Microsoft and Asus recently announced the launchMicrosoft and Asus have just opened preorders for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in the US. The prices start at $599 for the standard model and go up to $999 for the more advanced version. They will be available on October 16.
When comparing these prices to popular gaming consoles, they might seem steep. For example, the base model of the Xbox Ally is priced higher than a Switch 2 and even costs more than the original Xbox Series X at launch. In Europe and the UK, the lower-tier Ally competes with the price of an Xbox Series X.
However, gaming on the go changes the game. Unlike traditional consoles, these handheld devices offer the flexibility to play anywhere — whether you’re commuting or relaxing at home. The Xbox handhelds run a unique version of Windows designed for gaming, freeing up memory and enabling controller-only navigation.
Prices for high-end gaming handhelds have been rising. At $999, the Xbox Ally X stands alongside devices like the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus and the Lenovo Legion Go 2, which come with similar powerful chips. One standout feature of the new Xbox Allys is their comfortable design, making extended gaming sessions more enjoyable.
The base model, priced at $599, features a new Ryzen Z2 A processor. This chip is more comparable to what you’d find in the Steam Deck, offering lower performance gaming with fewer cores than the flagship model.
Looking at the trends, gaming enthusiasts are increasingly seeking portable options. Recent reports show that the handheld gaming market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to a survey by research firm Newzoo, around 60% of gamers expressed interest in handheld devices, indicating a shift in the way people prefer to play their games.
Overall, while prices for these devices are on the higher side, the innovative features and growing market interest suggest a promising future for handheld gaming.
For more information, check out Microsoft’s official announcement here.
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