Nintendo Switch 2 Console
Nintendo

Nintendo Switch 2 Console

Gaming

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Our Take

Nintendo's long-awaited follow-up to its best-selling hybrid console, the Switch 2 plays games both docked to a TV and in handheld mode. It's aimed squarely at existing Switch owners ready for a meaningful upgrade, as well as new players. It sits in the mid-range price tier, underpowered versus PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X but offering genuine portability neither rival can match.

Key Features

Larger 7.9-inch LCD screen compared to the original Switch's 6.2-inch display

Upgraded Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically rather than using the original rail-slide mechanism

New "C Button" on the right Joy-Con opens Nintendo's GameChat voice and video communication feature

Backwards compatible with the vast majority of original Nintendo Switch physical and digital game library

Dock includes a USB-C port and additional USB-A ports for accessories and charging

Mouse-mode functionality built into Joy-Con 2, usable on flat surfaces for supported titles

Our Verdict

The Switch 2 is the obvious choice for original Switch owners who've felt the hardware's age, and for anyone who genuinely wants a capable console they can take anywhere. Those prioritising cutting-edge graphical performance should stick with PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Pure home-console players will find limited reason to choose this over the competition.

What We Like

  • Backwards compatibility means an enormous existing game library is accessible from day one
  • Magnetic Joy-Con attachment feels more secure and quicker to connect than the original design
  • Handheld performance is a substantial step up, making portable play genuinely convincing for modern games
  • GameChat is a practical, no-fuss approach to voice communication without requiring a separate app

Things to Consider

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrades for existing games carry additional purchase costs that will frustrate current library owners
  • Raw graphical performance still trails dedicated home consoles considerably when docked
  • GameChat video feature requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership to use fully
  • Launch software line-up is relatively slim, with the broader catalogue taking time to materialise

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