The Nintendo Switch 2 has shown that it can outperform the iPhone 16 Pro Max in terms of graphics and framerate when running Fortnite. 
However, the comparison isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. While the Switch 2 delivers impressive performance, it relies on Dynamic Resolution scaling and an increased power draw, particularly when docked, to reach those high framerates.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, powered by the A18 Pro chip, runs Fortnite at 60FPS with impressive consistency. Regardless of whether it is charging, the device runs the game at its maximum visual settings, with a resolution of 704p. The A18 Pro’s efficiency ensures that it performs well at lower power consumption-only using between 4W and 5W. However, this comes at the cost of a lower resolution.
On the other hand, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers a more variable performance. In docked mode, the game runs at 1,224p, while in handheld mode, it drops to 900p. But with the Switch 2’s Dynamic Resolution, the console adjusts its performance depending on the situation, sometimes dropping the resolution further to achieve a stable 60FPS. In some cases, the handheld version can go as low as 600p-substantially lower than the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s 704p.
When it comes to power consumption, the Switch 2 stands out for its high draw, particularly when docked. The console can reach power consumption levels of 18W to 19W, a dramatic increase compared to the A18 Pro’s more efficient 4W to 5W. This leads to a more than 400 percent higher power draw for the Switch 2. While the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s cooling system could potentially handle higher power draws, the Switch 2’s size and design allow for more power-hungry components, including a better heatsink. The raw performance of the Switch 2 may give it the win in terms of sheer power, but if you consider ‘performance per watt,’ the iPhone 16 Pro Max holds the advantage.
Ultimately, this comparison highlights some of the trade-offs in gaming hardware. The Switch 2 may offer better performance in some scenarios, but the iPhone 16 Pro Max is far more efficient in terms of power usage, making it a solid contender for gaming in a more portable and power-efficient package.