Fortnite or Apex Legends: which suits the kit you own?
Both are free battle royales on PC and every console. The differences show up on phones, laptops, handhelds and in the shop.
01 · the short answerFortnite reaches more kit and is easier to start
Fortnite runs on more of your kit, including phones, everyday laptops and a free cloud route, and its Zero Build mode is a gentler way in. Apex Legends has the better-feeling shooting and movement, but it no longer runs on Steam Deck or the original Switch, and its shop sells packs with random contents.
02 · the kitWhere each one plays
| Kit | Fortnite | Apex Legends |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop PC | Plays | Plays |
| Everyday laptop | Plays | With caveats |
| Steam Deck | Not available · Not supported | Not available · Unsupported |
| PlayStation 5 | Plays | Plays |
| Xbox Series X|S | Plays | Plays |
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Plays | Plays · Switch 2 only |
| Phone & tablet | Plays | Not available |
| Mac | Not available | Not available |
| Cloud streaming | Plays · Free on Xbox cloud | With caveats · GeForce NOW |
03 · the factsSide by side
| Point | Fortnite | Apex Legends |
|---|---|---|
| Kit List score | 8.2 / 10 | 7.0 / 10 |
| Entry price | Free | Free |
| PEGI | PG | 16 |
| PC storage | 60 GB | 75 GB |
| Minimum graphics class | A | B |
| Crossplay | Yes: every platform | Yes: all platforms |
| Everyday laptop | Yes: Intel HD 4000 minimum | Borderline: GTX 950-class minimum |
| Phones | iPhone and Android | No |
| Steam Deck | Not supported | Blocked since October 2024 |
| Random items | Only in some creator islands | Apex Packs and event packs |
04 · the verdictWhich one to start
For most households Fortnite is the easier recommendation. It is on almost every screen, free to play online without any console subscription, and it has calmer modes for players who do not want to shoot at all. Apex Legends is the pick for a PC or console squad that cares most about how a shooter feels.
Pick Fortnite if…
you play on phones, laptops or Switch 2, want modes for the whole family, or prefer a shop that shows exactly what you are buying.
Full reviewPick Apex Legends if…
you have a PC or current console, a regular squad, and want the best movement and gunplay in a free shooter.
Full review