Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date, Price & Features – Latest Updates
Back in early April of this year, Nintendo officially unveiled its next-generation console: the Nintendo Switch 2 . Following that announcement, the company shared additional details about the system’s performance and hardware upgrades, generating a lot of excitement among gamers.
One of the most notable claims from Nintendo is that the new console offers up to 10 times the processing power of the original Switch — a significant leap forward in performance for a hybrid gaming device.
However, not every change is purely an improvement. Some features have reportedly taken a step back, including reduced battery life , and the need to use microSD Express cards for game storage, which means older SD cards won’t work for installing titles anymore.
If you’re looking for a quick recap, here’s what we currently know about the technical specifications of the Nintendo Switch 2 …
Design and Display
- Dimensions : Approx. 166mm x 272mm x 13.9mm (with Joy-Con 2 attached)
- Weight : Approx. 401g (console only) , or 534g with Joy-Con controllers
- Screen : 7.9-inch capacitive touch LCD , 1920×1080 resolution , HDR10 support , and VRR up to 120Hz
Performance and Storage
- CPU/GPU : Custom NVIDIA chip
- Internal Storage : 256GB UFS (part reserved for system use)
- Expansion Slot : microSD Express card slot (supports up to 2TB )
Connectivity and Ports
- Wi-Fi 6 , Bluetooth
- Wired LAN support via dock in TV mode
- USB Ports : 2 USB Type-C ports
- Bottom port: Charging / Dock connection
- Top port: Accessories / Secondary charging
- Audio Jack : 3.5mm stereo mini plug (CTIA standard)
Video and Audio Output
- Video Output : Up to 3840×2160 at 60fps via HDMI in TV mode
Supports 120fps at lower resolutions , with HDR10 enabled - Audio Output : Linear PCM 5.1 channel via HDMI , stereo speakers
- Microphone : Built-in monaural microphone with noise cancellation , echo cancellation , and auto gain control
Sensors and Controls
- Buttons : POWER and Volume buttons
- Sensors : Accelerometer, gyroscope, brightness sensor
- Game Card Slot : Supports both Nintendo Switch 2 and original Switch game cards
Battery and Dock
- Battery : Lithium-ion, 5220 mAh , approx. 2–6.5 hours usage time , charges in about 3 hours in sleep mode
- Dock Dimensions : Approx. 115mm x 201mm x 51.2mm , weight: approx. 383g
Nintendo Switch 2 – Pros and Cons
As the successor to one of the most popular hybrid consoles, the Nintendo Switch 2 brings a mix of upgrades and compromises. Here’s a clear breakdown of its main advantages and drawbacks .
✅ Pros
1. Major Performance Boost
The Switch 2 features a custom NVIDIA processor , offering up to 10x the performance of the original Switch. This allows for better visuals, faster load times, and more complex games.
2. Improved Display
It comes with a 7.9-inch Full HD (1920×1080) LCD touchscreen , supporting HDR10 and VRR up to 120Hz , delivering smoother gameplay and richer visuals.
3. Enhanced TV Mode Support
In docked mode, the console supports 4K resolution at 60fps via HDMI , and even 120fps at lower resolutions , making it much more capable on the big screen.
4. Latest Connectivity Options
Includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth , and wired LAN support through the dock — ensuring fast and stable connections.
5. Backward Compatibility
Supports both Nintendo Switch 2 and original Switch game cards , letting players keep using their existing physical collection.
6. Better Audio Features
Equipped with Linear PCM 5.1 audio output , built-in stereo speakers , and a noise-canceling microphone for clearer voice chat.
❌ Cons
1. Reduced Battery Life
Despite a slightly larger battery (5220 mAh ), the estimated battery life is only 2–6.5 hours , which is shorter than the original model .
2. microSD Express Only for Games
Older microSD cards are no longer fully supported. You’ll need to invest in microSD Express cards for game storage — older ones only work for screenshots and videos.
3. No Major Design Overhaul
While performance has improved, the overall design remains similar to the original Switch, with minimal changes in ergonomics or portability.
4. Dock Still Bulky
The docking station is not significantly smaller or lighter , measuring 115mm x 201mm x 51.2mm and weighing around 383g .
5. Limited Internal Storage
Only 256GB UFS storage is included (with part reserved for system use), which may fill up quickly with modern game sizes.
Where to Buy the Nintendo Switch 2 – And Games That May Not Be Compatible
If you’re planning to get your hands on the new Nintendo Switch 2 , it’s important to know where to look. Major retailers including Walmart, GameStop, Best Buy, and Target have all confirmed that they will receive limited stock from time to time . Due to high demand, availability is expected to be inconsistent at launch, so it’s best to set up stock alerts and check back frequently.
Nintendo has also released an updated list of games that may not be compatible with the Switch 2. While the console maintains strong backward compatibility, some titles may not run properly due to changes in system architecture or early-stage software support.
Here is the current list of potentially incompatible games:
- Borderlands 3
- Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition
- Crash Bandicoot N-Sane Trilogy
- Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus R
- KarmaZoo
- Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics
- Mortal Kombat 1
- Overwatch 2
- Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords
- Star Wars Republic Commando
- Super Mega Baseball 4
- Tombi! Special Edition
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2
- Touhou Genso Wanderer Reloaded
- Ty the Tasmanian Tiger HD
- Warriors: Abyss
Please note that this list was last updated by Nintendo on May 27th , and the company has stated that compatibility testing is still ongoing. Some of these titles may eventually work after future updates.
You can view the official list of unsupported games directly on Nintendo’s support page for the latest information.
Have you already managed to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2? Let us know in the comments below!
