, which might not give much reason for handheld gaming PC buyers to look into Microsoft’s options.

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  • Microsoft Unveils Two New Xbox Handheld Consoles

    Microsoft Unveils Two New Xbox Handheld Consoles

    Key Takeaways

    1. The first-ever Xbox-branded handheld consoles, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, were revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase 2025.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally X features AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme SoC, 24 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of storage, with a 7-inch FHD display and 120 Hz refresh rate.
    3. The ROG Xbox Ally is a less powerful version, using a Ryzen Z2A chip, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage, with a similar display but fewer USB options.
    4. Both consoles will run a customized version of Windows and include a dedicated Xbox button; specific pricing details are not yet available.
    5. The consoles are expected to launch during ‘Holiday 2025,’ with more information likely to be revealed at future Xbox events.


    After many months of rumors, leaks, and conflicting reports from various sources, the first-ever Xbox-branded handheld console has officially been revealed at the Xbox Games Showcase 2025. As predicted by an earlier leak, there are two consoles in the lineup: the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. As their names indicate, the Xbox Ally X is the more powerful of the two, while the standard Xbox Ally aims to deliver a similar experience at a more budget-friendly price.

    Specifications of the ROG Xbox Ally X

    The ROG Xbox Ally X will feature AMD’s latest Ryzen Z2 Extreme SoC, along with 24 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and 1 TB of storage. This marks the first handheld device to utilize AMD’s next-gen handheld chip, which was showcased at CES 2025. The console boasts a 7-inch FHD (1,920 x 1,080) display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a peak brightness of 500 nits. Like many handhelds introduced this generation, it includes two USB-C ports, one supporting USB 4.0 and the other USB 3.2. Lastly, it is powered by an 80 Wh battery.

    Features of the ROG Xbox Ally

    The ROG Xbox Ally, as mentioned earlier, is a less powerful version of the ROG Xbox Ally X. It swaps the Ryzen Z2 Extreme for a Ryzen Z2A, an unannounced chip that belongs to AMD’s Van Gogh family of APUs. Memory is reduced to 16 GB LPDDR5X-6400 and storage is scaled down to 512 GB. Fortunately, it shares the same display as the Xbox Ally X. However, it comes equipped with two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, losing the USB 4.0 option. Battery capacity is also reduced, now using a 60 Wh cell.

    Upcoming Launch and Expectations

    From what Xbox has showcased, both consoles will run a customized version of Windows and feature a dedicated Xbox button similar to their larger counterparts. Unfortunately, the pricing details for both consoles have not yet been disclosed. They are set to launch during ‘Holiday 2025’, suggesting that there is still some time before their release. Ideally, we can expect to see another look at their specifications during a future Xbox event.

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