Nintendo Switch 2

The long wait was worth it: On June 5, 2025, Nintendo launched the highly anticipated successor to the immensely successful hybrid console, the Nintendo Switch 2. By May 2026, the device had already established itself massively in everyday life with over 17 million units sold. Nintendo is not just delivering a facelift here, but a significant technological leap: With a new Nvidia chip, DLSS support for 4K gaming on the TV, and completely new magnetic controllers, the Japanese traditional company has specifically eliminated the known weaknesses of the first generation.

Classification and Target Audience

The Switch 2 is aimed at all Nintendo fans, families, and handheld gamers who want to experience current blockbusters fluidly and in contemporary resolution. It now competes much more strongly in terms of performance with handheld PCs like the Steam Deck. Since it is backward compatible with most games from the original Nintendo Switch, it is the logical upgrade path for owners of the first generation.

Design, Display, and Controller

Visually, Nintendo remains true to the successful hybrid concept but noticeably tweaks the details:

• The Display: The biggest surprise is that Nintendo has opted for an LCD panel instead of OLED for the screen. However, the display has grown to a hefty 7.9 inches and now offers a sharp 1080p resolution in handheld mode. Additionally, the display supports HDR10 and a variable refresh rate (VRR) of up to 120 Hz in handheld operation.
• Joy-Con 2: The new controllers are a real highlight. They now magnetically clip onto the main device and feature a built-in mouse sensor, enabling entirely new control methods.
• Haptics: The console has become slightly thicker and heavier (approximately 1.18 lbs with connected controllers). In return, it now offers two USB-C ports as well as an integrated microphone.

Performance and Practical Test

Under the hood, Nintendo is making the long-awaited generational leap:

• Performance: The custom-developed Nvidia Tegra T239 processor (Ampere architecture) and a solid 12 GB of RAM catapult the Switch into the modern age. In docked mode, the console now achieves 4K resolutions at up to 60 frames per second thanks to Nvidia's AI upscaling (DLSS).
• Storage & Load Times: The old eMMC storage of the predecessor is history. Nintendo now uses 256 GB of fast UFS storage, which dramatically reduces load times. If that's not enough, the storage can be expanded by up to 2 TB via the new MicroSD Express slot.
• Game Catalog: The backward compatibility includes Switch 1 games, allowing you to directly carry over your existing library. Games like the massive launch hit Mario Kart World also impressively showcase what the new system is capable of graphically.

Battery and Hardware

The enormous increase in performance comes at a price in terms of mobility:

• Runtime: The battery capacity is 5220 mAh. Depending on the demanding 3D title or simple 2D game, the battery lasts about 2 to 6.5 hours in handheld mode. This is a slight step back compared to the long-lasting revisions of the old Switch, but it is due to the massive graphic power.
• Charging: A full charge in standby still takes about three hours.

The "Do Not Buy" Recommendation

Those who primarily play their games far from any outlet for extremely long periods may be unhappy with the minimum battery life of up to 2 hours for graphically demanding titles. Also, users who have just purchased a Switch OLED and primarily play classic 2D indies do not necessarily need the 4K upscaling power and the new Nvidia chip at this time.

Conclusion and Price-Performance Ratio

With an introductory price of €469.99 (or $449.99), the Nintendo Switch 2 is noticeably more expensive than its predecessor. By May 2026, the device has been on the market for almost a year and remains extremely price-stable within the Nintendo ecosystem. However, for the price, you get a fantastic hardware upgrade that finally brings the popular hybrid concept into the modern era with magnetic controllers, DLSS support, and 1080p handheld gaming.