The most notable difference between the Xbox Ally and the Steam Deck is the operating system. Like the ROG Ally, the Xbox Ally will also use Windows 11, while the Steam Deck uses Valve's SteamOS.

Both models of the handheld launch on the same day globally, save for a handful of regions. Thailand, Brazil, Indonesia, and India won’t have availability until a bit later. Additionally, the less expensive ROG Xbox Ally model won’t be available in China until early 2026.

Xbox gamers will have a new option for taking their library on the go this fall. During Gamescom 2025, ASUS revealed that the Xbox Ally handheld consoles will be on store shelves on October 16. We heard a thorough explanation of the specs and availability for the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X this summer,