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- Best overall: ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X
- Best budget: Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB
- Best premium: Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB
- Best for portable gaming: ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X
- The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X suits players who want a powerful Windows handheld with a 7-inch, 120Hz display.
- The Xbox Series X is the strongest pick for 4K gaming on a television.
- The Xbox Series S offers a compact home-console route into Xbox games.
- Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition deliver distinct single-player experiences.
- Choose hardware for how you play, then choose games that fit your preferred genre.
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X and Xbox games serve different Black Friday 2026 needs: one is a portable Windows gaming device, while the other is a library of experiences you can play across compatible Xbox hardware. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to make the choice clear. Here’s the bottom line: buy the Ally X for portable PC-style gaming, or pick an Xbox console and games for a living-room setup.
This guide compares seven options, from handhelds and consoles to specific games and a controller. Each product has a direct verdict, key specifications, strengths and trade-offs. Black Friday shoppers can start with the play style they want, then narrow the shortlist by display, storage, game genre and portability.
How We Picked
- Compared core hardware specs, including screen, storage, memory and output capabilities.
- Considered owner feedback and review coverage for comfort, usability and performance expectations.
- Prioritized products with clearly different roles, so handhelds, consoles, games and accessories are easy to compare.
- Checked platform and player details to make each recommendation useful for a real gaming setup.
- Focused on products that make sense as standalone purchases or as additions to an Xbox gaming setup.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Screen / output | Storage / game format | Best play style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X | Premium portable gaming | 7-inch 1080p, up to 120Hz | 1TB SSD | Windows handheld |
| ASUS ROG Xbox Ally | Handheld gaming on a tighter budget | 7-inch 1080p, up to 120Hz | 512GB SSD | Windows handheld |
| Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB | 4K living-room gaming | Up to 4K | 1TB SSD and 4K UHD Blu-ray | Home console |
| Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB | Compact digital home gaming | Up to 1440p | 1TB SSD, digital only | Compact home console |
| Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition | Open-world racing | Xbox / Windows PC | Premium Edition | Racing; up to 12 players online |
| Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition | Story-driven solo adventure | Xbox / Windows PC | Premium Edition | Single-player action-adventure |
| Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black | A spare controller for Xbox and PC | Xbox Wireless / Bluetooth | USB-C; 2 AA batteries | Console and compatible PC |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is the best handheld for players who want a premium portable gaming PC, with a 7-inch 1080p screen running at up to 120Hz.
Best for: Premium portable gaming
- Display
- 7-inch, 1080p, up to 120Hz
- Memory
- 24GB LPDDR5X
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- Battery
- 80Wh
- High-refresh 1080p display
- Generous 1TB SSD
- Windows 11 supports a broad PC game library
- Premium handheld size and weight
- Windows gaming interfaces take setup
Is the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is worth considering for players who want portable access to Windows games and a 7-inch, 120Hz screen. The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X's 1TB SSD gives a substantial starting library space, while the larger handheld format suits focused gaming sessions.
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#2
ASUS ROG Xbox Ally
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally is the best entry point for players who want handheld Windows gaming in a lighter configuration, with a 7-inch 1080p display.
Best for: Handheld gaming on a tighter budget
- Display
- 7-inch, 1080p, up to 120Hz
- Memory
- 16GB LPDDR5X
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery
- 60Wh
- Portable Windows game access
- Sharp 1080p screen
- Lower-tier configuration than the Ally X
- 512GB storage fills faster
- Less memory than the Ally X
Is the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally is a solid choice for players who want a dedicated Windows handheld with a 7-inch 1080p display. The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally's 512GB SSD and 16GB memory make it a simpler configuration than the Ally X, so plan storage around your installed games.
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#3
Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB
The Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB is the best home console for players who want 4K gaming and a disc drive, with 1TB of internal storage.
Best for: 4K living-room gaming
- Resolution target
- Up to 4K
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- Disc drive
- 4K UHD Blu-ray
- Frame rate
- Up to 120fps in supported games
- Strong fit for 4K televisions
- Physical disc playback
- Quick SSD-based game loading
- Designed for a fixed TV setup
- Requires separate display space
Is the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB is a strong Black Friday 2026 pick for players building a 4K living-room setup. The console combines a 1TB SSD with a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive, making it a flexible choice for digital games and compatible physical discs.
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#4
Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB
The Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB is the best compact console for players who want a digital Xbox library, with 1TB of SSD storage.
Best for: Compact digital home gaming
- Resolution target
- Up to 1440p
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- Disc drive
- None
- Frame rate
- Up to 120fps in supported games
- Small console footprint
- 1TB digital-game storage
- Straightforward living-room setup
- Digital games only
- Not aimed at native 4K gaming
Is the Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB is a good fit for players who want a compact, digital-only Xbox console. The Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB's 1TB SSD keeps more room for installed games, while the console’s up-to-1440p target suits players who value size and simplicity over a disc drive.
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#5
Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition
The Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition is the best racing pick for players who want open-world driving, with online races supporting up to 12 players.
Best for: Open-world racing
- Genre
- Open-world racing
- Online multiplayer
- Up to 12 players
- Platforms
- Xbox consoles and Windows PC
- Edition
- Premium Edition
- Large open-world driving focus
- Online competition for up to 12 players
- Good fit for short or extended sessions
- Racing is the central gameplay style
- Online play needs a suitable connection
Is the Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition is a worthwhile pick for racing fans who want open-world exploration and online competition. The game supports races with up to 12 players, and its Xbox and Windows PC versions suit several setups.
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#6
Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition
The Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition is the best adventure pick for solo players, with a single-player campaign built around exploration and action.
Best for: Story-driven solo adventure
- Genre
- Action-adventure
- Players
- 1 player
- Platforms
- Xbox consoles and Windows PC
- Edition
- Premium Edition
- Focused single-player story
- Mixes exploration and action
- Available for Xbox and Windows PC
- No multiplayer mode
- Story-focused play is not for every gamer
Is the Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition is a strong choice for solo players who want exploration, action and a story-led adventure. The one-player format keeps the focus on the campaign rather than online competition or cooperative play.
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#7
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black
The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black is the best simple upgrade for players who need a spare gamepad, with Bluetooth support for compatible devices.
Best for: A spare controller for Xbox and PC
- Connectivity
- Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth
- Battery
- 2 AA batteries
- Connection port
- USB-C
- Color
- Carbon Black
- Familiar Xbox button layout
- Bluetooth for compatible devices
- USB-C wired connection
- Rechargeable battery pack sold separately
- Small hands can find the grip broad
Is the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black is a practical buy for players who need a spare gamepad or a controller for compatible PC gaming. Bluetooth and USB-C give useful connection options, while the 2-AA battery setup keeps power requirements simple.
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Should you buy Xbox games or the ROG Xbox Ally X?
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is a portable gaming device, while Xbox games are software you play on compatible hardware. Pick the Ally X if playing away from the TV is the main goal; pick a game if you already own a console or gaming PC.
The Ally X runs Windows 11 and pairs handheld controls with a 7-inch screen. That setup brings a PC game library into a portable format, but the device is not a replacement for a large television when you want couch co-op or a big-screen view.
For a complete home setup, the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB or Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB makes more sense. Games such as Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition add distinct experiences to that console library.
Is the ROG Xbox Ally X better than an Xbox Series X?
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is better for portable play, while the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB is better for 4K television gaming. The Ally X has a 7-inch screen and built-in controls; the Series X targets up-to-4K output on a display you supply.
Choose the handheld for travel, flexible rooms and Windows game access. Choose the Series X for a fixed home setup, a disc drive and a larger screen. Both serve different gaming habits, so the stronger choice depends on where you play.
The Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB is another home-console option if a compact digital system fits better. Consider whether physical discs, 4K output or portability matters most before choosing a platform.
Which Xbox game is the best Black Friday pick?
Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition is the best pick for open-world racing, while Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition suits solo story fans. The right game depends on whether you want competitive driving or a focused adventure.
Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition supports online races with up to 12 players, giving friends a reason to join the action. Its open-world format works for quick drives and longer sessions alike.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition is built for one player. Exploration and action shape the experience, making it a better match for gamers who want to follow a campaign rather than compete online.
Does the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X play Xbox games?
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X plays compatible Windows PC games, including Xbox-published PC titles, with a 7-inch built-in display. Game access depends on the specific title and the store or service used, so check its listed platform before buying.
The Ally X is a Windows handheld, not a dedicated Xbox console. Its controls and portable screen make PC gaming feel more console-like, while Windows offers access to more than one gaming storefront.
Players who want a straightforward Xbox console library should look at the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB or Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB. Players who value PC flexibility and portability should shortlist the Ally X.
What should you prioritize for Black Friday 2026?
Black Friday 2026 shoppers should prioritize play style, storage and screen setup before picking a device. The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X leads for portable gaming, while the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB leads for a 4K home setup.
A 1TB SSD gives the Ally X and both listed Xbox consoles room for installed games, but the Series S and Series X differ on discs and output goals. The Series S is digital only; the Series X includes a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive.
For games, choose a genre you will return to. For accessories, the Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black adds a familiar extra gamepad. Match each purchase to the system and style of play you already use.
Buying Guide
Choose handheld or home-console play
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is the pick for portable Windows gaming, while the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB is built for a home television. Think about where you spend gaming time before weighing specifications.
Match storage to your library
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X and both Xbox consoles listed here include 1TB SSDs; the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally has 512GB. A larger installed library favors more built-in storage or a plan for expansion.
Check the game platform and genre
Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition is a racing game, while Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition is a single-player adventure. Confirm platform compatibility and choose the genre you enjoy.
Factor in discs and accessories
The Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB includes a 4K UHD Blu-ray drive; the Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB is digital only. The Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller Carbon Black is a useful extra for multiplayer or a backup.
FAQ
Is the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X a console or a PC handheld?
The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is a Windows 11 gaming handheld with built-in controls and a 7-inch display. It plays compatible PC games and offers portable gaming, while Xbox Series consoles remain dedicated home systems for television play.
Can I play Forza Horizon 5 on the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X?
Xbox Game Studios Forza Horizon 5 Premium Edition has a Windows PC version, making it a fit for the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X. Check the current game listing and account requirements before purchase to confirm the version matches your setup.
Which Xbox console is better for 4K gaming?
The Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB is the better fit for players targeting 4K gaming on a television. The Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB targets up to 1440p and trades a disc drive for a smaller, digital-only console.
Is the Xbox Series S 1TB digital only?
The Microsoft Xbox Series S 1TB is digital only and does not include a disc drive. Players who own physical Xbox games or want 4K UHD Blu-ray playback should compare the Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB instead.
Which product is best for solo story gaming?
Xbox Game Studios Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Premium Edition is the best fit in this guide for solo story gaming. The action-adventure is designed for one player and focuses on campaign exploration rather than multiplayer competition.