Before the highly anticipated release of the Switch 2, leaks teased its performance with Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition. This notoriously demanding game hinted at superior performance compared to the Steam Deck, but it wasn’t until recently that head-to-head benchmarks provided clarity. A fresh analysis by Digital Foundry reveals intriguing insights into the capabilities of these two handhelds.
Despite distinct differences in specifications, efforts were made to standardize tests as much as possible. The evaluations featured Cyberpunk’s official benchmark, the Kabuki streaming run, and the dynamic “The Beast in Me” sequence. Notably, the Switch 2 is designed for hybrid usage at home, with the Steam Deck’s dock sold separately.
In docked mode, the Switch 2 stands out. Running Cyberpunk 2077 in quality mode, it generally maintains a steady 30 fps. Thanks to DLSS, the console boasts more stable frame rates at higher resolutions compared to its rival. Even with FSR3 or XeSS, the docked Steam Deck often struggles to keep up. In performance mode, the Nintendo console achieves similar results, although it occasionally dips below 40 fps.
On the go, the Steam Deck holds its own. During the Kabuki streaming run, the Switch 2 frequently drops below 30 fps, whereas the Steam Deck maintains more consistent performance. This led testers to believe its CPU handles certain challenges more effectively.
Efficiency is another arena where the Switch 2 shines. Consuming less power, it matches or surpasses the Steam Deck during Cyberpunk 2077 sessions. However, the Steam Deck’s larger battery compensates for its higher energy usage.
With a wave of third-party AAA titles heading to the Switch 2, Nintendo may have a strong contender for home gaming. Yet, the allure of the Steam Deck’s OLED screen shouldn’t be underestimated; despite its lower resolution, its image quality and HDR capabilities may win over gamers.
