Nintendo Switch 2 Forecasted to Outsell Lifetime Handheld PC Sales, According to Ampere Analysis

Nintendo Switch 2 Forecasted to Outsell Lifetime Handheld PC Sales, According to Ampere Analysis As the Nintendo Switch 2 prepares for its global launch, industry experts are forecasting an unprecedented debut for the next-generation console.

London-based market research firm Ampere Analysis has shared compelling insights with The Game Business, predicting that Nintendo’s new hardware will surpass the total cumulative sales of all PC gaming handhelds—such as the Steam Deck—in just its first year on the market. Ampere Analysis, recognized for its thorough tracking of gaming hardware trends, highlights the Nintendo Switch 2’s strong consumer appeal and brand recognition.

The original Nintendo Switch, released in March 2017, has sold more than 125 million units worldwide, establishing itself as one of the best-selling consoles in history.

Building on this momentum, the upcoming Switch 2 is anticipated to continue Nintendo’s hardware success story, especially as excitement peaks ahead of its release. In an official statement, Ampere Analysis asserts that it expects 'Nintendo’s Switch 2 to sell more units this year alone than the total number of PC gaming handheld devices sold throughout their entire history.' The hardware analytics firm further notes a fascinating crossover in user habits: While a majority—56%—of Steam Deck owners also use a Nintendo Switch, just 1.3% of Nintendo Switch owners identify the Steam Deck as their primary gaming device.

This data underscores the Switch platform's dominant position among portable console enthusiasts. The Nintendo Switch 2, which launches worldwide tomorrow, is poised to leverage the broad install base of Nintendo’s ecosystem, ongoing support from flagship titles via the eShop, and visibility from premiere events like Nintendo Direct showcases.

The console enters a maturing market for handheld gaming, where devices such as Valve’s Steam Deck and competing PC-based handhelds have found a niche audience.

Yet, Ampere Analysis’s research suggests that Nintendo’s mainstream appeal and global reach will rapidly outpace the incremental growth seen in the PC handheld segment. With Nintendo’s track record of innovative hardware and marquee franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Mario, and Pokémon driving software engagement, expectations are high for the Switch 2’s reception.

As retailers worldwide prepare for the launch, analysts and developers alike will be watching closely to see if the Switch 2 can indeed exceed the combined achievements of its PC gaming handheld competitors within its inaugural year. Stay tuned for further updates on Nintendo Switch 2 launch milestones, sales figures, and exclusive developer insights as the next era of portable gaming begins.

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