Why would I want to turn off CPU Boost on my handheld?

When CPU Boost is active, the CPU draws more power. That reduces the amount of power available to the GPU, which is far more important for gaming in some instances. Most modern games are GPU-dependent rather than CPU-dependent, especially at common handheld resolutions like 720p and 1080p.

CPU Boost can also negatively affect efficiency. The increased power draw leads to faster battery drain and causes temperatures to rise more quickly, which can contribute to thermal throttling during longer gaming sessions.

How to disable CPU Boost

Disabling CPU Boost is extremely straightforward and very easy to do, just follow the images above or if you'd prefer follow this guide below:

1. Open Armoury Crate SE either using the Armory Crate button or typing it in search.
2. Once in Armoury Crate SE, navigate to the Settings menu.
3. Within the Settings menu, select Performance.
4. Within the Performance menu, choose the Eco Assist option.
5. Turn off CPU Boost on the right-hand side.

When disabling CPU Boost makes sense

Hopefully, this has helped improve performance on your device. As with most tweaks like this, results can vary on a case-by-case basis.

This change is most likely to help in GPU-heavy games such as Black Myth: Wukong, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Cyberpunk 2077, and similar titles, where smoother performance and better efficiency matter most.

Your experience may vary but re-enabling CPU Boost can be done by:

• Launch Armoury Crate SE using the dedicated Armory Crate button or by searching for it in Windows.
• From the main interface, open the Settings section.
• Select Performance from the available options.
• Open the Eco Assist menu within Performance.
• Toggle CPU Boost on from the right-hand side.

Disabling CPU boost won’t magically transform every game, but for titles that struggle with thermal limits or inconsistent frame pacing, it can be one of the easiest ways to get a more stable experience on the Ally.

The best part is that you can toggle it on or off whenever you need, letting you choose between raw speed and smoother, cooler gameplay.

As handheld gaming PCs continue to blur the line between portability and power, small optimizations like this can make a big difference in how your games actually feel in the moment.

If you use an Xbox Ally or ROG Ally, it is worth trying this setting for yourself. Results can vary depending on the games you play and your power profile, so let us know how CPU Boost behaves on your handheld by voting in the poll below.

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It's a modest console with reliable performance, a crisp display, ergonomic grips, and an affordable price tag that's become even cheaper as its $599.99 MSRP has been slashed down to $489.99 at Amazon.

Why buy the Xbox Ally?

While I personally prefer using the Steam Deck for playing games locally, I can't deny that the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally gives it some healthy competition, especially when it comes to cloud gaming.

It features ergonomic grips inspired by the Xbox Wireless Controller's grips, which are very comfy to hold.

It also has an efficient cooling system with silent fans to prevent distracting noise, responsive controls, and a 7-inch IPS display capable of rendering images with 1080p resolution, accurate colors, and up to a 120Hz Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support.

The Xbox Ally also has an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor to enhance its performance so it can run indie and graphically modest AA games, or stream games via Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce NOW smoothly with ease, with little noticeable latency.

However, the Xbox Ally will struggle to run graphically demanding AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 above low settings.

Its other considerations include a storage size of 512GB, no HYPR-RX or AI enhancements (which are included in the Xbox Ally X), and somewhat shorter battery life for gaming (2 hours for demanding games and 7 hours for indie/lower-end titles).

However, you can upgrade its storage issues by picking up the best microSD cards for Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X to fix this handheld's limited capacity to store games.

If you can put aside some gripes, the Xbox Ally is a great Windows 11 handheld for cloud gaming, especially now that it's on sale for $489.99 at Amazon.

Alternative Discount

If Amazon's stock runs or its deal expires, there is a similar discount for the Xbox Ally for $489.99 at Best Buy, which you can use as a backup option.

FAQs

Arrives after Christmas and need a gift sooner? 

If your item won't arrive in time for Christmas or you're looking for a quick and easy add on, buying an Amazon eGift Card is a fast, flexible way to give purchasing power now—send instantly or schedule delivery by email or text, choose any amount from $5 to $2,000, and the balance never expires, making it ideal when a deal’s item won’t ship until after the holidays.

Amazon eGift Cards let you pick a design, set a custom amount, add a personal message, and choose delivery by email or SMS with the option to schedule the exact delivery date—including immediate delivery or a future date up to a year ahead. There are no fees, and gift card balances never expire, so recipients can redeem the code and apply the funds to their Amazon account whenever they’re ready, across millions of eligible items.

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Other regions may follow, but that has not been confirmed, and Valve has yet to officially comment on the phasing out of the LCD model.

The Steam Deck LCD has been Valve’s most affordable handheld to date. If I’m allowed to speculate, rising RAM and storage prices could be part of what is making the LCD model harder to justify in the current market.

Typically priced at $399, the Steam Deck LCD has been one of the most affordable handheld PCs, especially for what it can do. That was even more true over Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when it was discounted by 20%, which could suggest Valve was keen to get rid of remaining stock.

Good bye, Steam Deck LCD — You were an amazing handheld

I’ve actually recently purchased a Steam Deck OLED for my sister for Christmas, but it is still sad to see the LCD variant being phased out. It could be down to rising component costs, but Valve has not confirmed a reason.

When visiting the Steam Deck storepage, users are given a disclaimer stating:

The original Steam Deck began shipping in February 2022, and it helped push PC handhelds into the mainstream, long before the ROG Ally, Xbox Ally, and Legion Go handhelds came to the market.

If the Steam Deck LCD continues to disappear from shelves, the OLED effectively becomes the default option for new buyers. On Valve’s own comparison page, the Steam Deck OLED starts at $549, which is a tougher ask than the Steam Deck LCD's $399 entry point for a lot of people.

If you have been waiting for a Steam Deck LCD, this may be your last chance to grab one at its best price, before availability tightens and resellers move in. Scalpers always seem to show up at the worst time

I'm certain the Steam Deck LCD will end up being remembered fondly. Still, this does set an awkward precedent for future Valve hardware that people hoped would hit a “console-like” price point.

If component pricing stays high, it becomes harder to imagine any so-called Steam Machine-style device landing as a genuinely affordable box, especially as Xbox has confirmed its next console will be a high-end premium device.

It is a bit of a shame to see the Steam Deck LCD quietly disappear, especially as it played such a big role in making PC handhelds feel accessible in the first place.

What do you think about Valve ending Steam Deck LCD production? Do you think it's a good idea for Valve to only sell the OLED option going forward? Tell us about it in the comments.

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The sad truth is that many games don't run all that well on certain handheld gaming PCs, but you don't always know that until you've already bought the game.

So, for all of you other handheld owners (or soon-to-be handheld owners), I decided to make a list of the games I enjoyed playing most this year on my portable gaming devices. If any games catch your eye, make sure to wishlist them so you can eventually play on your own handheld.

😉 Pssst — It turns out many of these games are on sale right now, so they could make for ideal Christmas gifts.

Every title listed below plays well on Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme), Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme), Legion Go, and Legion Go 2, but some might have issues on Steam Deck and Xbox Ally. To help, I've indicated whether each game is Steam Deck verified or not.

Little Kitty, Big City

I technically first played this game last year, but my niece discovered that I owned it a few months ago, and every time she's come over since, she's wanted to play it on my Xbox Ally X.

I'm not surprised she was drawn to it, since it allows you to wander the streets while playing as a cat and doing cute and mischievous cat things.

The last time my niece was here, we literally spent hours tripping people and stealing their phones, sandwiches, and other items. It's a super fun, laid-back adventure, and it plays beautifully on handhelds. It's Steam Deck verified, too.

Amber Isle

I'm a sucker for cozy games with cute animals, and so of course Amber Isle caught my attention. The game started by letting me design my own perfect little dinosaur character before introducing me to other dinos and teaching me how to craft items.

It's a cute little shopkeeping life sim that easily runs on most handheld gaming PCs. It's marked as Playable for Steam Deck, and I found that it ran well on my Deck, but some of the text was just a bit small.

Kingdom of Night

I'm actually still playing this game right now, but I've put six hours into it already and have been enjoying the ride so far.

Like many of you, I have been eager to see the Stranger Things finale on Netflix, and that's what initially drew me to Kingdom of Night. It's clear to see that it's inspired by Eleven and the gang.

The dark pixel-art aesthetic perfectly emphasizes its 80s focus, where teens in a small town fight off supernatural horrors after discovering that a girl has been taken.

I find the combat engaging, while the story keeps my focus. Now, some parts of the game feel a little cheesy, like the fact that it takes place in the fictional city of Miami, Arizona, but, honestly, that also adds to the charm. It's very well suited to handhelds and is even Steam Deck verified.

PowerWash Simulator

I'm veeeeeeery late to the party on this one, but I finally removed PowerWash Simulator from my backlog this year. Damn, it is so satisfying to spray water at something that is absolutely grimy until it sparkles in squeaky-clean perfection.

I discovered for myself that this is the perfect game to play while watching a show. Honestly, it was hard to put my handhelds down sometimes because of how much this game hooked me. And yes, it is Steam Deck verified.

The Plucky Squire

The Plucky Squire grabbed my attention from the first time I saw a trailer for it. It's an extremely playful game that has you take on the role of a popular children's book character who suddenly acquires the power to break out of his pages and explore the real world that his book exists in.

By interacting with the real world and game elements, I was able to solve a number of clever puzzles, all while uncovering a humorous tale. It plays beautifully on my Steam Deck and is Steam Deck verified, so it should run on most PC gaming handhelds.

My Little Puppy

Grab a box of tissues; this one's a tear-jerker. A friend of mine randomly came across this game and suggested it to me. Since I have a corgi, I basically had to play it.

You take on the role of a little dog who is awaiting their human, "Daddy," in heaven, but after watching several other dogs reunite with their parents, this dog's dad doesn't show up. So, the corgi goes looking for them.

It's a relatively short game filled with mini games and puzzles that I was able to beat within 6 hours. During my playthrough, I smiled, I felt confused, and yes, I cried, but I do recommend it overall.

WARNING: This game surprisingly has some pretty dark moments, so only play if you're up for that sort of thing. And yes, it is Steam Deck verified.

Blue Prince

I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I started playing Blue Prince on my Xbox Ally X, but I soon found myself obsessed with the roguelike puzzle game.

At the start, you're informed that you're set to inherit your eccentric uncle's vast fortune, but only if you can make it through his shifting maze of a mansion and access Room 46. It isn't nearly as straightforward as it sounds, since you only have a certain number of steps you can use before you're forced to end the day and start again the next, but that's what makes this fun.

This game offers the perfect mix of luck and strategy, since you aren't ever quite sure what rooms you're going to unlock or what items you're going to find. There are clues to various puzzles scattered throughout the massive home, but you'll need to pay attention if you want to put everything together. I recommend keeping a notebook handy, seriously.

It's marked as Playable for Steam Deck, since it runs well, but some text can be hard to read.

Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo

I first happened upon this adventure puzzle game while in Brazil for Gamescom Latam. As you can see, the art style is definitely inspired by the Paper Mario series, but it offers a playful story all its own.

I got to play as a snake who awakens in the afterlife and goes on to assist other souls they encounter. It's a charming little game with relatively simple graphics that are ideal for handhelds, and it's even Steam Deck verified.

Baldur's Gate 3

During the spring, my husband and I finally convinced one of our friends to play 2023's Game of the Year winner with us. We'd both beaten it separately, so this was our first time playing together — my friend and my husband on PC, me on my ROG Ally X.

I had a total blast revisiting this adventure, whether I was waiting to see how my friend responded to the game's biggest reveals or watching scenes unfold that I hadn't seen before after someone made a decision I wouldn't have made on my own. Sometimes it was absolutely chaos, but that just added to the fun.

In terms of handhelds, Baldur's Gate 3 is Steam Deck verified and runs beautifully on my various handheld devices. If you like turn-based fantasy RPGs, you should definitely play Baldur's Gate 3 on your handheld, and if your friends do too, you can party up and play together.

Dave the Diver

When Dave the Diver finally came to Xbox this year, it reminded me that this game has been on my backlog for a while now, so I finally downloaded it and played it on my Xbox Ally X.

It didn't take long for me to get sucked into the gameplay loop, which has me exploring watery depths and hunting fish by day and managing a sushi restaurant by night.

It's an extremely satisfying game, and the surprises kept coming to keep me engaged for several weeks. It's also Steam Deck verified.

Minecraft

Minecraft is one of those games that a couple of friends and I dive back into every now and then. It's always a blast, whether we're building the biggest castle we can imagine (complete with a minecart roller coaster) or exploring the world looking for new animals, biomes, and other surprises.

I've played several hours on my Xbox Ally X and Legion Go 2, and it runs beautifully. It is not Steam Deck verified (since it isn't on Steam), but it can run well on Valve's handheld if you take the time to install it in desktop mode and make some adjustments.

Immortals Fenyx Rising

I'll admit, I was initially thrown off by this game's terrible name, but don't let that stop you from playing it, especially if you like playful open-world games. I'd previously beaten this game, but I ended up buying its DLC and replaying it this year on my ROG Ally X.

From the moment I first played Immortals Fenyx Rising, it became very clear that this RPG was inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While exploring a colorful world filled with Greek gods, I can ride horses, glide using Icarus' wings, fight monsters, dive into small shrine dungeons, and find ways to increase my stamina, health, and other skills.

The main goal is to save the gods who have been subdued by the mighty Typhon, a Titan who has taken control of the land. In addition to being a fun game to play on handhelds, I also learned more about Greek mythology, thanks to the sarcastic and humorous characters in this story.

This game is marked as Playable on Steam Deck, with Steam noting that players are sometimes required to tap the screen or manually bring up the keyboard to interact with certain menus.

Horizon Zero Dawn

The original Horizon Zero Dawn has been one of my favorite games ever since it released back in 2017. When the game was remastered, I bought a copy of the game and played it again, hopping between my ROG Ally X and Steam Deck.

Story-wise, the premise is that a young woman named Aloy has grown up as an outcast from her local tribe since birth. She stumbles upon an ancient compound made by people who died over 1,000 years ago and finds some ancient tech that tells her about the world around her, including the weak points of huge machines that walk the earth.

She soon sets off on a journey to unravel a mystery and find out what happened to the ancients. Let me tell you, it never gets old stalking powerful machines, setting traps, taking them down with a bow and arrow, and harvesting parts so I can improve my gear.

Another fun thing for me is that the game takes place in the American West, allowing me to virtually explore iconic locations I've been to in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Arizona. This remaster is Steam Deck verified.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

When Expedition 33 first released in April 2025, I played it on my ROG Ally X, and it ran okay, but it sometimes froze and shut down. A few months later, the game got an update that optimized it for handhelds.

I eventually started a new game on my next-gen Xbox Ally X, and the experience was soooo much better. I love being able to sit in my bed while perfectly parrying enemies and diving deeper into this masterpiece of a game.

In case you didn't know, Expedition 33 received a mountain of accolades and praise this year and eventually ended up snagging a very well-deserved Game of the Year win at The Game Awards.

Everything in this game is enjoyable to me, from the unique story and interactive turn-based combat to the somber music and haunting art style. If you haven't played it, I recommend checking it out. It is Steam Deck verified.

BONUS: Xbox Game Pass

As a bonus, I just want to put it out there that I played dozens of games this year on my various handhelds via Xbox Game Pass, including Blue Prince, Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and much more.

So, if you'd like access to a huge game library, with many titles that are perfect for handhelds, I recommend subscribing.

Excellent games to play on handheld gaming PCs

Looking back, I've gotten a ton of use out of my handheld gaming PCs this year, playing dozens of titles that range from cute little indie games to more graphically intense adventures developed by huge studios.

If there's one thing I've learned, it's that some games run better than others on Xbox Ally X, Steam Deck, and Legion Go 2. While performance can often be increased by changing system settings or a game's specific graphics settings, some games just aren't ideal to play on handhelds.

Do you have a game you love to play on your handheld gaming PC? What do you think is the best handheld? I'd love to hear about it; tell me your thoughts in the comments below.

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In this specific use case, the handheld is great, and I can see precisely what Xbox was aiming for. It fits that relaxed, low-effort gaming window perfectly.

Unfortunately, the install process and what I’ll just call the general “jank” have given me a bitter first impression. At this point, I feel only a major update will address my concerns.

The first boot up

I felt like a kid on Christmas morning when I first got my Xbox Ally X. I was excited to open it the moment it arrived, which was around 10 AM on a Monday morning.

My plan was simple. Install every update first. I turned the Xbox Ally X on for the first time and was greeted with the familiar Windows setup process. I had already seen plenty of reviewers complain about this, so I knew what to expect, but it still takes the console feel away straight away.

I don’t want to be pedantic or nitpicky either, but it really does take you out of the experience. When I mentioned I booted up around 10 AM, that was deliberate, because it took me until 7 PM to update everything and install two games to play. I highly doubt my gigabit internet was the issue here.

When all is said and done, though, and you can finally use the device to play games, it is pretty fantastic. It is powerful, and it has not struggled with anything I have thrown at it. Even ARC Raiders, which was only recently released, runs at over 100 FPS.

If you want to stay within the Xbox App ecosystem, you will feel quite welcome. The Xbox App does have its issues, though. Whenever you boot the device from a shutdown, the app feels laggy and unresponsive, and installing games and having to accept Windows prompts again takes you out of the experience.

The Xbox Fullscreen Experience is promising, but the Xbox App is what is holding it back from becoming something special. Luckily, it seems as though we may be due for some kind of refresh next year.

I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Wi-Fi on my Xbox Ally X was completely broken for an entire week. I ended up troubleshooting it myself and eventually fixed the issue, which led me to put together a handy Xbox Ally X Wi-Fi troubleshooting guide for anyone who might run into the same problem.

Gaming outside of the Xbox App

As you might have guessed when I mentioned Spider-Man: Miles Morales earlier, I do use Steam. The Xbox App has an aggregated library, so your Steam, Epic, and other storefront games appear inside it, but the actual experience leaves a lot to be desired and has a fair bit of what I would call jank.

Ironing things out aside, I’d also like to see the ability to add your own games and apps to the Xbox App, something that Steam already offers.

I have had a Steam account for over 13 years and have built up a library of more than 600 games, so naturally I want to use that library on my Xbox Ally X. Installing those games means going to the Windows desktop and installing Steam, which is fine, and then installing everything through Steam, which is also fine.

The issues start when you need to restart the device to get back into the Fullscreen Experience. Once you are back in, you realise you have to install a Game Bar widget if you want reliable access to Steam (or go to the apps section of the Xbox App). Then, when you launch a Steam game via the Xbox App, the process is long and a bit tedious. When a game finally boots through the Xbox App, it works perfectly, but when you exit, it kicks you back into Steam rather than the Xbox App.

Then we get to multitasking in the Fullscreen Experience. Swiping up from the bottom brings up all your currently open Windows, which is supposed to be easy to navigate with LB and RB, with X to close an app or game, and A to jump back into something.

For me, the LB and RB navigation doesn’t always work. Pressing either often sends me back to the first item I selected, which means I have to tap the screen to move to the next Window. You only see half of each one, and while this issue does not happen every time, it happens enough to notice.

Yet I am still excited for the future of Xbox

I know I have just ranted about my personal experience with the Xbox Ally X, and yes, it has been enough for me to advise people to hold off on buying the device. That is probably not what anyone wants to hear before Christmas and the festivities, but it is my honest takeaway.

Even so, I am still excited about the idea of an Xbox PC. If Xbox can fix the problems I have mentioned and streamline the whole experience, we could be in for something special. That treat may cost an arm and a leg with how things are going, but it's a treat all the same.

I have been with Xbox since the original. While it is easy to doom on Xbox right now because of Microsoft’s decisions, I want an ecosystem of devices that can play my Xbox library and give me access to the endless supply of PC games without feeling janky.

If Xbox can deliver that, it will absolutely keep me as a consumer. I don’t want to say goodbye to my nearly 20-year-old Xbox account, and I don’t care much for many PlayStation games, as they often fall into the same third-person action-adventure formula that stopped working for me after being disappointed by Uncharted 4.

For now, I am choosing to have a little faith that Xbox can deliver what I want from a console, despite my experiences with the Xbox Ally X, because I can feel and see the same vision that Jez sees whenever I am on the device, despite feeling like I’m a beta tester.

All that said, with the 25th anniversary of Xbox next year, we might not have to wait much longer to see what Xbox is cooking.

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Fast-forward to 2026 and its spirit lives on, albeit not through Sony. AYANEO, known for its extensive range of handheld gaming PCs and other portables that run on Android, is bringing it back with the Pocket Play.

The sizzle reel up top is all I need to see to be really excited about this device. It's not the first time a company has tried to do a gaming phone in recent times, but none of them have been like this.

See the nostalgic clip below of the Sony Xperia Play and you know exactly what I mean. A full controller sliding out from behind the display, no need for fiddly touch controls or external accessories.

The state of mobile gaming back in 2011 wasn't great, albeit Minecraft Pocket Edition was a standout. But the idea behind it was perfection, and though I never personally owned an Xperia Play, the time I did spend with one left me coveting it.

The landscape in 2026, when we expect to see the AYANEO Pocket Play, is very different, and lends far better to this type of hardware. We've got true console quality games on mobile now, including the recent appearance of Red Dead Redemption.

We've got cloud gaming, too, of course. The AYANEO Pocket Play would be absolutely perfect for a spot of on the go Forza Horizon 5, wouldn't it? Or how about a spot of retro gaming?

What's yet to be said is, well, much of anything. There's no idea on price, availability, or the hardware inside. Just that it's a smartphone with a slide-out panel containing a D-Pad, ABXY buttons, and two touchpads.

It looks incredible, though, and I'm glad to see, finally, a company bringing the spirit of the Xperia Play back to life. The original was too far ahead of its time (something we've said a lot about our beloved Windows Phone, too), but in the modern age, it could really thrive.

Follow along on its Kickstarter page if you're interested. I know I am.

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That's why I recommend checking out the last-gen ROG Ally ($499.99 at Best Buy Open Box) and Legion Go ($749.99 at Best Buy) before considering the newer, costlier Xbox Ally X ($999.99 at Best Buy) or the Legion Go 2 ($1,099.99 at Best Buy).

Each of these devices can play a wide range of titles from simple pixel-art games to far more graphically intensive games. But Santa's wallet can stretch further going with a less expensive option.

In case you don't know, the Legion Go 2, Legion Go S, white Xbox Ally, and black Xbox Ally X all launched this year with the latest AMD Ryzen Z2 Series processors for gaming handhelds.

Thing is, the less expensive white Xbox Ally uses a Z2 A chip, which is actually less powerful than the original ROG Ally and Legion Go's Z1 Extreme chip.

In other words, the white Xbox Ally might be less expensive, but it can't play as many games as the original ROG Ally or Legion Go because its processor is weaker.

Meanwhile, the last-gen ROG Ally and Legion Go cost less than the Xbox Ally X and Legion Go 2, but can still be used to play many of the latest and greatest AAA PC games.

This year's new handhelds aren't necessarily the best value

Now, if you think your giftee would much rather receive one of the latest handhelds this holiday season, I've included the most popular ones below. They are listed by price to help you make your decision.

Get the handheld that meets your gaming needs

In the end, the gaming handheld you should buy really depends on what you or your gift recipient wants to do with it.

If you just want a simple device that can play some classic games, 2D indie games, and do some emulation, then the white Xbox Ally could suit your needs just fine.

However, the Xbox Ally X and Legion Go 2 are the powerhouse handhelds that can play the most games this generation, including many of the biggest, most graphically intensive games. The Xbox Ally X has the most comfortable grips available, but the Legion Go 2 has a nicer OLED display, and the controllers can be removed for tabletop play.

At the end of the day, the previous-gen handhelds with a Z1 Extreme chip like the ROG Ally or Legion Go are ideal for those who want a handheld that can play many of the latest AAA games while costing less than this year's newest models.

Just note that you will need to check a game's system requirements before knowing if it can play well on any handheld.

FAQ

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While the Xbox Ally X has received rave reviews, it is made with plastic and can be scratched easily. First-hand experience taught us that, but a recent video illustrates it up close.

Zack Nelson, also known as JerryRigEverything, recently tore down the Xbox Ally X. While your gaming handheld is unlikely to face open flames, knives, or boxcutters like the one in Nelson's video, his content always provides insight into how devices are constructed.

The Xbox Ally X — and its more affordable sibling the Xbox Ally — feature quite a bit of plastic. Nelson highlights the balancing act between keeping the cost of a gaming handheld down and using durable materials:

"The rest of the buttons and the directional pad are made with a hard plastic along with every other piece of exposed material. It's all plastic, even around the dual USB-C ports, volume buttons, vents, microSD card slot, headphone jack, and fingerprint scanning power button.

And like, yeah, game controllers have been plastic for decades, but they have also never cost $1,000 before, so I'm rather torn on the material choice."

The ROG Ally X already starts at $899.99 and has increased in price since launch, so making it even more expensive could put the console out of reach for shoppers.

A middle ground for gamers is to get the Xbox Ally X and add a layer of protection, such as dBrand's Killswitch. We recently reviewed the Killswitch for the ROG Ally and Ally X (non-Xbox versions), and the accessory earned a 5/5.

It offers an extra layer of protection and adds rubberized grip and a kickstand to the device. An optional Travel Cover adds even more protection by covering the screen and sticks. dBrand also sells Killswitch cases for the Xbox Ally X and Xbox Ally.

A holiday sale cuts the price of the "Ultra" dBrand Killswitch to $64.80. For that price, you get the case, a kickstand, a skin, a travel cover, stick grips, and two screen protectors (though you have to elect to receive the latter).

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Check your game settings on the fly

Valve's Steam Deck Verified system is supposed to show you what runs smoothly on the handheld, but as we know, it doesn't always paint the whole picture. I should know, I rage-refunded the Oblivion Remaster over it. Sometimes, regardless of ratings, you need to get into the settings and dial down some elements. Other times it plain doesn't work, but you aren't a quitter!

Change the wrong settings or multiple at once, and you can make performance worse and not know why. So rather than guess, you can use this app to get tried-and-tested performance reports from other gamers. These reports break down general playability, from bronze to gold, and dive deeper into framerates, benchmarks, and other metrics.

If you have an Android device, you can grab the early build from the Google Play Store, while iPhone users will have to wait a bit; the iOS beta isn’t accepting new testers just yet.

Get the best performance out of your Steam Deck

DeckSettings pulls configurations and presets from community databases like ShareDeck and SteamDeck HQ, and includes much more than just recommended settings.

You get FPS expectations and expected battery life for each configuration, basically all the data you need to squeeze the most performance out of your titles. If you pair this with our 11 tips and tricks for the Steam Deck, you'll get the most out of your games and your handheld.

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Of course, it usually retails for $599.99, which is a steep ask for the entry model, but it is now available at a much more reasonable, well-suited price. It makes it a far more tempting option for anyone who wants to game on the go with a Windows-based handheld.

Is the Xbox Ally right for you?

Although it is not as powerful as the Xbox Ally X, the base model Xbox Ally still holds its own. Its performance sits close to the Steam Deck, a system with around 19,000 titles verified as Steam Deck-playable, which means the Xbox Ally should handle a large portion of those games too, although mileage will vary.

You also get three months of Game Pass Premium with a purchase of the Xbox Ally. This lets you access a service with more than 200 games available to download or play through the cloud, via the Xbox App. This gives you plenty of choice whether you are at home or on the move.

FAQ

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After some digging online and joining the official Xbox Ally Discord server for help, I finally managed to fix it thanks to one Reddit post that was difficult to find. It solved the issue instantly for me.

I will also include a few general troubleshooting steps in case the same fix does not work for you. With a bit of luck, your ROG Ally or Xbox Ally will stop dropping your internet connection and work as expected.

This how-to guide should work for Xbox Ally, Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally, and ROG Ally X, as well as other devices with the same Wi-Fi chip.

Updating the WLAN Driver

1. When within the Xbox Full Screen Experience, go to Windows Desktop by using your finger to drag up from the bottom of the screen and selecting Windows Desktop
2. On the Windows Desktop, use a browser to go to Microsoft Update Catalog.

3. Download the latest driver at the top, this will popup a new windows, so make sure you don't have popups disabled.
4. You want to click the blue link and download it somewhere you can easily find.

5. Once downloaded, open the Start Menu.
6. Search for Device Manager and open it.
7. Open up the Network adapters menu.

8. Right-click (hold your finger down on the screen) on the MediaTek Wi-Fi 6E MT7922 (RZ616) 160Hz Wireless LAN Card.
9. Select Update driver.

10. Select Browse my computer for drivers.
11. Select "Browse...".
12. Navigate to where you saved the driver you downloaded earlier and select Ok
13. Then select "Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer". You will then be shown the driver we downloaded earlier

14. You want to select "Next".
15. After the new driver installs, restart the device to make sure everything works.

This is the fix that worked best for me after digging around for far too long. Your experience might be slightly different, and that is completely normal.
If it does not solve the problem for you, do not worry, because I have included the other steps I tried as well. They did not work on my unit, but they might just work on yours.

Toggle Wi-Fi and try airplane mode

Start by opening the network panel in the bottom right corner of Windows. You can tap the Wi-Fi, volume, or battery icons to bring them up.

Tap the Wi-Fi button to turn it off and back on. If nothing changes, switch on airplane mode for a few seconds and then turn it off again. This refreshes the wireless connection and often clears quick glitches.

1. Start by opening the network panel in the bottom right corner of Windows. You can tap the Wi-Fi, volume, or battery icons to bring this up.
2. Tap the Wi-Fi button to turn it off and back on.
3. If nothing changes, switch on airplane mode for a few seconds and then turn it off again.

Restart the device

If the Ally still refuses to stay connected, restart it through the Start menu. A simple reboot reloads all the background services and can bring the Wi-Fi back without any extra work.

Reset your network settings and reconnect

1. Open the Network Panel in the bottom right corner of Windows. Tapping the Wi-Fi, battery, or volume icons in the bottom right corner of the Windows Desktop will bring this up.
2. Hold your finger down or right-click on the Wi-Fi toggle.
3. When the prompt appears, select Go to Settings.

4. Go to network & internet, then advanced network settings.

5. Choose network reset.
6. Confirm the reset, wait for it to complete, and restart your Ally device.

7. When it turns back on, open the Network Panel and reconnect to your Wi-Fi by selecting it and entering your password.

MyASUS app settings and troubleshooting

1. When on Windows Desktop again, open the MyASUS App by searching for it in the Start Menu.
2. When within the MyAsus App, select Device settings.
3. Scroll to the bottom and turn on Wi-Fi Smartcheck.

Now if none of this has worked, there is one more thing you can try within the MyASUS App, here's what you can do.

1. Within the MyASUS App, go to System Diagnosis.
2. Tick the Wi-Fi box.
3. Run the Checkup.

4. MyASUS will highlight anything unusual and apply any necessary fixes.

Fix your handheld's Wi-Fi connection

Hopefully, something in this guide has helped you get your Wi-Fi working again. Updating my WLAN driver was the fix that finally solved it on my unit, and since doing that, my Xbox Ally X has connected to Wi-Fi without any issues.

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While the powerful AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor and massive 9.06-inch OLED display with a super high refresh rate and resolution are impressive, it was really the 115Whr battery that made my eyes widen.

The AYANEO NEXT II might have more impressive specs than the Xbox Ally X, but that battery could cause problems for anyone who wants to fly with this niche gaming device.

For those of you who don't know, in the US, UK, and Europe, any device with a battery that's larger than 100WHr needs to get approval before it can be taken on a commercial plane. And in many locations, a 100Whr battery or higher cannot be checked in baggage.

As such, anyone who owns the AYANEO NEXT II will technically be required to go through this approval process if they want to fly with their handheld, whether or not an airline or TSA security holds you to it.

Now, I personally always bring a handheld gaming PC when I go on a plane trip since it helps pass the time. As such, the idea of having to worry about this is very unappealing and makes the Xbox Ally X a better choice.

Insane specs for better or worse

Outside of the battery, there are a few other things about the NEXT II that stand out for better or worse.

Going back to the processors, AYANEO's upcoming Windows gaming device will feature an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which is a more powerful chip than most other handhelds.

For instance, the Xbox Ally X's AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme (8-cores, 16 threads CPU with RDNA 3.5 Radeon 890M integrated GPU) has largely been considered one of the most powerful handheld APUs (accelerated processing units), but the AI Max+ 395 (Zen 5 Strix Halo 16-cores, 32-threads CPU, RDNA 3.5 Radeon 8060S integrated GPU) is more powerful than it, with double the cores and threads.

What's more, the Xbox Ally X APU's TDP reaches up to 35W, but the NEXT II APU's TDP is up to 85W. This means that, depending on settings, AYANEO's handheld can take far more power to run, which could deplete the battery very quickly.

Then there are the NEXT II's dimensions and weight to consider. Given its larger-than-average screen and impressive specs, this device is likely going to be large and weighty.

As an example, the Legion Go 2's 8.8-inch OLED is considered massive compared to other handhelds, but the NEXT II's display is even bigger at 9.06 inches, so I'm expecting the NEXT II to be fairly large in size and heavy to boot (for a handheld).

The Xbox Ally X weighs 1.57 pounds (715g), which is somewhat hefty, but it offsets that hand and wrist strain with some of the very best ergonomic grips on a handheld to date. Meanwhile, the Legion Go 2, with its even higher 2.03 pounds (920g), has detachable controllers, so you don't have to hold it. But there's no such relief for the NEXT II.

Of course, with all that said, I really don't think AYANEO has designed the NEXT II for the average consumer. This is certainly a niche device for PC handheld enthusiasts who are willing to pay a much higher cost for the premium of premium handhelds.

An official price hasn't been revealed yet, but based on other AYANEO devices, it's very possible it could cost $2,000 or more. So once again, this isn't meant for everyone. But AYANEO said that itself by saying this device is for "True gamers."

At any rate, I'd be less inclined to travel with such an expensive device when there are other, less expensive handheld gaming PCs available.

But what do you think about the NEXT II? If price weren't an issue, would you like this handheld? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.

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AYANEO has one of the largest lines of handheld gaming devices of any company on the market, but this latest device is far more powerful, with its beastly AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395.

Based on specs, this processor (powered by Zen 5 Strix Halo CPU, RDNA 3.5 Radeon 8060S integrated GPU) with up to 85W TDP performance should play games even more smoothly than the Xbox Ally X's AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip with up to 35W.

This handheld also features a 9.06-inch OLED display, making it one of the largest handheld screens to date. For reference, the Legion Go 2 has previously had one of the biggest displays, but it's just an 8.8-inch OLED.

What's more, the NEXT II's display has an extremely high resolution (for a handheld) of up to 2,400 x 1,504. Plus, it can swap between 60Hz, 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz, and 165Hz, which is higher than most other Windows handhelds out there.

Another thing worth mentioning is the gargantuan battery capacity of 115Whr. For reference, the Xbox Ally X has an 80Whr battery, and the Legion Go 2 has a 74Whr battery, so this really is big. Of course, a handheld's battery life doesn't just depend on capacity, but how efficiently the system runs, so we'll have to wait and see what battery life is actually like for this device.

Like many other high-end handhelds, this one also packs some premium features, including Hall Effect joysticks and Hall linear triggers, trigger switches, an 8-Way D-Pad for finer control, four back buttons, and a dual-fan cooling system.

As a fancy extra, it even features an AYANEO RGB name plate that you can apparently customize. Fancy.

In typical AYANEO fashion, not all of the specs for the NEXT II have been revealed just yet, including the exact ports, connectivity features, and the actual size and weight of the device. As such, we'll have to wait on more announcements in the coming months.

Additionally, no price or even an expected release date has been revealed. However, given the prices of other high-end AYANEO devices, it's very likely this beast of a handheld could sell for upwards of $2,000, aiming for serious handheld enthusiasts rather than the market at large — thus the marketing for "True gamers."

In the past, most AYANEO devices have sold at Indiegogo, but some have started appearing at Best Buy as well, so it's possible it could arrive at either location when it finally goes on sale.

We'll keep an eye out for any updates regarding this beastly AYANEO NEXT II, but what do you think about it? Tell us in the comments below.

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If you've grabbed one of these sweet handheld gaming PCs, then you'll want to grab the essential accessories to go with them.

The bag I personally use with my Legion Go S has an MSRP of $52.99, but it's currently $39.99 at Amazon. I also own and recommend the JSAUX 6-in-1 Docking Station, which is discounted to $27.99 at Amazon and lets me play on my TV.

Handheld FAQs

More Cyber Monday 2025 - quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

My awesome colleague, Richard Devine, bought a Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3x laptop, which usually sells for $749.99, but is currently only $399.99 at Best Buy.

Similarly, my husband finally got his own Sony WH-1000XM4 after being jealous of mine. It has an MSRP of $349.99, but it's down to $209.99 at Best Buy.

Check out all of the other Cyber Monday deals we ended up going for, from PC hardware to accessories and even some video games.

Cyber Monday deals that we actually bought

We also recommend...

RELATED: Best Cyber Monday PC gaming deals | Best Cyber Monday Steam Deck accessory deals

More Cyber Monday 2025 — quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

FAQ

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If you're having a hard time deciding between these devices this year, that's understandable. They are incredibly different from each other.

Not only do I own both a Steam Deck and a Nintendo Switch 2, but I use them both regularly. So, I've put together a list of pros and cons for both devices to help you figure out which one you should get.

Steam Deck: Pros and Cons

• ✅ Steam Deck grants access to a massive PC game library.
• ✅ It connects directly to your Steam account, but the Deck Loader plugin lets you access other gaming services as well.
• ✅ The Steam Deck LCD is cheaper than the Nintendo Switch 2, and PC game deals can be found more readily than Switch 2 game deals.
• ✅ You can use the Steam Deck like an actual computer when you go into desktop mode. Pair a keyboard and mouse with it, and it will really feel like a typical PC.
• ✅ Steam Deck replacement parts and upgrades are far easier to get ahold of than Steam Deck 2 parts.
• ⚠️ Steam Deck doesn't offer nearly as powerful internals as the Switch 2 or even other handheld gaming PCs like Xbox Ally X and Legion Go 2.
• ❌ Requires more settings adjustments to play some games smoothly, unlike Switch 2 games, which are generally better optimized for the console.
• ❌ Not all PC games run well on Steam Deck; you'll need to make sure a game supports controllers and is Steam Deck Verified or at least has system requirements that roughly match up with Steam Deck internals.
• ❌ The TV docking station is sold separately, whereas Switch 2 comes with one.

Nintendo Switch 2: Pros and Cons

• ✅ Offers exclusive games (Mario, Pokémon, Zelda, Metroid Prime, etc.) that are only available for Switch 2, along with a massive library of PC ports. It's also backward compatible with most Switch 1 games.
• ✅ Nintendo Switch 2 is far more mainstream, which means there are more accessories and stores that carry its peripherals.
• ✅ Switch 2 is a fantastic couch co-op family night console that comes with a TV dock. Some games can host up to eight players (if you have enough controllers to go around).
• ✅ The simple interface is easier for children to navigate, but it doesn't provide as many options as the Steam Deck.
• ✅ It has a smaller size, detachable controllers, and a built-in kickstand that some people think makes it easier to take on trips or play games with the whole family on the go.
• ❌ You cannot customize the UI, operating system, or the hardware without jailbreaking the Switch 2.
• ❌ The Nintendo ecosystem is rather costly since the Switch 2 console, Switch 2 accessories (JoyCon controllers), and Nintendo games rarely go on sale.
• ❌ If something happens to your Switch 2, you might need to send in to Nintendo for repairs, since official parts aren't available for purchase.

Should you get the Steam Deck or the Switch 2?

In the end, the choice is up to you. However, there are a few quick ways to determine which gaming handheld is a better fit.

✅ Choose Steam Deck if...

You've already got a large library of PC games and value the flexibility and freedom to not only repair your devices more easily, but also to customize them and get them working the way you want.

✅ Choose Switch 2 if...

You specifically want to play Nintendo exclusives, are looking for a family-friendly console, or want a gaming system that's perfect for game nights.

Of course, if you're like me and many other gamers out there, you might want to eventually get both at some point. Some people prefer one to the other, but, honestly, both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the Steam Deck are fun gaming handhelds that many people enjoy using.

We also recommend...

If you do end up getting a Steam Deck or a Nintendo Switch 2, don't forget to grab the most essential accessories for either one.

More Cyber Monday 2025 - quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Handheld FAQs

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So, we have rounded up a collection of high-quality Docking Stations that are on sale with the best Cyber Monday discounts around to help your Steam Deck reach its full potential as a hybrid PC.

FAQs

More Cyber Monday 2025 — Quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

So, we have rounded up the best Cyber Monday discounted microSD cards to give your newly minted entry-level Steam Deck the storage it needs to store and play the best PC games out there.

Sunday, Nov. 30 @ 1:00 PM ET: Checked store links and added backlinks to a Docking Station for Steam Cyber Monday discount round-up — Alexander Cope, Contributor.

Alternative deals

If some of these microSDs run out of stock on Amazon, or you prefer shopping at other retailers, here are some alternative discounts sold elsewhere.

We also have a collection of essential Steam Deck accessories on sale, a round-up of discounted Docking Stations, a selection of discounted screen protectors, and bargain sales for Power Banks and chargers to further upgrade your Steam Deck with.

Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card (1TB)

• $79.99 at Best Buy (was $119.99)

SanDisk 2TB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card (2TB)

• $179.99 at Best Buy (was $279.99)

FAQs

More Cyber Monday 2025 — Quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

Take a look at the best handhelds and must-have accessories I recommend most this year.

Best Xbox Ally / ROG Ally accessories 2025

Best Steam Deck accessories 2025

Best Legion Go S / Legion Go 2 accessories 2025

Best Nintendo Switch / Switch 2 accessories 2025

Handheld FAQs

More Cyber Monday 2025 - quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

For example, my awesome colleague Cale loves playing Marvel's Spider-Man Remastered on his Steam Deck. It usually sells for $59.99, but it's currently only $19.09 at Loaded (formerly CDKeys).

Here are games we here at Windows Central love playing, and the handhelds we like to play them on. Some of us even listed Cyber Monday deals for our favorite handheld accessories, too.

Best Cyber Monday PC gaming deals 2025

RELATED: Best Cyber Monday PC gaming deals | Best Cyber Monday Steam Deck accessory deals

I also recommend...

Where to find Cyber Monday PC Gaming Deals 2025

• Amazon / Amazon Prime Gaming
• Fanatical
• Green Man Gaming (GMG)
• GOG (Good Old Games)
• Humble Store
• Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Newegg
• Steam

More Cyber Monday 2025 — quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Loaded FAQ

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In the case of the Steam Deck, it's the number one upgrade I recommend. I bought a 256GB Steam Deck and received it in the earliest batches, and it didn't take long to need more. My SSD of choice — the Crucial P310 — is reduced right now, with 1TB down to $84.99 $97.77 at Amazon.

Don't think this deal is just for the Steam Deck, either — all mainstream PC handhelds, from the Xbox Ally to the Legion Go, can benefit.

Alternative deals

There's not much that needs saying. If you don't have 1TB or more already in your handheld gaming PC, then this is the upgrade to make. It's good for the Steam Deck, it's good for the Lenovo Legion Go, it's good for the Xbox Ally, and any other handheld that uses the m.2 2230 form factor SSD.

The Crucial P310 is a strong performer, with read speeds up to 7,100 MB/s. Chances are it could even be a little faster than the stock SSD in your handheld, even if not by much.

There's also the fact that at this Cyber Monday price, this is also about the cheapest upgraded SSD you could put in a Steam Deck, so it gets extra points for that.

We have guides on upgrading the SSD in the Steam Deck, the ROG Ally, and the Legion Go to help you on your way. But all you need is a little patience, and a screwdriver. The Steam Deck is probably the most involved process from the software side, but the results are well worth it.

The alternative is to use a microSD card. Sure, these are cheap, but they're also slow. For lighter games, this option isn't so bad, so I'll include a couple deals below. But you don't want to be loading Cyberpunk 2077 from a microSD card!

We've also been covering other deals on the Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS), and related handheld accessories for Cyber Monday.

FAQ

More Cyber Monday 2025 — Quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
  Even more Cyber Monday deals:
• Dell deals: 13 deals from Dell.com that you shouldn't miss
• Best Buy: 34 hottest discounts on laptops, monitors, gaming, and more
• Walmart: 7 top laptop deals you shouldn't miss
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

That doesn't mean all hope is lost; instead of settling for paying full price for a Switch 2, why not consider a fantastic handheld that actually is on sale? The Lenovo Legion Go S is only $449.99 at BestBuy.com, a $200 discount that makes it the same price as the Switch 2 — but this Steam Deck killer can do so much more.

Don't wait too long, though, because this Legion Go S Cyber Monday sale has less than 10 hours remaining.

I would never judge anyone for buying a Nintendo Switch 2 right now, even if it's not discounted for Cyber Monday. I've been tempted myself (I want to play Pokémon Legends: Z-A at its best), after all.

If we're being extra honest, getting a Nintendo Switch 2 for $449.99 at BestBuy.com really isn't a bad price, although it's not technically a deal. You can throw in Mario Kart World as a bundle for $499.99 at BestBuy.com, too, and a lot of people have already done that without hesitation.

The Switch 2 is one of the hottest releases of 2025, and thousands of people are probably hoping for one under their Christmas tree at the end of the year, but that doesn't mean it's the best gaming handheld for everyone — especially not when there's money to be saved.

If you're not committed to Nintendo, you absolutely have other handheld gaming options for Cyber Monday. We've already compiled the best gaming handheld deals for Cyber Monday, and even highlighted the best retro gaming deals for Cyber Monday (perfect for those who love to emulate older Nintendo games).

The cream of the crop, though, has to be the Lenovo Legion Go S for just $449.99 at BestBuy.com, a $200 discount that makes it the same price as the Switch 2. The Legion Go S runs SteamOS, a PC-centric operating system designed with gaming in mind. What does that mean for you?

Access to an endless library of PC titles on Steam, all optimized for the Legion Go S. That's a lot of games the Switch 2 can't run, and the Legion Go S can be opened up even further. Dock it, hook up a mouse and keyboard, install Windows, do whatever you want — the Legion Go S can probably accommodate you. You can read our 4.5/5-star Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) review for all the information you need.

If you're thinking the Legion Go S sounds a lot like the Steam Deck, it basically is a Steam Deck, but with a larger and sharper display, and more powerful internals. Even if you need even more power, you can spend an extra $200 and get the highest-end Lenovo Legion Go S for $649.99 at BestBuy.com, which is also a pretty great deal.

It's worth noting that the Steam Deck is also enjoying a rare sale right now, but I personally prefer the Lenovo Legion Go S for a pure SteamOS experience.

Related Cyber Monday deals

FAQ

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• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

For some reason, the new Xbox Ally handhelds aren't currently on discount this year, but you can still order an Xbox Ally X for the full $999.99 at Best Buy.

The best handheld gaming PC deal right now is the Lenovo Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme, SteamOS), which was $899.99, but is now $649.99 at Best Buy. [ENDED]

If you are looking to get a Cyber Monday handheld deal, these are the best discounts available right now.

This year's hottest new handhelds aren't on sale, unfortunately, but I'm keeping an eye on them

More Cyber Monday 2025 - quick links

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• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
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• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
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• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17
• SSDs: The best Samsung SSDs on sale

Handheld gaming PC FAQ

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You can still put an order in for an Xbox Ally X for $999.99 at Best Buy (sorry, there are no Black Friday discounts), but new orders aren't expected to arrive until January 2, 2026. Still, this is one of the safest places to buy from.

If you want to get an Xbox Ally X before Christmas, there are some places you can look for one. Just be careful and follow our safety tips so you don't get scammed.

Where to get an Xbox Ally X holiday 2025

• eBay — You'll find people selling the Xbox Ally X for more than its $999.99 MSRP here, but if you really want to get one before Dec. 25, this might be your best bet. You might also find someone selling a used one, just be careful not to get scammed.
• AliExpress — Once again, you'll typically find people selling the Xbox Ally X for much higher than MSRP here. Be careful not to buy from a shady seller, though.
• Best Buy — Best Buy is my preferred seller for buying an Xbox Ally X from. Purchases are currently possible, but they won't arrive until Jan 2, 2026. This retailer also carries the handheld on store shelves, not just online, so you might get lucky and find one in stock near you.
• Microsoft Store — Xbox (Microsoft) is one place where you can buy the Xbox Ally X from when it's in stock, but it was out of stock last time I checked.
• Walmart — Some Walmart locations carry Xbox Ally X handhelds in their brick-and-mortar stores. You might be able to find one at a location near you. If you purchase through Walmart's website, be careful and note whether you're buying from Walmart itself or a third-party seller. It could be possible to get the Xbox Ally X before Christmas from a third-party seller, just be careful.
• Newegg — You'll find both Newegg itself and third-party sellers selling the Xbox Ally X, so make sure you're aware of who you are buying from. Most third-party sellers will sell it higher than MSRP, but you could get it before Christmas if you find a safe seller.
• Target — Target is one of the few retailers that carry Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X in its physical stores, so you might get lucky and find one at a location near you. However, they are out of stock online as of the last time I checked.

How to get an Xbox Ally X before Christmas — Where to buy and safety tips

Unfortunately for everyone who wants to get an Xbox Ally X this holiday season, the handheld gaming PC is in short supply. As I mentioned earlier, you can still put an order in at Best Buy, but the retailer currently estimates that you won't get it until Jan 2, 2026, which is obviously after the holidays.

If you really don't want to wait until next year to get your hands on one, then there are a few places you can try, like eBay, AliExpress, and Facebook Marketplace. Just be careful since some people might want to scam you with deals that are too good to be true.

Tips for staying safe when buying an Xbox Ally X

• Stick with highly rated sellers if you're buying from a third-party: Before buying an Xbox Ally X on sites like eBay, AliExpress, or Amazon, check the seller's rating and see if they have a decent track record. It's best to avoid sellers who don't have a rating at all, have hardly any ratings, or have an overall bad rating.
• Do not let someone pressure you into making a hasty purchase: This is a tactic scammers use on third-party and second-hand sites such as Facebook Marketplace. The idea is to make you flustered so that you react quickly. If someone is pressuring you too much about buying the Xbox Ally X from them, don't buy from them.
• Avoid a deal if it seems too good to be true: There are plenty of scammers out there who will take your money without giving you anything in return. If an Xbox Ally X is selling for far less than it's worth, it's probably a scam.
• Be aware that someone might have altered a used Xbox Ally X: Like many PCs and gaming devices, it's possible for an Xbox Ally X to be tampered with to the point that it does not work properly. If you do intend to buy an Xbox Ally X second-hand, make sure you verify it is working before you finalize the purchase.

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• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
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• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Handheld gaming PC FAQ

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That's because I think, for actual portable gaming, they don't make the same kind of sense they used to. A handheld gaming PC like the delightful (and discounted) Lenovo Legion Go S for $449 at Best Buy is a far better choice. And here are 6 reasons why.

1. A handheld gaming PC is actually portable

Size matters. It does. The simple fact is that a handheld gaming PC is just significantly more portable than even the slimmest of gaming laptops. You can hold it in your hands, after all.

The Nintendo Switch proved it works.

2. Recharging on the go is so much simpler

Battery life is always a concern, but a gaming laptop with a dedicated GPU will not only drain fast, but likely have a fairly chunky power brick to lug around with it.

By contrast, a handheld gaming PC can be charged with the same USB-C charger you're probably already using with your smartphone. Or a portable power bank.

3. More powerful than you think

Not only are handheld gaming PCs more powerful than you think (Cyberpunk 2077 on the go, anyone?) more and more of today's games are being optimized for the form factor.

Like a gaming laptop, the more powerful the chip inside that you get, the further you can push your settings.

4. A handheld gaming PC is perfect for older and retro gaming

If you want to play older or more casual games, or you're into emulation, you absolutely do not need to splash out on a gaming laptop.

Whether you use Windows 11 or SteamOS, both platforms have what you need, and the horsepower inside a modern handheld gaming PC is more than enough to have a great time.

5. A handheld gaming PC is focused on gaming

Whichever handheld you get, one thing is common across them all; they're focused on gaming. That means user interfaces optimized for controllers, and in Windows 11, the new Xbox Full Screen Experience helps streamline the OS to perform better while you play.

SteamOS, in particular, is essentially designed like a console, with almost no reason to ever look at a desktop interface. When you're gaming, you just want to pick up and play, right? A handheld is a far better way to do that.

6. It's still a regular PC if you need it to be

SteamOS may be based on Linux, but it still has a full desktop experience behind it. Windows 11, of course, is the same.

While handheld gaming PCs are designed to be used with a controller first, if you need it to be a full PC, it is. Hook up a mouse and keyboard, an external monitor, and you have yourself a desktop wherever you need it.

I truly believe that for just pure gaming on the go, a handheld gaming PC is now the answer. They're so easy to live with, and truly can be used anywhere.

Even with a compact gaming laptop, it's not comfortable to use on a sofa. You need a big enough table on a train or a plane. You need a big enough bag to carry it (and a charger) around in.

I have both an 18-inch gaming laptop and a Steam Deck. Only one of those is regularly used for gaming on. I've had a Steam Deck for nearly four years, and its portability has meant I've played tons of games in my backlog, because I can do so whenever I have a spare few moments.

Just turn it on, select the game, and play. Simple! The original, the Steam Deck, is also reduced in a rare Cyber Monday deal from Valve, and despite being older, it's still an amazing option.

FAQ

More Cyber Monday 2025 — Quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
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• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
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• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
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• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

The main attraction of this event is that Valve is hosting a 20% discount for the entry-level model of its iconic Steam Deck gaming handheld for $319.20, instead of $400.

In celebration of this rare discount, we have scoured the internet for discounted deals on various accessories to upgrade the entry-level Steam Deck's storage space, recharge its batteries, store it safely while travelling, and other gadgets to make it more fun for you to play with.

OK, so now that the sale is over for the LCD Steam Deck, what about something else? Best Buy has the outstanding Lenovo Legion Go S, which also runs SteamOS, for $449.99 (usually $649).

Why pay $50 more than the Steam Deck's full price? For one, you get 512GB of storage instead of 256GB. The Legion Go S's display is also larger (8-inch vs 7) and higher resolution (1920x1200 instead of 1280x800) with a higher refresh rate (120Hz instead of 60).

More importantly, you're getting a beefier processor with the Legion Go S and AMD Ryzen Z2 Go, often adding 20-40% more FPS on many popular games. In some games, like Monster Hunter Wilds, the Legion Go S will be satisfactory, whereas the Steam Deck will struggle. If the Steam Deck runs a title at ~40 FPS, the Z2 Go could push ~50–55 FPS.

While the battery is bigger on the Legion Go S (55.5WHr vs 40WHr), both get basically the same on endurance tests, which says something since the Legion Go S is a much more powerful system.

If you do go with the Legion Go S, nearly all the accessories below are either compatible or those companies make a compatible version for Lenovo's device, making it an easy switch.

Indeed, check out our best Lenovo Legion Go S accessories guide for more ideas.

Is the entry-level Steam Deck worth the investment?

While the original base model of the Steam Deck may not be as advanced as its modern OLED-display counterparts, it's still one of the best gaming handhelds around, and it has not let me down in the three years I've owned it.

Its SteamOS operating system is extremely user-friendly, its controls are responsive, it's able to run most PC games with smooth performance framerates of 60fps at 1280x800 resolution. It can even run hardware-hungry games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Forza Horizon 5 at consistent 30 to 40 FPS if you lock the handheld's refresh rate to 40Hz.

The Steam Deck is also fairly durable, comfy to hold (especially for gamers with big hands like mine), and is compatible with various cloud apps to stream games like NVIDIA GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

What's more is that the Steam Deck is easily upgradeable as you can outfit it with third-party shells, enhanced display screens, hall-effect sticks, custom face buttons, and larger SSDs. You can even pair it up with wireless controllers, keyboards, and mice while it's in dock mode to play games with your preferred controller method.

So, if you end up getting the OG Steam Deck through Valve's sales event and fancy some extra accessories to recharge its batteries, make certain games easier to play, or keep it safe while travelling, then check out these discounted peripherals today to enrich your Steam Deck.

We also have dedicated round-ups for microSD cards, screen protectors, Docking Stations, power banks, and chargers for your perusal, should you wish to upgrade your Steam Deck further.

FAQ

More Cyber Monday 2025 - quick links

• All our TOP recommended Cyber Monday deals: Just the best
• Mini PC deals: up to 47% off tiny PCs
• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• ANC headphones: great Cyber Monday deals on the best ANC headphones
  
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• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found
• Retro gaming: handhelds, arcade machines, old school consoles, and more
• Gamer merch: Blizzard’s Warcraft, Overwatch, and Diablo IV collectibles
• Game keys: 10 PC game codes are even cheaper at Loaded (formerly CDKeys)
• Accessories: Even more PC accessories starting at $17

Follow Windows Central on Google News to keep our latest news, insights, and features at the top of your feeds!

The post also confirms that Default Game Profiles are available today for Insiders, giving players a way to reduce manual tweaking by automatically balancing frame rate and power use.

Right now, you have to adjust TDP and FPS limits manually for each game. Default Game Profiles are designed to cut down on that work and make the handheld easier to use. The update also improves input response, library loading, cloud gaming performance, and several other parts of the experience.

A full breakdown of what to expect

Default Game Profiles are a new preview feature that automatically sets a power target and FPS cap for each supported game. The profiles only apply when the Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X is running on battery power, and are meant to reduce how often players need to adjust TDP or frame limits by hand.

When a supported game starts, the system applies a profile that increases power if the game is struggling to reach its target frame rate. This trades some battery life for smoother gameplay. The feature is currently available in 40 games during testing, and you can toggle it on or off in the Armoury Crate Command Centre.

The current list of first-party games includes:

• Call of Duty: Black Ops 6
• Call of Duty: Black Ops 7
• Call of Duty: Warzone
• DOOM Eternal
• DOOM: The Dark Ages
• Forza Horizon 5
• Gears 5
• Gears of War: Reloaded
• Gears Tactics
• Halo: The Master Chief Collection
• Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
• Minecraft
• Sea of Thieves
• Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4

The update also improves gamepad response after logging in, which is something I have noticed on the Xbox Ally X, as inputs can take a moment to register. Loading large game libraries should now be faster as well.

Xbox mentions improvements to the Cloud Gaming page, with quicker loading and smoother navigation. There is also a new option to filter games by performance fit, showing how well each title is expected to run on the device. The update includes general bug fixes and performance improvements, too.

How to get the update right now

Default Game Profiles are available today through the Windows Insider Program. You need to enroll if you want to try new features before they roll out to everyone.

Before you start, make sure your handheld is fully updated to the latest Windows 11 build.

How to join the Windows Insider Program on the Xbox Ally:

1. On your Xbox Ally, go to Windows Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Ensure that you’re sending Optional Diagnostic Data, it will tell you if you aren’t .
4. Select Windows Insider Program and follow the instructions.
5. You'll be prompted to restart.
6. Go back to Windows Update after restarting.
7. Select Check for Updates.

Once you've downloaded and installed the update, you should be able to try out the Default Game Profiles feature.

If you give it a whirl, drop into the comments below and let us know what you think!

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The Xbox Ally is a gaming handheld range from ASUS and Microsoft, combining the best of Xbox and Windows PC gaming into a device you can take with you. The more expensive Xbox Ally X can run even modern AAA games decently well, while the more affordable Xbox Ally base model is a powerhouse for indies and less demanding games.

Which ever model you're rocking, you need the best Xbox Ally accessories to complete the overall package, and JSAUX has some great new options for you.

Released recently, the JSAUX Slim and Max Xbox Ally carrying cases are now available. They're much, MUCH cheaper than the ones offered by ASUS, while also affording greater functionality to boot. Here are your options, and they're also on sale for Black Friday at an introductory rate.

The JSAUX Max Carrying Case for Xbox Ally is currently $23.99 at Amazon, and the JSAUX Slim Carrying Case for Xbox Ally is currently $22.39 at Amazon. Here are the key differences.

More Black Friday 2025 | Quick Links

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• GPU deals: early price drops on NVIDIA RTX before they go up
• Microsoft Surface deals: save up to $500 on premium PCs
• Xbox accessories: best deals on gadgets for your Xbox Series X|S and PC
• Gaming laptop deals: the best laptops for the best price
• Xbox controllers: our top picks for best controller deals
• Samsung monitors: the best Samsung display deals we've found

JSAUX makes great stuff for your Xbox Ally

Both the Slim and Max carrying cases are impressively made, with high-quality materials, a ton of padding, and robust zippers.

The Max is arguably the headline act here, although it is bulkier. All that bulk is designed to accommodate its double-decker storage configuration, with space for chargers, cables, and other accessories underneath the compartment for the Xbox Ally itself.

The Slim case does away with the double decker configuration and is designed to house the Xbox Ally itself only, although there is a screen protecting cover included with storage for SD cards if you carry a lot of those with you.

The Max case does include a shoulder strap, but it's very thin and probably going to cut into your shoulder if you're carrying the case a lot. You may want to purchase a separate shoulder strap with a shoulder pad if you plan to use it that way, although the one included will still do the job.

👉 More: best Xbox Ally accessories

Both cases have microfiber materials on the interior which helps keep your devices protected, with a hard-shell exterior which should help them survive in the cargo hold of a plane or in a rucksack. They are much cheaper than the official cases from ASUS, so definitely consider these instead if you want something with a hard, protective shell.

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Unfortunately, I discovered that Xbox FSE hasn't rolled out to my Legion Go 2 yet, but I was able to set it up on my original ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. Still, there is an alternative if you want to check out Xbox FSE on your Legion Go device or any others it hasn't rolled out to yet.

In this guide, I'll start by going over the steps to getting Xbox FSE set up on devices that it has already rolled out to, and then I'll explain an alternative for Windows handhelds that haven't gotten the update yet, like my Legion Go 2.

How to set up Xbox Full Screen Experience on your Windows handheld

NOTE: XFSE is slowly rolling out to all Windows handhelds, so it's possible that the method listed below might not work for you just yet. If it doesn't, try again in a day or two.

1. On your handheld, use your finger to swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
2. Select Settings.
3. Tap Windows Update.
4. Check for updates and install updates. You specifically need to select Download & Install on "Windows 11, version 25H2."
5. Restart your device once the update is done installing. This might take a while.
6. When your handheld boots up, log in if necessary, and then swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
7. Select Settings.
8. Tap Gaming.
9. Select Full Screen Experience.
10. Tap the drop-down menu to the right and change it to Xbox.
11. If you want your handheld to enter Xbox Full Screen Experience on startup, toggle the button next to "Enter full screen experience on startup."
12. Now restart your handheld, and it should automatically boot up into the Xbox Full Screen Experience.

With all of these steps taken, you'll be able to check out Xbox Full Screen Experience on your Windows handheld.

How can I get FSE on my Windows handheld if it hasn't rolled out to me yet?

If you aren't willing to wait for Xbox FSE to roll out onto your handheld, then there is another option available to you that utilizes a free open-source program.

For those interested, check out my colleague's guide on how to use a free tool to mimic Xbox full-screen experience on your handheld or other Windows PC.

How to make a different game launcher boot into Full Screen Experience on Windows handhelds

By the way, I've also written a guide on how to replace Xbox Full Screen Experience with your game launcher of choice. For instance, I made it so my Xbox Ally X booted into a Playnite full-screen mode on startup.

Check that guide out if you want to see more customization options for your handheld.

How to exit Full Screen Experience and go to Windows desktop

The nice thing about Windows' Full Screen Experience is that you can exit it at any time and go back to the normal Windows desktop if you want. Here's how.

1. While displaying Full Screen Experience, use your finger to swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap on Windows desktop.
3. Select Continue.

Once you've done this, you'll be taken to the usual Windows desktop and can use your handheld like a normal Windows PC.

See if Xbox Full Screen Experience is the right UI for you

Xbox Full Screen Experience isn't just a different user interface option, it actually optimizes gaming for Windows handhelds by reduces background programs.

With it setup on your handheld, you'll be able to easily launch your various games, interact with Xbox Game Pass, check the store for new games, and adjust settings.

Have fun exploring and seeing what it has to offer.

Xbox Full Screen Experience FAQ

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Thankfully, you don't have to use XFSE on your Xbox Ally, Xbox Ally X, or other Windows gaming handheld if you don't want to. You can either stop it from booting and go straight to the Windows desktop on startup or replace it with a different game launcher.

Here's how to make it so your game launcher of choice opens into full-screen mode on your Windows handheld instead of XFSE.

RELATED: Xbox Full Screen Experience is coming to all Windows handhelds, not just Xbox Ally

How to exit out of Full Screen Experience and go to Windows Desktop on a Windows handheld

This method works regardless of whether your handheld boots to the Xbox Full Screen Experience on startup or any other game launcher in full-screen mode.

1. Turn on your handheld and login, if necessary.
2. Use your finger to swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
3. Select Windows desktop.
4. Select Continue.

Now you'll be able to interact with your Windows handheld like a typical Windows PC. You might want to connect a keyboard and mouse to better navigate around Windows menus.

I personally use and recommend the Artciety Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard ($40.99 at Amazon) since it works wirelessly and has a built-in touchpad, so I don't have to plug in a mouse.

How to stop XFSE from booting on Xbox Ally (and other Windows handhelds) on startup

1. Turn your handheld on and log in if necessary.
2. After Xbox Full Screen Experience boots up, use your finger to swipe up from the bottom of the screen.
3. Tap Windows desktop.
4. Select Continue.
5. When on the desktop, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to make the Windows menu appear.
6. Tap Settings.
7. Select Gaming.
8. Now select Full Screen Experience.
9. Tap on the drop-down menu to the right and select None.
10. Now restart your handheld by swiping up from the bottom of the screen, pressing the power button, and selecting Restart.

With these steps done and your handheld restarted, you'll open directly to the Windows desktop rather than Xbox Full Screen Experience.

How to make your handheld boot your preferred game launcher in full screen mode at startup

You can easily make your Windows handheld open your preferred game launcher in full screen mode on startup.

This method works for Playnite, Steam Big Picture mode, LaunchBox, Armoury Crate SE, Xbox Full Screen Mode, and more.

1. If you don't have it already, use an internet browser to download your preferred game launcher and then install it.
2. While in the Windows desktop on your handheld, open a browser.
3. Go to GitHub and download the latest AnyFSE.Installer.exe.
4. If you downloaded the zip file, go to Downloads, long-press your finger on the file, and select Extract all.
5. Now use your finger to long-press on the AnyFSE application and select Run as administrator.
6. If Windows brings up a blue window and says it stopped this program from running, select More info, and then Run anyway.
7. Now select Yes.
8. Settings should automatically open to the Any Full Screen Experience menu, but it might show up behind your currently opened window. Tap the drop-down menu next to where it says "Choose home app" and change it to your preferred launcher.
9. If your preferred game launcher hasn't automatically entered the drop-down menu, select Browse and navigate to the game launcher file on your device.
   1. If you're still not seeing your preferred game launcher as a drop-down option, you might need to restart your device. Alternatively, it's possible your preferred game launcher might not work with AnyFSE.
10. Toggle the button where it says "Enter full screen experience on startup."
11. Finally, tap Save at the bottom of the window.
12. Now restart your handheld, and it should open your favorite game launcher into full-screen mode on startup.
13. If you ever want to uninstall AnyFSE, first open the application as administrator and then tap Uninstall in the bottom left corner.

From there, you should be able to enjoy your preferred game launcher in full-screen mode on startup. Just note that not all of the game launchers I've tried have worked using this method.

As an example, if I try to select Winhanced, AnyFSE ends up putting Xbox Full Screen Experience in its place for some reason. Hopefully, this gets fixed soon.

Suggested game launchers for Windows handhelds

Here is a list of recommended game launchers (listed in alphabetical order) as well as links to where you can download them.

Note that we have not checked whether or not all these game launchers work with AnyFSE. However, they are all game launchers that we on the Windows Central gaming team actually use and recommend.

• Epic Games Launcher
• GOG Galaxy 2.0
• Heroic Game Launcher
• Launchbox
• Pegasus
• Playnite
• Steam Big Picture Mode (part of Steam)
• Winhanced*
• Xbox Full Screen Experience (link coming soon)

*Winhanced does not seem to work with AnyFSE at this time, but that could change. We love it as a game launcher, though.

Get your Windows handheld set up the way you want it

With AnyFSE on your handheld, you can select your favorite compatible game launcher to open into full-screen mode on startup.

The only thing more convenient than playing games on a handheld gaming PC is making sure that your device is customized just the way you like it.

Happy gaming! If you ended up using AnyFSE, tell us what you set your preferred game launcher to.

Full Screen Experience FAQ

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In other words, anyone with a Lenovo Legion Go, original ROG Ally, MSI Claw, AYANEO, or other Windows handheld gaming PC will be able to check out the Xbox Full Screen Experience starting tomorrow.

Additionally, Microsoft revealed it's "expanding XFSE to more Windows 11 PC form factors through the Xbox and Windows Insider programs soon." Presumably, that may mean laptops, but it could be just Surface Pro-like devices; we'll have to wait and see.

Is the Xbox Full Screen Experience worth it?

Now, we at Windows Central have already been able to spend a lot of time with the XFSE, as seen in detail within my Xbox Ally review and Xbox Ally X review.

In case you don't know, Xbox Full Screen Experience basically gives you the Xbox app as an interface to access your library of games from different services, interact with Xbox Game Pass titles, and purchase new games. To some extent, it attempts to make Windows handhelds operate more like dedicated gaming consoles while still giving access to the full Windows desktop.

Additionally, and more importantly, it reduces the background programs that typically run on Windows. In turn, this optimizes Windows for gaming, allowing games to run more smoothly and sometimes offering better battery life.

But the question remains: Is the Xbox Full Screen Experience worth it?

Months back, my colleague, Zac Bowden, was able to go hands-on with the Xbox Ally handhelds before they released, and his thoughts on Microsoft's Windows handheld optimization mirror my own.

He said that it feels more like a "band-aid solution to address the UX problems faced when using Windows on small screens, but doesn't address bigger platform level issues with Windows 11."

However, he also noted that future improvements could make the experience more ideal, and that's what I'm hoping for as well.

After all, Xbox Full Screen Experience is literally competing with the Steam Deck's popular SteamOS, attempting to persuade people to stick with Windows rather than the Linux-based operating system. So, if Microsoft wants to keep PC gamers on Windows, it's in the company's best interest to continue to improve and enhance the Xbox full-screen mode.

You don't have to wait if you don't want to, or you could go with SteamOS

In case you're wondering, we have previously installed this Xbox Full Screen mode on the original ROG Ally, and explained how it improves the gaming experience. So you can check that out if you're on the fence about installing it on your handheld.

Of course, if you're really impatient and can't wait until tomorrow, we have a guide on how to use a free tool to mimic the Xbox Full Screen experience on your Windows handheld right now.

Alternatively, you can choose to go the other route and follow our guide on how to install SteamOS on your Windows handheld. If that catches your interest, you should check out my four pros and three cons of installing SteamOS on your handheld, first. That way, you'll have a better understanding of whether SteamOS or Xbox Full Screen Experience with Windows is a better fit for you.

Just so you know, performance testing has shown that Windows 11 is no match for SteamOS (thanks, TechRadar). Additionally, people have previously found that Xbox Ally X might get better performance on Linux (thanks, PC Gamer).

That said, performance and system efficiency are certainly things to consider when deciding between Windows and SteamOS, but having Windows on a portable gaming device offers certain features and an experience that some people might prefer.

Either way, it's definitely worth checking XFSE out on your Windows handheld when it becomes generally available for Windows handhelds tomorrow.

You might find you really like it. And if you don't, you can always uninstall it and try something else.

Xbox Full Screen Experience FAQ

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If you do not own one of the Xbox Ally models, do not worry. The original ROG Ally is getting its own update, so no one is being left behind.

The Xbox Ally devices launched on October 16, 2025, to strong reviews, even earning a spot on Time’s list of best inventions. The lineup still has a few issues, but many are hopeful that Xbox can learn from this hardware and continue refining its long-rumoured suite of Xbox PC devices.

Full breakdown of every new feature

The newest Armoury Crate SE update, version 2.1.15.0, is rolling out for the Xbox Ally, Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally, and ROG Ally X.

Users with the Xbox Ally X can expect several new additions, including new CPU P core and E core controls. These settings sit under Performance then More settings and give the device more flexibility, allowing users to squeeze out a bit more battery life or fine tune how the system behaves.

A new Fullscreen toggle binding has also been added. This means users no longer need to rely on touch controls to leave Fullscreen mode, which should make switching in and out of apps much easier. Command Center has been updated too, making update notifications more visible and reducing the need to manually check for new updates.

The FPS limiter has also been reworked. It now relies on Radeon Chill instead of a fixed limiter, which should reduce power draw and heat during gameplay. The old 45 FPS preset has been replaced with a 40 FPS option as well.

Windows power mode options are now visible inside Manual Operating Mode, removing the need to hunt through Windows settings.

Gyro aiming has also been improved for better accuracy, with ASUS saying drift has been reduced and responsiveness improved. It is not a feature I use, but it should be a welcome tweak for players who rely on it.

Another useful improvement is new support for Wi-Fi captive portals, which finally lets the Ally devices sign into hotel, airport, and other public networks.

The update also adjusts the default sleep timer from Never to 5 minutes to help conserve battery, and AMD RSR is now off by default on Xbox Ally systems to avoid any unexpected image scaling.

There’s a lot more to cover, so I’ll try to list it out as succinctly as possible, as I feel I’ve covered the most important details:

Xbox Ally

• New MCU update adds a diagnostic interface for system-level troubleshooting.
• BIOS update improves Modern Standby power use, improves charger detection, and fixes Cloud Recovery getting stuck on reboot.
• Updated power delivery firmware further reduces standby drain.
• New AMD GPU driver boosts performance and resolves an audio problem tied to Auto Super Resolution.

Xbox Ally X

• MCU update upgrades the feel and accuracy of the Impulse Trigger haptics.
• BIOS update improves how the system handles updates and makes Cloud Recovery more reliable.
• Touch firmware update improves touchscreen stability.
• Updated power delivery firmware improves overall reliability during power transitions.
• AMD GPU driver update delivers the same performance and audio improvements as the standard Xbox Ally.
• New AMD chipset drivers offer general system performance improvements.

Overall

• These updates should improve day to day usability with better tuning options, stronger stability, improved power behaviour, and cleaner input handling.
• The original ROG Ally also benefits from the broader Armoury Crate SE update, keeping it up to date with important system changes.

Looking ahead at future improvements

It would be great to see better thumbnail support for Steam games in the Xbox App, similar to what SteamGridDB offers.

These updates are a welcome step forward, and you can also check out our coverage of what the future holds for the Xbox Ally, as there is plenty more coming.

FAQ

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This debut hardware in MSI's Claw series still holds up today from when it launched in 2024, thanks to its Intel Core processor, Hall Effect sensors, and other advanced features.

All of which could be yours for 25% less with this early Black Friday discount for $564.99 at Best Buy.

Why should you buy the MSI Claw A1M?

While MSI Claw A1M may not have a vast accessory compatibility or a budget-friendly MSRP compared to its rival, the ASUS ROG Ally, it's still got plenty of cool features going for it that make it fit for gaming on the go in 2025.

It features an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, an Intel Arc Graphics Card, 32GB of RAM, and support for XeSS upscaling and VRR, so this gaming handheld can run spec-hungry AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Elden Ring at medium settings with 1080p resolution and 60fps.

The MSI Claw A1M also includes comfortable ergonomic grips, an SSD containing 1TB's worth of space, and Hall Effect sensors for the triggers and analog sticks to increase their durability and responsiveness (along with preventing stick drift on the sticks).

The only things holding this gaming handheld back are its short battery life of 2 hours when running high-demanding AAA games, and its high markup price of $749.99.

Fortunately for us, the latter has been briefly elevated thanks to Best Buy's early Black Friday 25% discount, which has it down to a more modest price of $564.99 for a limited time.

FAQ

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Fortunately, SteamGridDB fixes this. An app available for free via the Microsoft Store will automatically apply proper game artwork to their respective titles when searching through your game library on the Xbox Ally, Xbox Ally X, and other devices that have the Xbox App, like the Lenovo Legion Go 2.

The app was only released yesterday and was spotted by the website rogallylife first, as far as I can tell, and is developed by “lirrik” on GitHub.

How to install SteamGridDB for Xbox and apply custom artwork

Getting SteamGridDB for Xbox up and running only takes a minute, but there’s one important permissions step the app needs before it can touch the Xbox app’s artwork files. Follow this flow and you’ll have clean, consistent game tiles across Steam, GOG, Epic, and more.

Install the SteamGridDB for Xbox app

Grab the widget directly from the Microsoft Store:

Microsoft Store page: https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9pkqx0rjc32v

GitHub (for transparency and updates): https://github.com/lirrik/steamgriddb-xbox

Install it like any other Game Bar widget.

Enable file system access (required)

Because Game Bar widgets live inside a sandbox and don’t get normal folder pickers, the developer had to request special permission from Microsoft. You’ll need to toggle this manually.

Here’s the path:

• Open Settings
• Go to Privacy & security
• Select File system
• Under “Let apps access your file system”, find SteamGridDB for Xbox
• Toggle it On

Choose artwork for each game

The widget handles stores differently:

• Steam and GOG: Auto-detection works immediately. You’ll see proper artwork appear for each title with no extra steps.
• Epic Games Store and Ubisoft Connect: Search for these manually by typing the game’s name into the widget. It’ll pull artwork from SteamGridDB instantly.
• Battle.net: Not supported. Battle.net stores art differently and the Xbox app doesn’t expose those images in a usable format.

Apply the artwork

Select a game, pick the artwork you like, and the widget replaces the Xbox app’s image in seconds.

Restart the Xbox app (optional but helpful)

The Xbox app usually updates the artwork instantly, but if you don’t see the new image right away, give the app a quick restart and everything should refresh.

Thanks to a recent update, the only problem I had with SteamGridDB is now gone. It now automatically adds cover art to each of your games instead of forcing you to apply it manually. This makes it a much stronger upgrade for anyone adding Steam games to the Xbox app, and the whole process now feels far more seamless.

FAQ

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I've owned one since April 2022, delivered less than two months after the first units started shipping. It's still the only thing, tech or otherwise, that I pre-ordered the moment I could. I was pumped. Having spent much of the previous two years learning about Linux and the quirks of gaming on it, I had high hopes.

Initial reactions were pretty positive across the board — including our own Steam Deck launch review. Sure, it didn't run Windows 11, but that wasn't a problem then, and it's even less of a problem now. But as three years (with some change) have passed, and the market has a lot more competition among the best handhelds, is the Steam Deck still worth it in 2025?

I think it is. I'd have no problems recommending someone buy one, even with the likes of the slightly more powerful Xbox Ally on offer alongside the SteamOS-based Lenovo Legion Go S and its monstrous, Windows-based Legion Go 2 successor, which joined the party this year. However, the conversation is certainly more complex than it was when the Steam Deck first launched.

How has the Steam Deck hardware held up since 2022?

Having owned the same Steam Deck since mid-2022, I feel like I'm in a good place to talk about how it's held up. The short version is that it's done really well, and continues to do so. That's not to say there haven't been people with issues on their units, but my own has been solid throughout.

Aside from spending the last couple of years inside a $60 dbrand Killswitch case, I can't say I've been treating it particularly like a fragile baby. It gets tossed into bags, it's been used by children (a traditional test of durability), and it still looks about as good as it ever did. The only visual 'mod' it currently has is a dbrand Steam Deck skin on the front.

I did use the JSAUX transparent rear case on my Steam Deck for a time, but I went back to the original for a couple of reasons: one was that I didn't like the replacement rear buttons, and the second was that it featured a heatsink, which ironically became pretty hot on the outside. So, I went back to stock parts.

The screen is still perfect on my early LCD model, and while the battery will have undoubtedly degraded over time, it's still holding up. With the kinds of games I'm typically playing on my Steam Deck these days, I can still get around 3-4 hours of playtime, which is far more than you should expect from any AAA titles.

How has SteamOS held up?

I'll tackle the elephant in the room first. The Steam Deck doesn't run Windows 11; it runs SteamOS instead, which is based on Arch Linux. "But, games are built for Windows, it can't possibly work that well, right?"

Wrong. Valve has put significant work into the Proton compatibility layer over the years, both before and since the Steam Deck launched. In the majority of cases, the hardware is more of a limitation than the software. There are exceptions, though. You can't play the modern Call of Duty games, for example. Nor can you play Fortnite, EA multiplayer titles, or Destiny 2.

But you can use the cloud, and NVIDIA even has a native Steam Deck app now for GeForce Now. Xbox Cloud Gaming on Steam Deck can also be used via standard web browsers, and there's even an official Xbox guide to setting it up.

The reason for these missing games isn't that the hardware isn't capable; it's that the anti-cheat solution simply doesn't work. The worst part is that some anti-cheat solutions, such as Destiny 2's, actually do work on Linux — but it's down to developers to enable it. Others, such as Activision's Ricochet, Riot's Vanguard, and EA's Javelin, do not support Linux at all.

Currently, these kernel-level anti-cheat solutions are only compatible with Windows 11.

Can you play as many games as people claim?

Thanks to Proton, a huge percentage (I believe at last count was around 90%) of the Steam catalog works on the Steam Deck. At least, if the hardware can handle it. Just like graphics cards, which get updated drivers targeting specific games, Proton does the same. Valve does all the hard work, so the game developers don't have to.

But as the market has matured, many have taken it upon themselves to ensure their games work well on handhelds through optimized settings. Cyberpunk 2077, Spider-Man 2, and Forza Horizon 5 are just a few examples of fairly demanding AAA titles from my own library of games that are enjoyable on the Steam Deck.

There are sacrifices to settings and frame rates, but 30 FPS is perfectly fine on a handheld. In many games, I've found (and so have others) that the sweet spot is targeting 40 FPS, for a balance of performance and battery life on the Steam Deck. Lock the refresh rate to 40Hz, and you're generally good to go.

Naturally, the focus is on Steam, but you can also play games from other stores. Thanks to the broader Linux community, there are simple ways to play your Epic Games, GOG Galaxy, and even Amazon Games on the Steam Deck, with tools such as the Heroic Games Launcher and Junk-Store.

Here are some examples from my own library, including a couple of older, less demanding games, all running at 1280x800 resolution:

Thankfully, the community database at ProtonDB is a great way to get an idea of how your games will play, along with some handy tips for optimization.

The hardware and software could be just as good as it is all day long, but it doesn't matter if the games don't run well enough. As the Steam Deck heads towards its fourth birthday in February 2026, it can't be denied that, on sheer performance, it's starting to fall behind the competition.

Repairable, upgradeable, and customizable

Mercifully, I haven't had to repair my Steam Deck in the 3+ years I've had one (compared to the two months my ROG Ally lasted before dying). Nevertheless, it's incredibly easy to repair and customize. The battery and the SSD are both easily accessible, and anyone with a screwdriver and a little time can swap them out if needed.

There's a healthy third-party market of customizations, too, to truly make your Steam Deck your own. That starts with skins and goes all the way to customizable shells, upgraded displays, hall-effect sticks, and custom buttons; there's so much out there.

Any upgrades are always done at your own risk, and my colleague, Jennifer Young, can tell a tale of woe about attempting a shell swap (with stories on the contrary, highlighting Valve's great customer service), but if you're careful, you can make your Steam Deck whatever you want it to be.

That also applies to the software, too. Unlike Windows 11, which can be customized away from its stock settings but requires a more involved process, SteamOS can be easily tweaked to look however you want. Using Decky Loader, a third-party plugin tool and store, you can go absolutely wild, changing the look and adding new features to your Steam Deck.

On my own, I've altered the look of the homescreen, applied custom colors and fonts, custom game art, a plugin to improve compatibility with my XR glasses, added custom system sounds, and found a fantastically helpful plugin that puts ProtonDB compatibility badges on every game. And yes, you can install Windows 11 on a Steam Deck instead of SteamOS if you really want to. It's just a PC, after all, and Valve has ensured it will work as best it can.

Should you still buy it?

Be it the Steam Deck LCD or the slightly upgraded Steam Deck OLED, it's still an easy handheld gaming PC to recommend. It's a little larger than some other handhelds, and quite hefty, but with the overall package of price, software, and performance, it still stands strong. I still use mine regularly, and it's single-handedly helping me play games in my backlog that I just wouldn't have done otherwise.

Still, the market has changed a lot since the first Steam Deck reviews surfaced online, not least because of Valve's behaviour. You can now put official builds of SteamOS on other handhelds, such as the ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, even the new Xbox Ally, if you wish.

This is where it gets more complicated. I have no problems recommending the Steam Deck, but if you want more performance behind the same experience, that's now possible without having to dabble with community-built Linux distros such as Bazzite.

The software is where the Steam Deck has always stood tall, even with its mostly anti-cheat-related limitations. SteamOS is just better to use on a handheld than Windows 11, even with the recent improvements like Microsoft's dedicated full-screen mode that was added to the Xbox app as part of recent OS updates.

✅You should buy it if ...

• You want a 'console-like' approach to PC gaming
• You're realistic with graphical performance expectations

❌You should not buy it if ...

• You play anti-cheat-protected multiplayer titles
• You're a regular user of PC Game Pass

The Steam Deck was built from the ground up to work like a handheld console, and you don't ever have to go into the desktop UI if you don't actually have a specific need to, such as installing Decky Loader. Windows 11 will get there — hopefully — but right now, SteamOS installed on either its native Steam Deck or overwriting a Windows 11 handheld is still my preferred choice.

It even has performance benefits, as we've seen with those aforementioned folks trying it on their Xbox Ally. SteamOS is far leaner than Windows 11, and it shows. So, if you really want a Steam Deck, go buy one. It's still a brilliant handheld gaming PC. If you want something with a bit more horsepower, grab an AMD Z1 Extreme or better in a different handheld and slap SteamOS on it.

The only people that I still wouldn't recommend buying a Steam Deck are those who are heavily invested in the Xbox Game Pass or Play Anywhere ecosystem. If your games primarily come from Microsoft in this way, you can't get them on SteamOS. Likewise, if you want to go handheld with Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, the same applies.

For everyone else, the Steam Deck is still here. And it is still glorious.

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The thing is, the Steam Deck is relatively old at this point and is one of the weaker PC gaming handhelds on the market today. In other words, its internals aren't powerful enough to play some games that can be played on other handhelds. However, if you get a stronger Windows handheld and then put SteamOS on it, those who prefer SteamOS can get the best of both worlds.

Still, you should weigh the pros and cons before actually doing this. Here are reasons for and against putting SteamOS on ROG Xbox Ally, ROG Ally, Legion Go 2, and other handhelds.

How to install SteamOS on handhelds

If you're already sold on this idea, then check out my guide on how to install SteamOS on Windows gaming handhelds. This process should work for all mainstream devices, including Xbox Ally, ROG Ally, Legion Go 2, Legion Go, and more.

However, I do recommend understanding the pros and cons of doing this before going through with it. I'll list those in the next section.

4 reasons to put SteamOS on your Windows handheld and 3 reasons not to

For some of you, putting SteamOS on your handheld could solve most of the inconveniences you have with modern handheld gaming PCs. However, you should consider the perks and drawbacks to doing this before actually doing it.

Pro 1: Gives you a console-like UI and powerful internals

There's no denying that SteamOS offers the smoothest and most intuitive interface of any handheld to date. The simplified design makes you feel like you're interacting with a gaming machine rather than a PC, but you can also go into the desktop mode and use it like a personal computer.

Meanwhile, most other handheld gaming PCs on the market (including Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally X, ROG Ally, Legion Go, Legion Go 2, and more) all offer more powerful APUs (accelerated processing units) with better graphics abilities. Most offer higher memory and SSD storage capacities as well, which are both important for gaming.

As such, putting SteamOS on one of these Windows devices won't just provide a convenient interface; it will allow you to play some games that the Steam Deck isn't strong enough to handle.

Pro 2: Reduces bloat and increases system efficiency

Windows has a ton of extra programs running in the background that cause the system to work less efficiently and drain the battery faster. This being the case, when you swap to SteamOS, you might notice increased performance and longer playing sessions on your formerly Windows handheld.

Pro 3: Gives players plenty of customization options

Linux is a very customization-friendly software, and many Steam Deck users have been able to modify it to get it working just the way they want it to.

Of course, some Windows handhelds are also designed around upgradeability, so, in some cases, you can also upgrade battery life and the SSD without much hassle. Being able to get the operating system, programs, and internals just the way you want can help you make your perfect gaming machine.

Pro 4: It's cheaper than buying a Legion Go S SteamOS

I previously reviewed the Legion Go S (SteamOS) and absolutely loved this device. It's more powerful than the Steam Deck and comes with SteamOS already in place.

The thing is, the version of the Legion Go S (SteamOS) that I recommend sells for a pricey $899.99 at Best Buy. Meanwhile, you could get the ROG Ally for a less expensive $649.99 at Best Buy and then put SteamOS on it to save some money.

Con 1: This action isn't permanent, but has some risks

If you decide you don't like SteamOS, you should be able to put Windows back on your handheld. That's because many Windows handhelds have cloud recovery, which allows you to reinstall Windows 11 Home from the BIOS. This is very nice considering Windows 11 licenses aren't cheap, having an MSRP of $139.00 at Microsoft.

However, there is always some risk to removing Windows from the device, so be sure you know what you're doing. As an example, some people have had problems putting Windows back on their device after deciding they don't like SteamOS as much as Windows. So, be ready for a potentially long-winded process for putting Windows back on your handheld.

Additionally, the cloud recovery process is different from one device to the next. For instance, ROG Ally makes the cloud recovery process easier than it is on Legion Go, so just know what you need to do beforehand.

I highly recommend backing up your SSD before wiping Windows 11 and putting SteamOS on your handheld.

One of the easiest ways to back up your SSD and Windows info is using an SSD enclosure adapter and Macrium Reflect. I go over how to do this in my guide on how to back up and upgrade the ROG Ally SSD as well as in my guide on how to back up and upgrade the Legion Go's SSD.

WHAT ABOUT DUAL BOOTING WINDOWS AND STEAMOS?

Some people have also made it so their handheld can dual-boot Windows and SteamOS. This can be a good option for some, but it requires a bit more work to get it set up. Additionally, setting up dual boot takes up a lot of storage space, and having both operating systems on the system can take more power, causing a handheld's battery to drain faster.

Know what you are getting into and then you can get your handheld running the way you prefer.

Con 2: Not all games are supported on Linux-based SteamOS

The vast majority of PC games are designed for Windows, and this is why the Steam Deck uses Proton to translate Windows instructions for Linux.

The problem is, some games still don't work well on Linux or have an aspect that doesn't work well.

As an example, Call of Duty, Battlefield 6, and many other multiplayer games don't work on the Steam Deck since they require the use of a kernel-based anti-cheat software, which doesn't work with Linux. If you really want to play those games on a handheld, you're better off using Windows.

Con 3: You might not be comfortable finding Linux workarounds

Linux-based SteamOS works very differently from Windows, and some people can find it a little daunting working with the operating system.

Out of the box, the SteamOS won't let you access other game services like Battle.net, Epic Games, and others, while you certainly can do these things on a Windows handheld out of the box. Still, there are workarounds that are easy enough to get a handle on.

As an example, a plugin called Decky Loader makes it possible to quickly access different services. If you want help, you can check out my guide on how to install Decky Loader on SteamOS.

On the plus side, the Steam Deck is incredibly popular, and there are plenty of tutorials out there to help you get it working just the way you want it to.

Steam Deck is awesome, but SteamOS is even better

For some people, SteamOS is the preferred operating system for handhelds compared to Windows.

When the Steam Deck launched a few years ago, it was the only mainstream handheld gaming PC. But since then, far more powerful handhelds have released with internals that can handle games that the Steam Deck cannot.

For this reason, it might be a good idea to put SteamOS on your Windows handheld gaming PC. But, only if you've truly weighed the pros and cons of doing so.

Hopefully, this page helped you think through your decision. If you ended up putting SteamOS on your Windows handheld, tell us about your experience in the comments.

SteamOS FAQ

I'm going to preface this by saying that a handheld gaming PC is basically a mini PC with a built-in screen, battery, and controllers, but mini PCs and handhelds both have tradeoffs that might serve your gaming needs better.

There are several different handheld gaming PCs and hundreds of mini PCs to choose from. For the sake of brevity, this page will mostly focus on comparing the Xbox Ally X (since it's our best handheld gaming recommendation) against the Geekom IT13 mini PC, which is our best mini PC recommendation, but there are plenty of other options to choose from.

I've also included a section on this page that lists our top mini PC recommendations and top handheld recommendations while explaining what each device is especially good for.

Until then, let's discuss the pros, cons, and tradeoffs while comparing a mini PC against handheld gaming PCs.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Specs

Before we go any further, take a gander at the specs for the Xbox Ally X and the Geekom IT13.

Of course, there are plenty of other handheld gaming PCs and mini PCs to choose from. I'll go over some general differences between these two types of devices.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Price & use case

TL;DR: Mini PCs tend to offer more powerful CPUs and can cost less than handhelds, but they also require additional accessories like a monitor or keyboard. Handheld gaming PCs provide everything you need for portable gaming, but the best ones are rather costly.

Both mini PCs and handheld gaming PCs can be expensive, depending on the configurations you purchase.

In general, mini PCs tend to cost less (anywhere from $300 to $1,000+), while the latest and greatest Windows 11 handhelds can cost between $800 and $1,200.) That said, some handhelds are great value buys since you don't have to also buy a monitor or controller to interact with them.

For example, the Geekom IT13 mini PC's processor is technically more powerful than the Xbox Ally X; however, the Xbox Ally X is optimized for gaming, and it also provides a touchscreen, controllers, and a battery, which the mini PC doesn't have.

To be clear, mini PCs and Windows 11 handhelds are actual Windows PCs, just in smaller forms.

What it really comes down to is that the best gaming handhelds trade off power for portability. Some offer more premium features than others, so you might find one option that fits your needs better. They are also optimized for gaming by design, with systems that are more suited to GPU-heavy tasks. Still, they typically aren't as powerful as the best gaming laptops or best gaming desktops.

Meanwhile, mini PCs are intended for more general Windows computer use with a heavier CPU focus, but in a small package. They can be tucked away out of sight if you'd like a minimalist setup. Depending on their configuration, they can be used for everything from office work to gaming. Just note that the vast majority are not optimized for video games, and most don't have powerful GPUs.

Once again, a dedicated gaming laptop or gaming desktop is more powerful. But that doesn't mean you should rule a mini PC out.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Performance and storage

TL;DR: In general, mini PCs tend to be better at performing CPU tasks and often allow for RAM and SSD upgrades. Handhelds tend to be better at GPU tasks and sometimes are only designed for SSD upgrades.

As my colleague has previously pointed out, several mini PCs are only about the size of a bagel, and handhelds are relatively small devices as well. This means that there isn't a lot of room for upgrading certain parts, or at least, not as much room to do so as you can with a full-blown desktop

Still, it's pretty standard to see handhelds and mini PCs that offer 16GB to 32GB of RAM along with 512GB to 2TB SSDs. Depending on the company, some of these devices are designed around upgradability, so you can easily swap out storage and memory as needed, but you need to check on a device-by-device basis.

WD_BLACK has designed SSDs exclusively for Xbox Ally X, but there are several other options you can choose from. You'll just need to make sure you get the size that's compatible with your device.

For instance, it's very easy to upgrade the SSD on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. However, it's harder to get to the SSD on a Legion Go 2, and it requires more work to upgrade.

Of course, you can also insert one of the best microSD cards in most handhelds, and several mini PCs have SD card slots as well.

Now let's talk performance.

I alluded to this previously, but for the most part, handhelds tend to be better built for GPU tasks while mini PCs tend to be better suited to CPU tasks.

That's because most handheld gaming PCs out right now feature AMD Ryzen Z2 Series handheld APUs (accelerated processing units) designed around gaming, whereas mini PCs can have a much wider range of Intel and AMD processors at hand, but tend to have lower integrated GPUs.

There are exceptions to this, however, such as the pricey ASUS ROG NUC Gaming Mini PC, which has a laptop version of the RTX 5080 GPU and sells for $3,137.99 at Amazon. So if you really want a small computer that offers impressive graphics, this is the device to consider.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Software & Services

TL;DR: Windows handheld gaming PCs and Windows mini PCs can run the same programs and services. However, how well a game runs depends on the device's internals.

While there are exceptions, the vast majority of PC handhelds and mini PCs are Windows 11 devices that function just like a full-blown Windows desktop or laptop.

This means that both mini PCs and handhelds can be used to surf the web, stream shows, make video calls, download programs, run various games, and more. As always, every game has minimum system requirements, so your device needs to meet those in order to run a game well.

That said, the most popular handheld gaming PC to date is the Steam Deck, which runs the Linux-based SteamOS. In case you don't know, SteamOS operates very differently from Windows 11 and offers more of a console-like interface for convenient gaming.

There are also Android gaming handhelds and macOS mini PCs out there. As with any device, each of these machines can only run compatible software. If your main focus is PC gaming, then it's best to stick with Windows 11 or SteamOS devices.

You should be aware that there are a few services that can turn just about any device into a gaming machine, regardless of how good a GPU it has.

For starters, NVIDIA GeForce NOW is a subscription that allows you to stream supported games that you own from a powerful distant server onto your device via the cloud. In other words, a beefy computer far away runs your games, allowing you to get smooth gameplay on your simple computer.

NVIDIA GeForce NOW works on Windows 11, Android, and even macOS devices. I even have a handy guide explaining how to set up GeForce NOW on Steam Deck, if you're interested.

Another option is Xbox Cloud Gaming, which lets you stream a large library with everything from indie titles to AAA games.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Best options to buy

TL;DR: We've tested and reviewed every mini PC and handheld gaming PC listed below. Our top pick for handhelds is the Xbox Ally X, while our top mini PC pick is the Geekom IT13. But each device has its own perks and tradeoffs.

Best handheld gaming PCs

• Xbox Ally X: $999.99 at Best Buy — The most powerful current-gen, Windows 11, AMD Z2 Series handheld gaming PC on the market today. It offers plenty of settings customizations, too.
• Steam Deck: Starting at $399.00 at Steam — The most affordable handheld available right now. It runs SteamOS and has a simplified interface.
• Lenovo Legion Go 2: Starting at $1,099.99 at Best Buy — A current-gen Windows 11 handheld with detachable controllers, a large OLED display, and a built-in kickstand.
• Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS): Starting at $649.99 at Best Buy — This handheld runs SteamOS, but has more powerful internal components than the Steam Deck.
• ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme): $649.99 at Best Buy — While not the latest and greatest, this last-gen Windows 11 handheld can still run many PC games while costing less.

Best mini PCs

• Geekom IT13: $699.00 at Amazon — A fantastic computer with plenty of ports and solid CPU performance.
• ASUS ROG NUC: $3,137.99 at Amazon — This is an actual gaming mini PC with various configuration options. You can have up to an RTX 5080 L in here.
• Beelink EQR6: $439.00 at Amazon — It won't cost you nearly as much as some other mini PC, but it has better integrated graphics than most, too.
• Geekom GT1 MEGA: $799.00 at Best Buy — An AI mini PC with powerful internals to the point that you'll often forget that it is a mini PC.

Mini PC vs handheld gaming PC: Which should I buy?

So which type of device should you get?

Honestly, there are cases where a handheld will suit your specific use case better and cases where a mini PC will suit you better.

Choose a handheld gaming PC if: You love the idea of being able to move around your home while gaming, or want to be able to take your gaming device on trips.

Choose a mini PC if: You want a relatively inexpensive PC that doesn't take up a lot of room and is perfect for connecting your various accessories to.

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The feature kicks in after an idle period while something is downloading, and the Steam Deck will drop into full sleep if the battery falls below 20%, even if a download is still running.

It is currently available on the Beta and Preview channels before rolling out to everyone. It is a welcome quality-of-life upgrade that gives the Steam Deck an advantage over the otherwise highly praised Xbox Ally X for background downloads and battery-first features.

Why it gives Steam Deck an edge over the Xbox Ally

Not being able to download with the display off properly on my ROG Ally has always been annoying, and I am sure others with an Xbox Ally, or any Windows-based handheld, feel the same. You can set the display to turn off and keep apps running in Windows, but it requires extra steps and never feels seamless.

Steam Deck’s new display-off, low-power download mode should really help anyone who needs to leave big installs running overnight, especially if you have a slower connection. It is a small change, but it adds a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade for the handheld.

When a download is active and you tap a button or move a trigger, the Deck briefly wakes to show progress before the screen turns off again. It is a clean, console-like behavior.

This kind of update shows how Valve continues to refine the Steam Deck experience in ways that feel tailored to portable play, rather than forcing desktop behaviours into a handheld shell. SteamOS keeps gaining thoughtful features that make living with the device easier, especially for players who travel or install big games often.

If Valve keeps layering on quality-of-life improvements like this, the Deck will remain a very compelling option for anyone deciding between a dedicated handheld OS or a Windows-powered machine.

That said, if Microsoft can push further with the Xbox Ally and bring Windows closer to a true console-style handheld experience, it could be a real turning point. It already feels like progress is happening, and I would love to see a handheld future where Windows matches SteamOS for simplicity and polish.

FAQ

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The headline feature here is the new console-style interface designed for handheld gaming PCs. It was previously limited to the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and it is now beginning to roll out to more devices, including the MSI Claw. The goal is to give Windows handhelds a simple, console-like launcher that works better with controllers.

There are other notable improvements too. The update includes an Ask Copilot option on the taskbar, Bluetooth LE shared audio, so two people can listen at once on supported Copilot+ devices, and upgrades to Windows on Arm app emulation.

Console-style handheld mode expands beyond Xbox Ally

Windows’ answer to the Steam Deck’s simple gaming interface is finally reaching more devices. It first appeared on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and it is now being tested on the MSI Claw for Insiders.

This console-style mode gives Windows a large, game-focused launcher that works well with controllers. It creates a clean dashboard for browsing and launching games, and it reduces background system tasks to help performance.

It is not perfect, though. The user experience has been one of the biggest complaints for handhelds like the Xbox Ally. The installation process still feels very Windows-like, and you still end up installing desktop apps such as Microsoft Teams, which takes away from that console-style experience.

To get access right now, you'll need to go into Settings on your handheld, and make sure you're registered to one of the Insider channels listed above. You'll then get an update to Windows 11, and you're off to the races.

Everything new in Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7051

For those who love AI, which I’m sure you all do (this is sarcasm), there is now an Ask Copilot button on the taskbar. It lets you search for apps, files, and settings like normal search, as well as use Copilot’s other tricks.

Microsoft does stress that Copilot does not get access to your files, and it can only see what regular Windows search sees. Honestly, any improvement to Windows search is a welcome one, because that feature has been subpar for years now.

Another new feature is shared Bluetooth audio, but only for Copilot+ PCs with Bluetooth LE audio. This lets two people connect different headphones to the same PC and share the same audio across both devices.

Perhaps the most exciting addition, though, is the improvement to Windows on Arm. Microsoft has upgraded its Prism emulator, which means more x64 Windows apps will now work on Arm laptops. That should mean better compatibility, and smoother performance overall.

FAQ

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Unlike a console, which is typically optimized for gaming out of the box, ASUS ROG gaming handhelds need to be tweaked after you get them, if you want the smoothest gameplay possible.

From Windows settings to power modes and graphics features, here are the six tweaks you need to make to get your ASUS ROG Ally handheld ready for gaming.

1. Change VRAM according to the kind of games you're playing

In case you aren't already aware, most PC gaming handheld systems allocate amounts of RAM specifically to graphics processing to help the device render images, store textures, and quickly access various graphics data — this allocation is known as VRAM (video random access memory).

The thing is, setting your device to an adequate VRAM allocation based on the game you're playing can help your device run games more smoothly and efficiently.

By default, the Xbox Ally and ROG Ally are set to 4GB (max 8GB) while the more powerful Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X come out of the box with an 8GB default (16GB max).

As seen in my ROG Ally VRAM guide and my colleague's Xbox Ally VRAM guide, you can go into the Armoury Crate software and make VRAM adjustments. Just note that your device will have to restart after VRAM has been changed.

It's typically better for a device to be set at around 8GB VRAM when running more graphically intensive games if you want to get the smoothest experience. The Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X can go up to 16GB, but this has diminishing returns that will just consume power without really giving a performance increase.

Conversely, if you're playing a simple 2D game, changing VRAM allocation to around 4GB will be enough to keep up with your needs without pulling too much power from the system.

• How to change VRAM on Xbox Ally and ROG Ally handhelds

2. Understand when to use which TDP mode

When you press the Armoury Crate button to the left of your Xbox Ally X's screen, a side menu pops up that allows you to change TDP (thermal design power) modes.

By default, each ASUS ROG handheld has four preset TDP modes, and knowing when to switch modes will help your system play better and run more efficiently.

The white ROG Ally and Xbox Ally have Windows (15W), Silent (5W), Performance (15W), and Turbo (20W) modes.

Meanwhile, the Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X TDP is set a little higher with Silent (13W), Performance (17W), Turbo (25W), and Turbo+ (30W) modes.

If you're playing simple pixel-art graphics games, then putting the system down to Silent mode will help the battery last longer. If that doesn't seem to be enough power, then put it up to Performance mode.

Meanwhile, if you're playing a more graphically intensive AAA game, you'll want to put TDP at its max setting to help the system run smoothly. Just remember to change down to a lower TDP mode when you're done. You don't want to keep the device running at max power all the time.

3. Change Windows settings and install latest updates to get the best gaming performance

Since the Xbox Ally, Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally, and ROG Ally X are all Windows 11 handheld gaming PCs, they all have the same software bloat issues.

Thankfully, there are a few Windows settings you can change to make these devices run more efficiently. You also should make sure to upgrade your handhelds whenever possible to ensure the best performance.

There is a lot to go over here, so check out my colleague, Mauro Huculak's, in-depth guide on the 12 essential Windows 11 tweaks to supercharge your ASUS ROG handheld to see what you can do.

3. Turn on HYPR-RX to double FPS in AAA games

Many people don't know that you can greatly increase game performance on the Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X simply by enabling AMD graphics features in a program called AMD Software. Just note that a game must be compatible with these features in order for you to see these improvements.

Here's how to enable these graphics-enhancing features:

1. Use your finger to swipe up from the bottom of the screen and type "AMD Software" into the Windows search that appears.
   1. Note that if you're in Xbox full screen experience on the Xbox Ally X, you'll need to swipe up from the bottom and exit to Windows desktop first.
2. In the Home tab, tap on the Enable button under HYPR-RX window. This will turn on a suite of AMD graphics features.
   1. Note that HYPR-RX features aren't available for the white Xbox Ally or ROG Ally, but you can still enable Performance features.
3. If you want to further customize these graphics features, head to the Gaming tab and then the Graphics sub tab and then interact with the toggles and sliders.

One of the most notable graphics features in HYPR-RX is AFMF (AMD Fluid Motion Frames), which uses AI to generate additional frames and boost FPS (frames per second). In my experience, AFMF tends to double the amount of frames you usually see for significantly smoother gameplay.

Note: It's annoying, but HYPR-RX sometimes gets disabled when a big AMD update gets installed. So, if your handheld feels like it's being sluggish, you might need to go back into AMD Software and enable this graphics suite again.

4. Upgrade your SSD for faster speeds and larger storage capacity

Most gamers know that a solid-state drive (SSD) is where games and data are stored on a PC, so they understand that having a larger capacity is helpful for having more game files. However, some people don't realize that different SSDs offer different speeds, and this affects a handheld's performance.

The unfortunate truth is that ROG Ally and Xbox Ally handhelds don't come with very fast SSDs (Legion Go handheld SSDs are much faster), which isn't ideal since SSD speeds determine how fast a game loads, saves, or accesses data.

Because of this, I highly recommend handheld owners upgrade their internal SSDs, not only to increase storage space, but also to make their systems faster.

I've previously written a guide on how to upgrade ROG Ally and ROG Ally X SSDs, and I will be writing a similar guide for Xbox Ally handhelds as well. It's a pretty easy process. Just make sure you do everything carefully so you don't damage your device.

The ROG Ally and ROG Ally X utilize smaller 2280 NVMe drives, whereas the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X have 2230 NVMe slots, so make sure you get the right size for your device.

I've listed two options below, but there are plenty more to choose from online.

6. The right accessories level up your gaming handheld experience

While not exactly a tweak, if there's one thing I've learned over the last few years, it's that having the right handheld accessories can seriously level up the playing experience.

These are the peripherals I specifically use with my devices and recommend to everyone:

• Tomtoc Arccos G-47 handheld bag: $44.99 at Amazon.com — Large enough to fit any handheld and several accessories.
• JSAUX 6-in-1 Dock for Xbox Ally: $29.99 at Amazon.com — One of the only TV docks that is designed with a USB-C cable that actually fits larger handhelds without straining. Pair it with an Xbox controller and your Xbox Ally X suddenly feels more like a console.
• JSAUX Screen Protector (2pk) for ROG Ally and Xbox Ally: $12.99 at Amazon.com — Your handhelds are expensive; this is a simple way to protect them.
• dbrand Killswitch Travel Case for Xbox Ally X: $79.99 BestBuy.com — This provides the slimmest protection possible and also give your handheld a kickstand.
• JSAUX ModCase for ROG Ally: $29.99 at Amazon.com — Makes your handheld easier to grip and adds a kickstand.
• Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank: $69.99 at Amazon.com — Makes it easy to charge your handheld's battery back up on the go.
• Artciety Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard: $40.99 at Amazon.com — I use this regularly to interact with certain games that need me to enter text or use a cursor.
• SanDisk 1TB Extreme microSD Card: $76.47 at Amazon — A fast and easy way to add more storage to your handheld without opening your device.
• Syntech USB-C to USB-A adapters [2-Pack]: $7.99 at Amazon — Lets me connect my USB-A accessories to my ASUS ROG handhelds.
• JSAUX 90 Degree USB-C Male to Female Adapter [2-Pack]: $7.99 at Amazon — Puts less strain on your USB-C ports and cables so they are less likely to get damaged.

You can also check out our list of the best Xbox Ally accessories or our list of the best ROG Ally accessories to get more ideas.

Make sure you're getting the most out of your handheld gaming PC

The Xbox Ally X and ROG Ally X are powerful gaming devices, given that they are portable PCs. However, they aren't set to their max potential out of the box. If you take the time to adjust VRAM and TDP based on the types of games you're playing, then you'll get a smoother and more battery-efficient experience.

Of course, making changes to Windows settings and enabling AMD graphics features will also make these devices run far more smoothly. Hopefully, you found this page helpful and are able to play your favorite games on Xbox Ally X better than before.

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Xbox has shared a clearer roadmap for the future of the Xbox Ally, outlining how it plans to evolve the device through software updates and long-term support.

The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are now available in 45 countries. Developed in partnership with ASUS and Xbox, with AMD Z2 Extreme chip, the handheld marks Xbox’s first serious step into portable gaming. On paper, the concept is strong. It brings your Xbox library, achievements, community, and even Game Pass on the go. But it is not perfect yet.

Some early reviews have praised the hardware, but many agree that the user experience is rough in places due to Windows and software limitations. Xbox is aware of this, and it has now laid out what players can expect over the coming months. So, let’s break down exactly what the Xbox offers today and what is planned for the future of the Xbox Ally.

What the Xbox Ally offers today

The Xbox Ally comes in two models: the standard Xbox Ally and the Xbox Ally X. Both are built to feel familiar in the hands, with a design inspired by the Xbox controller. Under the hood, the standard model uses AMD’s new Z2 A chip, which offers a small performance bump over the Steam Deck.

The Xbox Ally X goes further with the Z2 Extreme processor, which should deliver better performance in more demanding games.

What makes the Xbox Ally stand out is its deep collaboration between Xbox and Windows. It introduces a new Full Screen Experience, also known as FSE, which boots the device straight into the Xbox app for a console-like feel.

It also disables unnecessary Windows background tasks to free up system resources, something handheld Windows PC users have been asking for years and should be available later for other devices.

While it cannot natively install your Xbox console library, the handheld does support PC storefronts like Steam and Epic Games. It also supports Xbox Play Anywhere titles, so certain games you already own on Xbox will work on the Ally at no extra cost.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is included too, letting you stream titles now through all tiers of Game Pass. If a game is not available through the cloud or PC, you can still use Xbox Remote Play to stream directly from your home console.

It is still early days for the Xbox Ally, but the premise is exciting. Game Pass on the go and access to your Xbox ecosystem in handheld form is something I have wanted for years. It is not without flaws, though.

Early reviews have praised the hardware but criticized parts of the user experience. The Full Screen Experience in particular has been called unfinished, with some reviewers saying it still feels like a beta. Xbox seems to recognize this, and it has published a roadmap that outlines how the Ally will improve over time. Here is what fans can expect next.

The Xbox Ally roadmap — what’s next for the device

Xbox Ally users can expect the following updates in the coming weeks and months, as confirmed by Microsoft:

• Default Game Profiles
• Enhanced docking experience
• AI-powered Automatic Super Resolution
• AI highlight reels

It might not look like a huge list at first glance, but these updates will also include general improvements to stability, usability, and performance. That should help address many of the common complaints about the software. At least, that is the hope.

Default Game Profiles will automatically adjust settings on a per-game basis. I assume the goal is to balance performance and battery life without forcing players to tweak settings every time they launch a game.

The enhanced docking experience is still a little vague, but the idea is clear. Xbox wants the Ally to work better when connected to a monitor or TV. In a dream scenario, docking would offer a more console-like experience. In reality, it will likely mean better display scaling, fewer hiccups when switching between handheld and docked mode, and more consistent performance without any display problems.

Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) is one of the more exciting additions. It uses AI to sharpen games and boost visual quality without a big hit to performance, as it leverages the NPU not the CPU or GPU. It will upscale games that run at lower resolutions so they look closer to 1080p or even 1440p, which should make a real difference on the Xbox Ally in particular, as it’s the weaker of the two.

It's particularly noteworthy that this will be the first sign of Auto SR on a non-Qualcomm device. Until now, the tool has been exclusively available on the Snapdragon X platform.

AI highlight reels are a quality-of-life feature aimed at sharers and content creators. Again, I’m assuming here as information is vague but the Xbox Ally would automatically detect gameplay moments it thinks are worth saving and capture them for you, without needing to record everything manually.

A promising start, but the real test begins now

It is a good start for the Xbox Ally, and there is clear long-term potential here. Xbox now feels like it is heading toward a PC-based future, where hardware is less important than the ecosystem itself.

An aggregated library across Steam, Epic, and Xbox on a console designed by Xbox is exciting, especially if native Xbox console libraries eventually become part of that vision.

For now, the experience still needs work. The Ally feels caught between being a handheld PC and a true Xbox handheld. Reviews and user feedback highlight the same problem: Windows gets in the way.

The first boot experience is cluttered with unnecessary apps like Microsoft Teams, and the setup process is slowed down by updates to both the Xbox app and ASUS’s Armoury Crate software. It does not feel streamlined, and it does not feel console-like just yet.

A device that can cost up to $1,000 should not feel like it is still in beta. Microsoft could have avoided much of this criticism by running the software through its Insider Program before launch.

The good news is that Xbox knows the experience needs improvement, and it has already confirmed that work has started. The roadmap is a step in the right direction, but now it has to follow through.

Time will tell whether Xbox can turn the Ally from a great concept into a great product. For now, if you want a deeper breakdown of the hardware, software experience, and performance, be sure to check out our full review.

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But that's never been the pitch.

The Xbox Ally has always been marketed as a Windows PC in handheld form that can be used to run PC Game Pass titles, various PC gaming services, and Xbox Play Anywhere titles.

While I admit the naming convention is initially confusing and evokes console expectations, its Windows 11 PC functionality shouldn't come as a surprise. These devices have not only been marketed as Windows 11 handhelds from the start, but they clearly align with Microsoft and Xbox's overall gaming strategy.

In fact, this is one of the best examples of the "This is an Xbox" campaign, whether or not you like it. But Xbox fans don't need to worry. Consoles are still in Xbox's plans. The Xbox Ally is just an expansion of what it means to be "Xbox."

Confusing naming, sure, but we've always known this was a Windows PC handheld

I'll be the first to admit that seeing the word "Xbox" makes me think console, given that the word has been specifically linked to a console over much of the last two decades.

However, Xbox has actively been working to change "Xbox" from just meaning console to meaning gaming in general. What's more, ASUS ROG and Xbox have been very clear from the start that the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are Windows 11 handheld gaming PCs, and this is by design.

Now, it's possible people could just be confusing the Xbox Ally with Xbox's first-party handheld that was sidelined earlier this year. But if you've been paying attention to current trends and Microsoft's messaging, you know why this happened.

The truth is, console sales have been in decline as PC gaming has increased, causing Microsoft, and thus, Xbox, to rethink its strategy. In other words, console hardware isn't Xbox's sole focus anymore, and it needs to expand its focus to stay relevant.

As has been demonstrated by the admittedly confusing "This is an Xbox" campaign, Xbox has been working to associate its name with cloud gaming, PC gaming, and more; not just console gaming. This is why more Xbox titles are being ported to PC. We've seen the company pushing Xbox in this direction over the last decade.

RELATED: Xbox Ally X review | Xbox Ally review

Another thing to note is that despite being a Windows 11 handheld, the word "Xbox" in the Xbox Ally's title is there to intentionally reflect Xbox expectations for a PC, specifically interface expectations.

You have to remember, Microsoft develops Windows as well as Xbox. The real battle here, as I've previously written about, is Windows vs SteamOS on handhelds.

ASUS ROG and Xbox are competing directly with the Steam Deck, which uses the Linux-based SteamOS rather than Windows 11. Obviously, Microsoft would prefer that Windows be the handheld operating system of choice for most handhelds on the market, so it's gotten involved.

If you've used a Steam Deck, then you know how the simplified SteamOS interface is generally vastly preferred over Windows. That's because it makes Valve's handheld feel more like a console dedicated solely to gaming.

Of course, you can also go into desktop mode and use the Steam Deck as a Linux PC, if you want, but at any rate, it's a far less bloated and messy experience than on Windows handhelds like the original ROG Ally that released two years ago.

By partnering with ASUS ROG to create the company's next-gen Windows handheld, Microsoft is taking an active stand to boost and improve the user experience for Windows handheld gaming PCs.

I'll be the first to admit that Microsoft's handheld optimization attempts feel like a band-aid over a much bigger problem that still needs refinement. However, the Xbox full-screen experience on the new Xbox Ally does help reduce background activity and simplifies the interface so that it's more akin to SteamOS.

So yes, Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are PC gaming devices in handheld form, and they have "Xbox" in the name to show that Microsoft is involved to improve the handheld gaming experience on Windows, and also because Xbox refers to PC Game Pass and Cloud gaming, which play well on handhelds.

Of course, console fans don't need to worry. Microsoft is also working on next-gen consoles. The Xbox Ally handhelds are just part of the strategy to push more into PC gaming while improving Windows handheld gaming.

Gaming handheld PCs have been a relatively niche and (and very expensive) product over the last few years, but they are becoming more mainstream, with the Xbox Ally X leading the next-gen charge. If handheld gaming PCs aren't your thing, that's fine. You can wait for the next Xbox console.

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That's when it helps to have a 65W battery pack, like the Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank, so you can charge your handheld up while you play. Here are the best power banks for your Xbox Ally.

Recharge your Xbox Ally on the go

One of the best things about the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X is that they're easy to travel with. The only downside is that they tend to have relatively short battery lives, which is why I always bring a power bank with me if I take a handheld on a trip.

I recommend getting the Anker 20,000mAh power bank since it offers the convenience of having a built-in USB-C cable while also providing the necessary power output to charge an Xbox Ally handheld even when it's being played in Turbo mode.

Of course, if you'd prefer a more compact battery pack and are willing to pay a little more for it, then the INUI Mini Size power bank is a good fit for you. In addition to its high battery capacity and output, it has a USB-C cable that doubles as a wrist strap for easy carry.

Now, if affordability is first and foremost on your mind, you'll want to consider the INIU Power Bank 65W 25,000mAh. As you can see, it's made by the same company that makes our compact pick, but it isn't nearly as small and has a lower price point.

Finally, If you're the kind of person who tends to bring several electronics with you on the go and wants a power bank that can charge them back up quickly, then you should consider the Anker 733. It not only has a battery inside of it, but it also can be plugged directly into a wall to provide two USB-C 65W ports.

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It can be more than a little tempting to go for the latest and greatest hardware, but I wouldn't rush to toss aside your trusty handheld just yet. Whether you have the original ROG Ally or the upgraded ROG Ally X, both handhelds can be massively improved with a handful of upgrades, some clever tricks, and an accessory or two.

We may have praised the Xbox Ally X in our in-depth review, and (to a lesser extent) its sibling in our Xbox Ally review, but that doesn't make what came before obsolete. I, at least, am sticking with my ROG Ally X for now — so, here's all my advice for giving your ROG Ally a glow-up and staving off that Xbox Ally FOMO.

1. Get the new handheld-specific Xbox interface

One of the biggest differentiators for the new Xbox Ally is its new handheld-optimized interface. It's still powered by Windows 11, but Microsoft has done a ton of work to deliver a full-screen Xbox experience that works flawlessly with a controller, and disables unnecessary processes and parts of Windows (like the Start Menu and desktop) to improve gaming performance, battery life, and ease-of-use.

The Xbox app on PC can also aggregate your PC gaming library by connecting to other launchers, too. Pair that with the Xbox Game Bar, and your ROG Ally can finally feel like a proper console, rather than a Windows PC that happens to be shaped like a handheld.

It makes a huge difference, but this experience isn't actually exclusive to the Xbox Ally — at least, it won't be exclusive forever. Microsoft is planning to bring the same full-screen Xbox interface to other PC gaming handhelds, and it's possible to try it out early. In fact, we've already checked out the new Xbox mode on the original ASUS ROG Ally.

If you're enrolled in the Windows Insider Program and are running an in-development build, you may be able to enable the new Xbox mode by going to Settings > Gaming and looking for the "Full screen experience" option. If it's there, opening that page will allow you to choose the Xbox app as your default home screen, and you can make your ROG Ally boot up into that experience, too.

If the option doesn't appear for you (it's possible Microsoft is A/B testing the feature), you can check out this guide at Reddit.com for some other tips and tricks. Expect the experience to evolve as Microsoft refines it, too, even after it leaves the Insider Program and rolls out to all users (we expect that to happen in early 2026).

2. Upgrade your storage for improved performance

For a physical upgrade, you can consider upgrading your ASUS ROG Ally's storage. Whether you need more space to download games or you're looking for faster load times, a new SSD can breathe fresh life into your ROG Ally.

The ASUS ROG Ally (and most PC gaming handhelds, honestly) uses smaller M.2 2230 SSDs. Our most trusted brand is Western Digital / SanDisk, and our top rated is the WD_BLACK SN770M SSD we reviewed. You can pick up the WD_BLACK SN770M (2TB) for $239.99 at BestBuy.com, and it's often on sale for much less than that.

We also have a full, in-depth guide on how to upgrade your ASUS ROG Ally's SSD, including how to transfer all your data over to the new drive. It details every step, and even gives you guidance on what tools you'll need. I highly recommend relying on that guide if you decide to upgrade your ROG Ally's storage.

Of course, you can also consider one of the best microSD cards for gaming handhelds, like the SanDisk Extreme Plus (1TB) for $149.99 at BestBuy.com, if you simply want more storage for smaller games, documents, photos, and more. It won't be as fast as an internal SSD, but a microSD card can be a great, affordable, and easy-to-install storage upgrade.