The ROG Xbox Ally arrives with the promise of delivering a vast game library within a compact handheld device, sparking excitement for gamers seeking Xbox and PC versatility on the go. While it touts running native Windows with Xbox branding, the real question is: does this translate into a seamless, enjoyable experience? After thorough testing and comparisons with contemporaries like the Steam Deck, the answer is nuanced.
Expansive Game Library and Versatile Compatibility
One of the biggest draws of the ROG Xbox Ally is its ability to run Windows 11, granting access not only to Xbox Game Pass’s extensive offerings but also to Steam, Epic Games, Battle.net, and nearly any PC game platform. This widens the playable catalog significantly beyond that of Linux-based handhelds like the Steam Deck, which primarily revolves around Steam games. For gamers wanting to jump between platforms seamlessly, the Ally offers a compelling proposition.
Performance and Hardware Realities
The base model of the Ally is powered by a relatively modern AMD Ryzen Zen 4 APU with RDNA 2 graphics, which is indeed an upgrade over the Steam Deck’s older Zen 2 chip. It runs many low to mid-spec games well—classics and indie titles like Hades 2, Portal, and Fallout New Vegas performed smoothly with good frame rates and responsiveness.
However, for modern AAA titles such as Elden Ring, Forza Horizon 5, and GTA 5, even running on the lowest graphics settings results in maxed-out CPU and GPU loads, often capping performance at lower frame rates that can detract from the gameplay experience. More demanding games like Monster Hunter World and Riders Republic were effectively unplayable due to frame drops, input lag, and lengthy shader compilation times. This indicates that the hardware, while newer, is still underpowered for a seamless AAA experience in this form factor.
User Experience: Interface and Ergonomics
The Ally attempts an Xbox-like interface overlaying Windows 11, but this hybrid approach feels unfinished and inconsistent. Users often had to navigate between Xbox’s console-inspired interface and full Windows 11 desktop, leading to clunky transitions, finicky app launches, and UI elements that sometimes failed to adapt properly—like tiny text and unreliable on-screen keyboards. Launching games across different stores frequently required workarounds, and sleep mode behavior was unpredictable with downloads.
Ergonomically, the device boasts comfortable angled grips and a sleek white finish with RGB lighting, but for larger-handed users, some grip discomfort was reported. The analog sticks’ wide default dead zones hindered precise control, though this could be adjusted via software settings. The 7-inch 1080p IPS screen offers sharp visuals and good brightness, but the small touchscreen targets posed challenges for finger navigation. Overall, the reliability and polish of the user experience lagged notably behind handheld rivals.
Battery Life and Portability Considerations
Battery endurance on the Ally sits around two hours for low-intensity games, slightly better than the Steam Deck’s roughly 1.5-hour benchmark in equivalent conditions. While improved, this remains limited for long gaming sessions without frequent recharging. The compact design cools well and the fan noise stays impressively low, making the device appealing for handheld use, but the tradeoff in performance and interface fluidity puts constraints on the practical gaming experience.
Comparisons and Final Thoughts
Compared to the Steam Deck OLED, which offers better software optimization with SteamOS, higher frame rates for many titles, and a more polished UI, the Ally feels like an ambitious yet half-baked attempt to bridge PC and Xbox gaming in a portable form. The loyal Xbox gamers may find some value in the broader game platform access and Xbox branding, but many will be frustrated by the inconsistent experience and weaker performance on demanding games.
For gamers focused on pure handheld enjoyment and interface polish, the Steam Deck OLED or upcoming devices like the rumored Switch 2 might provide more satisfying alternatives. Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally base model is best suited for those willing to play older or less demanding games and who value the flexibility of Windows-based gaming on the go, accepting current software quirks and compromises.
