After years of speculation and fan demand, the first official Xbox handheld is finally real—but not in the form many expected. Rather than creating a first-party device, Microsoft is partnering with ASUS to bring the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X to market. Revealed during the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025, these devices are powerful, Xbox-optimized Windows handhelds that blend the versatility of a gaming PC with the streamlined experience of a console.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what makes these handhelds unique, how they differ, and why this move signals a strategic shift in Microsoft’s hardware philosophy.
ROG Xbox Ally vs. Ally X: Specs and Differences
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally (Standard) | ROG Xbox Ally X (Premium) |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen Z2 A | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme |
| RAM | 16 GB | 24 GB |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD | 1 TB SSD |
| Battery | 60 Wh | 80 Wh |
| Display | 7″ 1080p IPS @ 120Hz | 7″ 1080p IPS @ 120Hz |
| Weight | ~670 g | ~715 g |
| Release | Holiday 2025 | Holiday 2025 |
| Estimated Price | ~$599 | ~$999 |
Both devices include variable refresh rate (VRR), full Xbox-style grips, and magnetic impulse triggers—a nod to the Xbox Series controller’s precision and tactile feedback. Designed for comfort and longevity, the larger battery in the Ally X targets power users and extended play sessions.
Designed for the Xbox Ecosystem—but Open to All
While these devices carry Xbox branding, they’re not limited to Microsoft’s library. Instead, they run a specially optimized version of Windows 11, complete with a full-screen Xbox UI that launches on boot. This interface minimizes background Windows processes and frees up memory for smoother gaming—something Microsoft explicitly designed to address complaints about Windows’ inefficiency on handhelds.
Key Software Features:
- Game Pass Integration: Native support for Xbox Game Pass for PC, Cloud Gaming, and Remote Play.
- Multi-Storefront Access: Seamless access to Steam, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, Ubisoft Connect, GOG, and more.
- Xbox App Redesign: New UI tailored for touch and controller input, optimized for 7-inch screens.
- Game Bar Improvements: A refined overlay optimized for handheld usability with minimal system drag.
Microsoft is positioning this as a hybrid between console convenience and PC openness, with no walled garden—something the Steam Deck community has long celebrated.
Why Microsoft Is Partnering Instead of Going Solo
This isn’t Microsoft’s first attempt at handheld gaming hardware. Internal projects, including a shelved prototype codenamed Keystone, were reportedly in development. But instead of going head-to-head with Valve’s Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch with first-party hardware, Microsoft has chosen a more scalable and strategic path: empowering third-party OEMs to build Xbox-ready hardware using Windows.
ASUS’s “Project Kennan” became the first flagship partner, and with their existing experience from the original ROG Ally, ASUS was well-positioned to deliver a best-in-class experience tailored to Xbox’s needs.
This shift also signals Microsoft’s broader vision of Xbox as a platform, not a console—a future where the Xbox experience travels with you, regardless of device.
Availability and Global Launch Plans
The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are set to launch during the 2025 holiday season in major markets including the U.S., Canada, Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Mexico, Singapore, and the UAE.
Exact pricing and pre-order details are expected in the coming months, but based on ASUS’s current handheld lineup, the Ally is expected to launch around $599, while the Ally X may command a price close to $999.
Competitive Landscape: Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go S, and Beyond
Microsoft’s Xbox handhelds face stiff competition in a rapidly growing market. The Steam Deck remains dominant thanks to its Linux-based SteamOS and deep community modding support, while the Lenovo Legion Go S and AYANEO devices are gaining traction for their unique features and power-to-weight ratios.
Where Xbox hopes to differentiate is with software experience—reducing the Windows bloat, enhancing game compatibility out-of-the-box, and bringing console-level polish to the PC handheld space. The introduction of Windows Handheld Mode in 2026 will further standardize this experience across brands.
Final Take
This isn’t just about a new piece of hardware—it’s about Microsoft finally responding to the demand for a portable Xbox experience. By merging the open flexibility of Windows with the curated simplicity of a console, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are designed to bridge the gap between PC freedom and Xbox familiarity.
Whether this strategy will pay off in a market already saturated with alternatives depends on how well Microsoft can optimize performance, simplify usability, and—most importantly—deliver value. But for now, one thing is certain: the era of the Xbox handheld has officially begun.
ROG Ally Z1 Extreme: Details
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is making waves in the handheld gaming market as a powerful alternative to traditional gaming platforms. This sleek device features a vibrant 7-inch Full HD touchscreen with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate that brings games to life with precise, vivid colors. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and paired with 16GB of RAM, the ROG Ally delivers impressive performance capable of running most modern games in good conditions while maintaining portability. This portable gaming system stands out in the growing market of handhelds, directly competing with devices like Valve’s Steam Deck.
Battery life has been a concern for many handheld gaming devices, but the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme performs admirably in this department. Tests show it can last nearly 8 hours during standard usage, though this will vary depending on the types of games being played. For retro gaming and less demanding titles, users can expect longer battery life compared to running the latest AAA games at high settings.
ASUS has also introduced an upgraded model called the Ally X, which addresses the battery limitations of the original with a much larger 80Wh battery capacity and expanded storage options. This evolution shows ASUS’s commitment to refining their handheld gaming platform based on user feedback and technological advancements.
Here’s a breakdown of its key features and aspects:
Key Specifications and Features:
- Processor: It’s powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which features “Zen4” architecture, 8 cores, 16 threads, and integrated AMD Radeon RDNA™ 3 graphics with 12 compute units. This provides significantly better performance compared to the standard Z1 model.
- Display: It boasts a vibrant 7-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS-level touchscreen display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium. This delivers crisp visuals and responsive gameplay.
- Operating System: Runs on Windows 11 Home, giving you access to a wide range of PC games from various launchers like Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, GOG, and more.
- Memory: Typically comes with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM (6400MT/s dual channel), with some newer “X” models offering 24GB.
- Storage: Usually features a 512GB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD (2230), though larger capacity models (like 1TB or with upgraded SSDs) are available.
- Ergonomics and Design: It’s a lightweight and relatively compact device with a white chassis and RGB lighting around the thumbsticks. While some find its ergonomics less comfortable than the Steam Deck for long sessions due to flatter grips, others with smaller hands appreciate its size.
- Battery: Equipped with a 40WHrs, 4-cell Li-ion battery. While decent for a handheld gaming PC, battery life can be a concern, especially when playing demanding AAA titles, often yielding 1.5-3 hours depending on the game and power profile. Newer “X” models aim to address this with an 80Wh battery.
- Cooling: Features a dual-fan cooling system, which generally runs quieter than the Steam Deck’s single fan.
- Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, a 3.5mm combo audio jack, a ROG XG Mobile Interface and USB Type-C combo port (with USB 3.2 Gen2 and DisplayPort 1.4 support), and a UHS-II microSD card reader.
- Control and Input: Features standard gaming controls including ABXY buttons, D-pad, L & R Hall Effect analog triggers, L & R bumpers, assignable grip buttons, dual full-size analog sticks, HD haptics, and a 6-Axis IMU (gyro). It also has a built-in fingerprint sensor for security.
Key Strengths:
- Performance: The Z1 Extreme processor offers impressive gaming performance for a handheld, often outperforming the Steam Deck in demanding games, especially at higher TDP settings.
- Windows Ecosystem: Running Windows 11 provides broad compatibility with PC game libraries and applications.
- High Refresh Rate Display: The 120Hz Full HD display offers a smooth and visually appealing gaming experience.
- Portability: Its relatively lighter weight makes it easy to carry.
Potential Considerations:
- Battery Life: As mentioned, battery life can be a limitation for extended gaming sessions, particularly with demanding titles.
- Windows Experience: While versatile, Windows 11 isn’t natively optimized for handheld use, which can lead to some navigation challenges compared to a purpose-built OS like SteamOS. ASUS’s Armoury Crate software aims to streamline this experience.
- SD Card Issue: Some users have reported issues with the microSD card reader, where it can be prone to failure, especially under heavy load from demanding games. This appears to have been a known issue that may be addressed in newer iterations.
- Price: While prices have fluctuated, the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is generally positioned at a higher price point than some of its competitors.
Overall, the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is a compelling option for gamers seeking a powerful, portable PC gaming experience with access to a vast library of titles. Its raw performance and high-refresh-rate display are significant advantages, though potential buyers should consider the battery life and the nuances of the Windows handheld experience.
Key Takeaways
- The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme combines a 120Hz Full HD display with AMD Ryzen processing power to deliver strong gaming performance in a portable form factor.
- Battery life reaches up to 8 hours depending on usage, with the new Ally X model offering significantly improved battery capacity.
- ASUS has created a versatile gaming handheld that works across multiple gaming ecosystems, making it a compelling option for on-the-go gamers.
Design and Build Quality
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme impresses with its thoughtful design choices that balance performance, aesthetics, and usability in a compact gaming handheld.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The ROG Ally stands out for its lightweight profile compared to other gaming handhelds. At a more manageable size than competitors like the Steam Deck, it offers extended gaming sessions without the hand fatigue common to bulkier devices.
The ergonomic grip contours fit naturally in most hand sizes, with well-placed buttons that require minimal reaching. The textured handles provide secure grip even during intense gaming moments.
The analog sticks offer precise control with the right amount of resistance, while the triggers provide satisfying tactile feedback. The button layout follows a familiar console-style arrangement, making it intuitive for most gamers.
Heat management deserves special mention – despite the powerful Z1 Extreme processor inside, the device distributes heat efficiently away from grip areas.
Display Characteristics
The 7-inch display featuring 1920 x 1080 resolution delivers crisp visuals that outshine many competitors in the handheld space. The 120Hz refresh rate makes a noticeable difference in fast-paced games, providing smooth motion that competitive gamers will appreciate.
Colors appear vibrant and accurate, with good contrast levels that make both bright and dark game environments pop. The IPS panel provides wide viewing angles, helpful when sharing gameplay with friends nearby.
Brightness levels are impressive for a portable device, making outdoor gaming viable in all but direct sunlight. The display’s 16:9 aspect ratio aligns perfectly with most modern games, eliminating wasted screen space.
Durability with Gorilla Glass Victus
The ROG Ally incorporates Corning Gorilla Glass Victus to protect its premium display from scratches and impacts. This particular glass formulation represents a significant upgrade from previous generations, offering drop protection from heights up to 2 meters.
The glass resists everyday hazards like keys and loose change when tossed in a bag. Its oleophobic coating helps minimize fingerprints and smudges, keeping the screen clearer during use.
Around the glass, the device features a protective bezel that slightly rises above the screen surface, providing additional protection against flat-surface drops. The overall construction pairs the 16GB LPDDR5 memory with durable external materials that resist flex and creaking during gameplay sessions.
Performance and Gaming
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme delivers impressive performance capabilities that make it a standout in the handheld gaming market. Its powerful components allow gamers to enjoy both AAA titles and indie games with minimal compromises.
Graphics and Display Performance
The ROG Ally features a vibrant 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate that brings games to life with smooth motion and vivid colors. This high-quality screen provides a significant advantage over competitors in the handheld market.
The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme‘s integrated graphics processor handles modern games remarkably well. Users can expect to run demanding titles at medium to high settings while maintaining playable framerates between 30-60 FPS depending on the game.
The device’s display offers excellent color reproduction and brightness levels that make outdoor gaming possible. Even games with complex lighting effects and detailed textures look impressive on the 7-inch screen.
Processor and Multi-Core Performance
The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor forms the backbone of the ROG Ally’s performance capabilities. With 8 cores and 16 threads reaching speeds up to 5.1 GHz, it provides desktop-class computing power in a handheld form factor.
Multi-tasking performance is exceptional, allowing users to quickly switch between games, streaming apps, and productivity software. The processor’s multi-core design efficiently handles background tasks without impacting gaming performance.
Heat management remains effective even during extended gaming sessions. The cooling system keeps temperatures in check while maintaining the processor’s ability to boost when needed.
Users report completing an average of 2.5 games per month on the device, showing its effectiveness as a primary gaming platform.
Gaming Experience Across Platforms
The ROG Ally excels at providing a unified gaming experience across multiple storefronts. It seamlessly runs games from Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass, giving players access to thousands of titles.
Xbox Game Pass integration is particularly strong, allowing subscribers to play a vast library of games without additional purchases. The handheld’s controls are well-suited for both action games and more strategic titles.
PC games run impressively well, with many AAA titles maintaining stable performance even at higher graphics settings. The device truly delivers on its promise of making PC gaming portable.
Emulation performance is another strong point, with the Z1 Extreme having enough power to run games from previous console generations smoothly. This versatility makes it an excellent all-in-one gaming solution.
Software and Ecosystem
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme offers a versatile software environment built around Windows 11, giving users access to multiple gaming platforms and services. The device includes specialized software for performance management and comes with subscription benefits that enhance its value proposition.
OS and Built-in Services
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme runs Windows 11 Home, making it a true Windows gaming machine rather than a console-like device. This gives users access to the full Windows ecosystem of applications and games.
Armoury Crate SE is the hub for device management, allowing gamers to control performance settings, update firmware, and customize their gaming experience. The software lets users switch between power profiles to balance performance and battery life.
MyASUS handles driver updates, ensuring the hardware stays current with the latest optimizations. Windows Hello provides secure biometric login options for the device.
Many users note that while the hardware is excellent, the software experience can be inconsistent. Updates are frequent as ASUS works to improve stability and performance.
Integration with Gaming Platforms
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme shines with its versatility across gaming platforms. It comes bundled with a 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, providing immediate access to hundreds of games.
The device works seamlessly with major storefronts including:
- Steam (with full controller support)
- Xbox Game Pass (native app and cloud gaming)
- Epic Games Store
- GOG
- EA Play
Unlike the Steam Deck which runs on Linux-based SteamOS, the ROG Ally’s Windows foundation means games generally don’t require compatibility layers to function. This results in broader game compatibility out of the box.
ChimeraOS is available as an alternative operating system for those who prefer a more console-like, couch gaming experience focused on Steam Big Picture mode.
Hardware Specifications
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme packs powerful components in a portable gaming device. Its technical specifications showcase ASUS’s commitment to delivering desktop-quality gaming in a handheld form factor.
Memory and Storage
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme comes equipped with 16GB of RAM, providing ample memory for smooth multitasking and running demanding games. This generous memory allocation ensures games load quickly and run with minimal stuttering.
Storage needs are handled by a fast 512GB SSD, delivering quick boot times and reducing game loading screens. The high-speed storage also helps with transferring large game files efficiently.
For users needing additional space, the device features a UHS-II microSD card slot. This expandable storage option supports high transfer speeds, allowing gamers to install more games without compromising performance.
The combination of substantial RAM and quick storage creates a responsive system that can handle modern gaming demands while maintaining portability.
Audio and Visual Enhancements
The ROG Ally features a 7-inch Full HD display that brings games to life with crisp visuals and rich colors. The screen supports FreeSync Premium technology, which reduces screen tearing and stuttering for smoother gameplay.
Audio quality isn’t compromised despite the compact form factor. The device incorporates Smart Amp technology that optimizes sound output for both headphones and the built-in speakers.
The speakers deliver clear audio with respectable bass response for a handheld device. This sound system makes gaming immersive even without headphones.
Visual and audio enhancements work together to create an engaging gaming experience that rivals larger systems. The display’s high refresh rate ensures fluid motion in fast-paced games.
Cooling System
Thermal management is crucial for sustained performance in compact gaming devices. The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme uses a sophisticated cooling system with dual fans to manage heat efficiently.
The cooling architecture prevents thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions. This ensures the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor can maintain its boost clock speeds of up to 5.10 GHz when needed.
Heat dissipation is further enhanced by multiple heat pipes that draw warmth away from critical components. The system balances cooling performance with noise levels to avoid distracting players during gameplay.
The effective cooling solution allows the 8-core/16-thread processor to perform at its best without overheating. This translates to consistent frame rates even during graphically intensive gaming scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is a powerful handheld gaming device that has generated many questions from potential buyers and gaming enthusiasts. ASUS has addressed common inquiries about specifications, performance, and compatibility to help users understand this advanced portable console.
What are the specifications of the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme gaming device?
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme features an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor with RDNA 3 graphics. It includes 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD for storage.
The device sports a 7-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate. The display provides 500 nits of brightness with 100% sRGB color gamut coverage.
For connectivity, the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, a USB-C port with DisplayPort functionality, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It weighs approximately 608 grams and houses a 40WHr battery.
How does the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme compare to its predecessor, the ROG Ally Z1?
The Z1 Extreme offers significantly better gaming performance than the standard Z1 model. The Extreme version has 12 RDNA 3 compute units compared to just 4 in the base Z1, resulting in much higher frame rates.
CPU performance is also enhanced in the Z1 Extreme with 8 cores and 16 threads versus the regular Z1’s 6 cores and 12 threads. This provides better multitasking capability and smoother gameplay in CPU-intensive titles.
Both models share the same display, design, and battery capacity. However, the performance difference makes the Z1 Extreme better suited for demanding AAA games at higher settings.
What is the price range for the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme?
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme launched at $699 USD for the 512GB storage model. ASUS occasionally offers sales and promotions that can reduce this price by $50-100 during special events.
Regional pricing varies, with the device costing approximately €799 in Europe and £699 in the UK. Some retailers may offer bundles with accessories or game passes at slightly higher prices.
Compared to other handheld gaming PCs on the market, the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme sits in the mid-to-high range of pricing for its performance capabilities.
Can you provide a review summary of the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme’s performance?
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme delivers impressive gaming performance for a handheld device. It can run most modern games at medium to high settings while maintaining playable framerates between 30-60 FPS.
Battery life is a notable limitation, with intensive gaming draining the battery in 1-2 hours. Less demanding games or lower settings can extend this to 3-4 hours, which is standard for this device category.
The device runs Windows 11, giving users full PC compatibility but sometimes creating interface challenges on the small screen. ASUS’s Armoury Crate SE software helps manage performance modes, allowing users to balance between power and battery life.
What types of games can be played on the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme?
The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme can play most PC games available on Windows platforms. This includes titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and other digital distribution services.
AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077, Forza Horizon 5, and Elden Ring are playable with adjusted settings. The device particularly excels with less demanding indie games and emulated classics, which can run at maximum settings.
Cloud gaming services such as Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce NOW also work well on the device when connected to Wi-Fi, expanding the library of playable titles without taxing the local hardware.
Where can users find driver updates for the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme?
Driver updates for the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme are primarily distributed through the MyASUS app, which comes pre-installed on the device. This application checks for and installs system updates, including BIOS changes and driver improvements.
Windows Update also delivers some driver packages, particularly for the AMD components. Users should regularly check both systems to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
For manual updates, the official ASUS support website offers downloads organized by product model. Users can visit the ROG Ally product page to find the latest drivers, utilities, and firmware updates specific to their device.
