The Xbox handheld is finally real. In 2025, Microsoft and Asus teamed up to launch a new device called the ROG Xbox Ally. This handheld features Xbox branding and functions like a compact gaming PC. It runs Windows 11 and supports Xbox games through the Xbox app, Game Pass, and cloud streaming.
What Is the Xbox Handheld?
The Xbox handheld is a portable gaming device developed by Microsoft, with support from Asus. It looks and feels like a gaming console. It has Xbox-style controls and a screen built in. But it is not a regular Xbox. It’s a handheld PC with Xbox features.
Xbox Handheld Hardware Features
The screen is 7 inches with a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s fast and smooth. The device has two versions. The base version has a Ryzen Z1 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage. The high-end version, called the Ally X, has a Z1 Extreme chip, 64GB RAM, and 1TB storage.
It has Xbox-style buttons, triggers, and a dedicated Xbox button. The grip feels like an Xbox controller. The design is made for gamers who like Xbox but want something portable.
Xbox Handheld Software and Interface
This device runs Windows 11. That means it works like a mini laptop. But Microsoft added Xbox features. It has a special Game Bar for fast controls. You can access the Xbox Game Pass easily. You can also play games through the cloud. The system is set up for gaming, not office work.
What Games Can You Play?
You can play Xbox Game Pass titles. You can stream Xbox games from the cloud. You can also install PC games from Steam, Epic, and other stores. Some PlayStation games on PC, like God of War, will also work. But this is not a regular Xbox console. You won’t be able to insert Xbox game discs.
Xbox Handheld vs Steam Deck vs ROG Ally
The Xbox handheld is like the Steam Deck and original ROG Ally. But it has better Xbox support. It’s also more powerful, especially the Ally X version. The design is more like an Xbox controller. If you care about Xbox games and Game Pass, this device makes more sense.
Steam Deck runs on Linux. ROG Ally and Xbox handheld run Windows. That means more game options. But Windows uses more battery. The Ally X fixes this with a larger battery.
Price, Launch Date, and Where to Buy
The Xbox handheld is expected to launch in the Holiday of 2025. The base version may cost around $599. The Ally X may cost closer to $999. It will first launch in the US, UK, and Europe. More countries may follow.
What’s Next? Microsoft’s Future Xbox Handheld
Microsoft is also working on its own Xbox handheld. It’s codenamed Project Kennan. This will be a true Xbox console, not a Windows PC. It may launch in 2027. The current device helps Microsoft test what gamers want.
What Are Gamers Saying?
Some gamers love the idea. They want to play Xbox games anywhere. Others say it’s just a PC with Xbox logos. Many users like the design and Xbox feel. Reddit and YouTube are full of reviews and hands-on videos.
Should You Buy the Xbox Handheld?
Buy it if you want Xbox games on the go. It’s good for Game Pass users. It’s also great if you play PC games. If you want a real Xbox console, you may want to wait for Project Kennan.
Final Thoughts
The Xbox handheld brings Xbox gaming to a smaller, portable device. It mixes PC power with Xbox features. It’s not a full Xbox console, but it gives you Xbox-style gaming anywhere. With more updates coming, the Xbox handheld is just the start of portable Xbox gaming.
FAQ Section
Q1: Is the Xbox handheld a real Xbox console?
No. It’s a Windows device with Xbox features, not a native Xbox console.
Q2: Can I play Xbox disc games on the handheld?
No. There’s no disc slot. You can only stream or download digital games.
Q3: Does it support Xbox Game Pass?
Yes. You can stream or install Game Pass titles using the Xbox app.
Q4: Is the Xbox handheld better than the Steam Deck?
If you use Game Pass or prefer Xbox controls, it’s a better fit. Steam Deck is more Linux-based.
Q5: When will the Xbox handheld launch?
It’s expected to be released in the Holiday 2025.
