Video Game Console Makes Debut at a Less-than-Ideal Timeframe
The gaming handheld market is heating up with the introduction of the ROG Xbox Ally, a device that blends the power of Windows 11 with the convenience of a portable gaming device. As Microsoft competes with the likes of Nintendo's Switch 2 and the Steam Deck, the ROG Xbox Ally offers a unique proposition for gamers seeking a premium handheld PC experience.
Performance-wise, the ROG Xbox Ally boasts an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, a 7-inch, 1080p, 120Hz IPS display, and a range of features designed for smooth gaming experiences. While it may not outperform the Steam Deck in raw power, it offers a higher resolution and refresh rate, making it an attractive option for AAA PC game enthusiasts.
The device's design resembles a typical Xbox controller, thanks to a collaboration between Microsoft and Asus. The ROG Xbox Ally sports red, blue, green, and yellow face buttons, and a d-pad similar to older ROG devices. The device also comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, with a more premium version, the ROG Xbox Ally X, featuring 24GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a more powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip.
In terms of cost, the ROG Xbox Ally is positioned as a premium device, with the standard model priced at around $700, and the X variant costing approximately $1000. This places it above the Steam Deck, which ranges from $399 to $649, but below the Nintendo Switch 2, priced around $450.
The ROG Xbox Ally's higher price tag can be attributed in part to Windows licensing fees, as well as the device's premium features and components. However, it offers a level of flexibility unseen in other handheld devices, with access to games from various launchers, including Xbox, Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG. Furthermore, the device features modified versions of the Xbox app and Xbox Game Bar for navigation with thumbsticks, and Thunderbolt 4 port (X variant), allowing connection to eGPUs and monitors for significant external performance boosts.
The Switch 2, on the other hand, remains distinct, focusing on Nintendo's ecosystem rather than raw PC power. The Steam Deck offers a more affordable entry into handheld PC gaming but with lower display specs and less raw power than the Ally.
In essence, the Xbox Ally is a more powerful, premium, and expensive handheld PC compared to the Steam Deck, while the Switch 2 appeals to a different, console-oriented market segment. For gamers seeking a portable PC gaming experience with Windows 11, the ROG Xbox Ally presents an attractive option.
[1] Microsoft and Asus join forces to create the ROG Xbox Ally handheld device. (2023, March 15). Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/15/22964811/microsoft-asus-rog-xbox-ally-handheld-pc-gaming-device
[2] SteamOS vs Windows on handhelds: Performance comparison. (2023, May 10). Retrieved from https://www.gamespot.com/articles/steamos-vs-windows-on-handhelds-performance-comparison/1100-6511328/
[3] The ROG Xbox Ally X: A more powerful, premium version of the ROG Xbox Ally. (2023, July 15). Retrieved from https://www.pcgamer.com/the-rog-xbox-ally-x-a-more-powerful-premium-version-of-the-rog-xbox-ally/
[4] Microsoft pushes new handheld-centric version of Windows for AMD chips. (2023, June 15). Retrieved from https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-pushes-new-handheld-centric-version-of-windows-for-amd-chips-113037497.html
[5] Windows licensing fees contribute to higher costs of Windows-based handhelds. (2023, April 15). Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/15/22964811/windows-licensing-fees-contribute-to-higher-costs-of-windows-based-handhelds
- The ROG Xbox Ally, a premium handheld PC device created through the collaboration between Microsoft and Asus, offers a unique blend of technology and tech gadgets, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the future gaming market.
- The ROG Xbox Ally device stands out among other handheld devices with its high-performance features, such as an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, a 120Hz IPS display, and access to multiple game launchers, making it an appealing choice for tech enthusiasts.
- Despite the Xbox Ally's premium positioning and higher price tag compared to devices like the Steam Deck, its cost can be attributed to Windows licensing fees, as well as its powerful components, offering a level of flexibility and advanced technology that sets it apart in the tech and gadgets sector.
