Why there’s every reason to own both a Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch 2
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We’ve seen plenty of discussion and discourse online comparing the Steam Deck to the Nintendo Switch 2. We’re now counting down the days to the Switch 2 release date, and people have gotten their pre-orders all sorted. Comparing handheld devices like these probably feels natural to a lot of people, though there are reasons why it’s not worth pitting them against each other.
While we’re happy to see a brand-new handheld hitting the market, especially a much-needed sequel to the aging Switch, we don’t see the new Nintendo console as a replacement for the Steam Deck. In fact, there’s a good argument for owning both of them without too much crossover. After all, we’re still comparing PC versus console.
Steam Deck owners might still want to pick up a Nintendo Switch 2
We recently ran a poll that revealed most of our readers agree Valve doesn't need to compete with Nintendo right now. We feel inclined to push this statement a little further and suggest that they don’t really need to compete, ever.
Steam Deck handheld on table with carrying case behind – image taken by PC Guide
Nintendo Switch OLED after being powered on – image taken by PCGuide
Nintendo Switch 2 is a console with exclusive titles
One of the most compelling factors why you’d want to buy the Switch sequel is for exclusive Nintendo games. This has been a long-standing benefit of Nintendo consoles, whether you’re looking to play Mario Kart World or the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza. Do keep in mind that Nintendo maintains a list of games that aren’t compatible yet, though the company is working with devs to ensure the number of titles remains to a minimum.
While we’re in a time where many players are happy to wait for PlayStation exclusives to come to PC at a later date, we don’t think Nintendo will be bringing its recognizable IPs to PC gamers in the same way any time soon.
It actually has better specs
Back when the Switch 2 was revealed in an hour-long Nintendo Direct, we were surprised by some of the technical specifications. Specifically, the handheld resolution and refresh rate are higher than both the Steam Deck LCD and OLED models. Unfortunately, there’s no Switch 2 OLED – though we wouldn’t rule this out from coming in the future.
With this in mind, the new Nintendo console could act as a higher-resolution option if you want more fidelity from your handheld. We wouldn’t say that this is the biggest reason why you’d want to buy a Switch 2 if you already own a Steam Deck, but it’s something to consider. The console also boasts up to 4K 60Hz in docked mode.
Switch 2 can provide your multiplayer fix
Another thing to think about is multiplayer. SteamOS is a fantastic operating system that offers console-level convenience on a handheld PC device, but it does have its downsides. The biggest one of all is the lack of support for some anti-cheats, stemming from its Linux base. Multiplayer games like Apex Legends, GTA Online, and Fortnite, are not compatible with the Steam Deck, unless you choose to install Windows.
With this in mind, the Switch 2 can be a fantastic handheld for multiplayer gaming, not to mention Nintendo’s exclusive multiplayer favorites such as Mario Kart, Mario Party, and Super Smash Bros. On top of that, the addition of GameChat is a massive boost for gaming with friends on the system.
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