Choosing between the PlayStation Portal and the Nintendo Switch is actually pretty straightforward once you know what you’re after. Both gadgets bring something unique to the table, but their goals couldn’t be more different. The Portal is all about streaming your PlayStation 5 games at home, while the Switch takes gaming wherever you want with its own massive library.
In this article, I’ll break down how these two compare, and by the end, you’ll know which one fits your style of gaming. Read on as I’ll help you understand the pros and cons of each console so you can make an informed purchase decision.
Table of Contents
PlayStation Portal vs Nintendo Switch: Which One Do You Need?
Both PlayStation Portal and Nintendo Switch bring something different to the table, and depending on your gaming needs, one might be a better fit for you. The Nintendo Switch has been around since March 2017, with a starting price of $299.99. It’s a flexible console that works as both a handheld and a home gaming system. Plus, it’s packed with big-name games like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Odyssey.
That said, the PlayStation Portal hit the market in November 2023 for $199.99. Unlike the Switch, it doesn’t play games on its own. Instead, it streams your PlayStation 5 games over Wi-Fi, acting more like a PS5 sidekick than a standalone console.
So, which one should you go for? Let me help you decide.
Pick the PlayStation Portal if you:  – Already own a PlayStation 5 and want a way to play your games away from the TV. – Like the idea of streaming your PS5 games on a handheld screen. – Want something cheaper than most gaming consoles. – Care about having DualSense controller features built into the device. – Have strong Wi-Fi at home for smooth streaming. | Pick the Nintendo Switch if you:  – Want a console that works entirely on its own—no extra hardware needed. – Love playing hit games like Zelda or Mario. – Want something portable to take with you on the go. – Enjoy multiplayer gaming with detachable Joy-Cons. -Like having a console that’s been tried and tested over the years. |
The Verdict: If you already have a PlayStation 5, the Portal is a great add-on. If someone’s hogging the TV, you can still dive into Spider-Man 2 or Final Fantasy XVI without losing the feel of the DualSense controller. It’s not for gaming on the go, but it’s solid if you’re sticking with your PS5 setup.
If you’re after versatility, the Switch is the better pick. You can play The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on your couch, then take it on a road trip or flight like in the good old days with the old PSP consoles. Dock it for a big-screen experience or use it in handheld mode. Plus, it’s perfect for multiplayer games like Mario Kart. If you want a standalone console that works anywhere, go for the Switch.
PlayStation Portal vs Nintendo Switch: Detailed Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at their specs and what they actually mean for your gaming experience. I’ve also compared the key differences between the PlayStation Portal vs Nintendo Switch, so make sure to check that out too—it’ll give you plenty of insight into how these two consoles stack up.
| Feature | PlayStation Portal | Nintendo Switch |
| Release Date | November 2023 | March 2017 (OLED model released in October 2021) |
| Price | $199.99 | $259.99 (Base model), $349.99 (OLED model) |
| Display | 8-inch LCD | 6.2-inch LCD (Base model), 7-inch OLED (OLED model) |
| Resolution | 1080p at 60 fps | 720p (handheld), 1080p (docked) |
| Processor | Custom AMD APU (similar to PS5) | NVIDIA Tegra X1 chip |
| Battery Life | 5-6 hours | 4.5 – 9 hours (depends on the game) |
| Game Library | Limited to PS5 games (streaming only) | Full game library (all Switch games) |
| Game Storage | None (streams from PS5) | 32GB internal storage, expandable via microSD |
| Controller Compatibility | PS5 DualSense controller | Joy-Con (detachable), Pro Controller (optional) |
| Docking Capability | No docking capability (must be paired with PS5) | Dockable to TV for a larger screen experience |
| Operating System | PlayStation OS (for streaming) | Nintendo Switch OS |
PlayStation Portal vs Nintendo Switch: Design and Build
- PlayStation Portal: This thing looks pretty much like a PlayStation controller with a screen built into it. With an 8-inch display, it lets you stream games from your PS5. The catch? It only works as a companion device, so you’ll need your PS5 to play anything. It doesn’t have Bluetooth either, so connecting accessories like wireless headphones or controllers is a no-go. For a PlayStation fan, it’s a nice way to keep gaming when someone’s using the TV, but it’s not exactly made for gaming on the go.
- Nintendo Switch: Now, the Switch is more flexible. It has a 6.2-inch screen (or 7-inch on the OLED model) and the real kicker—its detachable controllers (called Joy-Con) let you switch between handheld play, tabletop mode, or dock it to your TV for a bigger screen. You can also pair Bluetooth accessories with the Switch, which gives you more options for controllers and wireless headphones. The Switch is all about versatility, so if you want to game wherever you are, it’s got you covered.
PlayStation Portal vs Nintendo Switch: Display and Resolution
- PlayStation Portal: The Portal has an 8-inch LCD screen, which gives you 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second. This means sharp, smooth visuals—perfect for those high-speed action games. If you want to play Spider-Man 2 or Final Fantasy XVI, you’ll get great quality, but only if you’re within range of your PS5 and have a strong Wi-Fi connection.
- Nintendo Switch: The Switch, on the other hand, has a 720p screen when you’re in handheld mode, which isn’t as sharp as the Portal. But when you dock it to your TV, it can upscale to 1080p. Plus, the OLED model really pops with better color contrast. So, if you’re all about visuals and gaming on the go, the Switch has its charm. Just don’t expect the crisp quality of the Portal in handheld mode.
PlayStation Portal vs Nintendo Switch: Game Library and Compatibility
- PlayStation Portal: The Portal doesn’t have its own games—it’s basically an extension of your PS5. So, you get access to the entire PlayStation game library, but only if you already own a PS5. If you have PS5 and want to play in a different room, this is a great option.
- Nintendo Switch: The Switch is packed with amazing exclusive games, like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey. Plus, the Switch has built-in multiplayer options for local and online play—great for social gaming. So, if you want a console that does it all, the Switch is your best bet.
Claim Your PS5 Accessories First with Prelaunch Pre-Orders
If you want to improve your PlayStation setup, I recommend checking out Prelaunch for some awesome accessories. From a PowerA bundle with a protective case and charging station to sleek Chroma Teal console covers, these items will help you keep your PS5 safe and looking great. Plus, you can pre-order them before they’re available anywhere else!
PowerA Accessory Bundle for PS Portal
The PowerA Accessory Bundle for PS Portal offers essential accessories for gamers who want to enhance their setup. It includes a protective case, a charging station with RGB lights, and a screen protector kit to keep your device safe during travel.
- Price: Pre-order for $74.99 instead of the regular $94.00
- Includes: Charging station, protection case, screen protector kit
- Link to Product: PowerA Accessory Bundle.
PS5™ Console Covers (slim) – Chroma Teal
These official PlayStation console covers are simple to install. Just remove your old PS5 covers and snap the new ones into place for a stunningly vivid gaming experience.
- Price (Pre-order): $64.99
- Link to Product: PS5 Console Covers
Want to explore groundbreaking products? Visit Prelaunch Marketplace for cutting-edge projects and exclusive deals. Find the latest trends and one-of-a-kind items all in one place!
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller – Chroma Teal
The PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller in Chroma Teal offers an eye-catching design with improved gaming features. The standout aspect is its immersive feedback, adjusting the feel of every action as you play. With its adaptive triggers and versatile connectivity, it’s built to elevate your gaming experience.
- Price: Pre-order and pay $80 instead of the regular $130
- Link to Product: PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
Final Thoughts
If you already have a PlayStation 5 and just want a way to keep playing when the TV’s taken, the PlayStation Portal is a solid pick. But if you’re looking for a versatile gaming console that you can take anywhere and enjoy a huge library of games, the Nintendo Switch is the way to go.
