Microsoft and Asus are teaming up to release their collaborative handheld Xbox device on October 16, 2025, with pre-orders currently available at various outlets. The buzz on the internet, however, is that eBay listings for confirmed pre-orders are already being sold for two to three times the retail price. The top-tier model of this handheld is priced at a whopping thousand bucks, making the inflated eBay prices seem even more outrageous.
The ROG Xbox Ally X is essentially an Xbox-themed portable PC, similar to the Steam Deck or Asus’ own non-Xbox-branded “Ally.” These types of devices have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to run massive storefronts like Steam on the go and handle graphically demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077. Microsoft wanted to capitalize on this trend by offering a more Xbox-themed option. However, with a $600 price tag for the basic model and a hefty $1,000 for the top-tier model with a more powerful processor, some are questioning if it’s worth the investment. Despite this, certain individuals on eBay are convinced that buyers will shell out even more money, despite the availability of units elsewhere.
Who exactly is the target market for the ROG Xbox Ally X, especially considering its higher price point compared to similar devices on the market? The more powerful model boasts a new AMD Z2E AI Chip, offering around a 10 to 20-percent performance improvement over its competitors in certain scenarios. While the improved performance is notable, it comes at a premium of about $500 more than a Steam Deck and $100 more than Asus’ ROG Ally X. The Xbox user interface with controller-based navigation and unique controller grips set it apart, but some have managed to get the Xbox game launcher working on regular Ally portable PCs. With a steep price of $1,000 for the top-tier model, it’s questionable whether there’s a compelling reason to upgrade for those who already own a Steam Deck or a more powerful handheld device. It remains to be seen who will be enticed to spend double that amount for an eBay pre-order.
Overall, the market for handheld gaming devices is becoming increasingly competitive, with companies like Microsoft and Asus vying for consumer attention with their high-end offerings. The appeal of the ROG Xbox Ally X lies in its powerful hardware and Xbox-themed features, but whether it justifies the steep price tag remains to be seen. As gamers weigh their options and consider the value proposition of this new device, it’s clear that the handheld gaming market is evolving rapidly, offering a range of choices for consumers with varying preferences and budgets.
So, will the ROG Xbox Ally X be a game-changer in the handheld gaming industry, or will it struggle to find its place among competitors? Only time will tell as consumers decide whether the device’s performance and features justify its premium price point. In a market saturated with options, standing out from the crowd is essential for success, and the ROG Xbox Ally X will need to prove its worth to capture the attention of discerning gamers looking for the ultimate handheld gaming experience.
