Cyber Monday deals: Should I get a Switch 2 or Steam Deck? — Pros and cons of a hybrid console versus a handheld gaming PC

Cyber Monday offers fantastic discounts on both the Steam Deck LCD and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 handheld gaming consoles.

The Steam Deck normally costs $400, but is currently on sale for $319.20 directly from Steam. A Nintendo Switch 2 bundle, which includes a discounted game, is available at Best Buy for $499.99.

I have both the Steam Deck and the new Nintendo Switch, and I play games on both of them often. Because of this, I’ve created a list of the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you decide which one is right for you.

Steam Deck: Pros and Cons

✅ Steam Deck grants access to a massive PC game library.
✅ It connects directly to your Steam account, but the Deck Loader plugin lets you access other gaming services as well.
✅ It’s currently cheaper than the Nintendo Switch 2, and PC game deals can be found more readily than Switch 2 game deals.
✅ You can use the Steam Deck like an actual computer when you go into desktop mode. Pair a keyboard and mouse with it, and it will really feel like a typical PC.
✅ Steam Deck replacement parts and upgrades are far easier to get ahold of than Steam Deck 2 parts.
⚠️ Steam Deck doesn’t offer nearly as powerful internals as the Switch 2 or even other handheld gaming PCs like Xbox Ally X and Legion Go 2.
❌ Requires more settings adjustments to play some games smoothly, unlike Switch 2 games, which are generally better optimized for the console.
❌ Not all PC games run well on Steam Deck; you’ll need to make sure a game supports controllers and is Steam Deck Verified or at least has system requirements that roughly match up with Steam Deck internals.
❌ The TV docking station is sold separately, whereas Switch 2 comes with one.

Nintendo Switch 2: Pros and Cons

✅ Offers exclusive games (Mario, Pokémon, Zelda, Metroid Prime, etc.) that are only available for Switch 2, along with a massive library of PC ports. It’s also backward compatible with most Switch 1 games.
✅ Nintendo Switch 2 is far more mainstream, which means there are more accessories and stores that carry its peripherals.
✅ Switch 2 is a fantastic couch co-op family night console that comes with a TV dock. Some games can host up to eight players (if you have enough controllers to go around).
✅ The simple interface is easier for children to navigate, but it doesn’t provide as many options as the Steam Deck.
✅ It has a smaller size, detachable controllers, and a built-in kickstand that some people think makes it easier to take on trips or play games with the whole family on the go.
❌ You cannot customize the UI, operating system, or the hardware without jailbreaking the Switch 2.
❌ The Nintendo ecosystem is rather costly since the Switch 2 console, Switch 2 accessories (JoyCon controllers), and Nintendo games rarely go on sale.
❌ If something happens to your Switch 2, you might need to send in to Nintendo for repairs, since official parts aren’t available for purchase.

Should you get the Steam Deck or the Switch 2?

Ultimately, deciding which gaming handheld is best depends on you. But here are a few simple things to consider to help you choose.

✅ Choose Steam Deck if…

You likely own a lot of PC games and appreciate being able to easily fix, customize, and optimize your hardware to get the best experience.

✅ Choose Switch 2 if…

Whether you’re eager to play Nintendo’s unique games, need a console the whole family can enjoy, or want a great system for playing with friends and family, this is a good choice.

If you’re a gamer, you might eventually want both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the Steam Deck. While some people prefer one over the other, they’re both enjoyable handheld gaming devices that many people love to use.

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If you get a Steam Deck or the new Nintendo Switch, be sure to also get the must-have accessories for it.

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Handheld FAQs

What is the most popular gaming handheld?

Right now, the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 are the most popular handheld gaming consoles. They’re fantastic for families, offering a mix of games for playing together and more complex games for individual players. But the Steam Deck and Xbox Ally X are also gaining popularity, especially with PC gamers, as they can play many PC games – everything from smaller indie titles to big-name AAA releases.

Can handheld gaming PCs run modern AAA games smoothly?

That’s right, but the games a handheld can play depend on its power and hardware. To play demanding, high-end games, you’ll need a more powerful handheld gaming PC.

Is the Nintendo Switch 2 discounted for Cyber Monday 2025?

Generally, Nintendo consoles aren’t discounted during sales like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Instead, Nintendo often offers special bundles, such as a deal including the very popular Mario Kart World game with the Switch 2.

Is the Steam Deck discounted for Cyber Monday 2025?

That’s right! For a limited time this Cyber Monday, you can get the 256GB Steam Deck LCD at a 20% discount.

Will Steam, Xbox Game Pass, or Epic Games library work on handheld gaming PCs?

While the experience is generally good, PC gaming handhelds vary. Some run Windows, offering immediate access to many gaming services. Others, like the Steam Deck, use SteamOS and require some setup to play games from platforms beyond Steam. If you’re using a Steam Deck and want to expand your options, check out my guide on using Decky Loader.

What day is Cyber Monday 2025?

Cyber Monday officially starts on Monday, December 1, 2025, but many stores are already offering Cyber Monday-like deals. Most discounts are only available on Monday, though some might last through Tuesday or even longer.

When does Cyber Monday start on Amazon?

Amazon US kicked off its Cyber Monday deals early, starting on Saturday, November 29, 2025, and they’re expected to run through the end of Monday, December 1, 2025. The company quickly transitioned from Black Friday promotions to focus on Cyber Monday.

2025-12-01 15:41