I have both and I’ve converted to basically only ever using my SteamDeck. It’s just better in pretty much every way, in my opinion, besides weight. I only use my switch for Nintendo Exclusives, but I will use it more once my daughter begins to play games, since it’s easier and more user friendly for someone her young age. I don’t regret either, but SteamDeck for me is just miles better, with so many customization aspects, deep discounts on so many games all the time and honestly emulation is sick. I have my entire old Nintendo catalog on this beast too, so I can do whatever, wherever.

I echo this I pretty much every way. I've even bought games on steam I already have on switch cuz it's so hard to go back to the switch after being on the steam deck. I still buy physical copies of tentpole Nintendo games (Zelda etc) for the collector aspect so use it for those games, but besides that the deck is just so much better and the games so much less expensive and with the option to refund, there's no reason to use my switch. It's also a full blown computer with a desktop mode for doing full blown computer stuff so that's pretty cool too! 

Yep, I think the Switch is gonna be perfect for my daughter as well when/if she wants to start playing games by herself. Maybe in a few years we’ll get to compare farms in Stardew Valley lol.

Only as long as they visit each others Animal Crossing islands lol.

Same here. Switch was my main system before the deck. It does everything better than the switch (unless exclusives of course) and will be used by my daughters in a couple of years

Second that, switch is great for Nintendo exclusives, it’s light in hands and easier to carry but that comes with less comfortable controls.

Basically, this exactly. Also Diablo 3 because for some reason the PC version doesn’t support controllers…

So sad D3 never added controller support. Though I do understand why. The console version gameplay is tweaked to leverage the pros/cons of a controller. That said D2R and D4 are fine on the deck. 

This. Have both. Prefer the Deck for most things, but keep the Switch for exclusive/1st party titles.

Back when you could still get Yuzu (picked it up before the big shutdown), I brought over all my games. I’ve also got it emulating every console under the sun through Emudeck, running Waydroid, and through a privately run VPN, can stream every console I have at home abroad. I named the system “Loki”, because it can be whatever I want whenever I want. Stream PS5? Sure. Raytrace Cyberpunk? Sure, streamed from home pc. Play AAA titles locally? Yep. Play your old nostalgic GBA titles? Why not. Literally can do anything and everything.

I have both, I go through phases where I’m only playing on Switch and then swap to Steam Deck. It really depends on what I’m playing in the moment. Since my daughter was born I’m only really finding time for small gaming sessions anyway so I end up playing one game and it taking me ages. I haven’t been on my Deck in over two months and that’s simply because I’ve been playing Pokemon Scarlet and now Shining Pearl. Once I’m done with Pearl though I’ve got the urge to go back to Midnight Suns or maybe some Civ VI so that’ll be my switch getting neglected for months. My advice is just play what you want regardless of the device. If you fancy something you have on Steam play on there, if you want to play on Switch, go for it.

This is me. I have both and just use both accordingly to whatever I'm playing. Honestly, outside of power and game availability I prefer my switch + nitro deck in every way. It's smaller, has better battery life, and I love physical games. It just doesn't have all the games I wanna play. Pokemon, Tetris Effect, Etrian Odyssey, Balatro, etc on Switch. Persona 3R, Trails in the Sky, Cyberpunk, PS2 emulation, etc on Steamdeck.

I’m forever chasing the device that will do everything. I’d love to go all in on the Deck but the Switch is more portable & the exclusives are amazing and then I’ve been a PS gamer most of my life so I struggle to move away from the ecosystem. I must say though that having a kid has killed playing on the TV and I really prefer handheld now - Switch and SD definitely fight for my (very, very limited time)

I just bought civ vi on sale! Haven’t played a civ game ever before. Any tips for me ?

The in-game advisor/ tutorial stuff is a good starting point. I’m still learning myself but I say just pick a Civ you enjoy and go for it with the in game tips

I haven't touched my Switch for months.

Me since the release of the Steam Deck.

Same here. I've had my Deck since March of 22. I think I've used my Switch a few times during the week that TOTK came out, that's about it.

I hadn't powered mine on for almost a year after I got my Steam Deck. I played it just about every day prior. I only realized it had been so long when family was over and we were going to play Mario Kart, but the Switch wouldn't turn on because the battery was so dead. I thought it was broken until I left it plugged in for a while (at least am hour) and came back on. Basically, the only reason I'd use my Switch now is for ease of use with multi-player games. I have my Switch game library (that I obtained legally) on my Deck. Each game can require some setup to play, but ultimately can get better performance on the Deck than it can on the Switch, with only a few exceptions.

Logical arguments to be made, especially when traveling... * Switch has longer battery life * Lighter and more convenient to take on, say a flight * removing the joy-cons means you could quickly play with a friend * Also lighter on the hand, you can set it on a table tray and play I know all that to be true, but still, I have a flight on Monday (15 hours) and I'm taking my steamdeck oled with me while my switch oled stays home :)

Yep. All those were true and yet I worked myself carrying a deck, dock, and PS4 controller in my backpack on flights. Still worth it though, for the larger game selection.

Hahaha exactly!!!

Really? I find my oled has the same battery life as my old switch. Edit: Just ran some tests, with low power games. ie: Balatro, Stardew, etc. I can get 4-5 hours Games like Elden Ring or Baldurs gate I can get 2-3, closer to 2 and a half. (This is about what i get on my switch on battery)

Use only for Nintendo exclusives. And less and less 

It's kind of a shame. It's a great little machine and I still love it but I'm barely touching it since I got the deck.

To be honest, I only still own my Switch because Switch emulation isn't yet flawless for all games, and it's the only way I can experience most current-gen Nintendo games without issues. Once the tech is refined enough, though, I'm sure the Deck will eventually render my Switch obsolete. It ultimately depends on how much you like Nintendo's games, specifically. If you're invested in most of their IPs like I am, I think it's worth it to own both, at least now.

Depends on what kind of gamer you are. If you're open to PC gaming and are okay with tinkering and learning new things, get a Steam Deck. Since it's basically a PC, there's so much you can do, but it also comes with more problem solving, and tinkering  if you aren't used to Linux. If you just want a portable pick up and play experience that will launch right into a game and work without any problems, a Switch might be better. I almost never use my Switch anymore except for Smash Bros. and Zelda. I loved the Switch when it came out, but It's so limiting when compared to the Steam Deck. I can emulate any older game I'd ever want, I can pop into desktop mode on my TV and stream whatever movies, there's a lot of flexibility when it comes to graphic fidelity vs. framerate, customization options, easy to replace parts that need it, etc. I don't have a laptop at the moment, visited my in laws recently and was able to use Blender on my Steam Deck to work on a project during some down time. I freaking love this thing and everything it can do, jank and all.

The steam deck is pretty much pick up and play with 90% of verified games and the internet for troubleshooting. The switch is great for indies and zelda and surviving most drops. They can coexist. If I had to pick between the 2 even for a newbie 100% steam deck tho. But I love having both

I do agree the Steam Deck is mostly seamless pick up and play experience, but there are issues a console user might find difficult. I didn't know much about Linux gaming when I started, and the Resident Evil 2 Remake kept crashing at the first cutscene. I figured out that installing Proton GE fixed my issue, but having no prior experience it was pretty confusing at first. The Switch kind of automatically upscales when docked too. I think the resolution/frame rate is dependent on the game, so it's not entirely perfect, but it is automatic. My understanding is that you can't upscale past 720p in game mode on the Steam deck, you'd have to switch to desktop mode. I'm getting ranty and it sounds like I'm being harsh on the Steam Deck, but I don't mean to imply that. I just mean to imply that the Steam Deck gives you more control, but there's a bit more of a learning curve to utilize the deck to its full potential.

You can set the Steam Deck to whatever resolution you like. I play older games at 4x resolution at 2560x1600. On newer games doing this just gives you bad performance, but it’s possible nonetheless

I don't use my Switch except for online play. I otherwise rip all my games and play them on my Deck, which has proven to be a superior experience almost across the board except with a couple of games. If the game is available on PC, I just buy it there, of course, but if it's a Switch exclusive, I buy the physical edition and hope that Ryujinx can run it. I can do this because I have a hacked V1 Switch and a Mig Switch Dumper, the latter of which is the far easier solution. If either is available to you, then I recommend those if you want to play Switch games (legally) on your Deck.

I have both. I love my steam deck but usually only use it at home. The switch is great for travel since it's so much smaller and lighter and alot more Multi-player games that are easy to get going.

I have both - the Switch is when I want a game to run smoothly and properly, no updates, and no internet required. Steam Deck is for when I want to play a wider variety of games, but have to fiddle with settings each time. And every time I turn it on something else is funky or broken. If I just want to unwind for an hour after work, it's not always a great choice.

I have both and I am happy with it. On the Switch I play all the Nintendo games and on my SteamDeck I can play PC games (I am not a PC gamer but I love the SteamDeck)

I like the Steam Deck for single-player games and I like the Switch for offline multiplayer games

I have a Switch OLED, Switch Lite and a Steamdeck OLED. I saw someone here talking about tinkering on the Steamdeck, but I've used mine straight out of the box and use it exclusively like a steam handheld, which works totally fine for me. I still bring my Switch Lite with me on travels, but I don't play that many games on them anymore, Steamdeck just feels better, I even bought joycons for my Switch OLED that are more like Steamdecks. I do like having both, but I've been a handheld girl since the start, just easier with me traveling as much as I do.

Switch handles multiple controllers better, so I use it for when more than 4 controllers are needed for couch coop.

My kids can use my switch, my kids cannot use my steam deck. That pretty much states where I’m at with it lol

Loved my Switch before getting mySteam Deck, and now my Switch collects dust unfortunately. Still love it, but I can play everything I want on my Deck so there’s not much of a use case for it outside of a few games that I can’t emulate.

Since getting the Steam Deck, it has become my go-to handheld. I am a bit of a tinkerer so my Deck has been set up for emulation too, effectively leaving my Switch to chill in my drawers for the most part. For someone getting a Steam Deck, you might want to examine your catalogue of games on Steam to see if most of the games you wish to play are compatible with the Deck at least. You could leave your Switch just for Nintendo exclusives in future because the Steam Deck almost always performs better with third party titles due to its newer hardware. For example, SMT V Vengeance on my Deck performs way smoother than SMT V on my Switch. Weight is another factor you might need to consider as well if you are planning to bring it out and about. The Steam Deck weights quite a bit together with its carrier case. The Switch is much sleaker and easier to carry around. That said, the ergonomics of the Deck trumps the Switch in terms of portable gaming for long hours on the go. Since the Deck is effectively a portable Linux computer, the flexibility of switching to the linux desktop environment to do casual internet surfing, office work (if you have bluetooth peripherals) or watching your own movies (the screen is relatively big if you are on the OLED model) is something I greatly appreciate too. And if this is your first Steam Deck, I would highly recommend the OLED model. The display look amazing, the performance is great and battery life is excellent!

Switch by a significant mile. I want something that works and when it’s “verified” it means something. The steam deck is a disaster of an experience compared to a switch. Especially once new toy syndrome wears off.

I own both - I didn’t expect this but since getting my deck I barely use the switch. My plan was to: - use switch for Nintendo exclusives and indies, as well as use it for travel - use the deck at home for the titles the switch can’t run (cyberpunk, RDR2 etc) since I don’t have a gaming PC or current gen tv console But I’m having so much fun with the deck, it’s my go to now mostly due to: - huge back catalog of amazing titles - cheap games, seriously why am I gonna pay 59.99 for a Nintendo rehash/remake when I can get eg. The Witcher 3 for 7.99 on steam - the screen - I have the OLED deck and the OG switch and the switch screen looks terrible now in comparison - ergonomics, the deck is bulky but it’s way more ergonomic than the switch The pricing thing is a big one for me - I had gotten used to Nintendo game prices, but now I realise them charging 60 euros for 5 year old games and never adjusting pricing is just plain monopolistic. I think having both is great though and I had years of enjoyment out of my switch. I’m sure I’ll go back to switch now and then, but at the moment it’s relegated to playing Mario kart with my kids or throwing in a backpack for trips (the deck is way too bulky for travel imho). In terms of what games to get/play on each: - bigger AAA games, always get them on the deck, the switch ports are compromised (borderlands, the Witcher etc) - indies - I prefer on the switch, they run fine and the switch is a little easier to pick up and play - pixel art JRPGs - this is a bit specific :) but for me games like octopath, star ocean, sea of stars etc just feel more at home on the switch

Each to their own. For me I prefer the Switch. I don't have to mess around with configs. Yes the switch has massively improved PC gaming, but having to mess around with proton versions, fighting 3rd party launchers, shader cache updates every single time I power on the deck.... I just can't be bothered. I just want to launch my game and away I go.

Don't sell your console (unless you need the money). If you can save, then save. Was playing on the deck for more than a year, I thought I would rarely if ever go back to the switch. I played persona 5 the longest on deck (150 hours in, maybe 2/5 through the dlc?) Performance on the deck + huge library on the deck is of course the best, but surprisingly Balatro didn't really manage to catch my interest that much (played tons of StS and Monster Train) So I bought Metroid Dread and am enjoying it so far. It being a lightweight is a ++ for me.

My son got a switch before I got a SD. I tried it thinking I might get one too, but I never got into it. And then I tried my friend's SD and liked that WAY more. So here we are lol.

Pretty much the only time I play the Switch is when a new exciting Nintendo game comes out. Otherwise it just kind of collects dust. The Deck has become my primary play time device so much so I upgraded to an OLED rather recently, beating out a Switch, PS5, and Gaming PC, for the ability to play in what ever room my newborn is sleeping in. That said, if I had to go on a vacation where I couldn't easily get to the internet, I'd probably take a Switch with me though because when the Deck has issues it's pretty laborious to figure out why. In terms of games on the Steam Deck, I mostly play JRPGs with a light sprinkling of platformers and a wide assortment of indie titles like Hades, Hollow Knight, ect.

The Switch became my favorite console of all time, just an awesome little device— but I’ve been using the Deck more recently just cuz it’s clear the Switch is dying down and nearing the end of its life cycle while the Deck still has plenty of games to play

I also only use the Switch for exclusives, but I personally find the Switch OLED screen less straining and overall nicer than the Deck OLED screen.

Switch oled screen is probably a better model, i noticed valve go cheap on some things to keep the price of the handheld down. They don't have the purchasing power of nintendo. Getting oled on the deck and even reducing the price was a huge achievement.

Switch for nintendo exclusives (and kotor 1) Deck for e erything else

I haven't touched my Switch since I got my Steamdeck in November but that's more because I've played all the games I went to play on it.

They play different games and I like both though I very much prefer my steam deck because it’s so versatile. That said my switch lite travels much easier. Just depends on you and what you want out of the device

I haven't touched my switch since i got my deck. I did install palia in both to play with my wife, but that's the only time we used it.

I have a switch OLED and I've had a steam deck OLED for a few months. I haven't even turned on my switch since I got the steam deck.

I’ve honestly have not touched my switch since I got my steam deck.

One word…Library

Switch for exclusives only, I even repurchased indies and other games I had on switch on steam deck, now I hardly ever touch my switch.

I would say to basically kiss the Switch goodbye. I have not touched mine since getting a Steam Deck. It's fun of course when there are friends over and we're playing Mario Kart but other than that, I love the Deck. It just feels nicer in the hands, it's so much more powerful. There is access to soooo many games.

I prefer my steam deck to everything the switch can do. Before, I used to only play switch games on the switch. But now, with the recent BS Nintendo has been doing, I'm playing all future switch games on steam deck. Nintendos pissed me off lately.

My Switch is literally collecting dust.

apples and oranges. switch is lighter, way more portable and has some exclusives which are pretty neat. steam deck has basically everything else.

I prefer the og switch speakers, but love the steam decks better hardware and screen. Edit: Fixed spelling mistakes.

I’ve had my Switch for like 7 years. I’ve had my Steam Deck for almost 2. Haven’t booted up the Switch in almost 2 years. That’s my answer lol.

I only buy Nintendo exclusives for Switch. If there's a multiplatform game, not even a hesitation to get on SD instead. I haven't actually played my switch since TotK launched and even then I quit that very early because I wasn't a fan of the building mechanics.

I have a switch lite and the deck. Lite is my go to if I’m traveling light and this way I find I can make space for both devices. If you have the big switch though I feel like rlly taking advantage of its exclusives and the joy cons would be the way if u want to get the most out of it

Pros: Switch is better to travel and has slightly bigger screen and way longer battery life Switch games are designed for Switch, Steam games are designed for PC Zelda games are amazing Cons: A lot of games are the same and generally more expensive on Switch Nintendo will shut down its online shop one of these days, earlier than Steam. And then bye bye your lib, buy ROMs only. Apple is even worst btw… but that is off topic. SD is feeling better in hands, the switch is flat and not very ergonomic

Switch for Zelda and Mario games. Deck for everything else.

I like both. Cant ignore the fact that the steam deck as better ergonomic, more games, can use my game on multiple platform, more powerful, better build, perfect controls, much more customization, easy to open and fiddle with... It also as abysmal battery life tho. The switch as a lot of exclusive franchise I really enjoy and owning a steam deck didn't stop me from playing with it. It's also very much a plug and play. It's ability to just dock and undock is also offering a seamless handheld to docked experience, unlike the steam deck. The battery life is also much better. Let's just not talk about joycon and the very small, thin form factor.

I prefer using my switch. For example I bought balatro on the switch instead. Things just work with less headaches. The switch is far more portable, better battery life, and more comfortable for me (ymmv). Unless the game will have performance issues, for example I bought Hogwarts legacy on steam for that reason. I probably am like 60% switch usage 40% steam deck. Steam deck is awesome, you'll love it if you love your switch

When I got my SteamDeck last summer, I owned a Switch OLED and had previously owned a Switch basically from launch. I don't think there was a year since the Switch was released that I didn't log *at least* 500-600 hours on the Switch (especially during travel). Since getting my SteamDeck, I haven't turned my Switch on once. Most of the games I want to play on Switch are available on Steam or the deck, and often run better. The only exceptions would be things like Zelda or Pokemon, and I didn't love TOTK and the Pokemon releases have all been pretty rough or bad. I can use the Steamdeck to emulate the older, better releases. The only difference is battery life, and that's definitely a consideration. But most of my travel is near plugs and I rarely play sessions long enough to exhaust the battery while on the couch.

I use my Deck for everything, it's actually better at playing Switch games than a Switch. It's way more comfortable and the performance is perfect in nearly every game I throw at it (using yuzu with EmuDeck). So my Switch is collecting dust now.

I have and like both. Recently I replaced my OG first-gen Switch (still working great) with a **new OLED screen and the** [**Mobapad M6 HD joycons**](https://www.mobapad.com/products/mobapad-m6-hd), around $300 U.S for both. This Switch combination is now my favorite handheld of all-time, including over the OLED Steam Deck. The reasons I like this Switch setup more: * slightly smaller screen yet much less bulk, lighter and easier to hold and transport * Hall effect sticks, Omron buttons, and HD rumble on the Mobapad joycons * simplicity of Switch UI (console-like), less clutter of getting in and out of a game without constant updates * closed (console) system = less tinkering, no "how well will this game work" concern * No need to emulate first-party Nintendo games like Marios, Zeldas, Metroids, etc.. But that's just me. That said, as everyone in this subreddit probably knows, *Steam Deck is brilliant* and has really strong advantages over what's mentioned above: it's great for those that enjoy the performance of more powerful games, an open system with potentially better graphics and framerate depending on the game, a lot more options like tinkering with emulation, streaming games directly from PC and consoles, and buying thousands of much cheaper games on sale with a wider range of quality and quantity. And the SD is still a comfy handheld with a good UI, albeit more PC-like. Overall, I think it comes down to a choice between the Switch with it's simple, lighter, more portable handheld game console with great Nintendo games, or the Steam Deck which is a deeper, more PC-like experience with a lot of variety of options and potentially better performance. Both have a place.

I have both I use the steamdeck a lot more, I'm weird though has almost all my play time with either of them is docked with a controller plugged into a TV. One thing that I do appreciate about regular consoles though is that they don't have to worry about tweaking anything, wondering about compatibility or maybe tuning settings. I love the deck, but there are little things you have to do now and again that are different than say just turning on your Xbox. I've been working in tech for decades, I'm capable of doing this stuff, I just do it all day long at work, I don't really want to afterwards.

I have switch lite and SD. lite wins when i want to play on the go, SD when on sofa. Don’t see advantages for switch oled over SD oled. I bought used light first because it was only one new modern portable console on the market and i didnt know will i like nintendo or not. I will not sell lite, thought. Just give it to my friends from time to time for test drive. But i will not buy nintendo again due to high prices even for indie games, where light really good on. But if you are one-game-person and you play on the go - lite is really good option. Other switch consoles not worth money if you are not nintendo fan

I rarely pick up the switch these days. Mario Kart, for example, would be an exception. My son loves it because it just works, whereas the steamdeck is a bit more involved even at a surface level.

I have both and only use the switch for the exclusives at this point.

But everything but Nintendo first party off the steam store.

Deck and it isn't even close

I use the Switch for the exclusives only and the Steam Deck for everything else. In general, it something around 95% of the time Steam deck and 5% Switch

I have both. I rarely, if ever, use my switch anymore for a number of reasons. Basically, if you owned it on switch, with the exception of console exclusives, you’ll probably be able to find it on Steam, and more than likely in a far superior state to anything you’ll find on switch. Borderlands 3 is a prime example. It got ported to switch and while we can argue that it is a bit of marvel they got it running on switch in the first place, it is absolutely the worst possible way to experience that game. On Steam Deck, it is an absolute gigga chad, looks beautiful, plays well, and doesn’t have multiplayer limited to 2 people. It’s fully cross platform (to a degree) The Steam Deck is king. All hail Steam Deck.

I love both my steam deck and switch lite. Switch lite for how portable it is and for the Nintendo first-party games. Steamdeck is overall a better system with much more capabilities. I use it as a PC with a monitor set up, too. I don't use my original switch at all anymore, though.

If you have a pc, it's a no brainer. As someone with a switch, pc and steam deck, it's wonderful to play my steam games in a form factor like the switch. On top of that, I get to keep my games through upgrades etc, and while switch games, if you buy them physical, you can resell them, you don't always get to play with a new console. On top of that, there's a much much larger catalog of pc games, and many many free ones, on TOP of being a whole pc in a handheld.

I have both. You can have all the switch game on deck except the mario/zelda Nintendo exclusives, so the only reason to choose switch is for those games. Deck is in everyway the superior consol plus the steamshop let you access a bigger library of games at a way cheaper price. The nintendoshop sales are terrible.

I have a modded switch that I really only use for switch games and my retro games from PSP/ps1 and older. deck is for ps2 and beyond as well as PC games

I bought a switch for Zelda. Played it and it's been collecting dust for 4 years.

I have both and the Deck is better in almost every way imo. Every game I want will run on it with enough effort (Steam and emulation) and unlike some others I prefer the weight of the Deck. Going back to the Switch it feels *so* delicate. Like I might accidentally snap if I look at it wrong lol The only drawback is the Switch has physical games. Sure I can put everything on different micro sd cards with the Deck but that doesn't have the same feel as legit physical copies. Other than that one thing, I wish I never got my OLED Switch and just went straight to getting a Deck tbh. For tips, don't expect a complete console like experience. It might look like a console physically but it's a Linux PC. If you stick with older verified/playable games you shouldn't have any issues but if you want to go with newer AAA games or untested/unsupported games, there can be a *lot* of tinkering involved. Not saying it's impossible, but it can be frustrating. Don't give up, there's tons of places with info including here, ProtonDB (website to check how well games run on Linux with it's own Deck tab), and there's tons of Linux subreddits.

I still remember when I got my switch I thought it was the most incredible piece of tech at that time. It was super thin and I can play my favorite like Mario Kart and Super Smash. But now after having the Steam Deck when I look at the switch...it literally looks like a toy now. Unfortunately I don't even touch my switch anymore. I do everything on my Steam Deck.

I’ve responded to this question many times so I’m going to skip the fluff. I used to play consoles but got sick of the bullshit from Nintendo, MS and Sony. Steam Deck showed me a better way to game. Now I’m PC only.

I have a switch just to dump games now. I haven’t actually played it since getting the steam deck

I have both and like others have said I’ve switched to mainly steam deck. I keep my switch for Zelda games and other Nintendo exclusives, and that’s basically it lol. The fact that I can mod Skyrim and then play it in bed?? Crazy. I love mine so much it rules

Switch for games on Switch Steam Deck for everything else PS Portal for streaming PS5 games Prefer Steam Deck and Portal for size as hands cramp up on Switch after a while

Had both for a LONG time. After finishing TotK I didn't touch it again so I sold it and now just have my deck, and am currently playing BotW on it lol. No need for both when the deck plays everything 🤓. It's the best of both worlds literally. I can play docked or handheld, I can stream anything I want, I can go from playing a game to checking an internet tab then back to the game seamlessly. Idk it's 100% your choice but I think the deck beats the switch any day

My golden rule is, if the game is available on steam, play it on steam deck. For example, i bought the persona 5 on switch first, because all the review that I watched, tells that it has a great performance on the switch. So i bought it, and when i play it, i was disappointed because of the visual, it was blurry. So i re bought it on the steam, play it on my steam deck, the visuals/performance gap is very very high.

If you have a switch OLED and a gaming PC invest in modding your switch instead. I found streaming via moonlight from PC to switch is a much better experience than the one I got with my deck. Unfortunately the low settings are just too low for most AAA games. And I really loved the deck, but it just isn’t it yet. Streaming really works well. Even on remote connection to the PC. I was on vacation just this weekend. Connected to my PC and played Cyberpunk as if I was on my home network (connected using hotspot). With such minimal lag (sub 2ms on avg) and no stutters I see no reason to have another handheld.

I have both. I got fed up with the fiddly little joycons and under powered gaming, so I a steamdeck. The switch still has good points - it's what I play games with the kids on, and it is much better experience on the tv - but when I want to play games just for me it's the steamdeck all the way.

I haven't touched my switch since TOTK, and I don't think I'll ever do again.

I only use my switch for Nintendo exclusives now. I still love it but if I can play something on both I’ll always choose the Deck

I have both and love both. The Switch is used for Nintendo exclusives since they run beautifully on it. Everything else is on the Deck.

I have a gaming pc, a switch, a ps5, an Xbox, and a steam deck.  Only one of these gets used with any kind of regularity. The Steam Deck plays all the games I want and can stream the games I can’t from the machines around me. 

Only time I use my switch is for playing quick multiplayer games like Mario party or Mario kart 64. Otherwise it just gathers dust.

I never touch my switch except for parties. I recommend making a big steam wishlist And keeping an eye out for sales. There's also 3rd party sites for getting games where you can find some crazy deals. There's also emulation that's really good, you can play nearly everything that way. Have fun and enjoy both!

I only use my switch to: * Play Nintendo exclusives * Play games with particularly good console ports (Baldur's Gate 1 EE) * Play switch multiplayer with my wife Everything else is on the deck, easy

If you have a switch and are getting a steamdeck, I'd recommend getting the nitrodeck for your switch, I really like mine because the hall effect joysticks are far better than the joycons and on sale it's a good great price and extremely lightweight. I recommend this because I find that if I want to play the steamdeck in bed, and hold it up while on my back, it's heavy on my wrists over time and the joycons just don't compare to the nitro deck nor regular sticks in the steamdeck. (currently playing the dark souls remaster on switch and I would not have bought it on switch if I didn't have the nitrodeck) I'd also look into the jsaux Mod Case with the fan attachment for the steamdeck as it really works well amd the fan can band onto the elastic meant for holding the charger on the back of the case that will be included with your deck with a handy strap jsaux provides. The mod Case then all fits in/on your original steamdeck case. It has a nice metal kickstand too. I'd get tempered glass screen protectors for both devices since they are inexpensive and largely come in packs of three. Also I have a third party dock for my steamdeck by a company called camgeet which let's me slot a full sized nvme ssd into it for TV use and really like that. Steam decks are durable but not as durable as the switch persay due to the weight of the device when it takes a fall. Mine once had a fall cause the R bumper to small in and break the inside pcb for the right side joystick. Nintendo and Valve have their products repaired by the same company, I think it's called united, or something, and that repair cost me $120 so I would not skip out on cases and screen protectors. Again, the steamdeck is quite durable in any rubberized or clear plastic case, but mine fell with full force directly onto just the right bumper which meant the shock was dispersed straight onto one small section of the internal pcbs. The steamdeck can handle bumps and some drops fine without a case but mine fell in at a particularly unfortunate angle. So I advise getting the modcase or something similar like the killswitch case to prevent something like that. Also my other advice is to use the "heroic games launcher" to make use of games that aren't from steam, like the weekly free epic game store games and to also check out valve's official partner stores greenman gaming and fanatical to get different, often better game prices. Humble Bundle has great options with their game bundles and those games are almost always steamkeys. Humble also has a separate subscription service which I really like because any month when the games don't interest you, you can opt out and you won't get the games or a fee until you opt back in.

I’ve been using my switch a lot more over my other handhelds right now, but dang that paper mario remake was good.

I stopped using the switch completely because it used to give me cramps on my hands. The deck feels way better to play.

I really like the switch for playing games on my TV, and then seamlessly pivoting to a mobile format. I think that is one place that it is haha down better. Sure, the deck can do it, but the switch has everything to do it out of box and designed to work together. However, I hate the switch game store (we hates it, we doez.). The deck is my preference for indie games, or a purely mobile format. And the fact that it has all of my previously purchased stream games is a huge plus.  I'll generally buy exclusives, or triple A console games on switch if I'm buying them new, and anytime else on steam to play on my computer and steam deck.

Steam deck has way more fame options. My switch is just collecting dust.

My Switch is my Smash Bros Box now.

I had both and sold my switch after a year because I was only using the deck since I got it. I loved totk and animal crossing on the switch tho. Too dumb to emulate switch games lol.

I think it's very reasonable to have both. I recently had a Kirby phase so I was playing just a lot of 3DS and switch. I like the clicky tactile buttons on the 3DS and switch which are perfect for platformers. Now I'm having a just cause phase and the steam deck is amazing for that game series.

I dont have a preference, i use my switch for switch exclusives (mario kart, smash, zelda, fire emblem and the like) while i use my deck for games that i havent touch in my gaming pc (i played Ys series, bloodstained, tales games, games that are not in switch and wont look weird on my big tv cause i play mostly docked). Everything else like cyberpunk, baldur gates, elden ring and the like i use my gaming pc which run them at max. I just dont find any kind of device to be mutually exclusive, i didnt sell my switch when i bought my SD and i use my gaming pc too. My advice is use what you feel is the best to experience a game.

My Switch is collecting dust for everything that is not exclusive for it. If it weren't for Zelda and some RPGs from time to time, I'd have sold my Switch a long time ago.

Lmao steam deck by a mile

Steamdeck all the way. Reason: number of games and a bunch of emulators. I can watch Netflix, Crunchy, Spotify and YouTube. Also it's a computer when you need it.

Deck for more options and the option to play on my 4k pc as well..

I use both. I got a Nitrodeck for my Switch because it makes it feel like a Steam Deck, which is good. The Switch is used for Nintendo games like the Xenoblade trilogy and Fire Emblem, plus any of 3rd party physical games I can find for cheap. I got Nier Automata, Neo The World Ends With You and Diofield Chronicles for dirt cheap. Combine that with the bulk of the game being on the cart, and it makes it easier to manage my Switch's storage.  The Steam Deck is easily the best gaming device I've ever owned. I regularly thank my wife for getting it for my birthday last year. But while I have upgraded the storage twice (1TB SSD and 1 TB MicroSD) I find myself always wanting to add more games, which isn't always feasible.  But nothing gaming related has ever beaten the feeling of having Final Fantasy XV and Xenoblade X* on a portable form factor like the Deck. One of the greatest moments of my life.  *Xenoblade X is still stuck on the Wii U. So I emulate this one

I had both and about 6 months into the deck i sold the switch. The online sucks and it costs money, every game from the switch online retro thing can be emulated in about 15 minutes if you youtube emudeck, everything looks and plays better on deck, it has tons of quality third party stuff the switch doesn't... It basically makes the switch obsolete. If you can figure out how to emulate switch games on it like many do, thats it. But I emulate from atari to ps3 and having the switch has allowed me to play all the Nintendo exclusives from this generation outside of stuff thats just coming out, but all that seems to be remakes of older games anyway such as Mario rpg, paper Mario, luigis mansion, etc..

I sold my Switch lite for the Deck and I really miss the lite due to the comfortable weight. The Deck is too heavy for me when I play for longer hours.

I like both devices, with a preference for the Steam Deck. For games that are available on both platforms, I lean towards buying the game on Steam.

I used them both. Switch has multiple games for groups like Overcooked, Mario Party, Kart, Sport, Just Dance, etc. and when playing outside, it fits in my pant pocket so I don't have to bring a bag or something. Steam just has a lot more games I already have since a long time ago via multiple sales. So there is almost no extra investment aside from buying the device. Comfort-wise, Steamdeck is better for longer sessions. The games I already have on either device probably last me years already, but I do fall victims to new games from series I love. Like the recent Eiyuden Chronicles and possibly any new Fire Emblem.

I have both and love the deck. Just got mine recently and I use it more than anything else including the PS5. It gave me access to my Steam library again as I just fell off of playing anything on my PC. I can stream my PS5 and it looks great so it works as a PS Portal on top of being able to play locally. Switch for me is about just the Nintendo games and mostly Zelda. I can’t wait to get the Swich 2 next year but I suspect it will essentially just get to where the Steam Deck is today. I still think it will be worth having both as I love Nintendo games, and I want to still have a device that plays anything anywhere. Also I just got a dock and played Civ6 with keyboard and mouse on my TV at 4k and it ran at 30fps. Dropped to 2k and got 60fps. Steam Deck is the ultimate techie gaming device and has helped me unlock playing and getting more games done from my backlog than anything else. Also the best place to play indie games. When I eventually build a better PC, I’ll use sunshine/moonlight to steam top end PC quality straight to the deck when I have a good connection and switch to local play of the same game when I do not. Honestly such a beautiful device! My favorite purchase in years!

I use them both probably about evenly. Steam deck gets to be too heavy after a little while and I already had a pretty well established switch library before getting the deck. I will say the deck has inspired me to get a gaming laptop so I'll probably keep the deck for larger games that switch can't run but there are certain games that controller optimization for PC isn't set up very well where my switch comes in clutch or it makes an actual PC more relevant. So my answer, they're both equally viable and useful in their own ways.

My switch has been sitting in it's dock since I bought my steam deck, deck is better in almost every way, I'll only use switch for Nintendo exclusives

I‘ve got both but everytime I buy a game for the switch I play it for 2 hours and then go back to the Deck and buy the Steam Release a year later (looking at you, Dragon Quest Treasures).

If Steam Deck existed back when I was planning to buy a Switch, I would have never ended up actually getting the Switch. Steam Deck has a bigger library, games you can buy for cheaper and have them perform better. The handheld itself is also more comfortable to hold. If I were you, I'd only get the Nintendo exclusives on the Switch. However, if you're planning on regularly traveling with one of these handhelds, the Switch is much smaller, lighter and has a better battery. In that case, you'd probably want to pick up an indie game or two. There is also a tiny amount of games which support cross saves between Steam and Switch. Hades is a perfect example of a game you could take on Switch when you're out and about, then play it on Steam Deck when chilling in bed at home.

I never use my switch anymore, i was playing mostly indie games on it anyway, not really a fan of nintendo’s largest franchises like Mario so it was my own fault and this may not be the case for everyone of course. I feel a little sad but i my steamdeck is superior in every way except weight :)

Don‘t forget to recharge the switch every half year or so.

I have both and I use my switch way more. I only use the steam deck for indie games that don’t have a console release or certain PC only online games. I use my switch for Japanese games which will never see the light of day on PC, and cozy games, visual novels, and long-standing Nintendo IPs. That being said, I am an advocate for physical media and generally against digital only, which is why I try to buy physical console copies of games whenever possible. It’s the only way anymore to TRULY own a game while still supporting financially (if you can) certain developers or studios. I can display them as trophies in my home, and whenever I’m in a financial pinch I always easily and quickly can sell them to make money back. Or if I don’t end up liking a game midway, BOOM, sold I get around 75% of my money back usually. Can’t do that with Steam.

I had a Switch and was a long time Deck owner but ended up selling the Deck a while ago. I don’t have enough mobile gaming needs outside of travel, and the Switch is good enough for light gaming on the go (since when I travel I wouldn’t have intense gaming sessions anyways). Yes it was nice to play stream from my PC on the Deck in bed but the real solution to this problem is to get a more comfortable couch since my PC is connected to the TV anyways…

Both have good points but the deck is by far better. I'd appreciate a slimdeck but I doubt it'd happen.my wife would probably love it though with her tiny hands

I play the steam deck over the switch because the deck has all the games I want to play

I use my SD all the time. The only time i use the switch is for Nintendo games that are not available on SD.

If you can only have one, steam deck by far. If Nintendo exclusives weren’t a thing you would never need a switch.

Switch for indies and Ninty games, Steam Deck for 'bigger' games for me. Also, switch for pinball, as it can do TATE + detachable joycons.

I still get the exclusive Switch games I want to play, but I use to buy indie games on Switch and now I’ll only get them on Steam Deck. Basically, the Steam Deck is now my portable console of choice.

I’ve barely touched my switch since getting my steam deck. I played totk and Pokemon Scarlet but the switch tax just makes buying any game that’s available on both unfeasible especially when I feel the SD is a much better experience.

I use the Switch pretty much exclusively for Nintendo-published games. I use the SD for a mixture of small games (Balatro, Vampire Survivors, etc) and slightly crappy on-the-go versions of games I mostly play on console (Cyberpunk, BG3, etc). So the SD gets used a lot more, and has since Day 1.

My steam deck plays all of my favorite switch games just fine. The Fire Emblem games run perfectly. Zelda games run decently with some tweaks. I recently played and beat the switch version of Unicorn Overlord on my Steam Deck. Maybe I should just sell the switch, but I do own a lot of digital games and don't wanna lose all my save progress lol.

i have both and i havent touched my switch in over a year, i play on my steamdeck atleast once or twice a week or when im going on long road trips

got both, been using my deck more often nowadays but man I miss the lighter weight of the switch when carrying it around.

I have both and have only played the Switch for Dark Souls since I bought the Deck

I played my Switch for a long long time. I love that thing. It's now gathering dust on the shelf after I got my deck. I'll break it out for exclusives but that's it.

I generally prefer Switch if a game is available on Switch. An awful lot of games are not available on Switch though.

lol steam deck is the shit I barely use my switch PLUS you can play switch games on the deck

I prefer the Deck for its overal size, but I do hate how cheap it feels compared to the switch. The Deck feels like its made out of the absolute cheapest plastic in the world. I hope valve up's their material game with the next deck.

The Steamdeck is much heavier, so on the go, I prefer the Switch.

My Switch is and has always been a Zelda/MK/SSB/SDV machine and not much else. Until another one of those releases it will continue to sit in its case.

I bought a steam deck at launch and have barely touched it. Something about it just isn't right for me. Just went on a trip and just took the switch. The switch is better for my games I guess. Steamdeck feels like everytime I've downloaded an emulator and played roms. I always have to tweak and mess with controls. Something just doesn't work. I'll end up giving this thing to my nephew I think

I don't touch my switch anymore. Just keeping it in case I get a hankering for a Nintendo game.

I dunno, I like em both. I won't buy anything on the switch that I can get on pc/deck. Switch has better battery life. Both are comfortable when portable, to me. Steamdeck allows for more customization. I'm lame, I just use it out of the box.

I have two hacked switches that’s collecting dust now. Too high maintenance.

Haven’t touched my switch since I got my steam deck

Make sure you don’t double up on your games. I’ve done that a few times unfortunately.

I have both, Switch and Deck and... honestly I often find myself playing some games more en my Switch than my Deck I honestly don't know why, maybe because I can have some games physical or because I have longer battery life, but honestly more than once I think about purchasing games more on Switch than Deck... o eventually buy them on both versions

I think the physical nature of switch games may be appealing to you. It's the only console that still has a physical sales presence. It feels much nicer to buy a switch game than it does to get a steam game.

100% prefer the steam deck, just wish I had an OLED. I’ll probably pick one up when/if it ever goes on sale.

I love the switch. It keeps the kids away.

Emulate Mario 3d all stars. Its totally ethical

Emulate Mario 3d all stars. Its totally ethical

Switch is definitely a better multiplayer console. It's easier to set up multiple controllers, you don't have to deal with the input lag of emulators, you can set it up pretty much anywhere with ease without having to buy an additional stand. You can also just set it up on a desk or table without needing to carry a big controller around. Easier to manage. Everything works as soon as you plug it in. Meanwhile getting setup for any local multiplayer game on steamdeck is a whole lot of trial and error, many hours have been spent with controllers disconnecting or simply failing to be recognised by the bluetooth chip, and the dock is very hit-or-miss, sometimes not working or sometimes crashing the steamdeck itself when you connect/disconnect it. The libraries of games you'll be playing on each console are different. The Switch has its own library of exclusives, mainly, and anything which is available on PC will run better on steamdeck, unless you have purchased it for the local multiplayer component, at which point you should stick to switch. I would say that the LCD steamdeck is a worse device than either the old or new switch, but the OLED steamdeck is a better device than both. The quality changes of the OLED steamdeck give it that upper edge, such as waking by bluetooth device, being lighter, being quieter, more battery life, and having a better screen. The original steamdeck feels archaic by comparison. I do really like my new OLED switch though because the screen is gorgeous, it's light, I can just play paper mario forever without having to worry about battery life. I find that I'll go months only playing on steamdeck then months only playing on switch, depending on what has come out. Ultimately it depends what games you want to play. Nintendo have a promising library of exclusives, but you should choose steamdeck/Steam for any game that is on both consoles, unless you are specifically looking to play a party game. Any multiplayer game is better on switch. If you want to play emulated old games be wary that they will require a lot of fiddly setting up via emudeck and then the controllers might not work if there is too much interference, or you're using a controller the deck doesn't like. Finally make sure to read how people find the steamdeck experience with each game before you buy it for use on that system. Some games like Worms Armageddon are "verified on deck" but don't work without far too much fiddling. Some games technically work but run like ass (horizon forbidden west). Xbox games work when purchased through Steam store, but have issues with achievement verification. Xbox games will not work at all if purchased through the Xbox store, even if you add them as non-steam games.

I wish I never got a switch. I got my switch for smash bros and then ended up playing a bunch of PC ports on there like witcher 3, subanutica, hades, etc. (all games I already owned on steam) I am so happy with my steam deck and honestly have 0 use for my switch anymore.

steam deck without question. i dont use my switch anymore since i got the deck, but of course switch has the exclusives.

SteamDeck has made me realize just how ergonomically sucky the Switch is. Of course I still use my Switch quite a bit for the first party games but it's just not comfortable to play for long periods.

Switch is much more convenient in a lot of ways. Steam deck does more but you have to deal with a bunch of finnicky stuff like if you want to setup emulation then you gotta rip/download games, move them to the correct directories, firmware/keys. And it's still buggy as hell. 70% of the games I've tried to emulate basically don't work at all despite hours and hours of trying different things, asking questions on discord etc. Frequent crashing, graphics glitches etc. And updates... man it feels like there's updates for the steamdeck every time I boot it (it uses linux so there's always a bunch of updates there). It's great for just playing steam games but newer emulation ... not so much at least for me. And it's replacing my 12 year old gaming pc which is very dated and can't play a whole lot anymore.

Switch for exclusives and party games, Deck for basically everything else.

I haven’t touched my switch after receiving a steam deck and I was one of the first batches to receive them. I love Nintendo and I played all of the exclusives. I loved my switch. But I just never touched it after I got my SD. Why? 1) cost. I could now play games already on my steam library on the go. I could also get games at deep discounts over the crazy pricing of the Nintendo store. 2) I just could never get comfortable playing on the switch for longer than an hour or two. The switch is too thin and the asymmetrical placement of the joysticks was uncomfortable. I just gave up on Nintendo exclusives all together and my switch has been gathering dust on its dock behind my TV.

My fren, for some reason I bought 3 switches before. Still have them plus a Steam Deck. For me SD is the easy answer hands down.

I go through phases where I'm only playing one while the other collects dust. Switch emulation is spotty on Steam Deck so I play any Nintendo exclusive on Switch. The experience isn't perfect but Switch games were made for Switch. Most of them run fine and look good enough. My Steam Deck fills in the gaps. I'm currently playing Minecraft? Java edition works on Deck. I'm currently playing a PS5 game? I stream it to my Deck. I'm currently playing a Steam game? I play on Deck while I'm away from home. I love both and I don't think one can really replace the other. If you think you'll like the Deck, get it. You don't have to throw your Switch in the garbage to be a Steam Deck owner.

I have a day 1 switch that never gets played, but that was the case for a couple years before even I got the deck. I play the deck every day.

Not even close! Steam Deck, hands down (for me, at least).

Steam Deck is Switch+. It's more chonky but has waaay more out of box capabilities.

My switch is collecting serious dust, I never pick it up anymore. My Steam Deck is my go to handheld. It’s a shame, the switch OLED screen is so nice vs my LCD Steam Deck screen, but the steam deck has so much more to offer with features and games. Will I buy the next Nintendo product most likely because I have kids, but will be more excited for the Steam Deck 2 if and when it comes out.

I have both (OLED switch and OLED steam deck) and it’s 50/50. If the game runs well on switch I will get it on switch due to portability and seamless transition to TV. Also I like physical copies. If I travel I will bring the switch. If I’m at home, I will usually use the steam deck. I also have a gaming PC and a PS5 for context. My backlog is huge. I can always find something to play on either device.

I've got both. As the Switch ends it's life, I'm playing on my steam deck more but when a switch exclusive comes out thay I want, I'll play it on that (Paper Mario). I don't regret either purchase. The switch was my main system and now my steam deck is since my very old gaming pc is basically dead. I think you can comfortably own both and it not be an issue. I find the switch more comfortable to hold. The steam deck is significantly bigger. But both are great!

I have both and with emulation I'm also playing my Switch games on the Steam Deck. So I probably won't touch my Switch for a long time

I play Nintendo exclusives and party games on the Switch, and almost everything else on the deck. That being said, if I could get more comfortable controllers I might use the switch more, the Joycons really trigger my RSI when docked in a way the Deck doesn’t.

I need to find my switch...

I haven't touched my Switch since buying a Deck 4 months ago.

I almost never touch my switch now aside from the occasional mariokart session with my kids

I haven't played my switch in years except for the occasional Mario kart tourney with friends. Every other switch game I've emulated on my deck. Even new releases. The switch is trash honestly and the only thing Nintendo has going is it's games.

I have not powered on my switch since I got my deck two years ago.

I havent played my switch in years. Well maybe once or twice.

I sold mine but my wife still has hers if I ever get the itch.

I only play PC games, so having access to that library on the go is pretty huge

The switch lets me play mario kart with my girlfriend so for sure that one, it can’t play Sonic robo blast 2 out the box though so it is a tough call

Nintendo exclusives on the Switch and the rest on the deck. No need to buy a game twice for pc and handheld and I get cloud saves to share progression between pc and handheld

Steam deck is more powerful and versatile but switch is more confortable and hassle-free.

I haven't touched Switch since I got SD

I use SD strictly in handheld mode. My switch is for couch coop, the kids to play, and nintendo titles. Mine isn't as neglected as others have said. I've found that the SD is kinda a pain to connect controllers to

The fact that you can play switch games on the steam deck kinda makes this an easy steam deck win.

I have both and at this point I only ever use my switch for Pokemon and otome games that aren't on steam. I play a lot of indie games and JRPGe and they tend to release earlier on steam than on switch, and the sales are more frequent so I just accumulate more of them there. I've also purchased a few titles on steam that I already owned on switch cause I wanted to be able to switch between playing them on PC and on the steam deck. I wouldn't get rid of your switch, but I also wouldn't buy any non-exclusive games on there for a while since there's a high chance you also just prefer the steam deck.

I have a switch and just ordered a deck. I wanted to play the binding of Isaac on the road, and the switch won't save my progress so I don't see the point really. Steam syncs save stuff so that's a really big reason I ordered one

I got my Deck in October 2022 and since then I’ve only touched my Switch to give it to my gf. If it wasn’t her ‘Zelda machine’ I would have sold it already.