Xbox Enters the Handheld Game: ROG Xbox Ally Preorders Are Finally Open
The wait is finally over. After months of speculation, leaks, and gamer wishlists, Xbox fans now have a new way to take their favorite games on the go. The ROG Xbox Ally, built by Asus in collaboration with Microsoft, is officially available for preorder in the United States, with an official release date of October 16.
This is a huge moment in gaming history. For years, handheld gaming was dominated by Nintendo’s Switch and, more recently, Valve’s Steam Deck. But now, Xbox is stepping into the arena with a powerful new handheld console designed to bring console-quality gaming to your backpack, carry-on, or even your couch.
Two Versions, Two Price Points
Gamers will have two options to choose from:
- ROG Xbox Ally – priced at $599, this is the base model designed to give you everything you need for on-the-go gaming.
- ROG Xbox Ally X – priced at $999, this upgraded version comes with more power under the hood, making it a true competitor to even some gaming laptops. The catch? It’s a Best Buy exclusive in the U.S.
Where to Preorder
If you’re ready to lock in your console early, here’s where preorders are available right now:
- Asus
- Best Buy
- Amazon
- Microsoft Store
- Walmart
- Ant Online
Not seeing preorder links live yet? Keep refreshing. Retailers often roll out availability in waves, and with demand this high, it’s likely some stores will sell out quickly.
Asus Perks: Preorder and Win
There’s an added incentive if you preorder directly from Asus. Customers will automatically be entered into a sweepstakes where you could win a bundle of high-end ROG accessories, including:
- ROG Strix Arion SSD
- ROG Raikiri Controller
- ROG Cetra Wireless Earbuds
- ROG Bulwark Charging/TV Dock
- ROG Xbox Ally 2-in-1 Premium Case
It’s the ultimate gamer’s starter pack—and a nice bonus if you’re already dropping $600–$1000 on new hardware.
Why the ROG Xbox Ally Is a Big Deal
The ROG Xbox Ally is more than just another gadget. It promises a Steam Deck-like experience with the full Xbox ecosystem baked in. Imagine firing up your Xbox account, syncing your achievements, and having Game Pass access right in your hands—no TV, no giant console tower, no hassle.
This handheld could be the perfect fit for:
- Travelers who want console-quality games on flights, road trips, or hotel stays.
- Commuters who dream of playing AAA titles on the train.
- Xbox loyalists who want seamless access to Game Pass anywhere.
- PC-curious gamers who love handhelds but don’t want to dive into Steam-only territory.
What’s Next
It’s still early, and we won’t know the true performance of the Xbox Ally until reviews and benchmarks start hitting. But one thing’s for sure: Microsoft and Asus are making a bold move into the handheld gaming space. If it delivers on its promises, the Ally could redefine portable gaming in a way we haven’t seen since the Nintendo Switch launched in 2017.
So, if you’ve been waiting for Xbox to go portable, the future starts now. Preorders are open—grab yours before they sell out, and get ready to take your Game Pass library anywhere.