Nintendo Switch 2 Unveiled: 4K, 120fps, Enhanced Battery, and More

Nintendo's recent Direct presentation unveiled exciting details about the Nintendo Switch 2, and since then, even more information has come to light, including the new console's tech specs. Although there are still many questions to be answered, let's delve into what we know about the Switch 2.

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will boast a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen capable of 1080p (1920x1080) output. This represents a significant upgrade over the original Switch's 6.2-inch screen, the Switch OLED's 7-inch screen, and the Switch Lite's 5.5-inch screen. While we'll miss the OLED's vibrant display, the larger LCD screen on the Switch 2 promises a more immersive gaming experience.

The new console also supports HDR10 and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) up to 120 Hz, which means games can achieve up to 120fps when both the game and your setup support it. This feature will undoubtedly enhance gameplay smoothness and responsiveness.

When docked, the Switch 2 can play games in 4K (3840x2160) at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) at 120fps. This impressive capability is powered by a "custom processor made by NVIDIA," although specific details about the CPU/GPU remain undisclosed.

Nintendo revealed the Switch 2's battery life, which is supported by a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery. This offers an estimated 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, with a three-hour charge time in Sleep mode. Nintendo notes these are "rough estimates" and that battery life will vary based on the games played. This battery life is similar to the launch model of the original Switch, which ranged from 2.5 to 6.5 hours, but it's a step down from the newer Switch models, including the Nintendo Switch (4.5 to 9 hours), Nintendo Switch - OLED Model (4.5 to 9 hours), and Nintendo Switch Lite (3 to 7 hours).

In terms of dimensions, the Switch 2 measures approximately 4.5 inches tall, 10.7 inches wide, and 0.55 inches thick with the Joy-Con 2 attached. Without the Joy-Con 2, it weighs about 0.88 pounds, and with them, it weighs 1.18 pounds. This matches the weight of the original Switch model but is taller and longer than any current model with Joy-Con attached:

Nintendo Switch 2 - 4.5 inches tall x 10.7 inches wide x 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbs
Nintendo Switch - 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbs
Nintendo Switch - OLED Model - 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.93 lbs
Nintendo Switch Lite - 3.6 inches tall x 8.2 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.61 lbs

Regarding the Joy-Con, there's no confirmation yet on whether they will use Hall Effect joysticks to prevent the drifting issues seen in previous models. However, a 2023 patent hinted at this possibility, so we'll need to wait for more information.

On the audio side, the Switch 2 supports linear PCM output 5.1ch, and a surround sound effect can be enabled via headphones or the built-in speaker after a system update.

Storage-wise, the Switch 2 comes with 256 GB of internal storage, a notable upgrade from the 32 GB in the original Switch and Switch Lite, and the 64 GB in the Switch - OLED Model. However, it will require microSD Express cards for up to 2TB of additional storage, as the microSDXC cards used by current Switch models will not be compatible.

Additional features include support for Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6), two 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 more details, check out our recap of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, information on the new system's cost, a list of launch games, and when pre-orders for the Switch 2 will start.