Is the Asus Xbox Ally Priced Too High to Compete?
A New Contender in the Handheld Gaming Space
Asus is making a bold move into the gaming handheld market with a new device called the Xbox Ally. This innovative gadget resembles an Xbox controller split in half with a screen in the middle. Although not manufactured by Microsoft, it aligns with their vision for Xbox hardware. The big question remains: Will consumers be able to afford it?
Pricing Concerns and Market Positioning
Rumors suggest that the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X could cost as much as, or even more than, the current ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. The basic model might be priced around 600 euros, while the more powerful version could reach 900 euros. In U.S. dollars, that translates to approximately $700 and $1,050, respectively. However, prices may vary based on location and factors like tariffs.
Potential Price Adjustments and Market Impact
It's still early, and Asus has time to adjust the prices before the handhelds launch later this year. However, the leaks have sparked concerns. Handheld PCs are already expensive, and Asus recently raised the price of the ROG Ally X in the U.S. from $800 to $900 due to tariffs. Many hoped Microsoft would help keep prices low, but these leaks have cast doubt on that expectation.
Comparing with Existing Handhelds
Currently, the most affordable good handheld is the LCD version of the Steam Deck. Most consumers opt for the OLED version at $550. Lenovo's Legion Go S is also a budget-friendly option at $600. Windows devices typically cost more than those running SteamOS. If the Xbox Ally costs the same as the ROG Ally, it suggests Microsoft isn't providing Asus with a discount, despite the device featuring an Xbox button. This is a problem, as handheld PCs don't sell as well as they should.
Features and Capabilities
The ROG Xbox Ally runs a special version of Windows tailored for handhelds, focusing on the Xbox app but also supporting games from other platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store. Users can still boot into the full Windows OS, ensuring they aren't limited to just Xbox games.
Notable Features
- Access to Game Pass games
- Thunderbolt 4 USB-C with DisplayPort 2.1 for easy connection to external monitors or TVs
- Potential support for Asus' eGPU for enhanced graphics when docked
Customization and User Experience
If Xbox aims to create a console-like PC experience, it needs to allow users to customize their devices. However, it's unclear if the Xbox Ally will be as customizable as SteamOS. Valve's platform benefits from a large developer community, making the device more than just a portable gaming box. A Windows handheld could offer even more, but if it costs significantly more than a Steam Deck, it might not help Microsoft's gaming struggles.