Nintendo Switch 2 unveiled with 4K, 120fps, bigger battery

Nintendo's latest Direct provided extensive details about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with additional revelations emerging after the presentation concluded – including key technical specifications. While many questions remain unanswered, let's examine what's new with Nintendo's next-generation console.

The showcase confirmed earlier reports about the system's 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD display, capable of 1080p (1920×1080) resolution output. This represents a substantial improvement over previous models: the original Switch's 6.2-inch screen, the OLED model's 7-inch display (though we'll miss those deep blacks), and the Switch Lite's compact 5.5-inch panel.

Notably, the hardware supports both HDR10 and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) up to 120Hz, enabling smoother gameplay at up to 120fps when supported by compatible games and displays.

Docked gameplay experiences receive a significant boost, with support for 4K (3840×2160) at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920×1080/2560×1440) at 120fps. These enhanced visuals are powered by a custom NVIDIA processor, though specific CPU/GPU details remain undisclosed at this time.

The battery specifications reveal a 5220mAh Lithium-ion unit capable of 2-6.5 hours of gameplay, with a three-hour charging time in Sleep Mode. Nintendo cautions these are approximations, with actual battery performance varying by game. This endurance roughly matches the launch Switch model, though falls short of newer revisions' extended battery life.

Dimensions measure approximately 4.5" tall × 10.7" wide × 0.55" thick with Joy-Con 2 controllers attached, weighing 1.18 lbs (0.88 lbs without controllers). While the weight matches the original Switch, the new model is notably larger than all current versions when equipped with controllers.

Key specifications comparison:

Nintendo Switch 2 - 4.5" × 10.7" × 0.55" / 0.88 lbs
Nintendo Switch - 4" × 9.5" × 0.55" / 0.88 lbs
Nintendo Switch OLED - 4" × 9.5" × 0.55" / 0.93 lbs
Nintendo Switch Lite - 3.6" × 8.2" × 0.55" / 0.61 lbs

Storage sees a major upgrade to 256GB internal capacity, though the system will require new microSD Express cards (supporting up to 2TB expansion) rather than being compatible with existing microSDXC cards.

Audio capabilities include linear PCM 5.1ch output, with surround sound processing available via headphones or built-in speakers after a system update. Connectivity options feature Wi-Fi 6, two USB-C ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack (CTIA standard), and a built-in noise-canceling microphone.

For deeper analysis, explore our coverage of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation, pricing details, known launch titles, and pre-order availability.