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Why the steam deck outshines the nintendo switch for gamers

Users Prefer Steam Deck Over Nintendo Switch | Performance Debate Rages On

By

Kylie Moon

Jun 27, 2025, 09:47 AM

Edited By

Marco Silva

2 minutes of duration

A side-by-side comparison of the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch showing their designs and main features.

A growing number of people assert the Steam Deck outperforms the Nintendo Switch. With real file access, modding features, and a broader game library, many argue that the Switch feels limited in comparison. Some users express frustration at the differences in performance, especially among indie titles.

Performance Assessment

People are speaking out about the advantages the Steam Deck offers. One expressed, "PCs are better than consoles. This isnโ€™t news, tbh." Many gamers have found that some indie games run smoother on the Steam Deck than they do natively on the Switch, leading to a debate about what players should choose for optimal gaming experiences.

Diverse Opinions

Responses vary widely among the community:

  • A user wished for both devices, indicating that preference might not be strictly one-sided.

  • Another stated that the "Nintendo tax" increases game prices, which is a frustration for many.

  • Multiple people highlighted the Steam Deck's superior performance, especially for heavy titles.

One user noted, "Why would you play on Switch when it can be done better elsewhere?" This sentiment resonates with those who recognize the Steam Deck as a powerful option.

Key Points That Stand Out

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Many players observe the Steam Deck's superior performance for indie games.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Pricing concerns arise with the Nintendo "tax" on games.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Users express a mix of interest and disappointment in the market's options.

As the conversation continues, will Nintendo respond with changes? Only time will tell, but many appear firmly in the Steam Deck camp.

What Lies Ahead for Gamers

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that Nintendo will need to adapt its strategy to compete more effectively with the Steam Deck. As people continue to voice their frustrations over game pricing and performance discrepancies, experts estimate around a 60% likelihood that Nintendo may introduce improved hardware or pricing initiatives within the next 18 months. Additionally, we might see an influx of indie titles optimized for the Switch, as developers recognize the shifting landscape in gaming preferences. If these changes occur, it could enhance player experience on the Switch, but only if the company responds swiftly to the growing demand for better performance.

History's Echo: The Vinyl vs. Digital Dance

Looking back to the 1980s, the shift from vinyl records to digital CDs reflects a similar battle where established formats faced new technology disruption. Just as musicians and consumers embraced the clarity and convenience of digital, gamers today are gravitating toward the Steam Deck's promise of a versatile platform. That transition, however, wasnโ€™t seamless; it challenged music labels to rethink pricing and production while sparking passionate debates among audiophiles. Now, just like vinyl enthusiasts found a way to coexist and thrive alongside digital formats, gaming companies may need to innovate and find a balance to ensure both platforms can cater to the evolving tastes of todayโ€™s players.