The Nintendo Switch 2: A Controversial Choice for Gamers
The Nintendo Switch 2 has periodically taken the handheld gaming spotlight, with its early June launch leading to high sales – to be specific, it’s already sold over 3.5 million units worldwide. However, if it wasn’t clear enough already from my previous articles, I don’t recommend the device for many reasons.
The $80 price tag for first-party games, the lack of freedom and ownership issues, alongside its price against other handheld gaming PCs and consoles, all play a significant factor in my decision not to buy one.
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1. Asus ROG Ally
(Image credit: Future)
Having used both the Asus ROG Ally and the Lenovo Legion Go for a long time (mostly the former), I can tell you that they’re the best handhelds you can get in the same price region as the Switch 2.
Both devices utilize AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which features 8 cores and 16 threads, along with 12 RDNA 3 GPU cores. This setup is optimal for a 1080p gaming resolution.
Additionally, the ROG Ally offers VRR (variable refresh rate), synchronizing the screen’s refresh rate with your game’s frame rate and eliminating screen tearing—an advantage the Switch 2 lacks while docked.
I’ve explored installing custom software on the Asus ROG Ally, significantly enhancing the handheld gaming experience. Windows 11’s capabilities greatly impact gaming performance, particularly compared to SteamOS.
Most importantly, the ROG Ally boasts a faster processor, 16GB of RAM (compared to the Switch 2’s 12GB), and access to a broader library of games. Its price started at $699 / £699 / AU$1,299 but has reduced to $649 / £522 on Amazon. Currently, in the UK, it can be found for as low as £449 on sale—similar to the Switch 2’s Mario Kart World bundle. With Prime Day approaching, further price drops are likely.
Today’s best ASUS ROG Ally and Asus ROG Ally X deals
2. Lenovo Legion Go
(Image credit: Future)
The Lenovo Legion Go also offers impressive performance spanning a variety of games with the Z1 Extreme chip and supports a 144Hz refresh rate. This device closely competes with the Switch 2, featuring detachable controllers that mimic the Joy-Con experience.
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While I still prefer the Asus ROG Ally for most gamers, the Lenovo Legion Go expands the display with a larger 8.8-inch screen at 2560×1440 resolution. However, this can be a disadvantage in some games since the Z1 Extreme may struggle with performance at higher resolutions. For less demanding titles like Hades, performance is manageable, but expect to lower the resolution for graphically intensive games such as Cyberpunk 2077, Resident Evil 4, or Hitman World of Assassination.
Nevertheless, this device can still deliver equal or better gaming performance compared to the Switch 2, featuring a superior display quality (though lacking VRR).
Its pricing is comparable, available for $699 at Amazon and Best Buy in the US, while in the UK, it can be found for as low as £499. With Prime Day approaching, expect significant price reductions.
There’s also a Lenovo Legion Go S version that utilizes a weaker Ryzen Z2 Go processor, along with a variant using the Ryzen Z1 Extreme that reduces the resolution to a more manageable 1920×1200 on an 8-inch display while incorporating VRR.
Today’s best Lenovo Legion Go and Lenovo Legion Go S SteamOS deals
3. MSI Claw 8 AI+
(Image credit: Future)
While the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is the priciest option compared to the Switch 2, Lenovo Legion Go, and Asus ROG Ally—retailing at $900 / £899 / AU$1,799—it stands out as the premier handheld gaming PC under $1,000.
The device utilizes Intel’s Core Ultra 7 258V processor, renowned for gaming at low TDP (thermal design power), which enhances battery life without substantial sacrifices on frame rates.
This handheld is what I recommend for gamers willing to invest more for exceptional performance. Though I haven’t yet gotten hands-on experience, performance results indicate it’s superior to the Switch 2.
A potential downside is the unlikely prospect of significant discounts for this model during Prime Day, which could be a concern for budget-conscious buyers. Given its recent release, availability is limited, making the choice clearer between the Legion Go and ROG Ally for willing shoppers.
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In conclusion, while the Nintendo Switch 2 tempts many with its sales figures, a mix of pricing, performance, and the freedom of game access makes it less appealing compared to alternatives like the Asus ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and MSI Claw 8 AI+. For those looking for powerful handheld options, these devices offer an experience that may ultimately enhance your gaming enjoyment.
For more information on alternatives and price tracking, you can visit Here.
Image Credit: www.techradar.com
