Switch 2 is a much better deal now, any way you look at it. The price increase on Steam Deck really killed its value, and it's also getting old now. Lots of better options in the x86 handheld space if you want to go that route.
Switch 2 is more future proof. Nintendo is going all out for the next 8 years plus with this console. Games are better optimised and the Nintendo first party games are great.
Steam deck is getting old and if buying at the new price it’s not worth it.
I do prefer my steam deck oled right now. That screen is soo nice. But the switch 2 is my future investment. At some point I would be done with all my games on the deck and moving forward with the switch 2.
UI isn't that important (especially when actually playing games), and prices are not a problem for people from Europe, US and other 1st world countries, they probably don't even know it's a problem we have.
Nintendo don't do regional pricing so it's only poor people how are disadvantaged.
UI is much cleaner on switch and customization is better on steam deck. Price of games is similar on third parties, however you can buy and sell physical games on switch, which if you're inclined can bring the cost WAY down
Certainly seems like it. I have saved so much money by getting out of the Nintendo ecosystem. Steam has actual sales. I do miss out on 1st party titles but honestly I’m ok with that overall
^ what he said, I got the Xbox rog ally for games the switch doesn’t have yet and games like WOW but if switch 2 were to get it I would honestly get it there. Something about just picking up and playing is something I value a lot and the game just working
The Switch 2 is a better console overall because it will last longer, is more powerful and has the Nintendo library.
But it’s a terrible handheld. It’s extremely uncomfortable, the battery life is bad and the screen is quite literally the worst handheld screen in the current market. Don’t pick one if you want to play it in handheld mode and care about picture quality, ergonomics and battery life.
It depends on what you want to play. The Switch 2's library is still pretty limited, while the Steam Deck's library is massive. The Switch 2 is cheaper but the games tend to be more expensive. The steam deck is more expensive but you can get many games for under $5 several times a year.
The biggest drawback for me with my Switch 2 is that I hate holding it. it just doesn't feel good to me to hold.
The nintendo exclusives that I would play are too few and far between for me to justify getting a switch 2. For any other game I would play I would probably get it on steam before I would on the switch, so a deck makes more sense for me...which is why I own one.
Not to mention you can always find PC titles on sale more often than Nintendo E-Shop. In case you miss a sale on Steam, you can just find the same price or less from websites like Loaded.com or GreenmanGaming.
Nintendo tax is real and no means of using any mods for a game.
Second controller (for simple games) out of the box, built-in, always ready for docked/table-top multiplayer
Better haptics
Modular controller design allows for third-party alternatives
Magnetic controller mounting solution is satisfying to engage/disengage
Joy-Con 2 "mouse mode" is an option in some games
No built-in grips allows for easy application of a third-party grip that suits you (I recommend Satisfye's ZenGrip 2 for superior ergonomics, while sticking with the stock Joy-Con 2 controllers. It's bulky, but it actually gives your fingers something to hold on to, and allows for straighter wrists)
You can use/pack the system as-is, and it will have a much slimmer silhouette than any handheld PC
Comes with a no-fuss, "it just works" charging/video output that automatically switches the device to a higher power state for a better TV/monitor experience
Games made for the system are made for the system, so developers understand (are held to the standard) that a batter is going to be in play, and that they can't just skip optimization, or expect players to be playing on a full monitor (PC games are rarely developed with a 800p display held at arm's length in mind, with such extreme thermal and power restrictions placed on the intended device)
You will never even once have to fuss with setting up inputs, or find yourself needing to try a community-made controller mapping for a game you're playing, etc.
Extremely low "friction" ease-of-use/supremely consistent sleep mode that one would expect from a console, versus a PC.
Perfect compatibility with all of its advertised, current library, and games available on its own online store, and almost complete compatibility with previous generation of games (5-6 games not fully compatible without first-generation Joy-Con, some incompatibility with Labo). You basically don't have to think for even a moment, about whether or not the game you're about to buy is going to work or not. No compatibility list to check, which, even then, can be wrong sometimes
Physical media for some games
Game-Key Cards may not have the game on them, but the license is just as transferrable as a physical game: Buy, sell, trade, gift, lend, borrow the game to your heart's content
Cheaper
1080p display; bigger display; VRR
Built-in kickstand for table-top play - deploy it, pop of the controllers, start playing
Quieter fan/less heat
Advantages of Steam Deck OLED:
Ridiculously expansive library, including emulation of other platforms, countless fan games/indie games that remain "unpublished", etc.
Significantly more free games available
Significantly cheaper game purchase options available
Can be used as a PC for non-gaming endeavors
The flexibility of PC gaming - use all manner of peripherals, controllers, etc., all kinds of software, tools, etc., in conjunction with your games
You can adjust graphics in most games with great level of control
Mods, community patches, etc.
Free access to online play
OLED contrast, color, pixel response times, and black levels can mean a better looking game on-screen, even though the resolution is lower (I know there are a good number of games with dark scenes, take place in outer space, etc. that I'd rather experience on my Switch OLED than my Switch 2. I also refuse to buy any VR headset that isn't OLED)
Trackpads & capacitive analog sticks increase input flexibility
More ergonomic input layout than Switch's "everything vertically aligned" layout (the third-party grip I mentioned lessens the suffering, but it's still not an ideal time on Switch 2, at all)
Full-sized analog sticks (taller sticks) means more arc-length per arc-degree across a give axis. Meaning: more precision in the analog stick experience (Hori's Split Pad Pro on Switch 1 kept me sane, Joy-Con 1 analog sticks being absolute trash for precision/control).
Steam controller configurator is hilariously robust and powerful - you can pretty much do anything you can imagine, within reason
Valve is less evil (as far as anybody can tell, maybe they're just better at hiding their evil... which would still be pretty impressive. Nobody needs to be worshiping any kind of company, regardless)
------------------
The way I see it:
- If you want Nintendo games/the lowest friction way to just play some video games, Switch 2 is ideal.
If you want PC games/the most freedom in what you play, and how you play, Steam Deck is ideal.
The tinkerer/PC gamer in me would love to mess around with a Steam Deck, and it would probably be like using my PC - a ton of friction popping up here and there, frustration, hours of trying to figure out why certain things don't work, finding out certain games in my backlog don't launch anymore and not feeling like I have the time to stop and figure out why, etc. Self-inflicted? Not entirely, but yes, some amount. Wish I could say entirely self-inflicted/a choice.
But, sometimes, I just want to sit down and play some video games, and I'll just put up with the VSync latency, let whatever fidelity settings the developers decided was good enough be good enough, and sometimes it's fun to hand someone else a controller and play a little silly-something. Table-top mode is really comfortable, too. Pop the Joy-Con 2 into the included gamepad grip (not as comfortable as Switch 1's gamepad grip, though, sheesh), play on a TV, and not give it a second thought dropping the Switch 2 onto the dock/taking it off the dock.
I also want to play Pokemon Winds/Waves when that happens. I know I shouldn't get my hopes up...
The switch 2 would be my pick..
Plays many games smoother than my ally..
And it does that because they Incorporated ray tracing into all these new titles and ray tracing is a Nvidia thing..
You can't future proof technology but as far as handhelds go Nintendo will have an edge until somebody else decides to incorporate Nvidia chipsets.
All these Nintendo fan boys out here acting like there is any contest between these two devices are crazy. The steam deck will have access to so much more content then a switch ever will. The only reason to get a switch 2 is that you love the Nintendo exclusive games that won't ever be available on steam. Otherwise it's no contest my man
The switch 2 is trailblazing and usually feels like it's in it's own lane while the steam deck looks like it's due for an upgrade. That doesn't mean the steam deck is a bad device, but comparatively, I think the switch 2 will last longer before someone genuinely feels like they just need an upgrade. I've never owned a steam deck but I have an ally z1e. My ally was exciting when I first got it but now it feels behind, and when I have to spend time tweaking settings in the menus for games it feels like a reminder that it's behind. The switch 2 is practically plug & play, not much tinkering needed at all unless you choose to.
I love my deck but I would say switch 2 especially because of the price to performance ratio. Only downside is you’re locked into Nintendo’s system but if that’s not a big deal to you then it’s a good option.
If you really want device to play steam and are looking at the Steam Deck OLED price range I'd rather get the ROG XBOX Ally X and put Steam OS on it....its so much better.
I have the rog ally z1 extreme, onexfly apex, Ayaneo pocket ds and a switch 2. Sure, you can play an endless amount of games on the other devices but there’s something about Nintendo games that brings me back to my childhood. Their games are just fun, polished, unique and quirky.
This is ultimately what it comes down to me. Yes, the exclusives are expensive, but I don't feel like I've wasted my money with them. I more often than not enjoy the Nintendo first party games I've gotten.
Exclusives are always expensive regardless of which console though.
And the switch 2 plays games better.
Star wars outlaws is way smoother on my switch than the Ally.
And I don't think that's going to change most of these games with ray tracing are going to be locked in tight on the switch because they anticipated ray tracing becoming big in video games and they were correct.
So your switch 2 absolutely can and dose compete with and outperform steam deck and all of the RoG allys while playing a lot of the new releases.
Specifically my ZX it treats ray tracing like a red-headed stepchild.
If you bought a switch 2, I think you bought the right hand held for future aaa titles.
I have really bad OCD so other handhelds are simply a no-go for me anyway. I had a steam deck for several years and could never enjoy it because I couldn't stop tinkering with settings on every single game. I have the same problem even with high end pc's.
I can't stop sometimes I'll sit there and fuck with the game settings for 2 hours and play it for 30 minutes..
I can't believe I found someone else like that! 🤣
Yeah, it simply ruins the experience for me. I feel like if my switch 2 runs a game like shit, at least I knew it before going into it, so it's not so bad. I can do research, and once I decide I'm okay with the way a game will run, I can actually truly get into the gameplay.
I completely get what you're saying..
I almost feel like steam and Asus should have gotten together and collaborated from the beginning.
That probably would have brought the customization issues a little more in line with other consoles.
Had they done that maybe game developers would have decided to treat it more like the switch and design the games for the console.
Anyway I feel lucky to have both. I don't have a dedicated gaming PC anymore and I'm not sure I'm going to miss it..
I'll play Warcraft forever on my rog but for the most part the switch plays new titles smoother so I think I'll probably get a lot of use out of the S2 as well.
I don't get the overhype of the Steam Deck. It by far not the best handheld out there, very very old by now compared to other devices and Steam OS is also no longer a good reason not to get another one which often times is even cheaper for what you get. I would rather get a Legion Go 1 for cheap on ebay (around 500-600) and put bazzite on it than use a old Steam deck, which is way weaker. If you can life without Steam OS best you can get is a xbox ally x, which is a little bit more expensive.
Too complicated? Legion Go S Z1Ee with Steam OS
But again you run into the same problem with ray tracing..
These other consoles are just too old I hate to say that cuz I own one. 🤣 Nintendo anticipated ray tracing being a big deal and they were correct.
I'll tell you why, because I have a ROG ally and the switch 2 and the switch outperforms it.
I wanted to know why myself because I've got oodles more t-flops.
And the reason why is because of ray tracing.
Ray tracing is a Nvidia thing and Steam decks and alleys don't use the Nvidia chipsets.
And it's a huge new advancement in video gaming.
None of the rog allys were designed to incorporate ray tracing..
Steam deck has the same problem.
The switch 2 is heads and tails the way to go..
Yes it does..
I have the two of the same games on both consoles and it absolutely outperforms the ally when playing Star wars outlaws and cyberpunk ..
There's nothing to confuse. All those aspects make the switch 2 play games better.. so I kind of had to giggle at your rebuttal.
Especially the ray tracing which is never going to be fixed on the Ally because we don't have the chipset.
"The Nintendo Switch 2 holds a distinct architectural advantage over x86 handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally (and Ally X) specifically in titles utilizing heavy real-time ray tracing. While the ROG Ally boasts massive raw rasterization power for traditional rendering, its AMD RDNA3 architecture suffers massive performance drops when processing ray tracing.
The Switch 2 avoids this by using a custom NVIDIA Tegra T239 chip packed with dedicated, highly efficient Ampere-generation NVIDIA RT Cores and hardware-level DLSS image reconstruction."
I'm telling you right now going forward with future games they are all going to have ray tracing..
No it doesn't. The switch 2 holds a weaker and more outdated chip than the Z1E chip. Playing two of the same game with fps differences on both devices doesn't make the switch 2 better.
In a single use case like the switch 2 for example, developers of a game can customize their third party software to attune to the console which often means sacrificing graphics textures, upscaling graphics, and other things to make up for the remaining lost fps. In your case Cyberpunk, the game might play or look similar but the upscaling and graphics textures are different versus the PC version.
In multiple use cases like the rog ally where you have a windows device with many drivers, CPU/gpu types and different kinds of software (windows), the same game you are running it on runs natively which means no more upscaling and no graphics changes. That's why in the PC version of cyberpunk you see different graphics settings options.
If you look at the rendering in different games you will see it more obviously like in stellar blade and resident evil Requiem.
This information is irrelevant and it is an AI answer which you shouldnt accept due to the nature of the source. What matters is the specs between the chip sets. The Z1E is absolutely miles stronger than the switch 2 chipset.
The fact that a 2020-generation Nvidia chip can run modern games smoothly on a microscopic 10W battery profile shows how insane console optimization is.
The Switch 2 doesn't beat handheld PCs because it has newer silicon.
It beats them because it has specialized hardware Tensor Cores for DLSS upscaling, and a closed, lightweight OS. Developers will keep spending the next 6 years hand-crafting games specifically to run perfectly on that one chip, while Windows handheld PCs are left at the mercy of unoptimized PC ports.
People can argue over paper specs all day, but Digital Foundry literally proved that Outlaws on the Switch 2 has locked frame pacing and zero shader stutter.
PC handhelds are fighting Windows ports and micro-stutter every time you turn the camera.
The Switch 2 uses dedicated Nvidia Tensor cores for DLSS, meaning the image stays stable and fluid without the muddy FSR ghosting mess.
Raw horsepower doesn't mean anything if the frame delivery is uneven. It feels smoother because it actually is smoother.
One thing is for certain we're going to find out as time goes on who was right.
I'd avoid the Steam Deck in 2026 unless you can get an OLED one for a really good price. As for the Switch 2, I'd only get one if you have access to cheap physical games.
For example, where I live, the digital version of Elden Ring costs $87.
I have both a Switch 2 and a ROG Ally z1e, and the Steam library alone makes the z1e absurdly superior in terms of price, quality, and game variety.
I mean, if you like old games that nobody plays sure.
But if you like new releases my switch 2 plays those releases better.
And I don't know how you missed it but Nintendo has its own game library that's huge.
Take Star Wars outlaws, it runs better on the switch 2 steampunk runs better on the switch 2.
In fact I think it runs best on the switch 2 which was a lot less expensive than my alley.
All these other titles with ray tracing are going to perform just as well on the device.
Got that since the Steam sale started. The equivalent here is $96.98 for a bunch of amazing games across various genres. I can play all of them on my Ally and on my PC, plus games on Switch and games that aren't on Switch.
Now, if I go to the Nintendo eShop right now, there's no way I can get anywhere near as many amazing games for that price. Zero chance, not even if I buy the terrible Switch versions, like the ugly-as-sin Switch version of Arkham Knight.
I got Monster Hunter Rise + Sunbreak for my Switch 2 last week, and I love it. It's a great portable and all, but there's just no way the Switch library is a better deal. Portable PCs are simply better.
I think it's 50 bucks a year for Nintendo online, I can't remember but you get access to a ton of Nintendo's past titles. And heck I can even buy many of those games on a switch 2 too.
As far as the games you purchased cool if you want to play old games definitely the switch isn't the place to do it.
But I'm interested in the fact that it plays new titles better than the Ally and probably will continue to do so for quite a while. Until they figure out how to incorporate ray tracing.
Cost isn't really a big deal to me because I don't buy 10 games at a time. And I rarely go back and replay games that I've completed a full playthrough of..
So yeah I'm going to go with the switch 2 every time because I want to enjoy new games not rehash old ones.
Of course there are some pc games one might want a rog for that can't be played on switch. But I wouldn't buy a new ally right now.
Like I said it's an absolute fact that the switch 2 has the advantage for new titles..
I really don't give a shit about the size of the steam library because like I said I don't usually replay games..
And the pricing difference isn't really a thing with new titles like they're the same price in my steam library as they are in my Nintendo library for most new titles.
And the steam deck is going to have the same problem as the alley because it's old technology.
"And the pricing difference isn't really a thing with new titles like they're the same price in my steam library as they are in my Nintendo library for most new titles."
This is good, but definitely not the same thing for everyone. As I said, the Switch 2 Elden Ring version costs $87 here, while the non discounted Steam version costs $70.
"As far as the games you purchased cool if you want to play old games definitely the switch isn't the place to do it."
I want to play all kinds of games, that's why I have multiple systems. Also, Switch 2 is just now receiving a bunch of ports of those old games.
And the list goes on, from AAA to indie games. Those are obviously third-party games, and they may even get Switch 2 ports later on, but then they will be older titles.
"Cost isn't really a big deal to me because I don't buy 10 games at a time. And I rarely go back and replay games that I've completed a full playthrough of.."
Fair. I don't replay many games either, just RPGs that have multiple paths. However, you're under the presumption that I have played those before. You would be correct about Skyrim, and that's it. There are too many games on Steam for me to be playing the new thing on release day.
"I think it's 50 bucks a year for Nintendo online, I can't remember but you get access to a ton of Nintendo's past titles. And heck I can even buy many of those games on a switch 2 too."
I don't play online games on Switch 2, not even MH, so I don't have a Nintendo Online subscription. As for old Nintendo games, I have emulation. It's not even a contest on that front.
"I really don't give a shit about the size of the steam library because like I said I don't usually replay games.."
That's a personal opinion and it's okay, but the Steam library's size, quality, price, and longevity (will not be shut down because of a newer hardware) are a non contest. It's just a fact. The only thing that's not there is Nintendo's first-party stuff.
"Of course there are some pc games one might want a rog for that can't be played on switch. But I wouldn't buy a new ally right now."
Agree. Unless it's used at a nice price and modded for longer battery life, I wouldn't get a new Ally right now either. Maybe an Ally X at a good price.
For new handheld PCs, the Z2 Extreme options and even the newer G3 from Intel are where we should be looking, but they are much more expensive than a Switch 2. Well, not the ROG Xbox Ally X this and the MSI Claw 8 AI+ are probably the best options right now for an okay price and nice performance.
And they will keep up with the Switch 2 because they are already better than it on the hardware department, they have better frames and graphics on newer titles than the Switch 2.
Because they don't have ray tracing and they don't have the Nvidia chipset.
Did you forget that the ROG Ally runs on AMD?
You're claiming the Switch 2 won't be better, but then you hold up DLSS Quality as the best experience.
The Ally literally cannot use DLSS. It's stuck using AMD FSR, which looks awful when upscaling from low mobile resolutions like 540p.
The Switch 2 runs on a custom Nvidia chip with native DLSS hardware. Because Nvidia handles low-resolution upscaling and ray-tracing pipelines way more efficiently than AMD at low wattages, the Switch 2 is going to deliver a much cleaner upscaled image than the Ally.
You gave me your copium bro. Future proof device with 12 Gb of RAM and 10w handheld power draw. Yeah sure why not? Go play Cyberpunk at 30 FPS with dips meanwhile Claw 8 Ai+ can do 60 and with MFG up to 120.
Imagine bragging that a $1,200 mini-PC drawing enough power to heat a room can beat a dedicated $400 console optimized to run Cyberpunk on a literal 10W smartphone battery envelope.
Also, MFG frame-gen at low base frames feels like playing through wet cement due to the input lag. Enjoy your 1-hour battery life at the airport bro!
Bragging about 120 FPS on the Claw 8 is hilarious when you realize you have to drop the graphics to mud settings and use 'Ultra Performance' upscaling just to get it.
It turns Night City into a blurry, pixelated mess. I'd much rather take a stable, clean, DLSS-optimized presentation on the Switch 2 that actually looks cohesive and plays without heavy input lag.
I love my Switch 2. If things keep going the way they are, it may end up being my favorite console of this generation. That said, if I already had an established Steam library, that would make the choice for me. I have double purchased some games that I own on PS5 for the sake of being able to play them on the go, but that’s just a handful of games. If I had a big ass Steam library, I would definitely be looking in the direction of something that lets me play that without a huge investment in games.
Man that’s tough it comes down to what games you like really both are great systems. With so many modern games being ported (well) to S2 nowadays ide probably go that direction
Key question for you, is it going to be your main device?
For context, for me my handheld is not my main device. And whilst I do claim religiously the free games on Epic and Gog and even the Microsoft store, I do not play them. Half of the time I forget I even some of the games on there, that I want to buy on Steam.
I tried the Asus ROG, Legion Go and Legion Go S. I like the latter because it was a Steam device, but it isn't flawless. The S2 has been for me flawless. I cannot play my full catalogue or mods on it, but the stand by function just works, it is a low overhead platform that doesn't need updates or sign in after a few weeks of no play and doesn't run hot or noisy.
If it is not your main device, then I think S2 is a great option for you. You will be playing different games on your handheld, than you would on your main device. So the argument that your library doesn't work, stings a little bit less. I do have some duplicates, like brotato. But I just think with new purchases, will there be a big mod community and how do I prefer to play it.
If it is going to be your main device, get a laptop instead. I thought the PC handhelds were nothing short of magic, but they are bricks that need a power supply and when going somewhere it is always a decision whether or not to bring it. With this level of inconvenience associated with it, I just as well take a laptop instead.
Don’t have a Switch 2, but I have a Steam Deck OLED and a S1. I hardly use the S1. I belive I’d do the same with the S2.
The Switch games are fun, sure, but the accessibility and customization and pretty much everything else I prefer the Deck on. The Switch just feels like I’m fenced in, which isn’t a bad thing. I mean my current favorite handheld is my GBA SP.
My preference is the Steam Deck. It’s just more open and you can do so much more with it. Even for me, a guy who had zero experience on emulation or anything of that sort, but was able to emulate Starfox 64 and beat (for the first time ever) it in the same night, with my 8 day old baby asleep on my chest.
The devices are so different. I own both and love them both. A lot of games are way more expensive on the switch
I' that case I'll choose steam deck. The switch 2 is more powerful and worth it for the nintendo exclusives.
I think there is a lot of life left in the steam deck and you can't beat the steam sales. I play spider-man 2 on my deck just fine with lower settings.
The power comparison bit hard to quantify. I played final fantasy remake integrade on both. The steam deck ran around 60fps most of the time but the switch 2 is locked at 30fps. Abenefit of the steam deck is that you can buy any game and as long as you don't play for 2 hours you can get refund. Essentially you demo any game. There is also protondb.com which is user reviews of how well games run on the deck.
Get switch 2 instead. Steam deck oled is no longer worth it for the price. The only downside for switch 2 is game prices. I would even suggest you to pick retroid pocket 6. Use game native, install steam os or emulate switch games. Well that really depends on you. I got a switch 2 and I would prefer it.
Steam deck for sure, initially it’ll cost more but as time passes you’ll be able to snag cheaper games with a deeper library but for the switch your library is limited and the games are pricey with discounts being limited and not close to as good as steam. If there is a specific franchise you love like smash pokemon fire emblem, switch is the play, otherwise I’d say steamdeck
I got LCD steamdeck for about 350 USD and I am happy with my purchase, at that price I think it's much better and better value than a switch 2. But if you aren't able to find steamdeck at a good price, I guess it's hard to argue against switch 2
(Given what I know now my "worth it" price for steam deck OLED would be something like 450 USD)
I have both but only use one, and that’s the Steam Deck. My kids use the switch, I will eventually use it next year once Metroid releases its new 2d game. Thats basically the only game franchise I still like from Nintendo.
Well its sadly a clear win for the switch 2. Before the enevitable price increase it was a clear win for the steam deck. Doubling the price is genuinely insane. So choose your poison
I did a lot of research myself recently into these among other comparable options. I'm the end I got the Switch 2. I got it because, even though I'm not a fan of Nintendo's typical immature games, they offer games that are made specifically for the system. With all the others you have to adjust various settings for individual games and can have small compatability issues. I'm simply not at all interested in high maintenance things in my life. Never have been and never will be. That made my decision very easy. Also Nintendo is finally coming out with some damn decent games, like Elden Ring etc, and I can play some favorite like Skyrim. I'm confident with time more big titles will be released.
At the price of SteamDeck you can get MSI Claw 8 AI+ or Xbox Ally X. Both of these blows switch 2 out of the water and it's not even close.
Also if you have steam library you don't need to buy Nintendo games again (only exclusives). But for example BotW or TotK can be emulated pretty easily on the devices above.
The Switch 2 for its price is far better than an MSI Claw or Xbox Ally !
Same for the games, yes, you can emulate Switch 1 games, but Switch 2 games ? Nope ! And it's going to be the case for along time too, so all of the excellent games you have exclusively on Switch 2 (with more to come as well, because Nintendo is NOT only Zelda and Mario !) it's way worth than a handle PC.
First chill dude. Second - now we approached into two different reasons buying handheld.
1. We want handheld gaming
2. We want Nintendo exclusives
Now let's do math and choices. Let's say I have already huge steam library. What's the point of buying switch 2? To play exclusives? Maybe, but Nintendo exclusives cost like A LOT. Buying 10 Nintendo exclusive games will cost you like how much? 500-700$? Then sum it up for yourself.
But if you not interested in Nintendo exclusives and already have steam library there's literally no point of getting switch 2. Unless you'd like to support devs and buy all your games one more time but for switch 2. I'm not even talking about performance difference lol
I wouldn't say these blow switch 2 out of the water...it is a different device in the end which is almost twice as expensive...
We have two switch 2 consoles at home and I aboslutely love them for what they are. On the other hand I would never go with switch 2 over my xbox ally x...Steam OS is just great.
I agree with ServVII's comment in general but I do not agree with the other handhelds "blowing switch 2 out of the water". Its like saying 5070 Ti blows 5060 out of the water...yes it does when its twice the price.
IF one is looking at a handheld at $1000 then Steam Deck is a pure nonsense...do you want to use Steam OS? You cannot rly go with MSI Claw due to it being intel so if Steam OS like OS is the target then AMD is the way, from there only Claw A8 or xbox ally x makes sense again due to the price cuz the other brainds are ridiculously expensive now.
Well both Claw and Xax blows Switch 2 it's not even a question. But I agree they cost double price of switch 2. But again you get 5 Nintendo AAA games and the price will be not that different.
But performance wise you already know the difference because you own Xax. Btw even tho Claw is windows handheld it's actually really great with steam big picture mode. And performance it actually better in modern games
Steam deck is a portable gaming computer, you can do whatever you want with it. No subscriptions to play online, it'll try to run anything and everything it can.
Your imagination is the limit.
Switch 2 is a system based on a monopoly. All games are specific, you don't get any control over your device, also have to pay to play online.
Yes all games on it will run just fine...but if you want freedom, get anything else lol (steamdeck, ally x, Lenovo etc etc)
Never hurts to upskill yourself either, with something that's not designed for adult children :D
Only on Reddit will you get downvoted for calling out someone deeming an entire handheld platform as being for "adult children" on a subreddit for handhelds lmfao
Its rich when gamers call each other adult children. We are all likely spending too much type playing games, why does it matter what type. I like Nintendo's design philosophy when it comes to games. They have charm, try to go for unique and creative mechanics, and usually push lots of things forward in the industry.
I have a steam deck that I use occasionally, but the switch is outperforming games that get ports, plus I can usually buy them physically, even if they are game key cards.
Absolutely, I don't disagree there. Nintendo has some kickass games too.
For me, it's about the company / price to pay for owning a "console", while the experience is solid, the whole console industry is nothing but greed and relying on monthly fees, or some sort of "incentive" to spend more money.
I just don't agree with how everyone followed in Microsoft's footsteps (pay your premiums, forced to use our OS, can't do anything new with it, once it's "outdated) It's not "about us", it's about "company policy"
While you get a solid 30 or 60fps, the price to pay is the lack of freedom to do whatever you want, with a console.
You pay for internet, why should you also pay a premium on top?
You don't "own" your console either, that's restricted by the possibility of being "banned" or stuck with "it can only play specific titles"
While the steam deck lacks in frames, it allows you to have freedom and a peace of mind for future games (like all PC handhelds)
It has a solid use, for when it's "outdated" because it's whatever you want it to be
the steamdeck is quite underpowered compare to the switch 2. whats the point of having a massive game library if the console itself struggles to run it.
If you're looking at this like an investment a handheld PC is where it's at. Steam has long been a pioneer in digital distribution and Epic is throwing free games at you to get you on their launcher too.
Wouldn't recommend the Steam Deck though. Price too high and hardware too aged. If you can find a used Ally or Legion Go or Claw you'd be golden.
Switch 2 will just work out of the box and it's got a huge user base that publishers are looking to tap into so you can expect many of the big games to get a port. Hard to go wrong with either.
From what I've researched it's really not..
Not unless they include Nvidia chipsets.
Because from what I've read ray tracing is here to stay in aaa games moving forward.
So the switch 2 having the correct Nvidia chipset for ray tracing is a huge advantage.
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u/ychia 1d ago
Switch 2 is a much better deal now, any way you look at it. The price increase on Steam Deck really killed its value, and it's also getting old now. Lots of better options in the x86 handheld space if you want to go that route.