ROG Xbox Ally X Launches as Microsoft’s Costliest Console Yet

ASUS’ authorized distributor in Spain has disclosed the pricing for the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally systems, indicating that Microsoft's new Xbox-branded handhelds will carry notably high price tags.

With prices in Europe set at €599 and €899, it becomes apparent that Microsoft’s first Xbox handhelds will be quite pricey. If these figures are verified, the ROG Xbox Ally X would be the priciest Xbox system to date, surpassing the €599 cost of Microsoft's Xbox Series X. Neither ASUS nor Xbox has confirmed these prices officially.

When directly converted to US dollars, the cost of the ROG Xbox Ally would be approximately $700, while the X variant would reach a staggering $1,050. However, this is unlikely to be a straightforward conversion. In fact, Europe often faces higher prices, indicating that the final dollar amount might be considerably lower.

This pricing has since been taken down, but if accurate, it would position the ROG Xbox Ally X as the most expensive official Xbox console in history by a significant margin, a title that may not be desirable. However, the standard Asus ROG Ally X isn't particularly affordable either, and this Xbox version incorporates the Strix Point-based AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme for performance.

With these new gaming devices, Microsoft aims to transform both Xbox and Windows. The introduction of the Xbox Full Screen Experience aims to enhance the performance and battery longevity of Windows-powered gaming devices. Moreover, Microsoft seeks to improve Windows’ gaming interface, making it more user-friendly when using controllers and handheld gaming devices.

If Microsoft’s venture into handhelds succeeds, it would be beneficial for all gamers leveraging Windows. Nonetheless, it remains uncertain if Microsoft’s aspirations will materialize. After all, addressing Windows’ limitations will require more than mere optimism. The achievement of SteamOS demonstrates how the bloated nature of Windows can impede handheld gaming. Can Microsoft overcome this hurdle? We can only hope…

Conversely, if you are in search of a handheld that is already well-established, optimized for superior performance, and designed for serious gaming on the go, the ROG Ally X clearly stands out. Featuring longer battery life, improved ergonomics, and full Windows functionality, it encapsulates everything that the future of handheld gaming should aim for. As always, for the latest news on hardware launches and industry developments, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.