Nintendo Switch 2 Review

The Nintendo Switch redefined gaming when it launched in 2017 by combining the power of a home console with the portability of a handheld device. Fast forward to 2025, and the gaming world has changed dramatically, with competitors like Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X raising the bar for home consoles. Now, after years of anticipation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and it’s clear Nintendo has taken everything that made the original great and made it even better.

The Switch 2 features a stunning OLED display, offering richer colors, especially in handheld mode. The custom Tegra chip has been upgraded to enhance performance, delivering smoother gameplay and higher frame rates. Battery life has also been significantly improved, with up to 10-12 hours of playtime, making long gaming sessions much more feasible without constantly worrying about charging. Ultimately, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers on the promise of a truly next-gen hybrid console. It blends enhanced visuals, better performance, and improved battery life into one seamless package. Eager to know more? Well, let’s dive into its review.

More Refined, But Familiar

Right off the bat, the Switch 2 feels similar to its predecessor, which is a good thing. The hybrid design still shines front and center, and the portable console looks almost identical at first glance. However, pick it up, and you’ll notice a few key changes.

The most noticeable difference is the improved screen. The original Switch had a decent display, but it was far from impressive in terms of color accuracy and resolution. The Switch 2 has a stunning OLED display, similar to the one found on the OLED Switch model, but now with more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and sharper visuals. If you loved playing games on the go before, this display will take that experience to the next level.

Additionally, the Joy-Cons have been subtly reworked as well. They’re a bit more comfortable to hold, with refined ergonomics that make extended gaming sessions more pleasant. The controllers still come with the same motion controls, haptic feedback, and HD rumble. Interestingly, they feel a little sturdier and less prone to the drift issues that plagued the original model. Whether you’re using the Switch 2 in handheld mode or docked, the controllers are responsive and accurate.

Now, in terms of weight, the Switch 2 is slightly lighter than its predecessor, which makes it even easier to take on the go. Similarly, the build quality is solid, the plastic feels premium, and the screen feels more durable. This is great for those of us who don’t always treat our devices with the utmost care.

Performance

The Nintendo Switch 2 takes a big leap in performance, thanks to a more powerful custom NVIDIA Tegra chip. While the original Switch was capable of playing games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey at impressive levels, the Switch 2 steps it up. It brings on board improved graphics, faster load times, and a smoother overall experience.

The most immediate difference you’ll notice is the framerate. Games on the Switch 2 run smoother and more consistently, especially when docked. Titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate now run at a stable 60 frames per second. Even more demanding games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom look sharper and run with fewer hiccups. The system features a boosted GPU that supports 4K resolution in docked mode. Notably, this enables it to compete with the powerhouses of other consoles, albeit at a slightly lower performance level.

While the Switch 2’s power doesn’t rival the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, it holds its own, especially when you consider its hybrid nature. The portable experience has been significantly enhanced. Switch 2 delivers 1080p resolution while in handheld mode, up from the original’s 720p. This boost in visual fidelity makes games look even better when you’re playing on the go.

That said, the placement of the port on the original Switch made it a bit tricky to use when the kickstand was deployed. To address this, Nintendo has added a second USB-C port on the top of the Switch 2, making it far more accessible and convenient for charging or connecting accessories during tabletop gaming sessions. This thoughtful redesign means you can charge the device without obstructing the kickstand or worrying about awkward cables.

Battery Life

Battery life has always been a concern for portable consoles, especially with the original Switch. While it wasn’t terrible, it could definitely be better, and the constant need for charging made longer sessions less convenient. The Switch 2 addresses this concern by offering significantly improved battery life.

On a full charge, you can expect up to 10-12 hours of gaming in handheld mode, depending on the game. Titles with more intense graphics will drain the battery a bit faster, but for the most part, the Switch 2 lasts much longer than the original model. This is a game-changer for people who want to take their Switch on long trips or just don’t want to worry about constantly recharging.

The improved power efficiency comes from the new Tegra chip and an optimized battery. Additionally, Nintendo has built in some smart software features that help conserve power without sacrificing performance. If you’re a frequent traveler, the Switch 2’s improved battery life will be one of your favorite upgrades.

Compatibility

One of the best things about the Nintendo Switch 2 is that it doesn’t forget its roots. Nintendo has made sure that all your favorite Switch games are compatible with the new system. Therefore, players don’t have to worry about losing their game library. Whether you’re playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Splatoon 3, everything carries over smoothly from the original Switch.

Nintendo has also continued its support for Nintendo Switch Online, which means you’ll have access to cloud saves, multiplayer, and a growing catalog of retro games. The new Switch also comes with a refined eShop that is faster and easier to navigate than before. Additionally, the system supports cross-platform play with select games, making it easier to play with friends regardless of their console.

Furthermore, the user interface remains simple and easy to navigate, as it was with the original. There’s a minimalistic feel that focuses on what matters: your games, your friends, and your experience. New features, such as the expanded Nintendo Switch Dashboard, offer more control over games and content. They enable players to organize them in a way that suits their preferences.

Games

Of course, the games are the real selling point of any console, and the Switch 2 doesn’t disappoint in that department. From massive first-party titles like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario to third-party support from companies like Bethesda, Square Enix, and Capcom, the Switch 2 has a diverse and robust library.

The power of the new hardware also means developers can push their games further. That will help to deliver better graphics, more complex worlds, and a smoother gameplay experience. Expect to see next-gen versions of your favourite franchises. Similarly, expect new exclusives tailored to take advantage of the Switch 2’s hardware. Nintendo’s commitment to creative indie games ensures there will always be something fresh to play.

With advanced cloud gaming options, players will be able to stream titles directly to their devices without needing to download them first. This is a huge benefit for gamers who have limited storage on their device but want access to a broad library of titles.

Verdict

If you already own the original Nintendo Switch, you might be wondering whether it’s worth upgrading to the Switch 2. The Nintendo Switch 2 is priced around $499, a notable increase from the original model’s $299 launch price. For the cost, you’re getting significant upgrades like the OLED display, better performance, longer battery life, and a second USB-C port. 

For some, the new design, better screen, faster performance, and longer battery life will be more than enough to make the jump. Others may prefer to stick with the original model if they’re happy with their current setup. However, for anyone who values portability, performance, and an ever-growing game library, the Switch 2 is the perfect console.

However, as with any new console, there are a few drawbacks. The port placement, although improved with the addition of a second USB-C port, can still feel awkward when using it with the kickstand deployed. Additionally, while the Switch 2’s performance has been significantly boosted, it still doesn’t match the raw power of other next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Therefore, if you’re looking for 4K gaming or high-end graphics, you might find the Switch 2 somewhat limited in that regard. 

The game library, while fantastic, still leans heavily on Nintendo’s first-party exclusives. Notably, third-party titles aren’t always as robust as those on other platforms. All in all, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a worthy upgrade for fans of the original and anyone looking for a powerful yet portable gaming device. The Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t just an evolution; it’s a reinvention of what a hybrid console can be.