Nintendo Switch 2 Performance Analysis: GPU and CPU Benchmarks Compared to Steam Deck, PS5, and PS4

The Nintendo Switch 2 is positioned to be one of the most anticipated hardware releases in recent memory, building on the remarkable success of the original Nintendo Switch.

In a recent in-depth analysis, Chinese hardware expert and YouTuber Geekerwan provided a detailed breakdown of the Nintendo Switch 2's performance by examining the console’s motherboard.

Verified GPU and CPU benchmarks offer the first concrete look into how the new hardware will perform in comparison to major platforms like the Steam Deck, PlayStation 5 (PS5), and PlayStation 4 (PS4). ### Nintendo Switch 2 GPU Benchmarks: Outpacing Steam Deck and PS4 in Key Modes According to Geekerwan’s hardware breakdown, the NVIDIA-based GPU powering the Nintendo Switch 2 is most comparable to the RTX 2050 in terms of architecture and real-world output.

Crucially, the Switch 2 utilizes dynamic operation modes, delivering different levels of performance depending on whether it is docked (TV mode) or used as a handheld device. The following performance metrics highlight graphical output across several platforms: - **PlayStation 5:** 9590 - **Xbox Series S:** 3786 - **Nintendo Switch 2 (TV mode):** 2205 - **Steam Deck:** 1443 - **Nintendo Switch 2 (Handheld mode):** 1308 - **PlayStation 4:** 1219 - **Nintendo Switch (TV mode):** 317 - **Nintendo Switch (Handheld mode):** 174 These numbers reveal that the Switch 2 surpasses both the Steam Deck and PS4 when it operates in TV mode, and in Handheld mode, it delivers marginally lower performance than the Steam Deck but maintains a clear lead over the PS4.

While the Switch 2 does not approach the GPU capabilities of the PS5 or Xbox Series S, it offers a generational leap—putting out approximately seven times more graphical power than the original Nintendo Switch in both TV and Handheld modes. ### CPU Performance: Solid Improvement Over Previous Generations Geekerwan’s deep-dive analysis also presents detailed CPU comparisons, focusing on both single-core and multi-core performance: **Single-core benchmark results:** - PlayStation 5: 1186 - Steam Deck: 1262 - Nintendo Switch 2 (TV mode): 526 - Nintendo Switch 2 (Handheld mode): 493 - PlayStation 4: 197 - Nintendo Switch: 167 **Multi-core benchmark results:** - PlayStation 5: 7476 - Steam Deck: 4364 - Nintendo Switch 2 (TV mode): 2877 - Nintendo Switch 2 (Handheld mode): 2735 - PlayStation 4: 990 - Nintendo Switch: 481 While the Nintendo Switch 2’s CPU does not reach the high-performance tiers set by the PS5 or Steam Deck, it outpaces both the original Switch and the PS4 in all scenarios.

Geekerwan notes that, despite the CPU’s relatively lower comparative performance, experienced developers may still be able to optimize games to achieve ambitious targets such as 120 frames per second in select titles.

Efficient software optimization will be key to leveraging the Switch 2's hardware for demanding third-party AAA releases. ### Conclusion: Nintendo Switch 2 Sets a New Bar for Hybrid Handheld Consoles The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a significant upgrade for Nintendo’s hybrid platform, especially in terms of GPU power and system flexibility across TV and handheld use cases.

While PS5 and Steam Deck maintain raw performance advantages, the Switch 2’s leap over previous Nintendo hardware and its competitive edge over the PS4 highlight its importance for both fans and developers.

As more verified details and exclusive games are revealed, the full impact of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the gaming landscape will become even clearer. Stay tuned for more verified Nintendo Switch 2 updates and benchmark analyses on our site.

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