Nintendo Switch 2 boasts 4K, 120fps, better battery life

Nintendo shared extensive details about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 during its latest Direct presentation, and we've uncovered even more information post-event - including key technical specifications. While many questions remain, here's everything we know so far about the next-generation console.

The presentation confirmed previous reports about the console featuring a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen with 1080p (1920x1080) resolution. This represents a significant improvement over previous models: the original Switch's 6.2-inch display, the Switch OLED's 7-inch screen (though OLED enthusiasts may lament its absence), and the Switch Lite's 5.5-inch panel.

The system will support HDR10 and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology up to 120Hz, enabling potential 120fps gameplay depending on both software optimization and display compatibility.

Docking the Switch 2 will unlock enhanced visual capabilities, supporting 4K (3840x2160) output at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920x1080/2560x1440) at 120fps. While Nintendo attributes these graphics improvements to a "custom NVIDIA processor," specific CPU/GPU details haven't been disclosed yet.

The console will feature a 5220mAh Lithium-ion battery providing approximately 2-6.5 hours of gameplay, with a three-hour charging time in Sleep mode. Nintendo emphasizes these are approximate figures that will vary based on game intensity - comparable to the original Switch's 2.5-6.5 hour range but slightly shorter than newer models' endurance.

The device measures 4.5" tall × 10.7" wide × 0.55" thick with Joy-Con 2 controllers attached, weighing approximately 0.88 lbs without controllers and 1.18 lbs with them. Exact weight matches the original Switch, though the dimensions represent an increase over all current models.

Joy-Con 2 specifications remain somewhat ambiguous - Nintendo hasn't confirmed whether they'll implement Hall Effect joysticks to prevent the drift issues that plagued earlier models, despite a 2023 patent hinting at this possibility.

Audio capabilities include linear PCM 5.1ch output, with future updates enabling virtual surround sound through both headphones and built-in speakers.

The Switch 2 offers substantial storage improvements with 256GB internal capacity - quadrupling the original Switch/Lite's 32GB and significantly more than the OLED model's 64GB. Note that the new console requires microSD Express cards (supporting up to 2TB expansion) rather than being compatible with current microSDXC cards.

Additional features include:

• Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
• Dual USB-C ports
• 3.5mm CTIA-standard audio jack
• Built-in microphone with advanced noise/echo cancellation

For more details, explore our coverage of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation breakdown, pricing analysis, known launch titles, and pre-order timeline.