The much-anticipated Asus ROG Xbox Ally X is finally available for pre-order, and gamers are clamoring for it! With just a month left until these two new Xbox handheld gaming PCs hit the market, they’re already selling out at an astonishing pace. Many major retailers are reporting limited stock, restrictions, or even complete sell-outs.
Serving as a spiritual successor, the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X mark Microsoft’s first foray into the portable gaming market, developed in partnership with Asus. Based on early reports and a recent preview of the ROG Ally, these devices are already poised to be strong contenders among the best handheld gaming PCs, thanks to their impressive specifications and performance.
Pre-orders for both the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and the more powerful Ally X officially began on September 25. The standard ROG Xbox Ally is priced at $599.99, while the premium ROG Xbox Ally X will retail for $999.99.
While some retailers, such as Walmart, currently list the base-model Xbox Ally as available for pre-order before its October 16 launch, options for the Ally X are less consistent.
Best Buy’s website requires users to log into their accounts to check stock for these handhelds, complicating local availability checks. Interestingly, one Best Buy customer reported snagging a $100 discount on the Xbox Ally X through their Total membership, though this claim remains unconfirmed by other sources.
On Amazon, the Xbox Ally appears to be in stock for certain regions, like the UK, but unfortunately, pre-orders are currently unavailable for US customers.
Even with some fortunate buyers, the overall picture isn’t entirely rosy. Reports from online communities indicate that many retailers globally are already experiencing stock shortages. For instance, in the UK, stores like Currys have already run out of the Xbox Ally X, leaving only the more affordable Xbox Ally available.
Both the official Xbox and Asus stores are listing these devices as sold out in numerous locations. However, it’s worth noting that the Xbox store has reportedly replenished stock for both handhelds at various times throughout the day, so persistent checking might just pay off.
The overwhelming interest has led to the appearance of CAPTCHA verification and virtual waiting queues on some retail sites, including Currys in the UK and the Xbox store, clearly indicating the massive demand.
Thanks to its distinct Xbox branding and comfortable controller-like grip, this Asus handheld is quickly becoming a favorite among gamers. If you’re hoping to get your hands on one before the official release, it’s highly recommended to place your pre-order soon, as retail availability is constantly changing, and there’s no assurance of future stock before launch.
For those interested in Asus’s previous flagship handheld, our review of the Asus ROG Ally X highlights why it was a fantastic alternative to the Steam Deck. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a larger, yet still portable, gaming setup, consider exploring our guide to the best gaming laptops.
Are you eager to try out this innovative Xbox handheld? Share your thoughts and expectations with our community of fellow gamers and staff!