Nintendo Switch 2: Specs, Features, and Buying Guide
Nintendo · 2025-06-01
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.
| CPU | Cortex-A78 |
|---|---|
| GPU | NVIDIA Ampere |
| Name | Nintendo Switch 2 |
| Alias | Switch 2, NS 2 |
| Brand | Nintendo |
| Memory | 12 GB LPDDR5X |
| Weight | 399 g (without Joy-Cons) / 535 g (with Joy-Cons) |
| Battery | 5220 mAh |
| Cooling | Active cooling |
| Storage | Internal 256 GB UFS 3.1, External microSD Express |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Nvidia Tegra 239 |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Body Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 271.78 mm x 114.3 mm x 13.97 mm |
| Screen PPI | 278.1 |
| Price Range | ¥3000 - ¥5000 |
| Screen Size | 7.92 inches |
| Screen Type | LCD |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6, Bluetooth |
| Release Date | 2025 / 06 |
| Video Output | USB-C video output (via dedicated dock) |
| CPU Frequency | 1.1 - 1.5 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Accelerometer, gyroscope, external mouse, light sensor |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Starting Price | $449.99 (approximately ¥3262) |
| Operating System | Custom system |
| Screen Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 540 - 930 MHz (?) |
| Screen Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores, 8 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Native Switch 2 games; almost all original Switch 1 games; Switch 2 Edition games (enhanced versions of Switch 1 titles) |