Today’s Nintendo Direct has brought a wealth of new info about Nintendo’s upcoming console, including an extensive detailing of its hardware tech specs.
The Switch 2 features a 7.9 inch screen with double the pixels of the original Switch. The 1080p LCD screen allows for up to 120 frames per second and supports HDR, with a focus on smoother gameplay. The system features a USB-C connection port on both the top and bottom, allowing for simultaneous connection of multiple external devices or cables; Nintendo highlighted the ability to connect both the charger in tabletop mode and the newly announced Nintendo Switch 2 Camera.
The new Joy-Con 2 controllers can be detached using a magnetic attachment; the magnets are contained inside the console, and the SL and SR buttons (which are larger than before) on the Joy-Cons are metal, leading to a firm connection. A release button on the back of the system allows for release. Joy-con 2 controllers also feature larger control sticks, and an individual Joy Con 2 controller may be used as a mouse for specific games.
The Switch 2 includes a built-in mic that can pick up your voice from a distance, and that mic features noise-canceling technology in case you’re playing in a loud or busy space. The console also has a kickstand that can be set in multiple tilt positions for best viewing. Switch 2’s audio features 3D audio that has at least some functionality even if you don’t have a dedicated surround system.
Switch 2 boasts larger, faster storage for its 256 GB of internal storage, which is 8 times the storage size of the original Switch.
While the actual screen on the Switch 2 is 1080p, the new Switch 2 dock allows for up to 4K resolution on a connected TV or other display. The dock also features fan ventilation to keep the console cool.
While details remain scarce, Nintendo also highlighted that Switch 2 will be able to play compatible original Switch games, both physical and digital, though the choice of that wording suggests not all original Switch games may be compatible.
As a way to familiarize players with the new console, Nintendo is introducing a new paid digital-only game called Nintendo Switch 2: Welcome Tour. In the game, players control a Mii-like avatar to walk around to different spots on a visualized version of the console itself, with numerous question mark signs. Interact with these question marks to open up various smaller tech demos or minigame experiences that highlight capabilities of the system. In one, we saw the Joy-Con 2 controllers used as a mouse to play a golfing mini-game.
The new Nintendo Switch 2 game cards are the same shape as the original Switch game cards, but they’re now red in color and feature faster data read speeds. If you wish to add additional storage for your Switch 2, you’ll need to use MicroSD Express cards, which enable high-speed data transfer. Players can transfer data from their original Switch to a Switch 2 by logging into a Nintendo account and transferring over save data and digital games.
The Switch 2 will also have its own new dedicated Pro controller. While it looks similar in many ways to the original Pro controller, the new controller includes the C-button for game chat, and new GR and GL buttons located on the rear grip, which can be used to assign other existing button controls. The Switch 2 Pro controller also includes and audio/headphone jack.
Players will be able to try out the Switch 2, its various tech features, and the new Welcome Tour game when the console launches on June 5.
