The world of portable gaming has officially leveled up with the release of the new Xbox handheld consoles. If you’ve been waiting for a dedicated Xbox gaming handheld that rivals the Steam Deck or Switch 2, the wait is over. Microsoft, in partnership with ASUS, has introduced two sleek and powerful devices: the Xbox Ally and the Xbox Ally X.
Whether you're a hardcore gamer or just looking for a convenient way to play your favorite Xbox titles on the go, this Xbox handheld delivers a premium experience. In this post, I’ll break down what the new Xbox handheld is, how it works, why it matters, and what makes it stand out in a growing market of handheld gaming devices.
What Is the Xbox Handheld?
The Xbox handheld refers to Microsoft’s newest portable gaming system, built in collaboration with ASUS. Officially named the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, these devices are designed to bring the full Xbox experience to your hands, literally. These are not just cloud-streaming gadgets; they are full-fledged Windows-powered handheld consoles optimized for Xbox Game Pass and cross-platform gaming.
With the Xbox Ally X powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, 24GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, it’s one of the most powerful handheld gaming devices yet. It delivers smooth, console-quality gameplay in a highly portable form factor.
Why the Xbox Handheld Matters
The Xbox handheld gaming system represents a major shift in how Microsoft envisions the future of gaming. It’s no longer about being tethered to a couch or desktop. With this Xbox portable console, you can take your Xbox library wherever you go.
You can access Xbox Game Pass titles, your digital game library, Steam, and even other storefronts all from one device. The idea of portable Xbox gaming is no longer a dream, it’s a fully realized, premium reality.
Xbox Handheld vs Steam Deck and Switch 2
The Xbox handheld stands out in three major areas:
- Performance: With high-end specs like the Z2 Extreme chip, it rivals or surpasses the performance of the Steam Deck and Switch 2.
- Design: Its ergonomic design mimics the feel of an Xbox controller, making it intuitive and comfortable.
- Software Experience: A streamlined Xbox interface allows you to launch games from Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games, and more with ease.
If you're comparing the Xbox Ally X vs Steam Deck, you’ll notice the Xbox handheld is faster, better integrated with the Xbox ecosystem, and more future-proof.
Key Features of the Xbox Handheld
Here’s what you can expect from the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X:
- 7” Full HD display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Windows 11 Home OS with an Xbox-optimized interface
- AMD Ryzen Z2 and Z2 Extreme processors
- Up to 24GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage
- Ergonomic grip inspired by Xbox controllers
- Seamless access to Xbox Game Pass, Steam, and more
These features make the Xbox handheld console one of the most versatile and powerful gaming devices available today.
Xbox Handheld Use Cases
Still wondering if the Xbox handheld is right for you? Here are just a few ways you might use it:
- Commuting or Travel: Play Gears of War Reloaded or Halo Infinite while on a plane or train.
- Couch Companion: Use it as a second screen while someone else is on the TV.
- Cloud Gaming Anywhere: Stream games using Xbox Cloud Gaming or run them locally.
- Remote Desktop Gaming: Connect to your main gaming rig and play PC games remotely.
With Xbox handheld gaming, you have the freedom to game when and where you want.
Xbox Handheld Price and Availability
Both the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are expected to launch in late 2025, just in time for the holiday season. While official pricing hasn’t been confirmed, estimates suggest:
- Xbox Ally: Around $600
- Xbox Ally X: $700–$800
Keep an eye on pre-order announcements if you want to secure the Xbox handheld early.
Final Thoughts: Is the Xbox Handheld Worth It?
After years of rumors, the Xbox handheld is finally real, and it’s impressive. If you’ve ever wished for an Xbox experience that goes where you go, the Xbox Ally X delivers. From its sleek design to its powerhouse performance and seamless software, it’s arguably the most complete portable gaming system yet.
Whether you’re a die-hard Xbox fan or simply in the market for the best handheld gaming device, the Xbox handheld should be at the top of your wishlist.
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About the author
Mehjabi Khan— Writer
Mehjabi Khan is one of our talented writers with a background in creating content for major companies like Mahindra and Suzuki. She has a knack for explaining complex ideas in a way that’s easy to understand and enjoyable to read. When she's not writing, Mehjabi loves to cook, bringing the same creativity to her recipes as she does to her articles.
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