The Xbox handheld brings Xbox-style gaming into a portable Windows PC form. It combines Game Pass, cloud and remote play, and PC stores like Steam. With comfy controls and strong specs, it makes big‑budget gaming travel‑friendly—no adventure needed.
What is the Xbox handheld?
The Xbox handheld is a joint project between Microsoft and ASUS, built on the ROG Ally hardware and customized with Xbox features. It runs Windows 11 under a special full‑screen Xbox interface that hides complex settings and boots directly to gaming.
You can play native PC games, Xbox Game Pass titles via cloud, or install from stores like Steam, Epic, or Battle.net. You can also remote‑play games installed on your console. It blends console-like ease with PC flexibility.
When will the Xbox handheld arrive?
Microsoft and ASUS plan to release the Xbox handheld during the 2025 holiday season in multiple countries, including the US and EU. Official pricing is not final, but leaks suggest $599 for the base model and up to $999 for the higher-end version.
Pre‑orders are expected later in the year via Xbox.com and ASUS channels. Keep an eye out for exact dates and retailer announcements.
How do the two models differ?
There are two models:
- Xbox Ally (base): Uses an AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip (4 cores), 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, 7″ 1080p screen, and a 60 Wh battery. It supports up to 720p gaming on the interface and still allows PC gaming.
- Xbox Ally X (advanced): Packs an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip (8 cores), 24 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, 7″ 1080p screen, 80 Wh battery, impulse triggers, and stronger performance targeting 1080p gaming.
Both share a 120 Hz screen, FreeSync, Gorilla Glass Victus, Wi‑Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, USB‑C/USB‑4 ports, sleek grips, and a dedicated Xbox button.
What makes the Xbox interface special?
Instead of booting into the full Windows desktop, the handheld loads a simplified Xbox full‑screen interface. It focuses on gaming, removes background apps, boosts system performance, and extends battery life.
This interface lets you navigate with a controller, access Game Bar features like chat, library, performance metrics, and quickly switch hardware settings via Asus Armoury Crate. Pressing the Xbox button always brings you back to game mode.
What games can you play?
Thanks to Windows 11, the handheld supports:
- Xbox Game Pass library (cloud or local install).
- Xbox Play Anywhere titles that sync progress between console, PC, and handheld.
- PC games from Steam, Epic, GOG, Battle.net, etc.
- Remote Play, streaming games from your console.
It doesn’t natively run Xbox console games, only those supported via Play Anywhere or streaming.
How does it compare to Steam Deck?
The Duck weighs in on the rivalry:
- Unlike Valve’s Steam Deck, this handheld is Windows‑based with Xbox UI.
- Battery life lags behind Linux‑based SteamOS devices by about 5‑10%, which are more power‑efficient.
- But it gives access to Xbox Game Pass and a unified Xbox‑style gaming experience.
- Its 120 Hz screen and Xbox branding may feel more familiar to console gamers.
Why partner with ASUS?
Microsoft chose ASUS to leverage its ROG Ally expertise in handheld PC design. ASUS brings advanced hardware like Ryzen chips, VRR‑ready displays, and ergonomic grips.
Collaboration focuses on Xbox‑optimized hardware and software experience, including controller button layout and built‑in Xbox hardware like the guide button and Game Bar integration.
What challenges will it face?
Key challenges include:
- Windows efficiency: Windows handhelds use more power than SteamOS, hurting battery life and warm‑up time.
- Game compatibility: Microsoft plans a verification system (like “Steam Deck Verified”) so gamers know which games run well.
- Competition: Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck present strong competition.
Still, the device’s ability to access Xbox Game Pass and PC libraries in one handheld is a powerful selling point.
Who is the Xbox handheld for?
This handheld suits:
- Xbox gamers who want portable access to Game Pass and cloud play.
- PC gamers who use Windows and multiple storefronts.
- Fans of console-like handhelds who also want desktop‑grade control and software.
- Travelers and commuters are looking for high‑quality gaming on the go.
It’s less ideal if you want the best battery life or prefer native Linux‑based handhelds.
What accessories will it support?
Planned accessories include:
- Docking station with USB‑A/HDMI/Ethernet for TV or monitor play.
- Controller grip cases and protective shells.
- Extra battery packs and car chargers.
- Headsets, via 3.5 mm jack or Bluetooth.
- Potential RTX GPU dock connection via USB‑C/Thunderbolt.
Expect official accessories from Xbox and ASUS later this year.
How strong is its hardware?
Specs summary:
| Feature | Xbox Ally (Base) | Xbox Ally X (Advanced) |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 A (4c/8t) | AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (8c/16t) |
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5X‑6400 | 24 GB LPDDR5X‑8000 |
| Storage | 512 GB M.2 SSD | 1 TB M.2 SSD |
| Display | 7″ 1080p IPS, 120 Hz, VRR | Same as base |
| Battery | 60 Wh | 80 Wh |
| Controls | Xbox-style grips, triggers | Adds impulse triggers |
| OS | Windows 11 + Xbox UI | Windows 11 + Xbox UI |
The advanced model is tailored for better visuals, higher frame rates, and longer battery life.
How is the comfort and feel?
Reviews note:
- Contoured grips mirror Xbox controllers and improve comfort.
- Impulse triggers add realistic feedback in the X model.
- The device is heavier than Nintendo’s handhelds, but still ergonomic for longer sessions.
What about software updates?
Microsoft plans to update older ROG Ally units with the new full‑screen Xbox experience. Future Windows 11 builds will include further optimizations like better power use and gaming workflows.
Game compatibility labeling and controller UX tweaks are also in development.
Conclusion
The Xbox handheld (ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X) marks Xbox’s first major step into the handheld market. It marries Xbox Game Pass, cloud, remote play, PC storefronts, and powerful Windows hardware into a single package. With an intuitive Xbox UI, strong specs, and ASUS engineering, it aims to rival devices like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch. Launching holiday 2025 at $599–$999, it’s built for serious gamers seeking portability and power in one device. Expect a shift in how we experience Xbox gaming on the go.
FAQs
Can I play console‑only Xbox games natively?
No, the handheld uses Windows and does not run Xbox Series X|S games natively. It supports Xbox Play Anywhere titles, cloud gaming, and remote play for Xbox console games.
Will it get software updates for better battery and performance?
Yes. Microsoft will release updates to improve Windows efficiency, reduce idle drain, and bring controller enhancements. Older ASUS ROG Ally models will also get the Xbox UI.
Can I use a keyboard and a mouse?
Yes. You can connect a Bluetooth or USB keyboard and mouse at any time. While it feels like a console, you have full PC flexibility for productivity, apps, or different game genres.
