The Nintendo Switch 2, officially announced in January 2025, introduces several major upgrades over the original Switch.
From a larger display to improved performance, here’s how the two consoles compare.
Bigger Display and Redesigned Body
The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch LCD screen, significantly larger than the original’s 6.2-inch display. It also has thinner bezels and a full-width kickstand, making tabletop gaming more stable.
Despite being slimmer, the Switch 2 is slightly heavier at 1.18 pounds with Joy-Cons attached.
Performance Upgrades
Nintendo has equipped the Switch 2 with a custom Nvidia chip, delivering better graphics and faster processing. The console now supports 4K output at 60fps in docked mode, and 120fps at lower resolutions, a major leap from the original.
Additionally, internal storage has increased to 256GB, compared to just 32GB on the original Switch.
New Joy-Cons and Connectivity Features
The Switch 2’s Joy-Cons are larger and attach magnetically instead of using the previous rail system. A new “C” button has been introduced on the right Joy-Con, though Nintendo has not revealed its function yet.
The console also includes two USB-C ports, doubling the connectivity options of the original.
Other Enhancements
Players can expect improved speakers for better in-game audio and a longer battery life of up to 6.5 hours, depending on usage.
The new dock now has an internal cooling fan, which helps regulate temperature during extended gaming sessions.
Final Thoughts
The Switch 2 keeps the hybrid gaming experience of the original but enhances performance, display, and usability.
These improvements make it a solid upgrade for both new and existing Switch users.