Asus has set the price of ROG Xbox Ally X in Japan, surprisingly by around $200 increasedThe standard model remains unchanged, while the high-end version now costs ¥169.800 ($1.109). Players must ask themselves: Is the extra cost worth it, and is this a sign of things to come in other markets?
More RAM, more performance – and higher costs
The ROG Xbox Ally X stands out from the base model with its 24 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and 1 TB of storage. The standard model comes with 16 GB of LPDDR5-6400 RAM and 512 GB of storage. Technically, the faster RAM makes multitasking and modern games smoother, reduces loading times, and allows for more complex scenes in PC titles. However, for casual users, the performance advantage might be marginal, especially since most games don't even utilize 24 GB of RAM.
The price increase is likely related to the current shortage of fast memory chips, which also affects the Steam Deck. Manufacturers like Asus have to pass on higher purchase prices to customers, otherwise margins shrink rapidly. This doesn't just affect handheld PCs: Valve kündigt to recently announced that the Steam Deck is experiencing issues in some regions due to RAM and storage limitations.Intermittently sold out“could be.”
What this means for buyers
For gamers in Japan, this means that those who prioritize maximum performance will pay significantly more without receiving any additional features beyond faster RAM or larger storage. Those who only intend to use the ROG Xbox Ally X for gaming on the go might be better off with the base model – its price remains stable for now.
Global impacts are currently unclear. In the US and Europe, the high-end version still costs $999 / £799. An increase in other regions is possible, but unconfirmed. Players should therefore carefully consider whether to buy now or wait.
Hardware prices as a trend indicator
The price adjustment reveals a larger trend. High-performance RAM is becoming more expensive, and handheld PCs and new consoles could follow suit. Bloomberg reports that Sony... PlayStation 6 possibly delayed to 2028/29Meanwhile, Nintendo is considering a price increase for the Switch 2. For gamers, this means that early purchases could become more expensive, giving them yet another reason to rethink their hardware strategy.
The ROG Xbox Ally X offers top-tier performance, but at a higher price. Those who truly appreciate the difference will benefit; for others, the base model remains the more sensible choice. Asus is responding pragmatically to the market situation – for gamers, it's a clear cost-benefit analysis.
