Steam Deck vs Switch
Which handheld fits your portable gaming (and can replace Tesla Arcade if needed)?
Updated: 2025-12-03
TL;DR
- Pick Steam Deck if you want PC flexibility, cloud apps, and mod support.
- Pick Switch if you want the simplest family setup with offline-friendly titles.
Library and compatibility
- Steam Deck: Runs most PC indies and Tesla favourites (
cuphead,stardew-valley) natively; Proton fills gaps. Cloud apps add Xbox/PC libraries. - Switch: Strong first-party and family titles; check for specific Tesla matches on the eShop.
Cross-save and progression
- Deck: Use Steam Cloud; add GeForce NOW/Xbox Cloud for shared saves across devices.
- Switch: Nintendo cloud saves where supported; otherwise local only.
Portability and battery
- Deck: Heavier; tune TDP/refresh to extend flights. Needs PD charger/power bank.
- Switch: Lighter; great standby and family-friendly controls out of the box.
Docked and travel setups
- Deck: USB-C hub + HDMI/Ethernet for hotels; supports Bluetooth controllers easily.
- Switch: Travel dock + Pro Controller; works well on any TV with minimal config.
Recommendation by player type
- PC/Cloud-first: Steam Deck.
- Family/local co-op: Switch.
- Road warriors: Either—Deck for flexibility, Switch for simplicity.