Following 2025, handheld gaming has become more exciting than ever, and here, the most talked-about devices are the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally.
Because Microsoft teams up so closely with ASUS’s Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand, these products mark more than just upgrades in portable gaming.
Whether you prefer Xbox or PC gaming, these handhelds still make it possible to enjoy powerful gaming on the go.
The ROG Xbox Ally series gives mobile gamers not only a powerful device but also a whole ecosystem that provides desktop speed, user-friendly control, and optimal use with all kinds of games.
By running Windows 11 Home, users unite the easy access to gaming on Xbox with the endless possibilities of PC gaming.
Each model is designed to give top-notch gaming experiences thanks to its AMD Ryzen™ Z2 processor, top-speed RAM, vivid 120Hz displays, and controller-like ergonomics.
However, which one will suit your job requirements better? Is it a good idea to choose the more powerful ROG Xbox Ally X, or will the standard Ally do what you need?
The Evolution of Handheld Gaming
Remember when the Game Boy and PSP were first introduced? Though these handheld games amazed their own audiences, new ones are much more ambitious.
Even though the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch have made great progress, they are not able to deliver flawless performance and versatility, unlike dedicated PCs.
ROG Xbox Ally joins the scene as the first handheld that can have console-like features without sacrificing the firepower of a PC.
Thanks to Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, emulating, and native PC games, these devices are a big step forward for handheld gaming.
What’s especially important is that they are real Windows 11 devices, which means you can use all sorts of work applications or stream your favorite media. Not only do you play, but you can work with your tablet as well.
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally: Design & Build
In the world of gaming, design is usually neglected, yet that isn’t the case with this product. A lot of attention to detail has been given to the design of both the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally for gamers.
Similar to the Xbox Wireless Controller, these handhelds have comfortable grips that won’t feel uncomfortable after numerous hours of gaming.
It is easy to see how much detail has been given. The Beat-It Lite has buttons in an ABXY format, a D-pad, L & R analog triggers, and four back buttons that are easy to set up.
When you add HD haptics and a 6-axis IMU to it, the input becomes not only immersive but very tactile as well.
The moment you pick it up, the difference in comfort is easy to see. The ROG Xbox Ally X weighs 715 g instead of the original Ally’s 670 g.
Since the device has newer, stronger internal parts and a more powerful battery, it may be a bit heavier, but the weight is handled well to preserve the phone’s sense of balance.
As both models have the same dimensions at 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm, they are simple to handle and carry, yet it’s the unique grip system on the Ally X that is especially useful for extended periods.
Best Microsoft Xbox
Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console
ROG Xbox Ally vs ROG Xbox Ally X: Full Comparison
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A | AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Storage | 512GB M.2 2280 SSD | 1TB M.2 2280 SSD |
| Display | 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits | 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 120Hz, 500 nits |
| Display Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC Anti-Reflection | Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC Anti-Reflection |
| Graphics | Integrated (based on Z2 A chip) | Integrated (based on AI Z2 Extreme chip) |
| Controller Layout | ABXY, D-pad, Hall Effect Triggers, HD Haptics | ABXY, D-pad, Impulse Triggers, HD Haptics |
| Back Buttons | 2 Assignable | 2 Assignable |
| Full-Size Analog Sticks | Yes | Yes |
| 6-Axis IMU | Yes | Yes |
| USB Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | 1x USB4 Type-C (Thunderbolt™ 4) + 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| MicroSD Slot | UHS-II microSD | UHS-II microSD |
| Audio Jack | 3.5mm Combo | 3.5mm Combo |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions (mm) | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 |
| Weight | 670g | 715g |
| Battery Capacity | 60Wh | 80Wh |
| Battery Life (Average) | 2–8 hours (based on use) | 4–12 hours (based on use) |
| Expandable Storage | Yes (M.2 SSD and microSD) | Yes (M.2 SSD and microSD) |
| eGPU Support | No | Yes (via Thunderbolt™ 4 / USB4) |
| Use Case | Casual to moderate gamers | Enthusiasts and pro-level handheld gamers |
| Price (Expected) | Lower | Higher |
Read our guide to the best gaming monitors for PC.
ROG Xbox Ally – Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A |
| Graphics | Integrated (based on Z2 A) |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 |
| Storage | 512GB M.2 2280 SSD (User-upgradable) |
| Display Size | 7-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Brightness | 500 nits |
| Display Features | FreeSync Premium, Gorilla Glass Victus, DXC Anti-Reflection |
| Controls | ABXY, D-pad, L/R Bumpers, L/R Hall Effect Triggers, 2x Back Buttons, 2x Full-Size Analog Sticks, Xbox Button, View/Menu/Command Center/Library Buttons, HD Haptics, 6-Axis IMU |
| USB Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / PD 3.0 |
| MicroSD Slot | UHS-II microSD card reader |
| Audio Jack | 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E (2×2), Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm |
| Weight | 670g |
| Battery | 60Wh |
| eGPU Support | No |
ROG Xbox Ally X – Specifications
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme |
| Graphics | Integrated (based on AI Z2 Extreme) |
| RAM | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 |
| Storage | 1TB M.2 2280 SSD (User-upgradable) |
| Display Size | 7-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Brightness | 500 nits |
| Display Features | FreeSync Premium, Gorilla Glass Victus, DXC Anti-Reflection |
| Controls | ABXY, D-pad, L/R Bumpers, L/R Impulse Triggers, 2x Back Buttons, 2x Full-Size Analog Sticks, Xbox Button, View/Menu/Command Center/Library Buttons, HD Haptics, 6-Axis IMU |
| USB Ports | 1x USB4 Type-C (Thunderbolt™ 4) + 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| MicroSD Slot | UHS-II microSD card reader |
| Audio Jack | 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E (2×2), Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Dimensions | 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7 mm |
| Weight | 715g |
| Battery | 80Wh |
| eGPU Support | Yes (via Thunderbolt™ 4 / USB4) |
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally Operating System
Let’s concentrate on software for a moment. The reason these two devices ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally are so revolutionary is that they run on the Windows 11 Home operating system.
Unlike other operating systems for mobile devices, this one provides all the features of Windows.
What is important about it? To begin, you can get Steam, Epic Games Store, and the Xbox app and even download Photoshop or OBS.
Whether you’re playing “Starfield,” editing on YouTube, or livestreaming, these devices act as a PC that’s been made for gaming.
Thanks to the Command Center button, it’s quite easy to get to the important controls and your favorite apps.
You’re in charge of game modes, fan speeds, and performance profiles, all while you are in your game.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate lets you play hundreds of games, and with Microsoft’s Windows, you can also access many other kinds of titles besides Xbox ones.
Those who prefer retro games will enjoy that the console can run emulators, allowing them to try all kinds of classic games on one device.
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally Processor & Performance
These gadgets are at their best when running games or other challenging tasks. The AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor is in the ROG Xbox Ally X, but the ROG Xbox Ally includes an AMD Ryzen Z2 A.
What is the main distinction?
With AI helping out, Ryzen Z2 Extreme offers smoother multitasking, improved cooling, and clocks that are faster than before.
You will observe a better gaming experience, mainly when playing high-definition games such as “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Elden Ring.”
Multitasking? At the same time, are you streaming your video, recording it, and running other apps too? No problem.
At the same time, the regular Ally’s Ryzen Z2 chip is still powerful. Gaming in the casual to mid-range is done well, with the system also able to stand up to some stress. The game is well suited for Xbox Game Pass holders or those not looking for advanced hardware but who expect a stable performance and fast loading times.
The main thing that distinguishes them is their excellent energy efficiency. Because they use AMD’s latest technology, these laptops manage to combine power, long battery life, and good performance, satisfying people who use laptops often on the go.
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally Memory & Storage Capabilities
In terms of memory and storage, the ROG Xbox Ally X proves to have stronger and more advanced features.
Its 24GB of RAM is more than the 16GB found in the regular ROG Xbox Ally. What reasons are there for caring about this?
Without sufficient RAM, tasks become harder, and the experience of playing a game slows down.
Because the Ally X has larger storage and faster internet, the screen runs smoother, assets load quickly, and there is little interference during demanding AAA gaming or when using several applications.
The contrast is even bigger when you pay attention to upgrading the storage. You can store twice as much with the Ally X, since its 1TB M.2 2280 SSD replaces the standard Ally’s 512GB M.2 2280 SSD. Both can be upgraded to great effect, but the Ally X gives you more space to start with.
For serious gamers with lots of large games such as Call of Duty: Warzone, Red Dead Redemption 2, or Starfield, additional memory and storage are very important.
With a fast UHS-II microSD card, the regular Ally delivers great results even for casual users who have the 512GB and 16GB memory storage.
Looking at just the specifications and future-proofing, the Ally X comes out ahead of the rest.
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally Display Technology
It doesn’t matter how strong the components are: the impression comes from how great the screen is, and these phones keep that promise.
The same goes for the Ally and Ally X—they both sport an IPS display that’s 7 inches large and runs at 120 120Hz.
This marks a big difference from standard handheld screens because not only do images look sharp, but the games are also very responsive, which is very important in games where everything depends on quick reactions.
Since the HDR panel has 500 nits of peak brightness, you should not encounter any image visibility issues from dim areas to areas that receive plenty of light.
In addition, ASUS went further by putting Corning Gorilla Glass Victus on the screen, ensuring it stays protected from scratches and reflections.
What practical results can we get from what I have explained? Games are visible even in bright daylight, you’ll find tremendous contrast during nighttime, and the colors look great.
FreeSync Premium technology helps ensure that there is no tearing or stuttering, so you get a beautiful and smooth result when gaming.
The 16:9 aspect ratio is the ideal ratio for people who like watching movies and television series.
Whether you’re playing Halo Infinite, streaming from Netflix, or editing what you’ve created, this display works really well and efficiently.
All in all, the screen helps both devices feel upper class, and to sum up, if you constantly play games and aim for the best visual quality, having additional hardware protection on the Ally X is a good idea.
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally Input & Control Systems
The controls are what really set the handheld apart and make it enjoyable. Though both models are Xbox-style, they come with some variations that might lead you to pick one over the other.
This gaming controller comes with L & R impulse triggers for providing the same type of force feedback as a standard Xbox controller.
The difference shows in action-packed games like Tomb Raider, where using the bow makes you feel more in the story, or in Forza Horizon, where revving the car’s engine enriches your experience. The way you can feel the controls makes the game even more intense.
The Xbox Ally from ROG features Hall Effect analog triggers that make it easy to play and stay accurate and reliable in the long run.
Having limited feedback from the controller makes it possible to play more accurately, making you more ready to attack opponents or shoot down UFOs, for example.
They also contain similar features such as
- 2x assignable back buttons – perfect for customizing gameplay.
- HD haptics – for immersive tactile responses.
- 6-Axis IMU – enabling motion controls in supported games.
- Command Center button – one-touch access to settings.
- Library button – direct access to your games.
The layout is well planned, small in size, and made for playing games over many years. Buttons are responsive, the sticks are good to use, and the way the device balances means your wrists stay fresh for longer.
All in all, although both are great for input, the Ally X’s impulse triggers and polished grips make it preferred by those who value how immersive and precise a VR headset can be.
ROG Xbox Ally X and Ally Battery Life & Power Efficiency
The next big factor to consider is battery performance. The Nintendo Ally X is equipped with an 80Wh battery; however, the same model from Xbox is built with a 60Wh battery. Getting 33% more time is very important in mobile gaming.
In real-world use, that means:
- 4–6 hours of heavy gaming on the Ally X
- 2.5–4 hours on the standard Ally, depending on game intensity
On a standard Ally, the game can take you between 2.5 and 4 hours if the pace stays moderate.
Because of AMD’s energy-efficient technology in the CPUs, the laptops are built to last for a long period.
Thus, the Ally X’s larger battery and better cooling system ensure long gaming sessions without having to pause for a charger.
When you find yourself running low, find a charger. Both have Power Delivery 3.0 and USB-C fast charging, so you can charge your phone up to 50% in less than half an hour.
You can charge your device quickly and smoothly whether it’s in the middle of a campaign or when you’re away from home.
Once you set your own power profiles in the Command Center, you can switch between running the processor hard or saving power whenever needed.
If you’d like to watch YouTube or surf the internet, here are the steps. Turning on Battery Saver mode helps save much more battery power.
Connectivity and Expansion Options
The ability to connect influences a handheld gaming device, mainly in 2025, when people want to move smoothly from gaming to streaming and work. Luckily, both the Ally X and Ally are strong here, so the Ally X takes the lead once more because of its wide range of uses.
Let’s look at the ports:
ROG Xbox Ally X
- 1x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1, Power Delivery 3.0, and Thunderbolt™ 4 compatibility
- 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0
- 1x UHS-II microSD card reader
- 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
ROG Xbox Ally
1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0
1x UHS-II microSD card reader
Both computers offer great expansion, but the addition of Thunderbolt™ 4 in the Ally X makes it very notable.
Thanks to this, using an external GPU, adding more storage, or a desktop-like dock will now be possible. You can use your phone to make or play games as comfortably as on a computer.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 allows you to utilize SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards in the UHS-II microSD card slot to enhance your storage if you don’t want to depend only on internal storage.
Because there are two USB-C ports, you can charge your gadget and use peripherals at the same time.
The ability to attach a 4K monitor, a microphone, a camera, and an external SSD at the same time helps creators and streamers a lot.
The Nintendo Switch isn’t just a game system—it brings my whole operation with me on the go.
ROG Xbox Ally vs. ROG Xbox Ally X: Which One Should You Buy?
So, which should you choose? It really comes down to your priorities and budget.
Choose ROG Xbox Ally X if:
- You want maximum performance with the latest Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme CPU
- 24GB RAM and 1TB SSD are must-haves
- You prefer longer battery life (80Wh)
- You’ll need Thunderbolt 4 for future expansion
- You’ve been gaming for hours and want impulse triggers and better grip ergonomics
Choose ROG XBOX Ally if:
- You’re on a budget but still want AAA gaming on the go
- 16GB RAM and 512GB storage to meet your needs
- You won’t mind the shorter battery life (60Wh)
- You still want a powerful, flexible, and sleek device
In terms of value, the original Ally delivers serious bang for your buck. But for power users, streamers, and hardcore gamers, the Ally X is the ultimate handheld experience in 2025.
Final Verdict
In 2025, the competition for handheld supremacy just got a serious shake-up. Although the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X have a lot in common, they have different uses.
For people seeking the latest mobile technology at its best, the Ally X delivers everything: advanced power, better control, and a long battery life.
When it comes to the Ally, it is still a great choice for those who want comfort, fit well with other gear, and are cost-conscious without having to pay much attention to power.
Whatever method you pick, one thing is clear: playing handheld games has never been this impressive.
