Nintendo's latest Direct revealed extensive details about the Nintendo Switch 2, but we've uncovered even more information since the presentation concluded—including key technical specifications. While several unknowns remain, here's everything we've learned about the upcoming console.
As previously hinted, Nintendo confirmed that the new system will feature a 7.9-inch wide-color gamut LCD display capable of 1080p (1920×1080) resolution. This marks a substantial upgrade from the Switch 1’s 6.2-inch screen, the OLED model’s 7-inch display (though we’ll miss OLED’s vivid colors), and the Switch Lite’s compact 5.5-inch panel.
Additionally, the Switch 2 will support HDR10 and variable refresh rate (VRR) up to 120Hz, allowing compatible games to achieve smoother 120fps performance.
When docked, the Switch 2 can output games in 4K (3840×2160) at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920×1080/2560×1440) at 120fps. While Nintendo attributes these enhanced visuals to a "custom NVIDIA processor," no further details about the CPU or GPU architecture were disclosed.
The console’s battery specs were also revealed—a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery providing roughly 2-6.5 hours of gameplay, with a three-hour charging time in Sleep mode. Nintendo clarified that actual battery life will vary depending on game intensity. This is comparable to the original Switch (2.5-6.5 hours) but falls short of the battery performance seen in newer models: the Switch (4.5-9 hours), Switch OLED (4.5-9 hours), and Switch Lite (3-7 hours).
In terms of dimensions, the Switch 2 measures approximately 4.5 inches tall, 10.7 inches wide, and 0.55 inches thick with Joy-Con 2 controllers attached. It weighs 0.88 pounds without Joy-Con and 1.18 pounds with them connected—matching the original Switch's weight but slightly larger in footprint.
Comparative Dimensions:Nintendo Switch 2 - 4.5" H × 10.7" W × 0.55" D / 0.88 lbs Nintendo Switch - 4" H × 9.5" W × 0.55" D / 0.88 lbs Switch OLED - 4" H × 9.5" W × 0.55" D / 0.93 lbs Switch Lite - 3.6" H × 8.2" W × 0.55" D / 0.61 lbs
Unfortunately, Nintendo stopped short of confirming whether the new Joy-Con 2 controllers use Hall Effect joysticks—a potential fix for the drifting issues plaguing many Switch owners. Though a 2023 patent suggested the possibility, we’ll need to wait for official confirmation.
Audio capabilities include Linear PCM 5.1-channel output, with optional surround sound via headphones or built-in speakers following a firmware update. Storage-wise, the Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal memory—a significant boost over the Switch’s 32GB and the OLED model’s 64GB. However, expandable storage now requires microSD Express cards (up to 2TB), making older microSDXC cards incompatible.
Additional features include Wi-Fi 6 (Wireless LAN), two USB-C ports, a CTIA-standard 3.5mm headphone jack, and a built-in noise-canceling microphone with echo cancellation and auto gain control.
For more details, check out our breakdown of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, pricing predictions, launch game lineup, and pre-order details.
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