The ROG Xbox Ally family brings Windows handheld design into your hands, with console-like controls and a bright 120 Hz screen. Meanwhile, the Xbox app and Game Pass make setup simple, so your library and cloud play feel familiar. The latest refresh adds smarter thermals, more endurance, and quality-of-life tweaks that matter on the couch or on a commute.
Notably, ROG Xbox Ally stands out because it blends PC power with console ease. Therefore, you get native Windows games, Xbox features, and quick suspend or resume flows that feel natural on a handheld. Next, we will cover the lineup, key changes, Xbox tie-ins, and practical buying advice.
What ROG Xbox Ally Is
ROG Ally is ASUS’s Windows gaming handheld line, built around AMD’s Ryzen Z1 series APUs and a 7 inch 1080p 120 Hz display. Similarly, the lineup includes the original 2023 model and a newer ROG Ally X refresh that focuses on battery life, thermals, and usability. Together, they target PC libraries and Xbox services with console-grade inputs in a portable form.
Consequently, the family positions itself as a handheld PC you play like a console, not a console you configure like a PC.
ROG Xbox Ally Models And Key Differences
- ROG Ally 2023 (Ryzen Z1 series)
- Focus: lighter build, 40 Wh battery, 16 GB memory, M.2 2230 storage.
- Notes: 7 inch 1080p 120 Hz, VRR support, microSD slot, single USB-C plus a proprietary eGPU connector.
- ROG Ally X (latest refresh)
- Focus: larger battery, higher memory capacity and speed, roomier storage slot.
- Notes: revised grips and sticks, improved cooling, two USB-C ports including a high-bandwidth option, removal of the proprietary eGPU connector.
ROG Xbox Ally Hardware Specs At A Glance
ROG Ally models use AMD Ryzen Z1 series APUs with RDNA-based integrated graphics. Meanwhile, both feature a 7 inch 1080p IPS panel at 120 Hz with VRR for smoother play. Memory is soldered dual-channel LPDDR, while storage is NVMe PCIe, with the original using M.2 2230 and Ally X moving to a roomier bay. Wireless support includes Wi‑Fi 6E and Bluetooth, and I/O covers USB‑C, a 3.5 mm headset jack, and a microSD slot.
Notably, Ally X adds a second USB‑C and emphasizes longer battery life and better thermals. Therefore, it suits longer sessions and more demanding accessories without a dock.
Xbox On Windows With ROG Xbox Ally
On ROG Ally, the Xbox app for Windows handles your library, downloads, and social features. Similarly, PC Game Pass brings a rotating catalog, first-party releases, and cloud streaming on supported networks. The Ally’s controller layout maps as an Xbox controller in most games, so navigation feels immediate in the app and in titles that support XInput.
Armoury Crate SE And Controls
Armoury Crate SE is the handheld’s control center. Notably, it lets you set performance profiles, tune fan curves, and map inputs per game. The overlay offers on-screen controls, quick performance toggles, and a unified game library that spans stores. Meanwhile, button shortcuts and a command center panel cut friction when you need to change TDP or cap the frame rate quickly.
You spend less time on Windows plumbing and more time in your games, with sensible defaults that you can still refine to taste.
Performance And Thermals
ASUS positions both models for smooth 1080p handheld play at reasonable power targets, with Ally X focusing on sustained performance under load. Meanwhile, reputable outlet hands-on testing has highlighted the refresh’s steadier frame pacing at comparable wattage, alongside reduced fan noise in balanced modes. However, results vary by game, settings, and your chosen power profile.
Think in terms of targets per title and profile. Notably, you will often pick between a locked 60 fps mode at lower power or a higher-refresh mode with dynamic behavior.
Battery Life And Charging
The original Ally’s battery suits medium sessions, especially at 15 W or with VRR helping load. Meanwhile, Ally X’s larger pack is built for longer stretches, which helps if you target 60 fps without aggressive power caps. Quick charge behavior makes top-ups practical between matches or during a lunch break.
Therefore, expect a wide range depending on TDP, brightness, and game load. Notably, capping refresh, using a frame limiter, or dropping to a lower power profile can extend runtime meaningfully.
Storage, Memory, And Upgrades
Both models support NVMe upgrades, with the original using M.2 2230 and Ally X offering a larger bay for easier capacity jumps. Meanwhile, memory is soldered, so your choice of model determines capacity and speed. The microSD slot helps for cold storage and smaller titles; however, you should prefer internal NVMe for heavy hitters and launchers.
Ports, Docks, And External GPUs
The original Ally includes a single USB‑C for data, display, and power, plus a proprietary connector for ASUS’s eGPU family. Meanwhile, Ally X adds a second USB‑C and removes the proprietary eGPU port, leaning into standard hubs and displays instead. Consequently, docks with HDMI or DisplayPort become the straightforward path for living room play.
Pick your model based on how you plan to connect. Notably, Ally X’s higher-bandwidth USB‑C provides broader compatibility for displays and fast storage.
Software, Drivers, And Firmware
Drivers arrive through MyASUS and Armoury Crate SE, with BIOS and firmware updates rolling out to improve stability, inputs, thermals, and battery reporting. Meanwhile, ASUS has used release notes to call out microSD behavior, sleep and resume fixes, and controller tuning over time.
Keep auto-updates enabled and skim notes before big travel or long sessions. Finally, a clean driver sweep can help after major Windows updates if you see odd behavior.
Audio, Haptics, And Build
ROG Ally models include front-firing speakers, dual microphones, and haptic feedback that suits UI cues and light effects. Meanwhile, Ally X revises grips, sticks, and the D‑pad for better feel and durability, which helps in platformers and fighters. Materials and port placement also shift to favor longer handheld sessions without hotspots.
Game Compatibility And Anti-Cheat Notes
Because Ally runs Windows, you install and launch native PC games from your usual stores. Meanwhile, the controller reports as XInput, so most games detect it as an Xbox pad. Some anti-cheat systems require Secure Boot and TPM, which Windows 11 satisfies out of the box on these devices.
Therefore, treat the Ally like a small Windows gaming PC with a built-in controller. Notably, keep your OS, drivers, and game launchers updated to avoid anti-cheat handshake issues.
Pricing And Availability
ASUS and retail partners price the ROG Ally family by configuration and region. Meanwhile, bundles sometimes include a Game Pass offer period, which can help new buyers get started. Therefore, check your local ASUS store or trusted retailers for current listings and regional promotions.
Finally, watch for seasonal discounts as inventories rotate during new model cycles.
What Changed For Owners
- Bigger battery, longer play: Ally X stretches sessions without aggressive caps.
- More memory and faster memory: Ally X reduces swaps and improves headroom.
- Storage made simpler: the roomier bay eases capacity upgrades.
- Better thermals and noise: sustained clocks improve in balanced profiles.
- Ports with less friction: two USB‑C connectors simplify docks and drives.
- Armoury Crate SE refinements: profiles, mappings, and overlays feel faster.
What To Watch Next
Next, watch the cadence of BIOS and driver rollouts, which often add battery, input, and performance polish. Meanwhile, track regional stock and color or bundle variations as ASUS expands channels. Finally, keep an eye on accessory launches that lean into the second USB‑C, including compact docks and travel chargers.
Conclusion
ROG Xbox Ally turns Windows handheld gaming into a console-like routine, with strong controls, a fast screen, and Xbox features that feel right at home. Meanwhile, Ally X sharpens the formula with better endurance, thermals, and everyday ergonomics. Therefore, if you want a handheld PC that treats Game Pass and native Windows libraries with equal ease, ROG Xbox Ally lands in a sweet spot today.
