The most notable difference between the Xbox Ally and the Steam Deck is the operating system. Like the ROG Ally, the Xbox Ally will also use Windows 11, while the Steam Deck uses Valve's SteamOS.

So, as things stand, pre-orders for the ROG Xbox Ally are expected to begin on September 25th, 2025. The outlet says this date should be "taken with caution" though, as there's every chance Microsoft could move the goalposts again.

Xbox had a massive presence at Gamescom this year, but opted to dedicate a huge booth to demoing games not on its traditional hardware, but instead the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally X. Officially announced earlier this year,