Nintendo's latest Direct gave us a massive look at the Nintendo Switch 2, but we've gathered even more details since the presentation wrapped, including key technical specifications. While plenty of questions remain, here's a breakdown of what's new with the Switch 2.
This had been mentioned previously, but Nintendo confirmed the new system will boast a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen capable of 1080p (1920x1080) output. This is a significant jump from the original Switch's 6.2-inch display, the Switch OLED's 7-inch panel (though we will miss those OLED colors!), and the Switch Lite's 5.5-inch screen.
It also supports HDR10 and VRR up to 120 Hz, enabling games to reach up to 120fps where supported by both the game and your setup.
It was also confirmed that docking the Switch 2 will allow gameplay in 4K (3840x2160) at 60fps or at 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) at 120fps. These enhanced graphics are powered by a "custom NVIDIA processor," though specifics regarding the CPU/GPU architecture remain under wraps.
What was revealed, however, is the battery life. The Switch 2 houses a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery, estimated to provide approximately 2 to 6.5 hours of gameplay and a three-hour charge time in Sleep mode. Nintendo notes these are "rough estimates" and that actual "battery life will depend on the games you play."
This battery life is comparable to the launch model Switch 1, which offered 2.5 to 6.5 hours. However, it represents a step down from the three newer Switch models: the updated Nintendo Switch (4.5 - 9 hours), the Nintendo Switch OLED Model (4.5 - 9 hours), and the Nintendo Switch Lite (3 - 7 hours).
In terms of dimensions, the Switch 2 with the Joy-Con 2 attached measures approximately 4.5 inches tall by 10.7 inches wide by 0.55 inches thick. It weighs roughly 0.88 pounds without the Joy-Con 2 and 1.18 pounds with them attached.
The Switch 2's weight matches the current Switch 1 model, 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 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbsNintendo Switch - 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbsNintendo Switch - OLED Model - 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.93 lbsNintendo Switch Lite - 3.6 inches tall x 8.2 inches long x 0.55 inches thick / 0.61 lbs
Regarding the Joy-Con, we unfortunately didn't get confirmation on Hall Effect joysticks, which could prevent the drift issues many experienced. They may still be included, as hinted in a 2023 patent, but we'll have to wait for definitive details.
For audio, the Switch 2 supports linear PCM 5.1ch output. A surround sound effect can also be enabled via headphones or the built-in speaker following a system update.
For storage, the Switch 2 includes 256 GB of internal space, a major upgrade from the 32 GB in the standard Switch and Lite, and the 64 GB in the OLED Model. A key difference is that the Switch 2 requires microSD Express cards for up to 2TB of extra storage, meaning existing microSDXC cards from current Switch models will not be compatible.
Finally, it was confirmed the Switch 2 supports Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6), features 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 more, check out our recap of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, details on the new system's price, a list of known launch games, and when Switch 2 pre-orders begin.
