Highlights
- Premium handheld Xbox Ally X priced at $999.99, base model at $599.99
- Both consoles launch on October 16 with pre-orders open in 38 countries
- High-end specs position Xbox Ally X as a top-tier PC gaming handheld
Pricing and availability
Microsoft and Asus have confirmed the official prices for their new ROG Xbox Ally handheld consoles. The base model Xbox Ally will retail for $599.99, while the flagship Xbox Ally X carries a $999.99 price tag.
Pre-orders are now open via Xbox.com, the Asus eShop, and select local retailers across 38 countries. Both models will be released on October 16.
Specs and performance
The base Xbox Ally matches mid-range handhelds like the Steam Deck OLED, with 512 GB of storage and 16 GB of RAM. It features a high-resolution IPS panel, while the Steam Deck offers a likely more vibrant OLED display.
The Xbox Ally X aims for the top tier, offering:
- 1 TB storage
- 24 GB RAM
- AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor
This premium configuration puts the Ally X ahead of earlier PC handhelds such as Asus’ own ROG Ally X ($799) and Lenovo’s Legion Go S ($829), which use the previous-generation Z1 Extreme processor.
Competing in a crowded market
The Xbox Ally consoles will compete not only with PC handhelds but also with mainstream gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch 2, priced at $449 with its dock. While the Switch 2 offers versatility with detachable controllers and TV connectivity, it cannot match the raw PC-like performance or expansive game libraries available on the Xbox Ally models.
Microsoft and Asus are marketing the Ally as a device that delivers a full Xbox experience on the go, with access to Game Pass and PC platforms like Steam and Battle.net, while simplifying usability compared with older Windows handhelds.
Market outlook
The Xbox Ally X’s $1,000 price sets a high bar for handheld gaming, reflecting its premium hardware and PC-level performance. Whether players will see the value in the cost will become clear after its October 16 launch.
