Latest news with #ROGXboxAllyX
Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- Tom's Guide
The ROG Xbox Ally X could be weaker than we all expected — this older handheld may be more powerful
The ROG Xbox Ally X is set to launch this fall, and while we're particularly keen to see how its streamlined Windows interface works to improve performance and usability, it might offer another glimpse at the power battle between Intel and AMD. And, unlike our report this week which suggested AMD was sneaking ahead when it comes to performance per watt, new benchmarking results have suggested that the ROG Xbox Ally X could be less powerful than the MSI Claw 8 AI+. YouTube account ETA PRIME has put the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (in the MSI Claw 8 AI+) and both the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme (in the MSI Claw A8) and the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme ASUS ROG Ally X into a benchmarking test, and the results are particularly impressive for the MSI Claw 8 AI+. Geekbench 6 results show the Intel-powered Claw 8 AI+ coming out on top for single and multi-core tests at 17W, with the same chip keeping pace with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme at 25W in single core tests. Both devices left the Ryzen Z1 Extreme behind, but the two AMD chips did do better at 25W on multi-core scores. When it comes to graphical analysis, 3DMark's Time Spy GPU benchmark gives the win to Intel, but as ETA PRIME explains, ''Synthetic scores tend to favor Intel's 140V GPU, but they don't always translate to smoother gaming'. Still, the chip performed at the same level of AMD's offerings across titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Forza Horizon 5, and Black Myth: Wukong. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. So, where did all this come from? ETA PRIME has said Intel's drivers have been improved to the point where frame rates are almost double what they were at launch. We saw this ourselves when testing the new drivers on the Claw 8 AI+. It all begs the question — what can Microsoft do to eke out even more performance from its upcoming handheld with Asus? Or will it struggle to reach further than existing systems? We'll have an update as soon as we've gone hands on with the system. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Tom's Guide
6 days ago
- Tom's Guide
Asus ROG Xbox Ally X vs Lenovo Legion Go 2 vs MSI Claw A8: Which next-gen gaming handheld should you buy?
When it comes to the best handheld gaming consoles for 2025, you're going to choose between three: the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X, the Lenovo Legion Go 2 and the MSI Claw A8. All three run AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset (Asus getting the AI-injected version), a bucket full of RAM, a giant battery and gaming ergonomics at their core. Out of all the handhelds announced this year (there's a lot of them), these are the three atop the next-gen mountain, and that begs a question — which one should you buy? There are key differences that make this a very closely-fought bout between the three. The Legion Go 2 aces the others in the display department with an OLED screen, whereas the MSI Claw packs a bigger battery, and thanks to the power pairing between Asus and Microsoft, the ROG Xbox Ally X could beat both in terms of performance. So let's try to get an understanding of these three, look at all the specs and leaks, take our hands-on time into context and help you pick the right one for you. Spec ROG Xbox Ally X Lenovo Legion Go 2 MSI Claw A8 Processor AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme GPU AMD Radeon 890M AMD Radeon 890M AMD Radeon 890M RAM 24GB LPDDR5X 32GB LPDDR5X 24GB LPDDR5X Display 7-inch LCD, 1080p, 120Hz 8.8-inch OLED, 1080p, 144Hz 8-inch LCD, 1080p, 120Hz Storage 1TB PCIe SSD 1TB PCIe SSD 1TB PCIe SSD Battery 80Wh 74Wh 80Wh Dimensions 11.45 × 4.78 × 2.00 inches 11.64 x 5.38 x 1.66 inches 11.79 x 4.97 x 0.94 inches Weight 1.6 pounds 2.1 pounds 1.7 pounds Out of all the categories, this is probably going to be the one that's most divisive, because each company has a different approach to design and display. Let's start with the ROG Xbox Ally X. It focuses on portability and ergonomics. It's the smallest of the bunch, and that's reflected in a 7-inch LCD panel. But it's also the thickest on account of improved ergonomics, with side grips that do have that cylindrical shape of a traditional game pad. We've yet to go fully hands-on with this system ourselves (trust me, it's coming soon), but we like the design, even if it's the smallest of the bunch. If you want the best screen, that's where the Legion Go 2 comes in — alongside that choice to make the controllers detachable, which is going to be great for local multiplayer or just setting down that gorgeous 8.8-inch OLED display. However, with a bigger screen and more mechanical parts to detach the controllers, it's slightly bigger and a lot heavier, at over 2 pounds. Finally, there's the middle ground in the MSI Claw A8. Ergonomically, its more sound than the previous Claw with blockier controller grips to get your hands around. It's only 1.6 ounces heavier than the Xbox handheld and in return, you get an 8-inch display (LCD though, not OLED). So really, this is a bit of a three-way tie and comes down to what you're looking for. If you want the best display and don't mind the heft, the Legion Go 2 is your go-to. Want the most portable? ROG Xbox Ally X is the one to choose, and the MSI Claw sits nicely in between for those looking for balance. Just because both these handhelds sport identical internals doesn't mean there isn't a clear winner in the performance department. All of them run a version of AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, which in turn shares a lot in common with the Z1 Extreme before it (8 cores/16 threads). In testing the MSI Claw A8, I was able to get some impressive frame rates of 60+ FPS across some key AAA titles like Spider-Man 2. Of course, this was just a quick test and not a full lab benchmarking. But the superpower comes in moving up to a Zen 5 architecture that unlocks RDNA 3.5. This is what that upgrade does to the performance from leaked testing. Of course, this is ignoring the elephant in the room — AI. The ROG Xbox Ally X packs a Ryzen AI X2 Extreme, which is essentially the same chip but with an NPU bolted on. What this does for game performance, I'm not sure. But developers could accommodate this for smoother machine-learned frame generation or fidelity in the future. As for battery, this is one area where MSI and Microsoft might have a bigger edge. The Claw A8 and ROG Xbox Ally both sport an 80Wh cell, while the Legion Go 2 has a 74Wh battery. That's a small difference, but given the bigger power draw of a bigger screen, that could mean a drop in stamina. But there is one key advantage that the ROG Xbox Ally X will have over these other two — the software. Not just in the UI of opening directly into the Xbox experience rather than to Windows 11, but also in efficiency too. On this Xbox handheld, Microsoft will stop all the background processes of Windows running, which have often been the key reason behind bad battery life on handhelds when compared to those rocking SteamOS. How much of an impact this has, we're not sure, but at the very least, I'm seeing performance improvements in other hands-on tests from my friends. So it's definitely reason to be a little optimistic! And so far, that's where we stand with these — look out for comprehensive hands-on reviews on these three soon enough! But whichever way you go, you're sure to get a powerhouse of a handheld. Early vibes are pointing me towards the ROG Xbox Ally X in terms of the tailor-made software that should improve efficiency and performance over the other two. That being said, Microsoft has confirmed that this gaming handheld-centric version of Windows 11 is coming to other handhelds soon, as has been leaked in a recent beta build. That means those who seek the best display will get the benefits of this in the Legion Go 2, or if you want a slightly bigger screen, the MSI Claw A8 would be a strong contender too. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
Express Tribune
29-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Hollow Knight: Silksong to be publicly playable for the first time at Gamescom 2025
Team Cherry's Hollow Knight: Silksong will be publicly playable for the first time at Gamescom 2025, according to Microsoft's official showcase announcement. The event will run from August 20 to 24, with Silksong featured at the Xbox booth on PC and the ROG Xbox Ally X handheld console. The upcoming demo is viewed by many as the most concrete indication yet that the long-awaited Metroidvania sequel is on track for its 2025 release. Microsoft revealed the news as part of its broader Gamescom programming, which includes several third-party titles expected to draw significant attention from attendees. Silksong will join other anticipated games at the Xbox booth, including Ninja Gaiden 4, Borderlands 4, and Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade. These titles will be available for hands-on testing by the public throughout the week. Xbox's dedicated Gamescom broadcast, scheduled for August 20 and 21, will also highlight Silksong and other first- and third-party games. Sarah Bond of Microsoft previously spoke about Silksong at June's Xbox Showcase, confirming the game would launch on Xbox One, Xbox Series X, ROG Xbox Ally X, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Nintendo Switch platforms. It will also be available on Xbox Game Pass from launch day. Gamescom attendees will be among the first to try Hollow Knight: Silksong following years of anticipation since the game's initial announcement. The release date has not yet been confirmed but remains slated for late 2025.
Express Tribune
14-07-2025
- Express Tribune
ROG Xbox Ally handheld price leaks ahead of launch
The price for the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally handheld console has possibly leaked ahead of its official announcement, suggesting it could be positioned at the higher end of the handheld gaming market. First revealed during the June Xbox Showcase, the ROG Xbox Ally is part of Microsoft's expansion into handheld gaming. Details of its specifications have already been shared, including a 7-inch FHD (1080p) screen, a 512GB M.2 SSD for the standard model, and a 1TB M.2 SSD for the ROG Xbox Ally X, alongside an 80Wh battery for the Ally and a 60Wh battery for the X. According to a report by 3djuegos, a preview on the ASUS website indicated that the ROG Xbox Ally will cost €599 ($700 / £520), while the ROG Xbox Ally X is expected to be priced at €899 ($1,050 / £780). These prices have not been officially confirmed and may be subject to change before launch. If accurate, the pricing would place the ROG Xbox Ally above the Nintendo Switch 2, which is priced at $449.99 (£395.00), and higher than the Steam Deck OLED with 1TB of storage, currently available for $649.00 (£569.00). The handheld market has seen increasing competition, and the potential pricing for the ROG Xbox Ally reflects its higher specifications and positioning. Fans awaiting the device are now watching for official confirmation from ASUS and Microsoft regarding the final retail price and release details.
Tom's Guide
14-07-2025
- Tom's Guide
ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X prices leak — prepare for a premium cost
We know a lot about the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, with Microsoft's new gaming handhelds rumored to arrive this October, but prices have yet to be officially announced. Now, we may have an idea thanks to a leak — and they look to be pricey. An official Spanish Asus Store (spotted by Notebookcheck) seemingly reveals the prices for the ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, shown by typing "Xbox Ally" in the search bar of the site. It shows the base Xbox Ally will be priced at €599, while the Xbox Ally X will come in at €899. This puts the standard model at around $699/£519 and the premium Ally X version at $1,050/£779. Of course, pricing in different regions is sure to be adjusted, especially in the U.S. with tariffs. However, if accurate, these Xbox handhelds will be another set of premium-priced gaming handhelds. Interestingly, known leaker eXtas1s suggests the regular Xbox Ally with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A chip will be priced from $499, while the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme-equipped ROG Xbox Ally X will start at $799. These are far more attractive price points, but seeing the leaked prices indicates these could be at least $100 more. The ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are set to launch this fall, with rumors suggesting an October release date (with pre-orders expected to arrive in August). We'll know the official price of these gaming handhelds soon, but it's already looking like these consoles will match the competition of other premium handhelds. With the latest AMD processors, upgraded specs and new Xbox Experience app launching with the consoles, it isn't surprising that Microsoft's upcoming handhelds would come with premium price tags — not unlike other recent PC gaming handhelds. To put this into perspective, the recent Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS starts at $549 with a Ryzen Z2 Go chip, with the Ryzen Z1 Extreme coming in at $829. Along with this, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ starts at $899 with its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V chip. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. As for Asus' previous offerings, the ROG Ally is set at $699, while the beefier ROG Ally X is priced from $799. With the price leak in mind, the Xbox versions could look slightly different. We previously predicted the ROG Xbox Ally will be around $599 or less, while the ROG Xbox Ally X could drop somewhere between $799 to $999. Unsurprisingly, this puts both models well ahead of the $449 Nintendo Switch 2, with the highest-end $649 Steam Deck OLED being just ahead of the rumored pricing of the base ROG Xbox Ally. All that said, Asus' handhelds offer some of the most powerful handheld gaming performance on the market, and with the upgraded Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip (along with the less powerful Z2 A processor), these are set to be high-end portable gaming machines. There's still a lot to learn about Asus' upcoming Xbox handhelds, and it won't be long until we see if they belong among the best gaming handhelds around.
