The upcoming Xbox Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go 2 are next-generation Windows handheld gaming PCs set to launch in October 2025. Both devices target gamers seeking portable, high-performance PCs but differ significantly in design and features.
Xbox Ally X
- 7-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate and VRR support
- Powered by AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor with NPU delivering up to 50 TOPS
- 24GB LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB M.2 2280 SSD storage
- Thick grips inspired by Xbox controllers for improved comfort
- Xbox UI offering streamlined game access and reduced Windows bloat
- Fingerprint reader included for security
- Ports include USB4 Type-C, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, microSD card reader, and audio jack
- Battery capacity of 80Whr
Lenovo Legion Go 2
- 8.8-inch WUXGA OLED touchscreen with 144Hz refresh rate and VRR support
- AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor without AI NPU, up to 32GB RAM
- Up to 2TB M.2 2242 SSD storage
- Detachable TrueStrike controllers and built-in kickstand for versatile play modes
- FPS mode converts right controller into a mouse with a small integrated touchpad
- Fingerprint reader included
- Ports include dual USB4 Type-C, microSD card reader, and audio jack
- Battery capacity of 74Whr with super rapid charging
Design and Display
The Xbox Ally X’s 7-inch IPS panel offers smooth visuals but lacks the vibrancy of the Legion Go 2’s larger 8.8-inch OLED screen with superior color contrast and higher refresh rate. Xbox Ally X provides better grip comfort, modeled after the Xbox controller, while Legion Go 2 emphasizes versatility with detachable controllers and a kickstand to enable tabletop mode.
Performance and Storage
Both handhelds use AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processors with 8 cores and 16 threads and RDNA3.5 graphics, but the Xbox Ally X features an AI-based NPU for potential efficiency gains. RAM ranges from 24GB on Xbox Ally X up to 32GB on Legion Go 2. Storage options are 1TB for Xbox Ally X and up to 2TB for Legion Go 2, with both supporting microSD expansion.
Software and User Experience
Both run Windows 11 Home, allowing access to the full Windows gaming and application ecosystem. The Xbox Ally X offers a customized Xbox interface to simplify game management and reduce system overhead. Legion Go 2 has more limited configuration options but introduces specialized control modes suited for FPS gameplay.
Price and Availability
Lenovo has announced a starting price of $1,049 for the Legion Go 2, while Xbox Ally X pricing remains unknown but could be competitive. Both devices will launch in October 2025, with the Xbox Ally X releasing on October 16. They are expected to be available through major retailers.
Battery Life
The Xbox Ally X has a slightly larger battery (80Whr) compared to the Legion Go 2 (74Whr). The presence of an AI processor in the Ally X might boost energy efficiency, but real-world battery performance remains to be tested.
Which to Choose?
The Xbox Ally X is ideal for players prioritizing comfort, an Xbox-centric experience, and potentially longer battery life. The Legion Go 2 suits those wanting a larger, vivid OLED display and greater flexibility with detachable controllers and a kickstand. Pricing and final performance tests may influence the decision, but both represent strong contenders in the premium handheld gaming market.