Nintendo has officially revealed the highly anticipated Switch 2, a complete overhaul of its predecessor with major upgrades in design, performance, and features. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, here’s everything you need to know about this next-generation gaming console.

What is the Nintendo Switch?

The Nintendo Switch has been a game-changer in the industry, offering a hybrid experience that allows players to enjoy their favorite titles both at home and on the go. First launched in March 2017, the original Switch brought beloved franchises like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Animal Crossing to a versatile platform. While it lacks the raw power of the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, its portability, exclusive titles, and unique accessories have cemented its place as a top gaming console.

Nintendo Switch 2: Design and Hardware Improvements

The Switch 2 is larger, measuring 271.8mm wide and 114.3mm tall, while maintaining the same 13.9mm thickness. Despite its size increase, it remains lightweight at 399g, ensuring portability.

Key Design Upgrades

1. Larger kickstand with improved flexibility
2. Two USB-C ports (one on the top, one on the bottom)
3. Stronger Joy-Con 2 controllers with magnetic attachment instead of rails
4. Bigger SL/SR buttons for improved single-controller gameplay
5. New analog sticks for better control and durability
6. Joy-Con 2 can function as a mouse in supported games

Display & Performance Enhancements

The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch display with a 1920×1080 resolution, up from the previous model’s 720p. It now boasts a 120Hz refresh rate with VRR support, ensuring smoother gameplay. However, it still uses an LCD panel, with no OLED option—at least for now.

Video Output & Dock Improvements

1. 4K resolution at 60Hz when docked
2. 1080p & 1440p at 120Hz support
3. HDR10 support for enhanced visuals
4. Active cooling in the dock to prevent overheating

Audio & Storage Upgrades

The Switch 2 delivers enhanced audio with better built-in speakers and 3D audio support. When docked, users will experience 5.1 PCM audio output for immersive gameplay.

The new console includes 256GB of internal storage—a significant improvement over the original. It also supports microSD Express cards up to 2TB, ensuring faster load times.

Connectivity Upgrades

1. Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more stable online gaming
2. Bluetooth support for wireless accessories
3. Ethernet connectivity via the dock

Battery Life & Charging

Equipped with a 5,220mAh battery, the Switch 2 provides 2–6.5 hours of battery life, depending on usage. Players can charge it via USB-C or through the dock, which also charges the Joy-Con 2 controllers.

New Software & Game Support

The Switch 2 will support exclusive next-gen titles along with most existing Switch games. Additionally, some older games will receive Switch 2 Edition upgrades, unlocking higher frame rates, better visuals, and new gameplay features. However, these upgrades will require an additional purchase.

GameChat: A Long-Awaited Feature

Nintendo has finally added an integrated GameChat feature, allowing players to voice chat using a dedicated “C” button on the Joy-Con 2. Players can even share gameplay footage or use the new Nintendo Switch 2 Camera accessory for video calls while gaming. GameChat will be free until March 31, 2026, after which it will require a Nintendo Switch Online membership.

Nintendo Switch Online & GameCube Titles

The Switch 2 will be compatible with Nintendo Switch Online, but also introduces a new Expansion Pack, adding emulated classics from older platforms—including GameCube titles, exclusive to the Switch 2.

New Controllers & Accessories

Nintendo has announced two additional controllers for the Switch 2:

Wireless Nintendo GameCube Controller – A faithful recreation of the classic GameCube controller, now with a GameChat button.

Switch 2 Pro Controller – Featuring back buttons (GL/GR), a headphone jack, and a GameChat button.

Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date

The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5 in two versions:

Standard Edition: Cconsole only

Mario Kart World Bundle: Includes a digital copy of Mario Kart World

With a host of upgrades, new features, and next-gen performance, the Switch 2 is shaping up to be Nintendo’s most ambitious console yet. Whether you’re a returning player or a newcomer, this hybrid gaming system promises an unmatched gaming experience in coming years.

Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order: Where to Buy

Nintendo has officially announced that pre-orders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will begin through an invitation-only system. Eligible Nintendo Account holders in the U.S. and Canada aged 18 and over can register now, with the first batch of invites going out on May 8, 2025. Invitations will be sent in waves, and those who qualify under priority criteria—such as having an active paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for at least 12 months and 50+ gameplay hours—will be prioritized.

Once invited, users will have 72 hours to complete their purchase, with payment due at checkout. Accepted payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, Google Pay, and Apple Pay (note: Nintendo eShop gift cards are not accepted).

Shipping is available to U.S. and Canadian addresses, including P.O. boxes and APO/FPO locations. However, in-store pickup is not available. Shipping details, including your ship date, will be provided at the time of ordering.

You’ll also be able to preorder Nintendo Switch 2 at select retailers:

• Walmart – Switch 2: $450 | Bundle: $500

• Amazon – Switch 2: $450

• Target, Best Buy, GameStop – Coming soon

Stay tuned and act fast—stock is expected to sell out quickly!

Dony Garvasis

Dony Garvasis is the founder of Search Ethics, a platform dedicated to transparency, authenticity, and ethical digital practices. With over six years of experience in SEO and digital marketing, I provide expert content on automobiles, technology, gadgets, and online strategies. My mission is simple: Ethical Search, Genuine Results—ensuring users worldwide receive credible, useful, and up-to-date content.

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