ROG Ally and Ally X: Where to Buy the New Xbox Handhelds
▼ Summary
– The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X has been released and earned a positive review, scoring four out of five stars for its comfortable design and new Xbox Full Screen Experience.
– Both the ROG Xbox Ally ($599) and Ally X ($999) are now available for purchase in the U.S. from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Microsoft, and Walmart.
– The Ally X features superior hardware, including the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, compared to the Ally’s Z2 A processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD.
– Key differences between the models include the Ally X having a larger battery, USB4 port, and slightly heavier weight, while both share the same display, controls, and Windows 11 operating system.
– Despite its strengths, the Ally X is more expensive than its predecessor, lacks some visual features compared to OLED competitors, and does not include a carrying case.
The highly anticipated ASUS ROG Ally and Ally X handheld gaming consoles are now available for purchase across major U.S. retailers. Following extensive pre-launch excitement and positive critical reception, these Microsoft-collaboration devices bring Xbox gaming into a portable format, offering distinct hardware configurations to suit different budgets and performance needs.
Our hands-on evaluation of the ASUS ROG Ally X revealed several standout qualities. The comfortable controller grips and well-balanced weight distribution make extended play sessions remarkably fatigue-free. We were particularly impressed with the seamless Xbox Full Screen Experience interface. While the system delivers solid 720p gaming performance and includes a dedicated Xbox button, it isn’t without compromises. The Ally X carries a higher price tag than its predecessor, falls slightly short in visual vibrancy compared to OLED competitors, and doesn’t include a carrying case. Some advertised features remain unverified pending further testing. Despite these considerations, the device earned a four-star rating and secured a position on our Best PC Gaming Handhelds list.
For those ready to purchase, here’s where to find both models in the United States.
Where to Buy the ASUS ROG Ally
Priced at $599, the standard ROG Ally is available through multiple outlets including Amazon, ASUS’s official store, Best Buy, Microsoft, and Walmart. This model serves as the entry point into the series, equipped with a Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB solid-state drive.
Where to Buy the ASUS ROG Ally X
The premium Ally X retails for $999 and is currently stocked at Best Buy, the ASUS shop, and Microsoft. As the flagship handheld, it features AMD’s advanced Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor and a custom Xbox-optimized user interface designed specifically for handheld use.
Comparing the ROG Ally and Ally X
A $400 price difference separates these two models, raising the question of what enhancements the extra investment provides. Both devices run Windows 11 Home and share identical control schemes, display specifications (7-inch 1080p IPS at 120Hz), and the Xbox Full Screen Experience.
The performance gap becomes apparent in their internal components. The Ally X’s Z2 Extreme processor significantly outperforms the standard Ally’s Z2 A chip, delivering noticeably better gaming capabilities. Storage sees a major upgrade as well, with the Ally X offering a 1TB M.2 SSD compared to the Ally’s 512GB drive. Additional improvements include expanded memory (24GB versus 16GB), inclusion of a USB4 port, and a larger battery capacity. These enhancements do add some weight, though the device remains highly portable.
Technical specifications highlight these differences clearly. While both share the same display technology and wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4), the Ally X’s superior processing power, increased memory, expanded storage, and enhanced I/O options justify its premium positioning. The standard Ally weighs 670g with a 60Wh battery, while the Ally X comes in at 715g with an 80Wh power cell.
Given the current availability of both models through listed retailers, prospective buyers should consider their purchase promptly. Inventory levels remain uncertain, and popularity could lead to rapid stock depletion.
(Source: Tom’s Hardware)
