The portable gaming scene in 2025 is more exciting than ever, thanks to two major contenders: the ASUS ROG Ally X and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Whether you’re chasing cutting-edge performance or iconic exclusives, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which handheld suits your style.
Performance & Hardware
The ROG Ally X runs on Windows 11, essentially making it a handheld gaming PC. It’s powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, which is a chip designed specifically for handheld systems, offering impressive processing and graphical capabilities. For smooth multitasking and fast performance, it comes equipped with 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM. Storage won’t be an issue, as this console is equipped with a 1TB internal SSD that can be upgraded if needed, which is convenient for future use and lessens restrictions. To keep you gaming longer, it features a beefy 80Wh battery, which ASUS says will last about 2.7 hours during intense gaming sessions.
In contrast, the Nintendo Switch 2 runs on a custom NVIDIA Tegra chip with support for DLSS, which is engineered for seamless integration with Nintendo’s software. This intelligent upscaling tech is a game-changer, potentially enabling visuals to be rendered efficiently while still outputting stunning clarity, including up to 4K resolution when docked to a TV. For game storage, it continues to use cartridge-based games and offers 256GB of internal storage. The new magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers offer improved feel and even mouse control in compatible games. Powering the experience is a 5220mAh lithium-ion battery, providing an estimated 2 to 6.5 hours of gaming depending on the intensity.
Games & Ecosystem
In terms of software, the ROG Ally X offers access to the full range of PC gaming platforms, including Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Epic Games. However, it doesn’t have its own exclusive game library.
The Nintendo Switch 2, meanwhile, supports backward compatibility with the original Switch titles, giving it access to a massive existing game catalogue. More importantly, it will continue to feature Nintendo’s beloved exclusives like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon.
If you’re looking for a powerful handheld that can run modern PC games with flexibility and performance, the ROG Ally X is the way to go. However, if you prefer a family-friendly console filled with iconic exclusives and a strong legacy library, the Nintendo Switch 2 is your best bet.
Price-wise, the ROG Ally X is priced at €899, while the Nintendo Switch 2 retails around €499, making it significantly more affordable. Both offer unique strengths, your choice ultimately depends on what kind of gamer you are.