Nintendo's recent Direct presentation shared extensive details about the Nintendo Switch 2, and we've gathered even more information since the hour-long event wrapped, including the technical specifications of the new console. While numerous questions remain, let's dive into what's new with the Switch 2.
This was previously mentioned, but Nintendo confirmed that the new system features a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen capable of 1080p (1920x1080) output. This marks a significant improvement over the original Switch's 6.2-inch display, the Switch OLED's 7-inch screen (though the OLED technology will be missed), and the Switch Lite's 5.5-inch screen.
The console also supports HDR10 and VRR at up to 120 Hz, allowing games to run at up to 120fps when supported by both the software and your setup.
It was also confirmed that connecting the Switch 2 to its new dock enables gaming at 4K (3840x2160) and 60fps, or at 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) and 120fps. These enhanced visuals are powered by a "custom processor developed by NVIDIA," though specific details about the CPU/GPU architecture have not yet been disclosed.
However, the battery life details were shared. The Switch 2 uses a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery, providing an estimated 2 to 6.5 hours of gameplay and a three-hour charge time in Sleep mode. Nintendo emphasized these are "rough estimates" and that "actual battery life will vary depending on the games played."
This battery performance is nearly identical to the original launch model Switch, which offered between 2.5 and 6.5 hours. In contrast, the Switch 2's battery life is lower than the three more recent Switch models—the standard Nintendo Switch (4.5-9 hours), the Nintendo Switch - OLED Model (4.5-9 hours), and the Nintendo Switch Lite (3-7 hours).
Regarding dimensions, the Switch 2 measures approximately 4.5 inches tall by 10.7 inches wide by 0.55 inches thick with the Joy-Con 2 controllers attached. It weighs roughly 0.88 pounds without the Joy-Con 2 and 1.18 pounds with them connected.
The Switch 2's weight matches the current Switch model exactly, but it is both taller and wider than any current model with Joy-Con attached;
Nintendo Switch 2 -4.5 inches tall x 10.7 inches wide x .55 inches thick / .88 lbsNintendo Switch - 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x .55 inches thick / .88 lbsNintendo Switch - OLED Model - 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x .55 inches thick / .93 lbsNintendo Switch Lite - 3.6 inches tall x 8.2 inches long x .55 inches thick / .61 lbs
On the topic of Joy-Con, we did not receive confirmation that they utilize Hall Effect joysticks, which are known to help prevent the drift issues many Switch users encountered. They might still incorporate this technology, as suggested by a 2023 patent, but we'll need to wait for definitive information.
For audio, the Switch 2 supports linear PCM 5.1ch output. A surround sound effect can also be activated through headphones or the built-in speaker following a system update.
Storage-wise, the Switch 2 includes 256 GB of internal storage, a notable upgrade from the 32 GB in the standard Switch and Switch Lite, and the 64 GB in the Switch - OLED Model. Another significant change is that the Switch 2 will require microSD Express cards for expanding storage up to 2TB, meaning the microSDXC cards compatible with current Switch models will not work with the new console.
Lastly, it was confirmed the Switch 2 supports Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6), includes 2 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 additional coverage, check out our summary of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, details on the new system's pricing, a list of confirmed launch titles, and information on when pre-orders begin.
