
Steam Deck has dropped out of the running, and the ROG Xbox Ally emerges as the handheld PC option for under $600. Understand the RAM and price scenario at the moment.
Current Landscape: Absent Steam Deck Opens Space for the Ally
At a time when the Steam Deck seems absent from the market, the ROG Xbox Ally appears as the only handheld PC option under $600. The scenario is shaped by a RAM shortage affecting various handheld lines.
Price and Comparison with Higher-Performance Models
The base model is listed at $567.81, up from $499 in December. While the top-tier Ryzen Z1 Extreme promises more performance, the entry-level Ally remains the most accessible option in this price range — especially for those who want full Windows 11.
RAM Shortage and What It Means for Purchase
The memory RAM shortage, driven by the AI industry, makes the Ally one of the few viable options under $600 for those seeking portability with Windows 11, especially for indie games and the title backlog.
Competitors: Legion Go S and Other Options
The Lenovo Legion Go S rarely drops below $500, even with versions featuring Windows or SteamOS. The 32GB/1TB Windows version appeared only once, and similar discounts are likely to take longer due to current manufacturing conditions.
Impressions of the Ally
Although the price does not seem the most aggressive and there is a performance difference compared to the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, the Ally offers full Windows 11, comfortable gaming touches, and sufficient performance to run indies and the title backlog.
- Screen: 1080p, 120Hz
- Controls: Comfortable grips, console style
- System: Windows 11
Phil is the Hardware Editor at GamesRadar+, focusing on handhelds, retro setups, and hardware guides for everyday gamers. Over time, he has covered everything from console history to the hottest modern hardware news.
Liked the review? Leave your comment: would you buy the ROG Xbox Ally for under $600 or wait for sales or a more powerful alternative?
Veja mais artigos como ROG Xbox Ally: The only handheld option under $600 amid RAM shortage na categoria News.





