The collaboration between ASUS and Microsoft in the handheld console market has sparked significant interest, particularly with the upcoming release of the ROG Xbox Ally. As the launch date approaches, gamers are keen to find out where they can buy this exciting new device. With the growing popularity of handheld consoles and hybrid gaming PCs, especially in light of the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, all eyes are on this new player in the market.
ASUS has previously made waves with the ASUS ROG Ally, a handheld console comparable to Valve's Steam Deck. However, the partnership with Microsoft aims to deliver a more robust Xbox console experience that is portable. This means that whether you prefer cloud gaming or downloading titles, your favorite Xbox games will no longer be restricted to a single location.
The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X are set to hit the shelves on October 16, 2025. However, as of now, they are not available for pre-order. The pricing for these handheld consoles has yet to be officially confirmed, leading to rampant speculation fueled by accidental leaks and temporary listings, such as one that appeared on Amazon before being promptly removed.
To stay updated on pre-order announcements, you can register your interest at the following retailers:
ASUS: Register interest Currys: Register interest EE: Register interestASUS has initiated a countdown on its Facebook page, hinting that the pre-order details and pricing will be revealed soon. This is expected to occur at 5 PM PT / 8 PM ET, which translates to around 1 AM UK time on September 26, 2025. Recent leaks, including promotional materials shared by an Argos employee, suggest that the ROG Xbox Ally might retail for approximately £499.99, although this information has yet to be officially confirmed.
While the exact pricing for the ROG Xbox Ally remains under wraps, rumors indicate it could be around £500—a price point that aligns with the ASUS ROG Ally, another powerful handheld device. The pricing for the ROG Xbox Ally X is also a mystery, but it's likely to be several hundred pounds higher than the standard model, potentially reaching around £800.
The ROG Xbox Ally X positions itself as a more advanced version of the standard model. It boasts enhanced specifications, including larger storage options, increased RAM, and a superior CPU. Both models will feature a 7-inch FHD anti-reflection screen, support for FreeSync Premium, and a stunning 120Hz refresh rate, making them ideal for gaming enthusiasts.
The ROG Xbox Ally is designed to be versatile, functioning similarly to the Steam Deck. Gamers can access a variety of storefronts, such as Steam and the Epic Games Store, expanding their gaming options. Titles that have been verified for compatibility will be officially listed, while many other games may still be playable. Additionally, as an Xbox device, the Xbox Game Pass will provide a plethora of compatible games. Notably, Hollow Knight: Silksong has been prominently featured in ROG Xbox Ally marketing, indicating its suitability for this handheld console.
It's essential to keep in mind that while the ROG Xbox Ally promises impressive performance, handheld consoles traditionally face challenges running AAA titles at high graphic settings. Therefore, users may find that optimizing graphics settings to medium provides a smoother gaming experience.
In a market filled with notable handheld consoles, it's important to compare the specifications of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X against competitors. Below is a quick specification comparison:
Device Screen Size Refresh Rate Resolution Storage RAM CPU ROG Xbox Ally X 7" 120Hz FHD 1TB 24GB AMD Ryzen AI Z2 ROG Xbox Ally 7" 120Hz FHD 512GB 16GB AMD Ryzen Z2 A ROG Ally 7" 120Hz FHD 512GB/1TB 16GB AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Switch 2 7.9" 120Hz FHD 256GB 12GB Custom NVIDIA Steam Deck OLED 7.4" 90Hz 1280 x 800 512GB/1TB 16GB Zen 2We prioritize accuracy and detail in all the information we provide. Our dedicated team conducts thorough research on a range of tech products, ensuring that we stay current with market developments. We believe that transparency and honesty are essential, and we strive to offer unbiased, factual product information.
Our experienced writing team specializes in tech reviews and articles, leveraging their expertise to deliver content that meets the needs of our readers. While we may earn a commission through affiliate links, this does not influence our product recommendations. Our commitment is to provide you with valuable insights and trustworthy advice.
Author Kyle Purves is a tech writer with a passion for gaming and technology. Specializing in various electronic products, including consoles, Kyle is dedicated to helping readers find the best deals and improve their gaming experiences. When not writing, Kyle enjoys playing RPGs, building Gundam models, and catching up on the latest shows and anime.
