Nintendo Switch 2: A Comprehensive Review
This article provides a detailed look at the newly released Nintendo Switch 2, covering everything from the console itself to its accessories and game upgrades. We'll explore its features, performance, and overall value.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Nintendo Switch 2 comes in packaging similar to the Switch OLED, but with a prominent "R" added to the name. Inside, you'll find the console, Joy-Cons, an HDMI cable, and a new base. The console and Joy-Cons are noticeably larger than the original Switch. The base has a unique "bread machine" shape. The charging head is now a separate unit with a C to C cable. The Joy-Cons have color distinctions, potentially for mixing and matching. Some versions include a download code instead of a physical game card.
Design and Build Quality
The Switch 2 has a dark gray color scheme, almost pure black. The red and blue accents have been replaced with light blue and light red, located on the inside. The build quality feels improved, with a smoother, sandpaper-like finish similar to a MacBook. While still plastic, it feels like a "high-end plastic."
Size and Weight Comparison
The Switch 2 is larger than the original Switch but smaller than the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. It's the same thickness as the original Switch but much thinner than the PC gaming handhelds. The weight has increased to 532 grams, about 100 grams heavier than the original, but still lighter than the PC handhelds.
User Interface and New Features
The system interface is similar to the Switch 1, but with subtle changes. The game icons have rounded corners, and the circular light bar has a flowing blue-pink interface. Nintendo has added new animations and sound effects for each icon. A new power protection feature limits charging to 90% to extend battery life.
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USB-C Port Functionality: The USB-C port on top can be used for charging or connecting the new camera. A new "Game Chat" feature is available, requiring smartphone verification and individual friend setup.
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Port Testing: The top C port is for charging only and does not support video output. The bottom C port does not work with Type-C displays or AR glasses. The Switch 1 and Switch 2 docks are incompatible.
Key Design Elements
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Power button, volume button, output port, top Type-C, headphone port, card slot, new Game Chat microphone, input port, speaker, new frame.
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MicroSD card below the frame is the new high-speed MicroSD Express card.
Game Cards
Switch 2 uses new red game cards. Some games utilize a "Keycard," which only provides authentication and requires a separate download.
Screen Upgrade
The Switch 2 supports HDR 1080p 60fps for new and upgraded games. While the clarity is improved, the HDR doesn't seem significantly different from the Switch OLED. It uses an ordinary LCD panel and cannot achieve pure black.
Audio
The Switch 2's sound quality is better than the original Switch, comparable to the Steam Deck OLED.
Joy-Con 2
The Joy-Cons now attach magnetically. A button on the back releases a small stick to detach them. The size is larger, with a more rounded design. The buttons and levers are larger. The infrared sensor has been removed. A light sensor has been added to enable a mouse function.
- Mouse Mode: The Joy-Cons can be used as a mouse, with optional software and a base. The mouse mode seamlessly switches with the handle mode.
Dock
The dock has two USB-A ports on the side. The back houses a Type-C port, HDMI, network port, and a new fan. In docked mode, the Switch 2 supports 4K 60Hz or 1080p 120Hz output.
Performance and Game Upgrades
The Switch 2's focus is performance improvement.
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Hogwarts Legacy: The game shows a significant graphical improvement on the Switch 2 compared to the original Switch.
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Game Upgrades: Some Switch 1 games offer paid upgrades (50 Hong Kong dollars).
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Free Upgrades: Some games receive small free upgrades.
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Compatibility: Not all Switch 1 games are compatible with the Switch 2.
Battery Life
The Switch 2's battery is larger than the Switch OLED but offers similar battery life to the original Switch (2-6 hours) due to the larger screen and more powerful processor.
Teardown
The teardown reveals the larger fan, similarly sized battery to the Switch OLED (19.74 watts), thicker heat pipe, Nvidia T239 chip (released in the 51st week of 2024), and two 6GB DDR5 cores (12GB total memory).
Accessories
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MakeSwitch: Incompatible with Switch 2.
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Cameras: Official 1080p camera and a Hori 480p camera.
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Pro Controller: Old Joy-Cons and Pro controllers are compatible. New Pro controller features customizable back buttons.
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Charging Case: Sold separately for charging two Joy-Cons simultaneously.
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Steering Wheel: A simple steering wheel accessory.
Cost-Effectiveness
The Switch 2 is priced at 3450 Hong Kong dollars. While more expensive than the Switch OLED, it's competitively priced compared to the PS5 Slim and Steam Deck OLED, considering its performance. Game costs have increased, with physical versions being more expensive and upgraded games requiring additional payment.
Game Lineup
The initial game lineup is limited, with only a few new titles, including Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza releasing later.