Microsoft has unveiled two new handheld devices, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Below are the distinctions and essential details summarized.
After a series of speculations and leaks, Microsoft finally revealed the details at the Xbox Games Showcase: In partnership with AMD and Asus, two fresh gaming handhelds have been created:
– Asus ROG Xbox Ally
– Asus ROG Xbox Ally X
The “Xbox” branding in the names of these handhelds is not their only standout feature. We’ll share all the information we have regarding these devices.
### Asus ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X: the distinctions
Initially, the sole visible difference between the two handhelds is their color. However, a look under the surface – or simply at the specifications – reveals that there are distinctions in the hardware. Below is a brief overview:
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally X | ROG Xbox Ally |
|—————-|—————————————————-|———————————————–|
| Display | 7-inch, 1080p, IPS, 120 Hz, VRR, 500 nits | 7-inch, 1080p, IPS, 120 Hz, VRR, 500 nits |
| APU | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme | AMD Ryzen Z2A |
| RAM | 24 GB LPDRR5X-8000 | 16 GB LPDDR5X-6400 |
| SSD | 1 TB (NVMe 2280) | 512 GB (NVMe 2280) |
| Battery | 80 Wh | 60 Wh |
| Color | Black | White |
| USB ports | 1x USB 4, 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 | 2x USB 3.2 Gen2 |
| Weight | 715 grams | 670 grams |
According to Microsoft, the ROG Xbox Ally is designed for smooth 720p gaming, while the Xbox Ally X caters to 900p to 1080p gaming. Moreover, the X model incorporates AI features, a larger battery, and double the storage.
### Design and controller: Ergonomics take precedence
Asus and Microsoft placed a strong emphasis on making these handhelds feel like an Xbox controller with a large 7-inch display positioned centrally. This is why the handheld features grip horns, akin to those found on gamepads – especially the Xbox Wireless Controller. Sony’s PlayStation Portal sports a somewhat similar design.
**Triggers and analog sticks:**
– Integrated impulse triggers from the Xbox Wireless Controller provide haptic feedback for the RT and LT buttons. They utilize Hall effect sensors.
– The ABXY buttons closely resemble those on the Xbox Wireless Controller.
– The analog sticks feature illuminated rings, similar to the initial two Asus ROG Ally devices. Hall effect sensors are not implemented here.
**On the left side, there is a dedicated Xbox button**, serving at least two purposes:
– A quick tap accesses the Game Bar: A shortcut menu that provides entry to key Windows settings and the Asus Command Center.
– Pressing and holding opens the multitasking interface: Similar to the ALT+TAB view, enabling quick navigation between windows and applications.
(The new Xbox button has a geometric shape for improved alignment with the design aesthetic of Asus ROG products. (Image source: Microsoft))
**On the right side, there is the game library button.** This swiftly leads to a menu showcasing all your games.
**Additional controller features:**
– Built-in forward-facing speakers.
– Disc-shaped directional pad.
– Textured handles enhance grip quality. Upon closer inspection, the texture comprises numerous “Xbox” logos.
**Further hardware features**: Existing features familiar from last year’s Asus ROG Ally X have been retained.
– The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X supports “Asus XG Mobile” eGPUs.
– Two USB-C ports are located at the top. Only the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X includes a USB4 port; the ROG Xbox Ally features two USB 3.2 Gen2 ports.
– Memory expansion via a microSD card (UHS-II) is possible.
– The power button is equipped with a built-in fingerprint sensor.
### Software features: Windows – tailored for handheld use
**The shared objective of Microsoft, Asus, and AMD for these two handhelds:** The Windows operating system must emulate a genuine Xbox experience – just like a console. To accomplish this, Windows 11 has undergone substantial customization and