The Steam Deck and the Switch target very different demographics, to the point where comparing them doesn't make much sense. I wouldn't get a Steam Deck for a young child, but I would get a Switch, because the Switch is a much simpler experience.

I bring up the Steam Deck only to talk about value. People complain about Nintendo gouging their customers, and that's absolutely true for their games, but their hardware has almost always been good value. Performance is similar (of not strictly better) to the Steam Deck, which is already incredible value, and they add some extra value with removable controllers, better refresh rate, etc, all with similar battery life.

If you like/want the Switch 1 and are considering whether the Switch 2 js a worthwhile upgrade, there's your answer. It plays Switch 1 games, often with a perf upgrade (e.g. higher-framerate lock), and it can play current gen titles at respectable framerates (e.g. Cyberpunk on Switch 2 is better than the Steam Deck).

But that's where the comparison should end, because they're very different ecosystems with different target markets.

The decision tree is very simple:

• if Nintendo first party titles or games "just working" is a top priority for you and you're fine with a smaller selection and paying more for games, the Switch 2 is a great option
• if you don't mind or even like tinkering a bit and you'd consider doing small repairs/upgrades yourself if provided a guide, or even if the vast back catalogueof PC games excites you, the Steam Deck is a great option

There's not a lot of overlap in those two groups, so the comparison is only relevant to get an idea of performance category.

I own a Switch 1 and a Steam Deck and I'll likely get a Switch 2 at some point. Why? I have kids, I like Nintendo first party games, and I like playing casual couch games with friends and my kids. If I didn't have kids, I probably wouldn't value playing couch games with friends (we'd just play online), and I probably wouldn't get a Switch and just emulate the handful of games I want to play (mostly Zelda games). My Steam Deck is for my personal time, the Switch is for time with my kids and friends.