How the Nintendo Switch 2 stacks up to the Steam Deck

The biggest threat to the Steam Deck in 2025 wonât be the arrival of other Windows-based handheld gaming PCs. Instead, itâll likely be the Nintendo Switch 2, which arrives on June 5 for $449.99 â smack dab between the cost of the $399 Steam Deck LCD and the $549 Steam Deck OLED.Â Ironically, the Steam […]

Apr 3, 2025 - 21:33

How the Nintendo Switch 2 stacks up to the Steam Deck

An image of the Steam Deck OLED alongside the Nintendo Switch 2.

The biggest threat to the Steam Deck in 2025 wonât be the arrival of other Windows-based handheld gaming PCs. Instead, itâll likely be the Nintendo Switch 2, which arrives on June 5 for $449.99 â smack dab between the cost of the $399 Steam Deck LCD and the $549 Steam Deck OLED.Â

Ironically, the Steam Deck is also the Switch 2âs biggest threat. While Nintendoâs new console may have Valveâs beat on screen resolution, refresh rate, and a custom Nvidia processor capable of DLSS and ray tracing, Steam trumps it in value, particularly with game prices.

I get it, I get it. Theyâre totally different devices. So even though comparing Nintendo and Valveâs hardware and software philosophies is an apples versus oranges exercise, the two devices â and companies â are more aligned than you might think. And thatâs especially true when consumers, whether because of tariffs or other economic reasons, need to choose between one or the other.

Youâve come to the right place, as weâll break down all of the specs worth caring about to show how they stack up.

Pricing and availability

As mentioned, the Switch 2 and the Steam Deck have somewhat similar prices. The Switch 2 …

Read the full story at The Verge.