Introduction
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to arrive on June 5, promising an upgrade over its eight-year-old predecessor. At $449.99, it’s $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the OLED model. After hands-on testing, here’s how the two consoles compare, and whether the premium is justified.
Design and Portability
Both systems retain a hybrid tablet dock design that lets players switch seamlessly between handheld and TV modes. The Switch 2 is slightly larger and heavier—about half an inch taller, an inch wider, and four ounces heavier—but still comfortable to hold. While the size is different, the core concept remains familiar, ensuring the same flexibility as the original.
Controllers: Joy-Con 2 Innovations
The new Joy-Con 2 controllers follow the original layout, but add optical sensors on the rails, giving games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond mouse-like precision. While this innovation caused hand fatigue during testing, the feature expands gameplay possibilities. The joysticks are slightly larger, and a new “C” button on the right Joy-Con activates built-in voice chat, replacing the original Switch’s clunky smartphone app.
Display and performance
The Switch 2 has a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smoother visuals than the original’s 720p/60Hz display. While the OLED model still excels in terms of color depth, the Switch 2’s screen is brighter and clearer. Internally, it offers 4K resolution when docked, with games at up to 120Hz—a big leap from the Switch 1’s 1080p/60Hz ceiling. Storage capacity has also been bumped up, with 256GB built-in, compared to 32GB on the original.
Game Compatibility and Exclusive Content
The Switch 2 supports nearly all Switch 1 games and adds access to GameCube games through Nintendo Switch Online. Select games like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will receive enhanced “Switch 2 Edition” upgrades for better visuals and performance. However, new exclusives like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World won’t work on the older hardware, and third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 will skip the Switch 1 entirely.
Price and Value
At $449.99, the Switch 2 is Nintendo’s most expensive console yet, and the prices of games and accessories are rising. While it’s cheaper than the PlayStation 5, the high price may put off the average gamer. Existing Switch owners may hold off on a purchase, but the upgrades—4K visuals, smoother gameplay, and modern features—make the Switch 2 a compelling long-term investment.
Final Verdict
The Switch 2 isn’t a necessity for current Switch owners, but its technological leap future-proofs Nintendo’s product line. If you’re holding on to the original model for now, consider extending its life with a high-performance replacement battery from [UltraBookBattery](https://www.ultrabookbattery.com/search?search=Nintendo). Its affordable, reliable batteries will ensure your console stays powered through countless adventures—whether you upgrade now or later.