During its most recent Direct presentation, Nintendo unveiled a wealth of information about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Since then, even more technical specifications have come to light, shedding additional insight into the system’s capabilities. While some aspects mark clear improvements, there are also a few areas that raise concern when compared to previous models.
Larger Screen and Display Enhancements
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will include a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD display, capable of reaching a resolution of 1080p (1920×1080). This represents a noticeable upgrade over earlier versions: the original Switch featured a 6.2-inch screen, the OLED model had a 7-inch display, and the Switch Lite offered a smaller 5.5-inch screen. Although the OLED panel is being replaced by LCD, the larger screen and enhanced color range are likely to be appreciated.
In terms of performance, the Switch 2 introduces support for HDR10 and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) up to 120Hz. This means that, depending on the game and the user’s display setup, frame rates could potentially reach up to 120 frames per second.
4K Docked Mode and Visual Performance
When placed into its new dock, the Switch 2 can output visuals at 4K resolution (3840×2160) at 60fps. Alternatively, it can achieve 1080p or 1440p (1920×1080 / 2560×1440) at 120fps. This level of performance is made possible by a custom processor developed in collaboration with NVIDIA. However, specific details regarding the CPU and GPU have yet to be shared.
Battery Life: A Step Backward
The system’s power comes from a 5220mAh internal lithium-ion battery. This allows for approximately 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime on a full charge, with charging in Sleep Mode estimated at around three hours. Nintendo clarified that these are approximate figures and the actual battery life will vary depending on the games being played.
While this range mirrors that of the original Switch launch model (2.5 to 6.5 hours), it falls short of the improved battery life found in more recent versions:
- Nintendo Switch (revised model): 4.5 to 9 hours
- Switch OLED: 4.5 to 9 hours
- Switch Lite: 3 to 7 hours
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Nintendo Switch 2 measures approximately 4.5 inches tall, 10.7 inches wide, and 0.55 inches thick with the new Joy-Con 2 controllers attached. Its weight is roughly 0.88 pounds without the controllers and 1.18 pounds with them.
While it maintains the same thickness and base weight as the original model, the Switch 2 is noticeably taller and wider than its predecessors:
- Switch 2: 4.5″ x 10.7″ x 0.55″ / 0.88 lbs
- Original Switch: 4.0″ x 9.5″ x 0.55″ / 0.88 lbs
- Switch OLED: 4.0″ x 9.5″ x 0.55″ / 0.93 lbs
- Switch Lite: 3.6″ x 8.2″ x 0.55″ / 0.61 lbs
Joy-Con Joysticks: Still a Question Mark
At this stage, there is no confirmation that the new Joy-Con controllers utilize Hall Effect joysticks, which could potentially eliminate the drifting issues experienced in previous models. Although a patent filed in 2023 hinted at their possible inclusion, confirmation is still pending.
Audio and Sound Support
The Switch 2 is equipped to support linear PCM 5.1 channel audio output. Surround sound effects will be available either through compatible headphones or the built-in speaker system following a software update.
Internal and Expandable Storage
One of the more significant improvements is the inclusion of 256GB of internal storage. This is a considerable step up from previous models:
- Original Switch and Switch Lite: 32GB
- Switch OLED: 64GB
However, the new system will not be compatible with older microSDXC cards. Instead, it will support microSD Express cards, with expansion up to 2TB. This change may inconvenience users hoping to transfer existing storage cards to the new console.
Connectivity and Additional Features
Connectivity features on the Switch 2 include support for Wireless LAN with Wi-Fi 6 compatibility. Additional hardware elements include two USB-C ports, a 3.5mm 4-contact stereo mini-jack (CTIA standard), and a built-in monaural microphone. The microphone also supports advanced features such as noise cancellation, echo reduction, and automatic gain control.
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