Portable Xbox-like gaming device, Asus ROG Ally, goes on sale for under $500 dollars, now accessible to the public.
Asus ROG Ally Z1E and ROG Xbox Ally: A Comparative Analysis
The Asus ROG Ally Z1E and the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally handhelds offer an exciting array of features for gaming enthusiasts. While both devices share similarities, there are notable differences in their specifications that set them apart.
| Feature | Asus ROG Ally Z1E (2023) | ROG Xbox Ally (2025) Base Model | ROG Xbox Ally X (High-end Model) | |------------------------|---------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------| | Processor (APU) | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (8 cores, 16 threads) | AMD Ryzen Z2 A (4 cores, 8 threads) | AMD Ryzen Z2 AI Extreme (8 cores, 16 threads) | | RAM | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 | 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 | | Storage | 512GB M.2 2230 SSD | 512GB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable) | 1TB M.2 2280 SSD (upgradeable) | | Display | 7" 1080p 120Hz IPS, 500 nits brightness | 7" 1080p 120Hz IPS, 500 nits, FreeSync Premium | Same as base ROG Xbox Ally | | Graphics | AMD Radeon Graphics (presumably RDNA 2/3) | AMD Radeon RDNA 3 Graphics | AMD Radeon RDNA 3 Graphics with AI Boost | | Battery | Unspecified | 60Wh | 80Wh | | Connectivity | Standard USB-C | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, microSD, 3.5mm jack | 1x USB4 Type-C with Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2, microSD, 3.5mm jack | | Weight & Size | About 1.48 pounds, 11.4 × 4.8 × 1.99 inches| Same | Same | | Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | | Special Features | N/A | Xbox-inspired controls, Dolby Atmos, AI mic noise-canceling, RGB lighting | Same as base with higher-end specs | | Pricing | Under $500 | Starting around €599 (~$650) | Around €899 (~$980) | | Release | 2023 | Holiday 2025 | Holiday 2025 |
Key Differences
The ROG Xbox Ally base model features a less powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 A CPU with 4 cores and 8 threads compared to the 8-core/16-thread Ryzen Z1 Extreme in the Asus ROG Ally Z1E. This may result in potentially lower CPU performance but possibly better thermal or power efficiency.
The Xbox Ally integrates Xbox design elements like familiar Xbox controller ergonomics and additional multimedia features such as Dolby Atmos and AI noise cancellation, plus RGB lighting on thumbsticks for aesthetic appeal. RAM on the base Xbox Ally matches the Asus Ally Z1E (16GB LPDDR5X-6400), but the higher-end Xbox Ally X version offers significantly more RAM (24GB LPDDR5X-8000) and storage (1TB SSD vs. 512GB SSD on the Z1E). The Xbox Ally base has a 60Wh battery vs. unspecified on the Asus Z1E, and the Ally X model boosts this battery to 80Wh, which may increase gaming time per charge. Connectivity differs: the higher-end Xbox Ally X supports Thunderbolt 4 via USB4 Type-C, enhancing transfer speeds and peripherals capability, which is absent in the Asus Z1E. Pricing shows a substantial jump: Asus ROG Ally Z1E is under $500, whereas the ROG Xbox Ally starts at about €599 (~$650) for the base and €899 (~$980) for the X, making the Xbox Ally notably more expensive despite some hardware trade-offs like the weaker CPU on the base Xbox Ally model.
Performance Implications
The Asus ROG Ally Z1E's Ryzen Z1 Extreme offers stronger CPU performance, advantageous for CPU-heavy games and multitasking. The Xbox Ally's Radeon RDNA 3 graphics with AI Boost on the Ally X could offer better GPU performance and AI features. The Xbox Ally leans into Xbox ecosystem integration and premium build/design features, potentially justifying its higher price.
In summary, the Asus ROG Ally Z1E offers stronger CPU power at a more affordable price, while the ROG Xbox Ally models emphasize Xbox-style ergonomics, upgraded GPU and RAM on the high-end X version, and premium features at significantly higher prices, with the base model trading off CPU cores for efficiency.
It's also worth noting that the Lenovo Legion Go S, priced at $499, offers 32GB RAM, a 1TB SSD, and an 8-inch screen, making it a worthy competitor in the portable gaming market. The specifications of the MSI Claw 8 AI, another premium portable, are yet to be disclosed, but it is expected to challenge the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X.
[1] Asus ROG Ally Z1E Specifications [2] ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X Specifications [3] ROG Xbox Ally Design and Special Features [4] ROG Xbox Ally Pricing
The Asus ROG Ally Z1E sports AMD Radeon Graphics, potentially offering decent GPU performance. The upcoming ROG Xbox Ally models have Radeon RDNA 3 Graphics with AI Boost, which might provide better GPU performance and AI features.
The Asus ROG Ally Z1E is equipped with 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 RAM, suitable for gaming and multitasking. The high-end Xbox Ally X model boasts 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, presumably catering to heavy-duty gaming and multitasking.
The Xbox Ally equipment includes Xbox-inspired controls for a familiar gaming feel, along with multimedia features like Dolby Atmos and AI noise cancellation for immersive gaming experiences. The Asus ROG Ally Z1E lacks these features.
The Asus ROG Ally Z1E comes with a 7" 1080p 120Hz IPS display, while the base Xbox Ally shares the same display specifications. The Ally X model integrates the same base display.
The Asus ROG Ally Z1E's controller setup and accessories are not explicitly stated. The base and high-end ROG Xbox Ally models leverage Xbox-style ergonomics, offering a familiar gaming experience.
The Lenovo Legion Go S, priced competitively at $499, offers a 1TB SSD and 32GB RAM, making it a contender in the portable gaming market. The specifications of the MSI Claw 8 AI, another premium portable, remain unrevealed, but it is anticipated to challenge the ROG Xbox Ally X in terms of performance and features.
In the realm of technology and gaming accessories, the selection of the right console, such as the PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, or portable devices like the Asus ROG Ally Z1E or ROG Xbox Ally, often depends on preference, specific game choices, and budget constraints. A thorough review of varying hardware, games, and gadgets can help discern the best fit for each individual's gaming needs.
