Xbox Ally X Review: A Surprisingly Comfortable Handheld for Gears of War Fans
If you’ve been searching for a powerful and ergonomic alternative to the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch, the Xbox Ally X handheld might be exactly what you’re looking for. Launched in partnership with Asus, this new device is Xbox’s latest move into the handheld gaming space—and it delivers. Whether you’re a die-hard Gears of War: Reloaded fan or just looking for a cloud-friendly portable console, the Xbox Ally X brings comfort, performance, and accessibility together in one sleek package. And yes, it actually feels great in your hands.
Xbox Ally X: A Comfortable Leap Forward in Handheld Gaming
What instantly sets the Xbox Ally X apart from its competitors is how it feels during gameplay. Unlike the Steam Deck, which can be a strain to hold for long sessions, the Ally X features hand grips that mimic the classic Xbox controller shape. This design choice pays off—your hands rest naturally, reducing fatigue even during action-heavy titles like Gears of War: Reloaded. For anyone who’s struggled with cramped fingers or sore wrists while gaming, this is a major win.
Optimized for Xbox Games and Beyond
The Xbox Ally X integrates seamlessly with the Xbox app, Game Pass, and third-party stores, making it a flexible option for serious gamers. While I wasn’t able to test its storefronts during my hands-on, the performance on Gears of War: Reloaded alone showed how well the device handles graphically intense games. With specs that rival other top-tier handhelds and smooth Xbox UI integration, the Ally X isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a serious contender in the portable gaming market.
Xbox Ally X vs. Steam Deck: A Worthy Rival
Weighing in similarly to the Steam Deck, the Xbox Ally X offers more than just hardware parity. Its superior comfort, Xbox ecosystem support, and familiar controller-like design give it a distinct advantage for fans loyal to Microsoft’s game library. While the Steam Deck still holds value for its open-source flexibility, Xbox’s focus on usability and in-hand feel make the Ally X an ideal choice for casual and competitive gamers alike.
Should You Buy the Xbox Ally X? Final Thoughts
If comfort, performance, and Xbox-first support are top priorities for you, then the Xbox Ally X handheld is absolutely worth considering. It’s not just another handheld—it’s a refined, gamer-focused device that understands what players really want: powerful play in a form that doesn’t punish your hands. Whether you’re diving into Gears of War, Halo, or your favorite Xbox indie, the Ally X delivers a surprisingly enjoyable experience you can take anywhere.