The initial switches started a revolution when they combined handheld portability with the ability to play games on TV like traditional consoles. But with Nintendo Switch 2Even if it’s bigger on the body, it feels like a smoother, faster, more refined ex, so much that Nintendo should call it the Super Switch ( Apparently it almost happened). After a chance to try it, I sold it as much as it can even if it starts at a noticeably higher price of $450.
Editor’s Note: This hands-on focus is our author’s experience on the new Nintendo Switch 2, covering hardware, play experience, and changes in the original model. If you are looking for more information about Sam’s impression of a single game, please go from his Working with Mario Kart WorldHe calls it “the perfect start game for Switch 2”.
Design and display: No OLED, no problem
The switch 2 has the same basic shape and layout as the original, including its iconic removable Joy-Con. However, it looks even more shiny thanks to the tapered edges and thinner bezels. Nintendo also added the size of the joystick cover and the face button on the left controller, although the latter still doesn’t feel like the traditional D-pad.
That said, the biggest upgrade is its larger 7.9-inch 1080p LCD display, which now supports 120Hz refresh rate with VRR and high dynamic range. To be honest, it’s so bright and colorful that I really don’t miss the OLED screen. Now, despite the presence of OLED switches, Nintendo does not choose a similar panel type, although it does not select the panel type on the Switch 2. However, if you remember, the model doesn’t support HDR, so this isn’t like we’re showing off quality downgrades, although the super black you get from the OLED screen is all good.
Again, Switch 2 feels like it violates its size, because even though it shows larger than the 6.2-inch version on the base switch, it doesn’t feel big. It’s only half an inch (4.5 inches) and wider (9.4 vs 10.7 inches). Although its Joy-Con attachment (from 0.88 pounds) adds weight, it also increases to 1.18 pounds, but never feels too heavy.
Elsewhere, there are plenty of life upgrades, including a second USB-C port (although the bottom is the only upgrade that can be done with video), a built-in microphone and support for microSD Express cards. The last one is a big deal because even if cards are more expensive, they are much faster than your standard fare and should be the main boon for download speed and load time. I admit that the lack of analog shoulder buttons is a small bottom line, although Nintendo says it is an option because analog buttons introduce a little bit of input lag and hope for a more responsive solution.
Joy-Con Features: Extended Dicachables
During Nintendo, Nintendo spent a lot of time talking about the right C button on Joy-Con, which felt like a first-party solution, hoping to recreate everything people like disharmoniously. However, in Nintendo’s hands-on experience, there was no chance to test the new social features of the console, so I couldn’t delve into it.
But, that’s OK, because I think Joy-Con’s new magnetic mounting system is a hidden star. Not only is there a larger button around the back that pops them out, now they just drop them off when you pull them left or right. No need to slide anything up or down first. Of course, this sounds like a small change, but it makes the whole process easier and Joy-Con seems to be safer, too.
Then there is the ability of Joy-Con to act as a mouse (for left and right controllers). I thought it was fancy until I played Metroid Prime 4: Beyond I suddenly realized that I like mouse mode instead of standard gamepad controls. Everything feels more precise, and if you are a fan of Shooters on PC, it’s definitely worth a try. The obvious limitation is that although you can use Joy-Con on your legs, you really should have some kind of flat surface, like a table, which might be an option if your favorite game location is on the sofa.
Performance: Nintendo moves to next-generation technology
Nintendo has been relatively quiet about Switch 2’s processor and memory. But the company said the system does support DLSS and hardware-based ray tracing. Now, these features may not be available in every game, but for third-party developers, porting their title to the company’s upcoming console seems to make it easier. When I play the new switch 2 version Street Fighter 6,,,,, Cyberpunk 2077 and Civilization 7they all ran very smoothly. And, without direct side-by-side comparisons being made next to the proper gaming PC, it is difficult to tell whether switch 2 cuts the corners graphically, or even does so. The only ic-playing I noticed was in a long time folkthis is not uncommon in Sid Meier games.
On the other hand, if you tell me some new first-party games from Nintendo, e.g. Donkey Banana and Mario Karting World It actually runs on the original switch and I won’t blink. In some ways, Nintendo’s ability to twist every moment’s final performance abilities from the hardware, and the habit of avoiding surrealism in favor of more stylised graphics almost caps the company’s ability to truly show off its gravel. But when you follow, you’ll really appreciate how pleasant the Satin Mario Kart looks when running at 120 fps.
I’m still concerned with what’s going on inside the new dock of the Switch 2 and the improved performance it offers when connected to the TV. I also think it’s a ridiculous idea to be Nintendo is charging money for the Switch 2 welcome tour. It’s hardly a game, but it’s a really useful way to introduce the features of the console to new owners and it should indeed be preinstalled on every system for free. How the Switch 2’s battery life remains to be seen. Nintendo says its power pack is bigger than the original switch, but it also has improved performance and a larger screen, while the company claims that Runtimes may vary between 2 and 6 and a half hours, according to the title.
But all in all, the Switch 2 is exactly what you want to need from successor to Nintendo’s legendary hybrid console. Apart from the price, that is, except for the console starting at $450, almost all its standard accessories cost more than before. From Pro Controller, now priced at $80 ($10 more than the original switch) or an additional Joy-Con for $90 (another $10 hike). That’s before thinking about the cost of the game Mario Karting World and Donkey Banana It starts at $80, digital downloads ($90 and $80 if you need a physical car).
Updated, April 3, 2025, 12:35 PM ET: This story has been updated to include edited notes, pointing out where readers can find our hands-on impressions Mario Karting World.
