The handheld gaming market is buzzing once again with the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, and it's not alone. Unlike the landscape back in 2017 when the original Switch launched, today’s handheld gaming scene is highly competitive — thanks to powerful contenders like the ASUS ROG Ally and Valve’s Steam Deck. While we’ve previously looked at how the Switch 2 stacks up against the Steam Deck, today we’re diving into a detailed comparison between Nintendo Switch 2 and the ASUS ROG Ally.
Nintendo Switch 2, Image Credits: Nintendo
One of the biggest strengths of the Nintendo Switch 2 lies in its hybrid design. It allows players to switch seamlessly between handheld, tabletop, and docked TV mode, offering versatility unmatched by most handhelds. The removable JoyCons also make local multiplayer incredibly accessible and fun right out of the box.
In contrast, the ASUS ROG Ally is a dedicated handheld. Similar in layout to the Steam Deck, it features built-in controls and is designed for solo gaming. Its sturdy construction makes it feel premium, but it lacks the hybrid flexibility that Nintendo offers.
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2 (for its hybrid nature and multiplayer experience)
The Nintendo Switch 2 boasts a 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate—a noticeable improvement over its predecessor. This results in smoother gameplay and a more immersive visual experience.
Meanwhile, the ROG Ally sports a 7-inch 1080p 120Hz screen, which is also bright and responsive. While both displays are excellent, the slightly larger screen on the Switch 2 gives it a slight edge in handheld mode.
Winner: Tie (both have sharp, fluid displays, but Switch 2 offers a bit more screen real estate)
ASUS ROG Ally, Image Credits: Asus
Under the hood, the ASUS ROG Ally clearly dominates in raw power. It’s powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor with RDNA 3 graphics, up to 24GB LPDDR5 RAM, and PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. Essentially, it’s a portable Windows 11 gaming PC, capable of running the latest AAA titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, and more.
The Nintendo Switch 2, on the other hand, features a custom Nvidia processor built specifically for optimized console gaming. While it supports 4K output when docked, and can handle advanced visuals, it won’t match the ROG Ally’s performance for modern PC games.
Winner: ASUS ROG Ally (sheer horsepower and game library flexibility)
Battery life has been a mixed bag for the ROG Ally. The original variant was criticized for its 40Wh battery, which limited extended gaming sessions. However, the ROG Ally X greatly improves this with an 80Wh battery, upgraded cooling, and enhanced joysticks. Still, at 608 grams, it’s on the heavier side for handhelds.
The Switch 2 features a 5,220mAh battery, which, while smaller, benefits from better power optimization thanks to Nintendo’s lighter OS and focused game development. Its overall weight and form factor are more travel-friendly.
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2 (better portability and efficiency)
This is where the Switch 2 shines. Nintendo exclusives like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, Animal Crossing, and Metroid remain a major draw. These titles are not only unique to the platform but also critically acclaimed and family-friendly.
The ROG Ally runs Windows, so you get access to Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games, Battle.net, and more. The breadth of the library is far greater—but lacks Nintendo’s charm and exclusivity.
Winner: Subjective
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, priced at $449.99 USD — very reasonable considering its hybrid features and exclusive library.
The ASUS ROG Ally, depending on configuration, ranges from $600 to $700, with the Ally X pushing higher. While more expensive, it offers higher specs and more storage out of the box.
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2 (best value for casual and family-focused gamers)
Your choice really comes down to what kind of gamer you are:
Both consoles serve different audiences — and both do it exceptionally well.
Comments