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New Test Reveals Unexpected Handheld Battery Winner
24 Jan
Summary
- A revised battery test used the same game, Hitman, on both devices.
- The Nintendo Switch 2 lasted over two hours in the new test.
- Steam Deck OLED battery life significantly decreased in the second test.
A reviewer has corrected a previous battery life test comparing the Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck OLED, acknowledging flaws in the initial methodology. The original test used different games, introducing significant variables. The updated approach aimed for accuracy by placing both consoles in identical states: Wi-Fi on, no audio devices, no background downloads, and maximum brightness.
For the crucial test, the same software, Hitman: World of Assassination, was launched on both handhelds. To eliminate gameplay variables, the reviewer left the game idle in its initial Paris-level setting. This ensured neither device had a performance advantage. The results were surprising, with the Nintendo Switch 2 warning of low battery after more than two hours, and continuing for an additional 10 minutes.
In contrast, the Steam Deck OLED performed considerably worse than in the initial test, lasting less than two hours. The reviewer noted a rapid drain in the final few percentage points of battery. This revised testing suggests the Nintendo Switch 2 might be a more viable option for extended travel than initially concluded, prompting a potential third test involving actual gameplay.
