We search the web for the latest handheld gaming news so you don’t have to.
🔹 Nintendo Switch 2 Wins Over Steam Deck Users
A recent Polygon article reports that the Nintendo Switch 2 has become the primary handheld device for a former Steam Deck user. The focus is on Nintendo and its latest hardware, which is being compared to Valve’s Steam Deck. The Switch 2 is praised for its stability, portability, and seamless suspend/resume functionality, though a few early bugs are acknowledged. This shift is significant because it shows Nintendo’s latest console is powerful and convenient enough to draw users away from more flexible, performance-driven devices like the Steam Deck.
Citation: Hall, C. (2025, July 10). The Nintendo Switch 2 has replaced my Steam Deck – for now. Polygon. https://www.polygon.com/opinion/611226/nintendo-switch-2-replaced-steam-deck-2025
🔹 ASUS ROG Ally Hits All-Time Low Price
Windows Central highlights that the ASUS ROG Ally handheld has hit a new low price of $449, undercutting the Nintendo Switch 2. The news centers around ASUS and its high-performance Windows-based handheld device. Reviewers commend its ability to run multiple game libraries including Steam and Game Pass, though Windows remains a cumbersome interface for handheld use. This matters because it makes the ROG Ally a highly competitive option for gamers seeking a powerful, more open alternative to closed systems like the Switch.
Citation: Warren, T. (2025, July 9). ROG Ally drops to its lowest price ever, making it less than the Nintendo Switch 2. Windows Central. https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/pc-gaming/rog-ally-drops-to-its-lowest-price-ever-making-it-less-than-switch-2-heres-why-it-could-be-your-dream-gaming-handheld
🔹 ROG Ally X Leaves a Strong First Impression
Tom’s Guide details a reviewer’s change of heart after experiencing the ASUS ROG Ally X, despite initial excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2. The article compares both devices, with a focus on the Ally X’s powerful specs. The ROG Ally X features the Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip, 24 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD—providing desktop-class gaming in a portable package, though it’s heavier and more expensive. This comparison is important because it illustrates how the growing capabilities of Windows handhelds are beginning to seriously rival mainstream consoles like the Switch.
Citation: Barker, S. (2025, July 8). Nintendo Switch 2 was top of my gadget wishlist – then I played the Asus ROG Ally X. Tom’s Guide. https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/handheld-gaming/nintendo-switch-2-was-top-of-my-gadget-wishlist-then-i-played-the-asus-rog-ally-x
🔹 Lenovo Legion Go Offers Prime-Day Power for Less
Windows Central reports that the Lenovo Legion Go has dropped to $499.99 during Prime Day, making it a budget-friendly alternative to the Nintendo Switch 2. The focus is on Lenovo and its Windows-based handheld, which competes directly with other premium devices. It features an 8.8″ QHD+ 144 Hz screen, detachable controllers, and solid battery life, offering both power and flexibility. The price cut and strong features make it a compelling option for users looking to avoid the limitations of more closed ecosystems like Nintendo’s.
Citation: Warren, T. (2025, July 9). Forget the Nintendo Switch 2 and buy this instead – The Lenovo Legion Go is now below $500. Windows Central. https://www.windowscentral.com/hardware/handheld-gaming-pc/forget-the-nintendo-switch-2-and-buy-one-of-our-favorite-handheld-gaming-pcs-instead
🔹 Xbox Ally Handheld Brings Microsoft to Mobile
Lifewire covers Microsoft and ASUS’s upcoming collaboration on the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handhelds, which will launch later in 2025. The article discusses how these devices will feature deep Xbox integration, Windows support, and AMD’s new Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chips. The standout feature is their hybrid functionality, offering full access to Xbox Game Pass, xCloud, and PC games on a single device. This matters because it marks Microsoft’s direct entry into the handheld market, signaling a major shift in how console ecosystems extend into mobile gaming.
Citation: Young, J. (2025, July 10). Your Xbox just went mobile in a big way. Lifewire. https://www.lifewire.com/xbox-ally-handheld-gaming-11750529