Hardware differences between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original
During the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo broke down all the ways the new console is an upgrade from the original. There is one minor issue with microSD.
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Today, Nintendo finally gave us a comparison between the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2. We learned about screen size, confirmed the magnetic Joy-Cons, and learned about the Mario Kart World and other titles announced today. The Nintendo Switch 2 seems to be an improvement from the original console in nearly every way.
What are the hardware differences between the Switch 2 and the original Switch?
First let’s look at the screen. It’s what you’ll be looking at when playing games in handheld mode, so it will be important. The Switch 2 has a larger screen (7.9 inches compared to the original’s 6.2), the screen s double the pixels, can hit 120 frames per second, and finally has HDR . When you place the Switch 2 into the dock, you’ll also be able to play in 4K resolution (with compatible games), and you’ll have an internal fan to keep the system cool and running smoothly.
The Joy-Cons will be used like a mouse, held horizontally along a flat surface for various gameplay purposes. This was shown off in various situations but looks like it will be used to great effect in a new Switch 2 exclusive expansion for Super Mario Party Jamboree. The infamous tiny SL and SR buttons used when holding a singular Joy-Con will be much larger. Finally, today’s Direct also confirmed that the Joy-Cons will connect to the console magnetically. It appears to be a very strong magnet, only releasable with a button on the back of the controllers.
The console itself will remain the same thickness as the original: 13.9mm. Nintendo didn’t share the length of the new console, though it does appear to be larger in that aspect. The console will have a built-in microphone for use with voice chat, and it will have noise cancelling to remove game audio as well as background noise. The kickstand is much wider, larger, and sturdier, making it easier to use tabletop mode. The Switch 2 will also have two USB-C ports. One on the bottom for plugging into the dock, and another on top, which is conveniently placed for use with the Nintendo Switch 2 camera and great for charging while in tabletop mode.
The Switch 2 will have eight times the amount of digital storage as the original Switch, at 256 GB of storage. Unfortunately, to increase this, players will need microSD Express cards, regular microSD will not be compatible. Though, it’s not all doom and gloom on the physical front. Nintendo Switch physical cartridges will work with the Nintendo Switch 2. Players with a digital library will be able to transfer their games over digitally as well.
Overall, the Switch 2 is a serious upgrade from the original console. Despite some small issues such as the microSD cards, this new console is very exciting. The Switch 2 will be available on June 5th, 2025, and pre-orders will become available on April 8th.
