Asus Offers Standalone Xbox Ally X20 Handheld for $1,300

The device retains the distinct aesthetic of the 20th Anniversary edition, featuring a translucent shell accented with gold trim. Beyond the visual flair, the hardware upgrade centers on a 7.4-inch 1080p OLED display, which currently stands as the most vibrant and responsive screen in the handheld market. Ergonomic improvements include refined grips and a versatile D-pad capable of toggling between 4-way and 8-way inputs, alongside the removal of the dedicated Xbox Library button to prevent accidental interruptions during gameplay.

While the $1,300 price tag marks a significant investment, it sits $300 above the original Xbox Ally X model. Asus representative Anthony Spence confirmed that the company will keep both the $1,000 Ally X and the $600 base model in its active lineup for those seeking more accessible entry points. Despite the appeal of the new hardware, potential buyers should weigh the premium cost against the performance realities that often only emerge in full retail reviews, rather than early previews.