Microsoft and Asus Launch Preorders for ROG Xbox Ally Series
The gaming world is abuzz as Microsoft and Asus officially announce the opening of preorders for their latest handheld gaming devices, the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. These innovative devices are priced at $599 and $999 respectively in the United States, marking a significant entry into the handheld gaming market. The devices are set to ship on October 16th, 2025, and are anticipated to redefine portable gaming experiences.
Pricing and Availability
The pricing strategy for these devices varies across different regions. In Canada, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are priced at $799 CAD and $1299 CAD. European gamers will see price tags of €599 and €899, while in the UK, the devices are available for £499 and £799. For Australian gamers, the prices are $799 AUD and $1599 AUD. These price points position the Xbox Ally series at a premium level compared to traditional gaming consoles.
In the United States, the Xbox Ally X will be available exclusively at Best Buy, the Asus Shop, and Microsoft’s official store. On the other hand, the Xbox Ally has a wider availability, being sold through major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and others.
A New Era of Handheld Gaming
Traditionally, console pricing has been more affordable, but the Xbox Ally series breaks the mold by offering high-end features typically reserved for more expensive gaming laptops. The Xbox Ally X, priced at $999, competes with other flagship handhelds like the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus and the Lenovo Legion Go 2. Despite the high cost, early impressions suggest that the design and comfort of the Xbox Ally devices are unparalleled.
Innovative Features and Specifications
The Xbox Ally series will be the first handhelds to feature a new build of Windows, specifically designed to enhance gaming performance. This version of Windows hides the desktop and Explorer shell, effectively freeing up memory for gaming and allowing for navigation solely via a controller. This makes the Xbox Ally series an attractive option for PC gamers seeking portability.
The $599 Xbox Ally introduces a never-before-seen Ryzen Z2 A processor, comparable to the chip found in the Steam Deck. It features 4 Zen 2 CPU cores and 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores, making it suitable for lower performance gaming with a TDP range of 6 to 20 watts. The more powerful Xbox Ally X boasts 8 Zen 5 CPU cores and 16 RDNA 3.5 GPU cores, designed to run between 15 and 35 watts TDP.
Global Reach
Microsoft and Asus have ensured that the Xbox Ally series will be available in a wide range of countries, including Australia, Canada, Europe, the UK, and the US. Future availability is also planned for markets in Brazil, China, India, and many more. This global launch highlights the companies’ commitment to making their innovative handheld devices accessible to gamers worldwide.
FAQ
What are the main differences between the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X?
The Xbox Ally X is a more powerful device, featuring 8 Zen 5 CPU cores and 16 RDNA 3.5 GPU cores, while the standard Xbox Ally has 4 Zen 2 CPU cores and 8 RDNA 2 GPU cores. The Ally X is designed for higher performance gaming with a higher TDP range.
Where can I preorder the Xbox Ally devices?
In the US, the Xbox Ally X is available exclusively at Best Buy, the Asus Shop, and Microsoft’s store. The Xbox Ally can be preordered from major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and others.
When will the Xbox Ally devices be shipped?
Both devices are set to ship on October 16th, 2025.
Are these devices available worldwide?
Yes, the devices will be available in numerous countries across the globe, with additional markets to be included in future releases.
How does the new Windows build enhance gaming on these devices?
The new Windows build for the Xbox Ally series optimizes gaming performance by hiding the desktop and Explorer shell, thereby freeing up memory and allowing for controller-only navigation. This results in a streamlined and efficient gaming experience.