The Nintendo Switch 2 is the newest console on the block, but does it have what it takes to stand with the big boys like Xbox Series S?
Nintendo released its best handheld console of this generation, the Switch 2. It packs a lot of horsepower into a tiny body and can power some of the most graphically demanding games, such asCyberpunk 2077. However, its $449.99 price point pushes it into the current-gen console’s price bracket, which includes the Xbox Series S, PS5, and Xbox Series X.
The cheapest of these three current consoles is the Xbox Series S, which will be the best contender for the Switch 2 in terms of price-to-performance ratio. In this article, we will compare them in terms of performance, features, and other aspects to help you make a better choice.
Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer’s opinions. Also, the prices mentioned herein are subject to change.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Xbox Series S: Which One is Better?
The Nintendo Switch 2 andXbox Series Sare two very different devices. Nevertheless, they deliver a somewhat decent performance that is acceptable for their respective size. For example, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a handheld console that can play games at around 720p to 1080p resolutions and up to 4K when docked and connected to a TV.
In contrast, the Xbox Series S is a traditional home console, so you must connect it to a TV to play games. It plays at around 1080p – 1440p resolution and occasionally at 4K with upscaling. Upon reading this, you may think they are quite similar, but you couldn’t be more wrong. They are actually different kinds of beasts and are designed to offer different gaming capabilities. The two consoles also differ in cost. The Nintendo Switch 2 costs $449.99 and provides only 256GB of memory, while the Xbox Series S costs $379.99 and provides 512GB of RAM.
However, if you are still confused between the two, here’s a detailed comparison to learn more:
Design Comparison
The Nintendo Switch 2, as you know, is a handheld console. Therefore, it is portable and can be carried anywhere you want. You can play games on it anywhere you want with its built-in batteries. However, you can also dock it and hook it to a TV for a traditional home console setup. The controllers are detachable and can be used individually when connected to the TV. However, the Switch 2 is a handheld device after all, so it’s best used in this mode. In the handheld mode, the new Switch feels just as good as the original, even though it’s a bit larger and slightly heavier.
On the other hand, the Xbox Series S features a traditional home console form factor, but it is a lot slimmer and more compact than previous Xbox consoles. The larger size is mainly due to the bigger chip inside, which requires a larger heatsink and power supply unit. The design of the Xbox Series S is quite simple yet elegant. The surface features a matte finish, which appears quite nice.
Nintendo Switch 2:
Xbox Series S:
Performance Benchmarks
Xbox Series S and Nintendo Switch 2 have different chip architectures, die sizes, power budgets, and more hardware differences. This makes a direct performance comparison impossible. Therefore, we must take a game that runs on both consoles for a fair comparison. Cyberpunk 2077 is one game that is currently available on both Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series S, making it possible for us to compare them. Here’s how this game runs on both consoles:
In both quality and performance modes, the Xbox Series S comes out ahead. Therefore, it is the higher-performing console. However, due to the use of DLSS upscaling technology in Switch 2, its overall image quality looks a bit sharper than the Xbox Series S.
Hardware Comparison
Here’s the list of hardware comparisons for Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series S:
Overall Impressions
Which console is the better option depends on factors such as portability, raw graphical power, features, and more. If you mostly play at home and prefer playing AAA games like Atomic Heart, Cyberpunk 2077,Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, A Plague Tale series, Saints Row and more, then the Xbox Series S is the better option. That’s because a majority of these games are not available on the Switch 2 and probably never will. On top of that, you get to play some games on mouse & keyboard as well. The Xbox Series S is also cheaper.
However, if you like to play games with your friends and prefer to play Nintendo’s exclusive games like Mario Kart World, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Legend of Zelda Series, and more, then the Nintendo Switch 2 is the obvious option to buy.
Both consoles have their pros and cons. It’s up to you to choose which console’s pros align with your gaming tastes. However, where the Xbox Series S does take a big win is in terms of pricing. The Xbox console is simply cheaper and provides more storage comparatively. You should choose one based on your requirements and budget.
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