Nintendo Switch 2: 4K, 120fps, Enhanced Battery, More Storage

Nintendo's latest Direct has given us a wealth of information about the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. From tech specs to design changes, let's dive into what makes this new console stand out.

One of the most exciting upgrades is the new 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen, capable of delivering visuals at a crisp 1080p resolution (1920x1080). This is a significant leap forward from the original Switch's 6.2-inch screen, the Switch OLED's 7-inch display, and the Switch Lite's smaller 5.5-inch screen. While we'll miss the vibrant colors of the OLED model, this larger screen promises an immersive gaming experience.

The Switch 2 also supports HDR10 and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) up to 120 Hz, which means smoother gameplay and the potential for games to run at 120fps, depending on the title and your setup.

When docked, the Switch 2 can output games at 4K resolution (3840x2160) at 60fps, or at 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) at 120fps. This impressive performance is powered by a "custom processor made by NVIDIA," though specifics about the CPU and GPU remain under wraps for now.

Battery life is another crucial aspect, with the Switch 2 featuring a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery. Nintendo estimates a playtime of approximately 2 to 6.5 hours, with a charge time of three hours in Sleep mode. These estimates can vary based on the games played, but they align closely with the original Switch's 2.5 to 6.5 hours. However, this represents a slight downgrade compared to the newer models: the standard Switch (4.5 to 9 hours), the Switch OLED (4.5 to 9 hours), and the Switch Lite (3 to 7 hours).

In terms of size and weight, the Switch 2 measures approximately 4.5 inches tall, 10.7 inches wide, and 0.55 inches thick with the Joy-Con 2 attached. It weighs about 0.88 pounds without the Joy-Con 2 and 1.18 pounds with them. This makes it taller and longer than the current models but with the same weight as the original Switch.

Here's a quick comparison of the dimensions and weights:

• Nintendo Switch 2: 4.5 inches tall x 10.7 inches wide x 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbs without Joy-Con 2, 1.18 lbs with Joy-Con 2
• Nintendo Switch: 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbs
• Nintendo Switch - OLED Model: 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.93 lbs
• Nintendo Switch Lite: 3.6 inches tall x 8.2 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.61 lbs

Regarding the Joy-Con, there's no confirmation yet on whether they will use Hall Effect joysticks to combat the notorious drift issue. However, a 2023 patent hinted at this possibility, so we'll have to wait for more details.

On the audio side, the Switch 2 supports linear PCM output 5.1ch, and a surround sound effect can be enabled via headphones or the built-in speaker after a system update.

Storage has seen a significant upgrade, with the Switch 2 boasting 256 GB of internal storage, a leap from the 32 GB in the original Switch and Switch Lite, and the 64 GB in the Switch OLED. However, it will require microSD Express cards for up to 2TB of additional storage, meaning current microSDXC cards won't be compatible.

Finally, the Switch 2 will support Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6), feature two USB-C ports, a 3.5mm 4-contact stereo mini-plug (CTIA standard), and a built-in monaural microphone with noise cancellation, echo cancellation, and auto gain control.

For more details, be sure to check out our recap of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, the pricing information, the list of launch games, and when pre-orders will begin.