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The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025, and it has garnered significant attention. The original Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, was a massive success worldwide, blurring the lines between handheld and console gaming. Now, eight years later, the Nintendo Switch 2 is not just about improved performance; it comes with new features that have gamers eagerly anticipating its release.
Building on the success of its predecessor, Nintendo has further developed the concept of a hybrid console. The Nintendo Switch 2 supports backward compatibility with the original Switch while offering a next-generation gaming experience. Thanks to a significantly improved screen resolution, it can now play games at up to 4K 120P.
Product Composition and Specifications
Looking at the specifications of the Nintendo Switch 2, it features an Arm Cortex-A78C (8 cores) CPU and Nvidia T239 Ampere GPU, with 12 GB LPDDR5 memory. Compared to its predecessor, it boasts six times more CUDA cores and three times more memory.
The internal storage is 256GB, expandable with up to 2TB microSD Express memory cards. The battery is a 19.3 Wh (5220 mAh, 3.7V) lithium-ion battery, offering about 2 to 6.5 hours of use on a full charge, with a charging time of approximately 3 hours.
The product package includes the Nintendo Switch 2 console, Joy-Con 2, Joy-Con 2 grip, two Joy-Con 2 straps, Nintendo Switch 2 dock, Nintendo Switch 2 AC adapter, and an HDMI cable.
Appearance and Features
The Nintendo Switch 2 inherits the DNA of its predecessor while showcasing sleek design changes. It measures 116mm in height, 272mm in width, and 13.9mm in thickness, with a 7.9-inch screen and a weight of 534g.
The top features a power button, volume buttons, game card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, vent, and sensor opening. The bottom includes a microSD slot, a large vent, and a USB-C port. Notably, the intake has been moved entirely to the bottom and enlarged, reflecting overall performance improvements and changes in the cooling system.
The regulatory markings have been moved inside the Joy-Con attachment area, with the Nintendo logo on the opposite side, leaving only the Switch 2 logo visible on the back.
Both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch 1 game cards are supported, with a spring cover to prevent dust ingress.
The Joy-Con 2 is one of the most significant upgrades in the Nintendo Switch 2. The most notable feature is mouse operation support. Each Joy-Con can be stood on its connection end to function like a mouse, with mouse feet on the side connections and strap ends for smooth gliding.
Equipped with HD Rumble 2 and motion sensors, it allows for pointer angle adjustments and haptic feedback, which are impossible with a traditional mouse. The newly added C button (below the HOME button) quickly brings up the game chat feature.
The Joy-Con 2 grip allows the Joy-Con 2 to be combined into a typical wireless controller form. It resembles a standard gamepad, minimizing fatigue during extended play sessions. However, it does not offer a 3.5mm audio jack or a separate charging port.
The charging dock offers various ports, including two USB-A ports on the left and a charging USB-C port, HDMI port, and wired LAN port behind a cover on the back.
The Nintendo Switch 2 weighs approximately 420g, and about 556g with the Joy-Con 2 attached. Although slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor, it maintains portability. The maximum thickness from the analog stick tip to the ZL ZR protrusion when the Joy-Con is connected is 30.7mm, providing a comfortable grip.
Settings and Display
The Nintendo Switch 2’s display has been upgraded to a 7.9-inch capacitive touchscreen with a subpixel IPS TFT LCD. The screen, expanded from the previous 6.2 inches to 7.9 inches, offers a more immersive gaming experience. Display settings support up to 1080p 120fps in handheld mode and 4K resolution in docked mode, with HDR capability for vivid and clear colors. An ambient light sensor supports automatic brightness adjustment based on the surrounding environment.
Additional Accessories
I purchased a basic accessory set of three items during the pre-order, which was affordable but had some drawbacks. The Switch 2 crystal detachable case plays a crucial role in protecting the Nintendo Switch 2 console. Made from transparent material, it preserves the console’s design while providing protection against impacts.
However, there was an issue. Although the product description stated it could be docked for charging, it did not fit properly, causing compatibility issues with screen output.
It is also incompatible with the Joy-Con 2 grip, requiring the case to be removed for use as a pad. It seems necessary to purchase a separate protective film for use with the grip.
The portable pouch is designed to systematically store cables, game cartridges, and small accessories. Its well-divided interior makes organization easy, and it safely carries essential items when going out.
Gameplay
I pre-ordered The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, released simultaneously with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is an action-adventure game that allows free exploration of the open-world Hyrule continent, a sequel to Breath of the Wild. In this Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, sky islands have been added for three-dimensional exploration, and new systems like Ultra Hand and Fuse abilities have been introduced.
Testing actual gameplay on UHD, QHD, and FHD screens, the performance improvements of the Nintendo Switch 2 were evident. As shown in the attached video, it maintains stable frame rates across resolutions, with significantly improved color expression due to HDR support.
In Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch 2 is more than just a performance upgrade; it represents the evolution of a 9th-generation console as a portable gaming device. With Joy-Con 2 supporting mouse functions and significantly enhanced graphics performance, everything is designed for a next-generation gaming experience.
After eight years, the Nintendo Switch 2 seems poised to meet the expectations of existing users while also appealing to new consumers. The backward compatibility, allowing the use of existing game libraries, is a significant advantage.
Personally, it feels like I’ve found a fantastic toy after a long time, making the eight-year wait worthwhile.
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