Nintendo Switch 2: Specs, Features, and Buying Guide

Nintendo · 2025-06-01

Nintendo Switch 2: Specs, Features, and Buying Guide

The Nintendo Switch 2 is the next-generation hybrid console from Nintendo, featuring a 7.92-inch 120Hz LCD display, custom Nvidia Tegra 239 processor with Cortex-A78 CPU and Ampere GPU, 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, 256GB UFS 3.1 storage, and active cooling. It supports native Switch 2 games, backward compatibility with most Switch 1 games, and enhanced Switch 2 Edition titles. Weighing 399g without Joy-Cons, it offers WiFi 6, Bluetooth, USB-C video output, and a 5220 mAh battery.

Overview

The Nintendo Switch 2 is the highly anticipated successor to the original Switch, launching in June 2025. It retains the hybrid handheld/console design but introduces significant hardware upgrades. Powered by a custom Nvidia Tegra 239 chip with 8 Cortex-A78 cores and an Ampere-based GPU, the Switch 2 delivers a major leap in performance. The 7.92-inch LCD screen runs at 1920x1080 resolution with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, while 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage ensure fast loading and multitasking. Active cooling keeps the system running efficiently during extended play sessions.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: Nvidia Tegra 239 (8-core Cortex-A78 @ 1.1-1.5 GHz)
  • GPU: Nvidia Ampere (540-930 MHz)
  • Memory: 12 GB LPDDR5X
  • Storage: 256 GB UFS 3.1 internal, expandable via microSD Express
  • Display: 7.92-inch LCD, 1920x1080, 120Hz, 16:9 aspect ratio
  • Battery: 5220 mAh
  • Weight: 399 g (without Joy-Cons) / 535 g (with Joy-Cons)
  • Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth, USB-C (video output via dock), 3.5mm audio jack
  • Sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope, light sensor, external mouse support
  • Cooling: Active fan
  • Audio: Dual stereo speakers
  • OS: Custom system

Who It Is For

The Nintendo Switch 2 is designed for existing Switch owners seeking a performance upgrade, as well as new gamers who want access to Nintendo's exclusive titles with modern hardware. It's ideal for players who enjoy both handheld and docked gaming, and those interested in backward compatibility with most Switch 1 games and enhanced Switch 2 Edition versions. The 120Hz display and active cooling cater to more demanding games and longer sessions.

Buying Notes

The Switch 2 is priced at $449.99 (approximately ¥3262 CNY). It is expected to launch in June 2025. The device comes in black with a plastic shell. Note that the Joy-Cons are sold separately? (The weight spec suggests they are included but detachable). The system supports external microSD Express cards for storage expansion. For video output, a dedicated dock is required (sold separately or included?). The price range in China is ¥3000-¥5000. As always, consider availability and potential bundle deals at launch.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A78
GPUNVIDIA Ampere
NameNintendo Switch 2
AliasSwitch 2, NS 2
BrandNintendo
Memory12 GB LPDDR5X
Weight399 g (without Joy-Cons) / 535 g (with Joy-Cons)
Battery5220 mAh
CoolingActive cooling
StorageInternal 256 GB UFS 3.1, External microSD Express
SpeakersDual stereo
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorNvidia Tegra 239
VibrationYes
Body ColorBlack
Dimensions271.78 mm x 114.3 mm x 13.97 mm
Screen PPI278.1
Price Range¥3000 - ¥5000
Screen Size7.92 inches
Screen TypeLCD
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityWiFi 6, Bluetooth
Release Date2025 / 06
Video OutputUSB-C video output (via dedicated dock)
CPU Frequency1.1 - 1.5 GHz
Other SensorsAccelerometer, gyroscope, external mouse, light sensor
Shell MaterialPlastic
Starting Price$449.99 (approximately ¥3262)
Operating SystemCustom system
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
GPU Core Frequency540 - 930 MHz (?)
Screen Aspect Ratio16:9
Screen Refresh Rate120Hz
CPU Cores and Threads8 cores, 8 threads
Emulator Game SupportNative Switch 2 games; almost all original Switch 1 games; Switch 2 Edition games (enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles)