The original Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, quickly became a global phenomenon and is now the third best-selling console of all time, trailing only the PlayStation 2 and Nintendo DS. The first-gen Switch featured a 6.2-inch LCD, and in 2021, Nintendo introduced the Switch OLED, a mid-generation refresh boasting a 7-inch OLED display. Now, Nintendo is gearing up for the highly anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2, which promises even larger dimensions and advanced features.
A Bigger and Better Display
Leaked CAD renders suggest the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature an impressive 8.4-inch display, likely OLED, delivering 44% more screen real estate compared to the original. While maintaining the 16:9 aspect ratio, rumors hint at a potential upgrade in resolution from 720p to 1080p, offering sharper visuals for handheld gaming.
| Model | Screen Size | Resolution (Rumored) | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch (2017) | 6.2” LCD | 720p | 16:9 |
| Switch OLED | 7.0” OLED | 720p | 16:9 |
| Switch 2 | 8.4” OLED | 1080p (rumored) | 16:9 |
Improved Joy-Con Ergonomics
The Joy-Cons will remain detachable but with a revamped attachment mechanism for better durability. Additionally, the new Joy-Cons are expected to be taller, wider, and thicker, addressing ergonomic concerns from the original model. The button layout appears unchanged, ensuring a familiar feel for existing players.
Redesigned Hardware and Port Layout
From leaked renders, the Switch 2 will include a USB-C port at the bottom with alignment holes for docking, a design choice similar to its predecessor. Intriguingly, similar holes appear at the top, though their purpose remains unclear.
Top-mounted vent holes suggest the console will feature active cooling, possibly due to the upgraded hardware. Rumored specs indicate the Switch 2 will utilize the Nvidia Tegra T239 chipset, boasting:
- Cortex-X1 core
- Three Cortex-A78 cores
- Four Cortex-A55 cores
- Ampere GPU with 1,536 CUDA cores
This chipset, built on a 5nm process, offers a significant leap over the original Switch’s Tegra X1/X1+, which used a 20nm/16nm node and included only four Cortex-A57 cores and a Maxwell GPU with 256 CUDA cores.
Potentially Larger Battery
Another surprising detail is the reported 31.4mm thickness of the Switch 2—more than twice the thickness of the original console. While this could be a mistake in the renders, it might indicate the inclusion of a larger battery, ensuring extended playtime for the more demanding hardware.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a worthy successor to the original, with larger dimensions, a better display, improved ergonomics, and cutting-edge hardware. While no official launch date has been announced, anticipation is growing as fans eagerly await Nintendo’s next-generation gaming experience.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Nintendo Switch 2 as the official reveal approaches!
