Summary

  • Nintendo Switch 2 offers better value with a lower price point and games specifically optimized for its hardware.
  • Xbox’s collaboration with ASUS provides more raw power and PC game compatibility but at a higher price and with less optimization.
  • The true battle may not come until 2027 when Microsoft’s in-house Xbox handheld with docking capabilities is expected to release.

Microsoft is coming forward with Xbox Handheld to compete with Nintendo Switch 2. It’s getting competitive for the handheld gaming device market as many draw comparisons over these consoles. So, which is better between Xbox Handheld and Nintendo Switch 2?

Release Dates and Pricing

It has been long awaited by Switch fans but it’s finally coming. Nintendo Switch 2 sets to release on June 5, 2025, following the completion of the Switch 2 Tour. This new Switch will be available for purchase at £400 ($520).

Meanwhile, Xbox Handheld is still underway as Microsoft works in its development. Some reports stated that they might be working on two different Xbox Handheld projects. The first is a collaboration with ASUS that could arrive before the end of 2025. On the other hand, the second handheld project might require a longer patience. This device might be included in the 2027 release lineup of Microsoft. 

According to Microsoft’s typical release schedule, the ASUS collaboration device might be sometime in October or November 2025. Rumors state that Microsoft might sell the Xbox Handheld around £500 ($650). Looking at the price difference, the Nintendo Switch 2 is more affordable than the Xbox Handheld. This will be a big factor for gamers given the more than hundred dollar price gap. 

Design and Hardware

Another thing to consider between these devices are their design and hardware. Some gamers pay great attention to these details. Nintendo Switch 2 keeps the iconic look of the first Switch, featuring a black body with red and blue touches. The controllers are still detachable and connect magnetically to the screen. 

It still has the built-in prop stand used for tabletop mode. This upcoming Switch offers handheld and docked play modes, both with great resolution. The handheld mode is available for 1080p while docked mode allows up to 4K.

Meanwhile, the rumored Xbox Handheld from ASUS evolves ROG Ally appearance by featuring controller-like grips on sides. However, these controllers appear to be permanently attached to the device contrary to Switch 2. Plus, it’ll have a 7-inch 120Hz LCD display with 8-core, 36 W AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme CPU. This has better battery life than its early version yet still performs similarly.

However, Microsoft seems to look differently for the Xbox Handheld expected in 2027. This one draws more similarity to Nintendo Switch, including a docking system for players to connect games to TV. Qualcomm chips are also in for this handheld and will possibly support games from Microsoft Store, Epic Games, Store, and Steam.

Game Compatibility and Performance

In comparing the two, Nintendo Switch 2 gains significant support from game developers. Several game titles are reportedly to launch on this platform. It includes Cyberpunk 2077 as a day-one title and the Final Fantasy VII trilogy in Switch 2. These game releases in Switch are optimized specifically for Nintendo’s handheld console.

There are several handheld devices released that are PC-based and have wider access to a games library like ROG Ally and Steam Deck. Now, Microsoft collaboration with ASUS adds to the list 

The Xbox/ASUS handheld, being a PC-based device, theoretically has access to a wider library of games. However, as with other PC handhelds like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck, optimization can be inconsistent. While it may be more powerful than the Switch 2 in terms of raw specifications, games aren’t specifically designed for it, which can lead to performance and battery life issues.

A significant advantage of the Xbox handheld would be access to Xbox Game Pass, providing subscribers with hundreds of games to play. While Game Pass is already accessible on the current ROG Ally, deeper Xbox integration could improve the experience.

Which Has the Edge?

The Nintendo Switch 2 has several advantages over the rumored Xbox handheld:

  1. Price point: At £400 versus £500, the Switch 2 is more affordable.
  2. Dedicated game development: Games made for Switch 2 are specifically optimized for the hardware.
  3. Versatility: The detachable controllers and built-in stand offer more flexible play options.
  4. Established ecosystem: Nintendo’s first-party titles and the Switch’s proven success give it a strong foundation.

The Xbox handheld’s strengths include:

  1. Raw power: The AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor likely outperforms the Switch 2’s hardware.
  2. Game Pass integration: Access to hundreds of games through a subscription service.
  3. PC game library: Compatibility with a vast catalog of PC games.
  4. Better battery life: The new AMD chip promises substantial improvements in battery performance.

Conclusion

For most casual gamers, the Nintendo Switch 2 will likely be the better choice due to its lower price point, versatility, and dedicated game library optimized for the hardware. PC gaming enthusiasts who want access to their Steam library and Xbox Game Pass on the go might prefer the Xbox handheld, despite its higher price tag and potential optimization issues.

The true Xbox handheld competitor to the Switch 2 seems to be the Microsoft-developed device coming in 2027, which may offer a more console-like experience with docking capabilities. For now, Nintendo appears positioned to maintain its dominance in the handheld gaming market through 2025 and beyond.