Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular handheld gaming consoles in the market. While many are anticipating its sequel, the only recent launches were the Switch Lite and the Switch OLED. But now, more details regarding the Switch 2 have just surfaced online. So here’s what we can expect from the latest gaming handheld.
1. Nintendo Switch 2: Improved Design & Display
In one of our recent reports, we covered the design reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2. The CEO of Blade, a company manufacturing accessories for the console, the Switch 2 is currently in the final stages of development. He also added that the console will feature new Joy-Cons with a locking system for a secure connection. While the exact design is still unclear, there should likely be some changes for the new analog stick design.
Leaked images of the Switch 2 showcased some of these changes with magnetic Joy-Cons and two USB-C ports. Even the shoulder buttons might be getting a new input as well. It may support scroll functionality. Nintendo is also rumored to be working on flat sticks or trackpads, to prevent dust from entering. On the front, the Switch 2 is expected to sport a tall 8-inch screen. Although, we don’t know whether it’s OLED or LCD. It will likely be an OLED panel, but the company might decide to release it separately
2. Performance Upgrade
Considering how the original Nintendo Switch is almost a decade old, it is pretty outdated in the gaming handheld. We are finally getting a proper upgrade in performance as well. Recent reports claim that the Switch 2 will offer 12GB of RAM. This is a sizeable bump over the Switch’s 4GB RAM. While the processor for the Switch 2 is still unclear, it will likely offer more powerful CPU and GPU performance. The first Switch, the Switch Lite, and the Switch OLED were all powered by the NVIDIA Tegra X1 chip.
So there is plenty of room for improvements in performance across the board with the Switch 2. So we might finally be getting FHD (1080p) gaming. As the larger consoles like the Sony PS5 and Microsoft Xbox Series X are pushing 4K resolution and 60fps, the Switch 2 in dock mode might bring 1080p at 60fps.
3. So when does it launch?
The recent rumors had pointed at a March or April 2025 release. Nintendo has officially confirmed the announcement within the fiscal year (ending on 31st March 2025). Meaning, there’s still a chance for a surprise launch even before next year. But it’s safe to assume that the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t be hitting the shelves of stores till next year. Switch 1 was announced for around 300 US dollars, while the Switch OLED arrived for 350 US dollars. So the sequel should have a similar price range or ship with a slight hike.
