You could get away with installing Windows onto the Steam Deck so that Fortnite would work, but this may not be a good plan for the exact SD you are looking at. You will need to upgrade the storage if you get the 64GB model to do this, which will be around 60-100 USD bucks for the SSD and then some leg work to install it, then install Windows onto it. So we are talking around 450-500 USD when its all said and done.
The other trouble is, finding a laptop to run games well enough for under $500 USD may prove difficult unless you look at used devices. For me, used laptops scare me somewhat, and would personally vote against this.
I would recommend you go at least a 256GB Steam Deck and keep Fortnite on his Switch for now. Or, go for a full desktop build since he already has a Switch for portability. Using older/used parts and using that monitor you have would end up being pretty affordable and powerful setup at the $400-500 USD range. He would for sure have a better Fortnite experience on this versus his Switch. Plus then you have a full gaming PC that can be upgraded down the line.
You could get away with installing Windows onto the Steam Deck so that Fortnite would work, but this may not be a good plan for the exact SD you are looking at. You will need to upgrade the storage if you get the 64GB model to do this, which will be around 60-100 USD bucks for the SSD and then some leg work to install it, then install Windows onto it. So we are talking around 450-500 USD when its all said and done.
The other trouble is, finding a laptop to run games well enough for under $500 USD may prove difficult unless you look at used devices. For me, used laptops scare me somewhat, and would personally vote against this.
I would recommend you go at least a 256GB Steam Deck and keep Fortnite on his Switch for now. Or, go for a full desktop build since he already has a Switch for portability. Using older/used parts and using that monitor you have would end up being pretty affordable and powerful setup at the $400-500 USD range. He would for sure have a better Fortnite experience on this versus his Switch. Plus then you have a full gaming PC that can be upgraded down the line.