Gaming handhelds are in short supply, and the Steam Deck’s scarcity isn’t just a temporary hiccup—it’s a structural problem tied to component shortages. But if you’re hunting for an alternative, Asus’s ROG Xbox Ally just got a lot more appealing. The handheld is now priced at $489.99, undercutting the Steam Deck’s lowest listed price by $60 while delivering a sharper display, more processing power, and a larger battery.
The catch? It’s not a drop-in replacement. The Ally runs Windows 11, which means broader game compatibility but a bulkier interface. Still, for players who want 120Hz smoothness, 16GB of shared RAM, and a 7-inch IPS panel—all in a device that doubles as a full-fledged PC—this could be the best deal in portable gaming right now.
Why the Ally stands out
- 120Hz refresh: The 7-inch IPS display pushes 120Hz, far exceeding the Steam Deck’s 90Hz base model. That’s a noticeable difference for fast-paced games.
- Windows 11 flexibility: Unlike the Steam Deck’s Linux-based OS, the Ally lets you run native Windows games, including multiplayer titles that often struggle on Valve’s platform.
- Bigger battery: A 60Wh cell (vs. the Steam Deck’s 40Wh) means longer play sessions—though the Ally’s larger form factor trades portability for endurance.
- More RAM: 16GB of shared memory (vs. 8GB–16GB in Steam Deck models) helps with multitasking and future-proofing.
- Dedicated Xbox integration: The device supports Xbox Cloud Gaming and Fullscreen Experience, blending Microsoft’s ecosystem with handheld convenience.
The tradeoffs are real. The Ally is heavier, less pocketable, and lacks Steam’s polished software ecosystem. But for players who prioritize raw performance and Windows compatibility, this $110 discount makes it the closest thing to a Steam Deck alternative—without the wait.
- Processor: Quad-core AMD Ryzen Z2 A (RDNA 2 graphics)
- Display: 7-inch, 1080p IPS, 120Hz
- RAM: 16GB shared memory
- Storage: 512GB (expandable)
- Battery: 60Wh
- OS: Windows 11 (with SteamOS/Bazzite compatibility)
- Ports: USB-C, microSD, headphone jack
- Price (sale): $489.99 (down from $599)
- Availability: Available now at major retailers for $500 or less; no end date announced.
The Ally isn’t for everyone—its Windows-based approach and larger size cater to a different audience than the Steam Deck’s Linux-first, pocketable design. But if you’re after a high-refresh handheld with Windows perks, this discount turns it into the most compelling alternative on the market.
