Cover An upcoming challenger to the Nintendo Switch 2, the ROG Xbox Ally is portable PC and Xbox gaming on the go (Photo: Asus)
An upcoming challenger to the Nintendo Switch 2, the ROG Xbox Ally is portable PC and Xbox gaming on the go (Photo: Asus)
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Microsoft and Asus team up on the ROG Xbox Ally, a Windows 11-powered handheld set to challenge the Nintendo Switch 2 with PC-grade performance and Xbox Game Pass access
Handheld gaming is undergoing a renaissance, with top tech brands releasing innovative devices to compete in the thriving portable market. While the Nintendo Switch and Valve’s Steam Deck have long dominated the scene, new contenders are entering the arena. The Nintendo Switch 2, which launched earlier this month, has already shattered sales records with 3.5 million units sold in its first four days.
Among the most notable challengers is Asus, a brand renowned for its PC hardware, laptops and graphics cards. Under its Republic of Gamers (ROG) sub-brand, Asus has released performance-focused gear, including the original ROG Ally handheld in 2023. The 2024 follow-up, ROG Ally X, introduced upgraded specs and better ergonomics. Now, in partnership with Microsoft, Asus has unveiled its boldest move yet: the ROG Xbox Ally.
Read more: The much-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 unveils a smarter way to play together
A Windows PC in your hands
Above Inside: ROG Xbox Ally
After years of speculation, Microsoft has confirmed the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally, developed in collaboration with Asus and slated for a holiday 2025 release. Designed as Microsoft’s answer to the Nintendo Switch, this Windows 11-powered handheld takes inspiration from the ergonomics of an Xbox controller, with a completely redesigned chassis and more substantial grips for comfort during extended play.
The device will be available in two variants—the standard Ally and the more powerful Ally X. The latter boasts a faster AMD Ryzen CPU, expanded RAM, additional ports and a larger battery. While pricing has yet to be finalised, both models are expected to retail above US$650, compared to the Switch 2’s approximate US$450 price tag.
Performance and hardware
Above The ROG Xbox Ally X features the new high-performance AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor, giving it plenty of horsepower even in AAA games (Photo: Asus)
Above The ROG Xbox Ally X also features impulse triggers, improving the haptics in supported games (Photo: Asus)
The ROG Xbox Ally X features the new high-performance AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor, giving it plenty of horsepower even in AAA games (Photo: Asus)
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At the heart of the ROG Xbox Ally is the new AMD Ryzen AI Z2 processor series—either the Z2 A or the Z2 Extreme—paired with integrated RDNA graphics. These enable the handheld to run AAA PC games at respectable settings and frame rates. Despite its impressive performance, some newer PC titles may still pose challenges at ultra settings.
In contrast, the Nintendo Switch 2’s upgraded internals are engineered for Nintendo’s ecosystem. While it cannot match the raw processing power of the Xbox Ally, the Switch 2’s tightly integrated hardware and software deliver smooth gameplay for first-party titles and optimised third-party games.
Screen vs. size
The ROG Xbox Ally features a 7-inch Full HD display—slightly smaller than the 7.9-inch screen on the Switch 2. While Nintendo’s hybrid design includes detachable Joy-Con controllers and a dock for TV connectivity, the Xbox Ally offers external display support via a separate cable or dock.
Due to its more powerful internals and dedicated cooling system, the ROG Xbox Ally is heavier and bulkier than the Nintendo Switch 2. However, it offers significantly longer battery life, designed to support high-performance gaming sessions on the go.
Gaming library and compatibility
Above As soon as users boot up the Xbox Ally, they are welcomed by a full screen Xbox experience (Photo: Asus)
As soon as users boot up the Xbox Ally, they are welcomed by a full screen Xbox experience (Photo: Asus)
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The ROG Xbox Ally is designed to run the PC and Xbox Game Pass game library. As a Windows-powered device, this means that the Xbox Ally can also access Steam, GOG, Battle.net, Epic, Ubisoft and other PC game libraries and storefronts. This gives the ROG Xbox Ally access to virtually every PC game ever made, plus Xbox Game Pass integration for cloud gaming.
The Nintendo Switch 2 counters with something the Ally cannot match: exclusive Nintendo titles. The device promises backward compatibility with original Switch games while introducing new entries in beloved franchises like Super Mario, Zelda and Pokémon. For many gamers, these exclusive experiences remain Nintendo's strongest selling point.
A tale of two handhelds
Above The Nintendo Switch 2 is for those looking for family-friendly console titles from Nintendo's vast library (Photo: Nintendo)
Above Users will find the Xbox Ally's grip, triggers, joystick and button configuration similar to a standard Xbox controller (Photo: Asus)
The Nintendo Switch 2 is for those looking for family-friendly console titles from Nintendo's vast library (Photo: Nintendo)
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Choosing between the ROG Xbox Ally and the Nintendo Switch 2 ultimately depends on what type of gamer you are. The Xbox Ally is ideal for tech-savvy users with deep PC game libraries and a desire for cutting-edge performance in a portable form. Meanwhile, the Switch 2 remains the go-to for family-friendly gameplay, iconic exclusives and the seamless hybrid experience Nintendo pioneered.
