Nintendo Switch 2 Surpasses Original With Big Tech Boost
Nintendo’s highly anticipated Switch 2 represents the company’s most significant hardware leap in nearly a decade, delivering improvements across nearly every dimension compared to its predecessors. Set to launch on June 5 for $449.99, the new console builds upon the hybrid foundation that made the original Switch a global phenomenon while introducing features that modernize the platform for today’s gaming landscape.
The most immediately noticeable upgrade is the Switch 2’s expansive 7.9-inch 1080p LCD display, significantly larger than both the original Switch’s 6.2-inch screen and the OLED model’s 7-inch panel, according to The Verge’s comprehensive comparison. While Nintendo has opted for LCD technology rather than OLED, the higher resolution compensates by offering a sharper image in handheld mode than its 720p predecessors.
Storage capacity sees a dramatic increase, with the Switch 2 providing 256GB of internal space—eight times more than the original Switch and four times the OLED variant’s capacity. The new console also exclusively supports microSD Express cards, which deliver substantially faster data reading speeds than the standard microSD cards used by previous models.
Reimagined Controls and Connection
Perhaps the most innovative change comes in the form of the Joy-Con 2 controllers, which now attach magnetically rather than sliding into rails. These redesigned controllers introduce a feature unprecedented in Nintendo’s hardware lineup: the ability to function as a mouse when slid across a flat surface, opening new gameplay possibilities for titles that require precise aiming or pointer controls.
“Either Joy-Con 2 controller can be operated like a mouse by sliding it on a surface like a table or on a pair of pants,” Nintendo explained in its official announcement. “They can be used in multiple ways, including for games that require aiming.”
The right Joy-Con 2 also includes a dedicated “C” button that activates GameChat, Nintendo’s new social communication platform that allows voice chat, screen sharing, and even video calls when paired with the separately sold Nintendo Switch 2 Camera.
My overall thoughts of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct:
— Nathan (@NSuperGamerGuy) April 2, 2025
– New first party games look unbelievable
– 120FPS AND 4K IS POSSIBLE????
– 3rd party support blew me away
– GAMECUBE ON NSO IS ONE OF MY MOST WANTED THINGS EVER
– Console pricing is fine
– Game pricing is awful pic.twitter.com/s8syZzKOgO
Performance and Output
While Nintendo has kept specific technical details about the new Nvidia chipset under wraps, the company has confirmed “significantly improved CPU and GPU performance” compared to the original Switch’s custom Tegra X1 processor. The upgraded hardware enables the Switch 2 to output games at up to 4K resolution and 60 frames per second when docked, or 1080p at up to 120fps with variable refresh rate in handheld mode.
The redesigned dock includes a built-in ethernet port (previously only available on the OLED model’s dock) and an additional USB-C port. However, these hardware improvements come with a trade-off: battery life is rated between 2.5 and 6.5 hours, shorter than the 4.5 to 9 hours offered by the Switch and Switch OLED.
Backwards Compatibility and GameCube Classics
Nintendo is positioning the Switch 2 as a continuation rather than a complete reset, confirming that most physical and digital games from the original Switch will be playable on the new system. The company has noted that some titles may face compatibility issues, including popular games like Doom: Eternal, Rocket League, and NBA 2K25.
For Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers, the Switch 2 will launch with access to a new Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics collection, beginning with F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and SOULCALIBUR II. A dedicated wireless controller modeled after the original GameCube controller will be available for purchase by paid Nintendo Switch Online members.
Premium Pricing
At $449.99, the Switch 2 represents Nintendo’s most expensive console launch in recent memory, commanding a $150 premium over the standard Switch ($299.99) and $100 more than the Switch OLED ($349.99). A bundle including the system and a download code for Mario Kart World will be available for $499.99 through fall 2025 or while supplies last.
In European markets, the Switch 2 will retail for £395.99 in the UK and €469.99 in Germany. Pre-orders open on April 9 in North America and April 8 in Europe.
With over 150 million units sold since its 2017 launch, the original Switch sits just behind the Nintendo DS (155 million) and PlayStation 2 (160 million) in the all-time console sales rankings. The Switch 2 aims to continue this success while introducing features that address limitations of the original hardware, potentially extending Nintendo’s hybrid console concept for years to come.
