Handheld gaming is entering a new era. ASUS and Xbox have teamed up to launch two new handheld gaming consoles that blend the flexibility of Windows 11 with the streamlined, console-style experience of Xbox. The newly announced ROG XBOX ALLY and ROG XBOX ALLY X are designed to give gamers more ways to play, whether at home, on the go, or anywhere in between.
The two models cater to different types of players. The ROG XBOX ALLY offers solid everyday performance, while the ROG XBOX ALLY X delivers extended battery life and premium features for those who want more from their handheld. Both devices are coming soon to Best Buy Canada, with the premium model of ROG XBOX ALLY X launching exclusively at Best Buy.
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ROG XBOX ALLY: a versatile handheld for everyday gaming
Designed for portability and performance, the ROG XBOX ALLY features an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor and RDNA 2 graphics, paired with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. It runs Windows 11, giving users full access to their game libraries across Xbox, Steam, Epic Games, and more.
The 7-inch Full HD display supports a 120Hz refresh rate and FreeSync Premium for smooth visuals, while the controls follow the familiar Xbox layout with responsive haptics. What makes this model stand out is its dedicated Xbox boot mode, which launches directly into a full-screen Xbox interface optimized for handheld play.
ROG XBOX ALLY X: for gamers who want more
For those looking for more power and longer play sessions, the ROG XBOX ALLY X builds on the original design with upgraded specs. It includes a Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor with RDNA 3.5 graphics, 24GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The battery also gets a significant boost, jumping to 80Wh, and the internal cooling system has been enhanced with dual fans, dust filters, and a third exhaust vent.
The result is a device that handles AAA titles with ease and stays cool and comfortable in extended gaming sessions. The updated design features larger grips, impulse triggers, and added comfort touches like RGB joystick halos.
Key highlights from ASUS
ASUS and Xbox have worked closely to improve the handheld gaming experience, bringing a mix of console-style simplicity and PC-level flexibility. Some standout features include:
- Xbox-first interface: Both devices feature a streamlined Xbox UI on startup, built for button navigation and instant game access.
- Full Windows 11 functionality: Underneath the Xbox experience is a complete Windows OS, offering access to all your PC games, including modded titles and game libraries from multiple stores.
- Game sync with Xbox Play Anywhere: Pick up right where you left off, with cloud-synced progress and achievements across your Xbox, PC, and Ally device.
- Quick access with Xbox Game Bar: A dedicated Xbox button gives you instant access to performance settings, chat, screen capture, and more.
- Power efficiency and performance: AMD Fluid Motion Frames support smoother visuals, while the Ryzen Z2 series improves both speed and battery life.
- AI-ready hardware: The Ally X includes an onboard NPU, setting the stage for future AI-powered gaming experiences.
Want to be the first to know when they arrive?
Both the ROG XBOX ALLY and ALLY X are coming soon to Best Buy Canada. If you’d like to be the first to hear about availability, pricing, and launch updates, you can sign up here.
In the meantime, explore more handheld gaming PCs available now at Best Buy and find the right setup for your playstyle.
