- Price drop makes the device far more competitive in the handheld space
- Handles indie and older games well but struggles with newer AAA titles
- Windows 11 experience is functional but not fully optimized for handheld use
- Stock shortages of rivals make it a practical option right now
Handheld gaming PCs are having a moment, but it has not been a smooth ride for buyers. Stock shortages, rising component costs, and patchy availability have made it frustrating to pick up some of the most popular devices. Against that backdrop, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally suddenly looks far more appealing thanks to a significant price cut.
A £100 discount brings it down to one of its lowest prices yet, and naturally that raises the question. Is now the right time to buy, or is it still worth holding out for something better?
The answer is not entirely straightforward. While the discount makes the Ally far more accessible, there are still a few compromises that potential buyers should think through carefully.
Solid performance, but not top tier
On paper, the base Asus ROG Xbox Ally offers a respectable set of specs. It comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The 7 inch Full HD display with a 120Hz refresh rate is another highlight, delivering smooth visuals that feel responsive in fast paced games.
In practice, this setup handles indie titles and older games comfortably. You can expect stable performance in less demanding libraries, and for casual or portable gaming sessions, it does the job well. However, when it comes to newer AAA releases, things become more complicated. You will likely need to dial down settings or accept lower frame rates to keep gameplay smooth.
This is where the difference between the standard Ally and its more powerful sibling becomes noticeable. The higher end model offers stronger performance headroom, making it a better fit for those who want fewer compromises. Still, that added power comes at a higher price, which is exactly why this discounted version is getting attention.
Windows 11 remains a sticking point
Another factor that cannot be ignored is the software experience. The device runs Windows 11, which brings flexibility but also introduces friction. While the Xbox app and handheld focused tweaks help improve usability, Windows is still not fully optimized for smaller touchscreen devices.
Navigating menus, adjusting settings, and managing games can feel less intuitive compared to more streamlined handheld systems. It is usable, but not always seamless. For some users, especially those familiar with PC gaming, this might not be a major issue. For others, it could become a daily annoyance.
Stock shortages give it an edge
What makes the Asus ROG Xbox Ally particularly compelling right now is not just the price. It is the availability. Competing devices, especially those in a similar category, are facing ongoing supply challenges.
One of the biggest alternatives has been difficult to find in stock, with production issues and component shortages affecting availability. Even refurbished units appear sporadically and sell out quickly. That leaves buyers in a position where waiting might mean missing out entirely or paying inflated prices later.
In that context, the Ally’s availability combined with its lower price makes it a practical option. It might not be the most powerful handheld on the market, but it is one you can actually buy without jumping through hoops.
Should you buy it now
If your expectations are realistic, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally at this reduced price is a strong value pick. It suits players who want a portable gaming PC for indie titles, older games, or lighter workloads. It also appeals to those who simply do not want to deal with stock shortages elsewhere.
However, if you are aiming for the best possible performance or a more polished handheld experience, waiting might still be the smarter move. More powerful devices and better optimized systems exist, even if they are currently harder to get.
Ultimately, this is a case of balancing timing, budget, and expectations. The deal makes the Ally hard to ignore, but it is not a one size fits all solution.
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