Nintendo Switch 2 Launches with 4K, 120fps, Better Battery

Nintendo's latest Direct presentation unveiled exciting details about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with additional technical specifications emerging following the event. While several questions remain unanswered, let's explore what we now know about this highly anticipated console.

Enhanced Visual Experience

The system will boast a 7.9-inch LCD display with wide color gamut support and 1080p resolution (1920x1080). This marks a significant improvement from previous models:

• Original Switch: 6.2-inch screen
• Switch OLED: 7-inch screen
• Switch Lite: 5.5-inch screen

Notably, the console will support HDR10 and variable refresh rate (VRR) up to 120Hz, enabling higher frame rates where supported.

When docked, the Switch 2 delivers 4K output at 60fps (3840x2160) or 1080p/1440p at 120fps. This enhanced graphical performance comes courtesy of a custom NVIDIA processor, though specific CPU/GPU details remain under wraps.

Power and Portability

The console features a 5220mAh lithium-ion battery providing 2-6.5 hours of gameplay, with approximately three hours required for a full charge in sleep mode. Nintendo notes these estimates vary based on game requirements. This battery performance aligns with the original Switch launch model but falls short of newer revisions.

Physical dimensions measure 4.5" (height) × 10.7" (width) × 0.55" (depth) with Joy-Con controllers attached. Weight comes in at:

• 0.88 lbs (400g) without Joy-Con
• 1.18 lbs (535g) with controllers

While matching the original Switch's weight, the new model is slightly larger in footprint compared to existing hardware.

Technical Specifications

Key features include:

• 256GB internal storage (up from 32GB/64GB in current models)
• microSD Express card support (up to 2TB expansion)
• Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
• Dual USB-C ports
• 3.5mm stereo headphone jack
• Built-in mono microphone with advanced audio processing
• 5.1-channel surround sound support

Notably, the console introduces microSD Express compatibility, meaning existing microSDXC cards won't work with the new system.

For more details, explore our coverage of the Switch 2 Direct presentation, pricing information, launch titles, and pre-order availability.