Nintendo has officially announced the Switch 2, revealing its name and some features in a brief YouTube trailer. The new console, larger than its predecessor, includes detachable Joy-Cons, a second USB-C port, and an undisclosed new button. Expected to launch in early 2025, it may be priced around €400. Speculated hardware improvements suggest performance could rival previous console generations, with potential 4K gaming and ray tracing capabilities. Backward compatibility with existing Switch games will also be available.
Exciting Developments on the Upcoming Console
The anticipation has reached its peak: Nintendo has officially unveiled the Switch 2, following a series of leaks – at least to some extent. In a brief two-minute YouTube trailer, glimpses of the console were revealed, confirming many speculated features. The new handheld will officially be named Switch 2, rather than Switch Pro. This naming choice is somewhat atypical for Nintendo, as they usually avoid using numerical designations that directly reference the predecessor.
The trailer also indicates that the Switch 2 will be larger than its predecessor, though Nintendo has yet to specify the exact screen size. The Joy-Cons are now detachable from the sides; however, they still lack a magnetic attachment to the console. Additionally, there will be a second USB-C port and a new button with an undisclosed function. But enough with the introductions—check out the trailer for yourself!
In the sections below, we address the most pressing questions regarding this innovative handheld device.
Expected Release Date for the Nintendo Switch 2
There have been ongoing speculations about the introduction of the Switch 2 in January 2025, and these rumors have been validated. A market launch was anticipated for March 2025; however, this timeline seems uncertain. Nintendo is set to disclose more details about the new handheld on April 2 during an upcoming Nintendo Direct. Following this, there will be hands-on events globally, including in Germany, and the Switch 2 tour will extend through early June. Therefore, potential buyers might have to wait until summer to get their hands on the new console.
Pricing Insights for the Nintendo Switch 2
As of now, there is no official information regarding the pricing of the Switch 2. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that the new hardware will come at a lower price than the original Switch. In fact, we estimate that it will be priced around 400 euros, which aligns with an analyst’s forecast suggesting that games for the Switch 2 could retail for up to 70 euros.
Anticipated Hardware for the Switch 2
While the design of the Switch 2 has been unveiled, details regarding its hardware remain speculative. Improved hardware is expected to be integrated into the Switch 2, raising fans’ hopes for enhanced performance compared to the existing Switch, which has been criticized for not being able to support graphically intensive titles.
Currently, the PS5 and Xbox Series X have the upper hand over the Nintendo console. However, Activision CEO Bobby Kotick hinted that the Switch 2’s performance might be comparable to the previous console generation, including the PS4 and Xbox One. While this would be a step up from the original Switch, some fans may desire even greater capabilities. There are also mentions that the Switch 2 could potentially rival the performance of the PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Reports suggest the possibility of 4K resolution gaming at 60 frames per second and ray tracing capabilities. Renowned leaker Tom Henderson predicts that players will often see titles listed as ‘Releases for PS5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch 2.’
Ray Tracing and DLSS Features in Switch 2
In early 2024, YouTuber ‘Moore’s Law Is Dead’ provided insights on the technical specifications of the Switch 2, suggesting that the console will be roughly as powerful as an Xbox Series S, but with superior features such as optimized ray tracing and DLSS. In handheld mode, it may achieve a lower frame rate than the Steam Deck, yet deliver a higher resolution. Thanks to upscaling technologies, 4K resolutions in games could become a reality.
Further rumors indicate that the Switch 2 might come with only 512 gigabytes of internal storage. However, it is expected to match the PS5 in RAM capacity, featuring 16 GB of RAM—four times more than the original Switch.
A newer leak from Reddit user MisterSheeple mentions an NVIDIA T239 processor but only 12 gigabytes of RAM. There are also claims of just 256 gigabytes of internal storage. Contrarily, another source has provided updated 3D scans of the Switch 2, suggesting dimensions of 270 mm wide, 116 mm high, and 14 mm thick. This discrepancy indicates that MisterSheeple’s information might be outdated. In any case, the authenticity of these leaks cannot be disregarded.
Games Expected for the Switch 2
Nintendo has yet to confirm any titles specifically for the Switch 2. However, there are rumors circulating that up to 25 games may be released for the new console, with a new iteration of Mario Kart potentially featured in the trailer.
Gamers need not worry about a lack of titles for the new handheld, as Nintendo has confirmed backward compatibility with existing Switch games, allowing players to enjoy their favorite titles on the new device.
We will continue to keep you updated with the best offers for an affordable Switch OLED and share tips on how to enjoy free games on your Switch.