Asus ROG Ally and Ally X: Gaming Revolution in India
Asus has recently unveiled the ROG Ally and Ally X handheld gaming consoles in India, marking a significant development in the gaming hardware market. With the Indian gaming industry projected to reach $900 million by 2026, these devices blend portability with desktop-class performance, catering to the growing demand for compact gaming solutions.
The ROG Ally is priced at ₹69,990, while the more advanced Ally X comes at ₹1,14,990. Both consoles feature 7-inch FHD displays with 120Hz refresh rates, powered by AMD Ryzen Z2 and AI Z2 Extreme processors, and run on Xbox-ready Windows 11. For power users, the Ally X is particularly appealing, offering 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, which enhances multitasking and gaming experiences.
India's handheld gaming segment has seen remarkable growth, recording a 20% increase in 2025. The rising popularity of portable gaming PCs like the Steam Deck OLED and MSI Claw has created a more competitive landscape. Gamers today are looking for high-quality visuals and performance without the hassle of bulky equipment. The upcoming festive season in September and October is expected to boost sales further, with many discounts available for eager buyers.
While the ROG Ally and Ally X are excellent choices for Xbox Game Pass and PC players, fans of Nintendo or PlayStation may prefer alternatives like the Switch 2 or PlayStation Portal. Casual gamers might find the lighter Ally, weighing just 670 grams, more suited to their needs, while the Ally X appeals to streamers and serious gamers with its advanced features such as AI-driven cooling and improved memory.
Asus has also focused on making the Ally X travel-friendly, with an 80Wh battery and redesigned grips that minimize heat buildup during extended gaming sessions. This is crucial for players who are often on the move. Competing with devices like the Steam Deck OLED and Lenovo Legion Go, Asus has an advantage due to its seamless Windows integration, impressive frame rates, and cross-platform compatibility, although the premium pricing may be a barrier for some.
Overall, portable gaming PCs are becoming increasingly popular among students, content creators, and frequent travelers who require full Windows functionality while on the go. Analysts predict that these devices could even replace mid-tier laptops by 2027. In India, the success of the ROG Ally series will hinge on effective thermal management and competitive pricing, but it undoubtedly sets a new benchmark for handheld gaming performance.
