Know Before You Buy
By now, you've probably heard a few things about the new Nintendo Switch 2, from the hefty price tag to its new features. And if you have an old Switch in hand, you might be wondering if the new console is worth the upgrade. If you're stumped on the decision, this article might help break things down. Here are 20 things you need to know before buying the Nintendo Switch 2.
1. Price Tag
The first thing you need to know about the new Switch 2 (and probably what you're most curious about) is its price tag. And you'll want to be prepared—it's steep. The base console will set you back $450, but if you're interested in Mario Kart, a limited edition bundle is available for $500.
2. Joy-Con 2
The new Switch 2, of course, comes with all-new Joy-Con controllers, and they're a major upgrade from the original model. Instead of the slide-in mechanism that many users experienced wear and tear with on the first Switch, these improved ones are equipped with magnets for easy snap-on attachment. This should make them quicker to fix on and remove.
3. Bigger Screen
The new Switch 2 boasts a whopping 7.9-inch screen—a massive upgrade from the original Switch, which only came with a 6.2-inch frame. The only downside is that the Switch 2 features an LCD screen and not an OLED panel.
4. 4K Support
When your Switch 2 is connected to the TV, it offers 4K support—the first time for a Nintendo console. This means you can choose to have it run at a buttery smooth frame rate of 120 frames per second, instead of the usual 60fps, making the gaming experience that much more immersive and enjoyable.
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5. GameShare
GameShare is another new feature on the Switch 2, and it's fairly self-explanatory: it lets you play live, in real time, with friends. You can even invite others to join select compatible games they don't own, but you do. Those shared exclusively between Switch 2 users will also be able to chat while playing.
6. Expansive Game Library
If you're feeling nostalgic and want to replay a game from your childhood, the Switch 2 and Nintendo's online subscription service—Nintendo Classics—will let you do just that. This includes games from the Game Boy to NES and SNES systems.
7. Storage Capacity
The new Switch 2 receives a huge boost in storage capacity, jumping from the original's 32GB to a whopping 256GB. The Switch 2 also uses UFS (universal flash storage) instead of eMMC (embedded multi-media card), meaning it's faster, snappier, and will handle larger game files better.
8. Two USB Ports
It might not sound like a huge upgrade, but users coming from the original Switch will appreciate the additional USB port located at the top of the new and improved console.
This means you can still charge and play while your Switch 2 is in tabletop mode without damaging any cables.
PantheraLeo1359531 on Wikimedia
9. Battery Life
One disappointing thing you'll want to keep in mind is that the new Switch 2 doesn't offer better battery life; in fact, you'll only wring out the same amount of juice as the original, which is around two to six-and-a-half hours, depending on the game you're playing.
PantheraLeo1359531 on Wikimedia
10. Mouse Mode
Another cool new feature with the improved Joy-Cons is that you'll be able to use it like a mouse, just by flipping it onto its side and sliding it on a flat surface. This opens up endless possibilities, making gameplay and interaction much smoother and more intuitive.
11. Compatible Accessories
A piece of good news for original Switch owners is that many of your older accessories may be compatible with the Switch 2. This includes the Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller, though the former won't be able to connect to the new console given the updated magnetic mechanism.
12. System Transfer Tool
Want to transfer your data from your old Switch to your new one? Don't worry—Nintendo has a tool made specifically for that, meaning you can safely move your saves, digital games, and profiles, just by connecting both devices together or sending your data to a dedicated Nintendo server.
13. Storage Expansion
Need more storage?
The Switch 2 has a dedicated slot that allows you to add a microSD Express card for up to an additional 2TB of data space. Keep in mind that regular microSD cards will not work, and you won't be able to save or load digital games on them.
14. Switch 2 Game Prices
Another downside to the new pricey Switch is that its games don't bring good news to your wallet, either. Both physical and digital copies of games will cost $70-80 (on top of a $450 console), so it'll take some serious deliberation whether upgrading is a worthwhile—or possible—investment.
15. Accessory Pricing
Speaking of expensive games, additional Switch 2 accessories won't run cheap, either. If you need an extra pair of Joy-Cons, for example, they'll set you back $95. The Switch 2 Pro Controller? $85. And if you want another dock set, be ready to shell out $120.
16. GameCube Titles
Remember how we mentioned you can play retro games for a hit of nostalgia? Well, subscribers of the Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier are in for a treat: GameCube titles like F-ZERO GX and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker are just some of the ones you can enjoy.
17. The "C" Button
Another new thing you'll see on the right Joy-Con controller is a "C" button, which is a dedicated mode that allows you to chat with others while you game. You'll also see this button on the Pro Controller.
This feature, however, will only be free to all Switch 2 owners for a limited time; after March 31, 2026, it will only be available to subscribers.
18. UI
The new Switch 2 won't feel extremely new to previous Switch owners; in fact, the UI will feel relatively familiar, though with a few changes here and there. This is good news for those who don't want to have to relearn the redesigned quirks and functionality of the new Switch.
19. Game-Key Cards
Some games will be sold as game-key cards, which include a key needed to download the game off the internet—though you will still need the physical card to play the actual game. You will not be able to play without the cartridge in the slot.
20. Improved Sound
One thing you'll definitely notice with the Switch 2 is the improved audio. Games will sound much more crisp and sharp, and the console even supports 3D audio. This makes handheld gameplay much more immersive and enjoyable.
