The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 was officially revealed on April 2, 2025, during a Nintendo Direct event. This next-generation handheld console succeeds the original Switch, which achieved remarkable sales of over 150 million units by December 2024, earning its place as the third-best-selling gaming console in history.
With the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo aims to capture a larger share of the AAA gaming market, currently led by devices like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck. The company showcased impressive gameplay of graphically demanding titles such as Cyberpunk 2077 running smoothly on the Switch 2, prompting many fans to argue that it outperforms the ROG Ally as a handheld gaming device.
This article provides a comprehensive comparison between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the ROG Ally to determine which handheld gaming console offers a superior experience.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs ROG Ally: An In-Depth Look
The Nintendo Switch 2 operates on a custom Nvidia chip, allowing it to deliver impressive visuals up to 1080p in handheld mode and 4K resolution while docked. Conversely, the ROG Ally utilizes the AMD Ryzen Z1 series APU, capable of running a wide array of PC games, including AAA titles.
Specifications Overview
Let’s take a look at the technical specifications of both handheld devices:
| Features | Nintendo Switch 2 | ROG Ally |
| Display | 7.9-inch, LCD FHD with 120Hz refresh rate | 7-inch LCD FHD with 120Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Custom processor by NVIDIA | AMD Ryzen Z1 or Z1 Extreme |
| RAM and Storage | 256 GB | 64 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Operating System | Nintendo system software (Custom OS) | Windows 11 |
| Battery Life | 2 – 6 hours | 2 – 5 hours |
Display Comparison
While the Nintendo Switch 2 boasts a larger display than the ROG Ally, both devices share similar display specifications, including FHD resolution and a 120 FPS refresh rate. The extra screen size does enhance the gaming experience on the Switch 2, and both devices support TV connectivity for a bigger experience.
Performance and Battery Insights
Powering the Nintendo Switch 2 is a custom ARM chip from Nvidia, while the ROG Ally runs on the x86 architecture with its Ryzen Z1 processor. This variation in architecture makes direct performance comparisons challenging, yet some distinctions can be noted.
During the Nintendo Direct, Elden Ring was showcased running on the Switch 2 at 1080p with a frame rate of 30 FPS, as per analysis by Digital Foundry. In contrast, the ROG Ally can handle Elden Ring at 1080p with low settings around 60 FPS, or at 1080p/30 FPS at higher settings, indicating that performance levels are comparable.
An important consideration is that the ROG Ally supports external GPU connections, which can significantly boost performance, but these setups often come with a high cost and bulk, thus transforming it more into a gaming laptop experience than a pure handheld.
Regarding battery life, both devices offer similar results while playing demanding AAA titles. However, running lighter games like Mario Kart may yield better battery performance on the Switch 2 — a claim that will be confirmed post-launch. It’s worth noting that developers may provide special optimizations for the Switch 2’s ecosystem, potentially enhancing performance over the non-console nature of the ROG Ally.
Catalog of Games
The Nintendo Switch 2 is backward-compatible with its predecessor, granting access to a vast library of approximately 5,000 titles. Conversely, the ROG Ally has the capability to run exclusively PC games, with access to tens of thousands, including over 120,000 titles on Steam alone, plus the ability to emulate older console games. This broad compatibility is a significant advantage for the ROG Ally.
However, it’s essential to note that the ROG Ally does not support Switch games. Hence, if you’re a die-hard Nintendo fan, the Switch 2 is the obvious choice despite its advantages and disadvantages. This aspect leads to a draw when comparing the overall game library of both handhelds.
Cost Analysis
The Nintendo Switch 2 starts at around $499 for the 256 GB version, which many perceive as on the pricier side, especially given its $150 price increase from the original Switch. Additionally, titles for the Switch 2 may retail up to $80, contributing to a steeper entry cost for gamers.
In comparison, the ROG Ally (512 GB version) is priced at approximately $599. While the Switch 2 is more affordable, it offers half the storage capacity. Additionally, game prices differ substantially; Nintendo titles tend to retain their price whereas Steam sales frequently offer significant discounts, along with Epic Games providing free monthly titles. Thus, while the Switch 2 might win on base price, the ROG Ally excels in potential game affordability, creating a tie depending on what aspect you prioritize.
Final Verdict: Nintendo Switch 2 vs ROG Ally
Overall, the Nintendo Switch 2 holds significant advantages with its larger display, exclusive access to beloved Nintendo franchises, and optimized game performance. It is also the cheaper option when compared to the ROG Ally, alongside improved battery life for certain titles.
Nonetheless, the ROG Ally presents an enticing proposition with a vast library of PC games, compatibility with older consoles through emulation, greater storage options, and generally lower game costs.
Your ultimate decision between these two consoles will hinge on personal gaming preferences. If you are inclined towards iconic Nintendo games such as Mario Kart, Zelda, or Pokemon, the Switch 2 stands out as the best option despite its limitations. However, for players seeking modern PC experiences with titles like Batman: Arkham Knight, Apex Legends, or DOTA 2, the ROG Ally is a more suitable selection.