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.

Microsoft debuts its first handheld gaming PCs, ROG Xbox Ally and Ally Xlaunching Oct 16 with custom AMD chips, Xbox features, and 120Hz displays.

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.