Microsoft has officially announced the pricing for its highly anticipated ROG Xbox Ally X and the refreshed Xbox Ally, bringing clarity to gamers who have been waiting for months. The company revealed that the ROG Xbox Ally X will retail at $799, while the standard Xbox Ally is priced at $699, making both devices a direct challenge to rivals like Valve’s Steam Deck and the Lenovo Legion Go.

Pre-Orders Sell Out Within Hours

Shortly after the pricing announcement, both consoles went live for pre-orders on official Microsoft and retail partner websites. To no surprise, they sold out within hours, signaling massive demand. Gamers expressed frustration on social media over stock shortages, with many scalpers already listing the handhelds at inflated prices.

Enhanced Features in ROG Xbox Ally X

The ROG Xbox Ally X isn’t just about branding—it introduces longer battery life, improved thermals, and storage capacity upgrades compared to the first-generation model. It is also deeply integrated with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, offering players instant access to Microsoft’s cloud and PC library. This positions the device as a hybrid between a portable gaming console and a Windows-based handheld PC.

Standard Xbox Ally Gets a Price Advantage

While the Xbox Ally retains much of the same design and performance, Microsoft has ensured it remains the entry point for gamers at a more accessible price. This strategy gives players a choice between affordability and premium features, strengthening Xbox’s presence in the handheld gaming market.

A Strategic Move Against Competitors

Industry analysts note that Microsoft’s timing is strategic, as the portable gaming market continues to surge. With PlayStation exploring its handheld future and Valve dominating with the Steam Deck, Microsoft is betting big on making Xbox gaming more accessible on the go. The quick sell-out of pre-orders underscores that the company may have struck the right balance between performance, ecosystem, and pricing.

What’s Next for Availability?

Microsoft has confirmed that the next wave of pre-orders will open in late October, with official shipping dates starting from November 15, 2025. The company has assured fans that more stock will be available before the holiday season, hinting at a global launch push.