Nintendo Switch 2 Reveals 4K, Enhanced Battery Features

Nintendo's latest Direct event revealed extensive details about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, and we've gathered even more information since the hour-long presentation concluded, including the new console's technical specifications. While many questions remain, let's explore the key updates for the Switch 2.

As previously mentioned, Nintendo confirmed that the new system will feature a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen capable of 1080p (1920x1080) output. This represents a significant upgrade from the Switch 1's 6.2-inch display, the Switch OLED's 7-inch screen (though we'll miss OLED technology), and the Switch Lite's 5.5-inch screen.

The console also supports HDR10 and VRR up to 120 Hz, enabling games to reach 120fps when supported by both the software and your setup.

Additionally, connecting the Switch 2 to its new dock enables 4K (3840x2160) gaming at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) at 120fps. These enhanced graphics are powered by a "custom processor developed by NVIDIA," though specific details about the CPU/GPU configuration remain undisclosed.

Battery specifications were confirmed: the Switch 2 uses a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery providing approximately 2 to 6.5 hours of gameplay, with a three-hour charging time in Sleep mode. Nintendo emphasized these are "rough estimates" and that "actual battery life varies depending on the games played."

This battery performance is comparable to the original Switch model's 2.5 to 6.5-hour range. However, it represents a reduction compared to the three newer Switch models - Nintendo Switch (4.5-9 hours), Nintendo Switch OLED Model (4.5-9 hours), and Nintendo Switch Lite (3-7 hours).

Regarding dimensions, the Switch 2 with Joy-Con 2 attached measures approximately 4.5 inches tall × 10.7 inches wide × 0.55 inches thick. The unit weighs roughly 0.88 pounds without Joy-Con 2 and 1.18 pounds with them attached.

While the Switch 2 matches the current Switch model's weight, it's both taller and longer than any existing model with Joy-Con attached:

4.5 inches tall × 10.7 inches wide × 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbsNintendo Switch - 4 inches tall × 9.5 inches long × 0.55 inches thick / 0.88 lbsNintendo Switch - OLED Model - 4 inches tall × 9.5 inches long × 0.55 inches thick / 0.93 lbsNintendo Switch Lite - 3.6 inches tall × 8.2 inches long × 0.55 inches thick / 0.61 lbs

Concerning the Joy-Con controllers, Nintendo hasn't confirmed whether they'll incorporate Hall Effect joysticks, which could potentially prevent the drifting issues experienced by many Switch owners. While a 2023 patent hinted at this possibility, we'll need to wait for definitive confirmation.

For audio capabilities, the Switch 2 supports linear PCM 5.1ch output. Surround sound effects can also be achieved through headphones or the built-in speaker following a system update.

Storage-wise, the Switch 2 includes 256 GB of internal storage - a substantial upgrade from the 32 GB in standard Switch and Switch Lite models, and the 64 GB in the Switch OLED Model. Another significant change is the requirement for microSD Express cards supporting up to 2TB additional storage, meaning existing microSDXC cards used with current Switch models won't be compatible with the new console.

Additional features include Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6) support, two USB-C ports, a 3.5mm 4-contact stereo mini-plug (CTIA standard), and a built-in monaural microphone with noise cancellation, echo cancellation, and auto gain control.

For further details, check out our Nintendo Switch 2 Direct recap, pricing information, current list of confirmed launch titles, and Switch 2 pre-order availability dates.

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