The ROG Xbox Ally marks Xbox’s first official step into the handheld gaming space. Even though, in truth, it’s mostly ASUS hardware with the added flair of Xbox’s software (and an Xbox button). The handheld promises console-level gaming on the go.
But while it performs impressively, the question remains: is it worth buying? Unfortunately, the answer is NO. At $599.99, the ROG Xbox Ally offers great performance but faces stiff competition from cheaper (similar price) and better-balanced handhelds, such as the Steam Deck (even its OLED edition).
What the ROG Xbox Ally Does Well… and Where It Falters
While the answer to the question is NO due to its steep price. There are still many things to like about the ROG Xbox Ally. It offers a 7-inch 1080p 120Hz display, which is crisp and fluid. The screen is paired with the AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, which also delivers smooth performance for most modern titles.
With support for Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, and more, it is one of the most versatile handhelds available in the market. The Xbox-inspired controls and comfortable grips earn high marks for ergonomics, and the device’s overall design makes long sessions easy on the hands.
However, the downsides start to show once you step beyond the stat sheet. Even though the AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor seems like an upgrade to the chips in the Steam Deck, it’s just a boosted variant that provides a minimal performance boost (we are talking within 10FPS differences).
The base model, which is $599.99, also only contains 512GB of space. While with careful management it can be enough, the price it’s been sold at should include a 1TB, especially with today’s large game sizes.
Speaking of large sizes, the battery performance of the ROG Xbox Ally seems reasonable, with decently fast charging. But as usual with handhelds, graphically demanding games drain it fast enough.
Performance Hype, But Software and Price Pulling Back
Early reviews have largely praised the ROG Xbox Ally’s performance and comfort. Yet, everyone seems to have the same gripe with it: price and software experience. Yes, Xbox has done a great job refining its ecosystem, but it’s not an Xbox just yet.
While most new games are playable on the handheld, the biggest complaint has to be the older games not working at all, leaving many users frustrated. Combined with its pricing, even fans acknowledge that while the Ally feels like a glimpse of the future, it’s not quite ready to justify the cost today.
The Xbox ROG Ally is a powerful and promising start for Xbox in handheld gaming, but unless you’re deeply invested in the Xbox ecosystem, better value options are already on the market.
The overall verdict on ROG Xbox Ally is somewhat positive, but it’s not a hard recommendation from most. But for its bigger brother, ROG Xbox Ally X, which is priced at $999.99, it might be a different case.
Is the ROG Ally the start of a new handheld war, or just another niche gadget? Let us know in the comments below.
