If your Xbox Ally X starts slowing down, develops software issues, or you’re preparing to sell it, a factory reset can bring it back to like-new condition.
Windows 11 offers two ways to do this:
- Reset this PC – runs directly from Windows.
- ASUS Cloud Recovery – runs from the BIOS and restores the original factory image.
Both remove apps and games; one can optionally keep personal files, while the other completely wipes the device and reinstalls the original software.
Method 1 — Reset the Xbox Ally X from Windows 11 (“Reset this PC”)
This is the fastest way to refresh your Ally X. It reinstalls Windows and removes installed apps and games, with the option to keep personal files.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Switch to the Windows desktop
From the Ally’s launcher, open the menu and select Windows desktop, or press Windows + Tab to exit the gaming interface.
Step 2: Open Settings
Click Start → Settings, or press Windows + I.
Step 3: Go to System
Select System from the left-hand sidebar.
Step 4: Open Recovery
Scroll down and click Recovery to access repair and reset options.
Step 5: Choose Reset PC
Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC to begin the process.
Step 6: Choose what to remove
- Keep my files – keeps personal folders (Documents, Pictures, etc.)
- Remove everything – wipes all personal data
Both options remove installed apps and games.
Step 7: Choose reinstall source
- Local reinstall – uses the image already stored on the Ally X.
- Cloud download – downloads a fresh copy of Windows 11.
💡 Note: Cloud download installs a clean Windows version without ASUS drivers or utilities. You can reinstall them later via ASUS Armoury Crate SE or the support site.
Step 8: Confirm and start
Review your choices and click Reset. The Ally X will reboot and automatically reinstall Windows.
Local reinstalls usually take about 20 minutes, while cloud reinstalls depend on your internet speed.
Method 2 — Factory Reset via ASUS Cloud Recovery (BIOS)
Use this if Windows won’t start or you want to restore the system exactly as it shipped, including all ASUS drivers and tools.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Power off the Ally X completely.
Wait a few seconds to ensure it’s fully shut down.
Step 2: Enter the BIOS/UEFI
Hold Volume Up and press the Power button to boot into the BIOS.
Step 3: Select ASUS Cloud Recovery
Inside the BIOS, select ASUS Cloud Recovery and follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Approve the reset
Confirm you want to erase the internal drive. The tool will then download and reinstall the original factory image.
Step 5: Let it finish
The Ally X will reboot several times. Once done, you’ll land on the Windows setup screen, just like when the device was new.
What Gets Removed During a Reset
| Option | Apps & Games | Personal Files | Drivers & Utilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keep my files | Removed | Kept | Kept |
| Remove everything | Removed | Removed | Kept |
| Cloud download | Removed | Optional | Removed (clean Windows image) |
| ASUS Cloud Recovery | Removed | Removed | Restored (factory version) |
Selling or Giving Away Your Xbox Ally X?
Before handing it off to a new owner, perform a full wipe for privacy:
- Use Reset this PC → Remove everything, or
- Run ASUS Cloud Recovery for a true factory restore.
Afterward, check Windows Update for patches and reinstall your preferred apps or games. You’ll have a fresh, clean, and high-performance device ready to go.
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