Nintendo Switch 2 vs 1 – 15 Biggest Differences You May Not Know

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The Nintendo Switch 2, contrary to its reputation for revolutionizing gaming consoles, appears to take a more evolutionary approach instead of a revolutionary one. Unlike previous Nintendo systems, it is focusing on gradual improvements rather than drastic changes. However, despite this shift in strategy, the upcoming next-generation console still brings about several changes when compared to its predecessor, including hardware enhancements, new user features, altered pricing strategies, and more. In this feature, we will discuss some of these differences between the Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch. Here, we are comparing only the base Switch model with the upcoming console.

For instance, one significant change is the improved hardware, which promises to deliver better performance and graphics for a smoother gaming experience. Additionally, new user features have been added to enhance the overall user experience, such as an upgraded operating system and more storage capacity options. Furthermore, Nintendo has adjusted its pricing policies to make the console more affordable for a wider range of consumers.

Another area where the Switch 2 differs from the original model is in terms of connectivity. The new console will support faster internet speeds, allowing for quicker downloads and smoother online gameplay. Moreover, it is rumored to have improved battery life, giving players more time to enjoy their games on-the-go without needing to constantly recharge.

In conclusion, while the Nintendo Switch 2 may not be a complete overhaul of its predecessor, it still brings about several key changes that set it apart from the original model. By focusing on iterative improvements, Nintendo aims to provide a more polished and enjoyable gaming experience for players everywhere.

SCREEN

Kick things off by delving into fundamental aspects – the display on the new model, boasting several enhancements. To begin with, the screen size in the Switch 2 is significantly larger than the original Switch, expanding from 6.2 inches to a more spacious 7.9 inches. In contrast, the first-generation Switch’s screen tops out at 720p resolution, while the updated model will support 1080p output. Additionally, it offers Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and smooth 120 frames per second gameplay.

MAGNETIC JOY-CONS

Over the past few years, we’ve grown accustomed to the way Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons can be detached and reattached via rails on either side of the tablet. However, Nintendo is introducing a new method for the Switch 2. Unlike the original Switch’s Joy-Cons that slide into (and out of) these rails, the Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 will attach magnetically to the tablet. To remove them, players will need to press a new button near the trigger. Nintendo has promised that the magnetic controllers won’t accidentally detach and fall off on their own.

MOUSE FUNCTIONALITY

With the upcoming Joy-Con 2 controllers, you can anticipate a novel feature that has been hinted at for some time – sensors built into their sides. This means you’ll be able to rotate either Joy-Con horizontally and utilize it as if it were a computer mouse on a flat surface. The original Switch offered three distinct play styles in handheld, console, and tabletop modes, enabling effortless and immediate transitions between them. The new Switch (Switch 2) is expanding this list by introducing mouse mode.

C BUTTON AND GAMECHAT

One significant addition to the Switch 2, as claimed by Nintendo, is the introduction of a new C button linked to the GameChat feature. By pressing this button, you’ll be able to access the GameChat interface where you can engage in voice chats (or video chats with the necessary equipment) with other players while continuing your own game. Regrettably, it appears that the use of GameChat will be limited to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers once its free trial period concludes, which ends in March next year.

MORE JOY-CON CHANGES

In addition to enhancing other aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Cons, they have made adjustments to the size of the SL and SR buttons, which were often criticized for being too small in the original controllers. To address this issue, they’ve slightly increased their dimensions. Furthermore, the analog sticks on the Switch 2 are larger, and Nintendo has promised that stick drift problems, a significant issue with the Switch 1, will be less prevalent with the new console.

PRO CONTROLLER CHANGES

Just as anticipated, the upcoming Switch 2 will offer a fresh Pro Controller for users to buy separately. This controller will introduce several modifications, one of which includes the inclusion of a C button, a feature already present in the current Switch Pro Controller. A notable improvement is the addition of an audio jack, a feature that was conspicuously absent from the original Switch Pro Controller. Furthermore, the new Pro Controller for the Switch 2 will include GL and GR buttons on its grip. These can be customized and assigned to inputs according to your preference.

4K CAPABLE

Regarding technology and hardware components, the upcoming Switch 2 represents a significant leap in generations for Nintendo, similar to the transition from GameCube. The original Switch, released in 2017, was already outdated at its launch, but the Switch 2 promises to be an entirely new chapter. One notable example of this upgrade is that Nintendo has confirmed the console’s ability to render games in 4K resolution, a feat beyond the reach of the current Switch model.

SUPPORTS RAY TRACING AND DLSS

For quite some time, there have been rumors suggesting that the upcoming Switch 2 will incorporate Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology. Initially linked to the mythical and non-existent Switch Pro, this speculation has persisted for years. Now, it’s officially confirmed, addressing the question of how the Switch 2 might manage 4K capabilities, given that its specifications would place it below the Xbox Series S in terms of raw power. Furthermore, apart from DLSS, the Switch 2 is also said to support ray tracing technology.

3D AUDIO

Apart from discussing the various visual improvements you can expect with the Switch 2, it’s important to note that its advancements go beyond just that. In terms of audio, the Switch 2 not only promises louder and better-quality speakers, but it also supports 3D audio, which is impressive whether you’re using the console or holding it as a handheld device.

SWITCH 2 EDITION GAMES

In the future, the enhanced hardware of the new-generation console will undoubtedly result in more visually appealing games, even for current Nintendo Switch 1 titles. However, whether or not these improvements are made is up to each individual publisher. Some publishers may release what are being referred to as Nintendo Switch 2 Edition versions of their Switch 1 games, which essentially are upgraded versions tailored for the Nintendo Switch 2. The specific enhancements, costs, and other details will differ from game to game and developer to developer.

STORAGE

Just as anticipated, the internal storage of the upcoming Switch 2 is noticeably larger compared to the original Switch 1. Launched in 2017, the first model came with 32 GB of internal storage, whereas its successor will boast a much larger capacity, up to 256 GB. However, keep in mind that Switch 2 games will be heavier than those for the original Switch. Moreover, the console’s storage can be expanded, but traditional microSD cards won’t work anymore; instead, new microSD Express cards are required.

BATTERY

As an excited fan, it’s clear that the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2 are impressive, but there’s one aspect that might be a letdown – its battery life. Compared to the original Switch, which could last anywhere from 4 to 10 hours on a single charge based on usage, the Switch 2 is expected to offer a more modest battery span of 2 to six-and-a-half hours. On the brighter side, the charging time remains relatively unchanged at roughly three hours, just like the first Switch model.

DOCK

Just as the Switch 2 tablet deviates from its predecessor, so too does its newly designed dock. The dimensions of the new dock – standing at approximately 4.5 inches tall, 7.9 inches wide, and 2 inches thick – are notably larger than those of the Switch 1’s dock (4.1 inches tall, 6.8 inches wide, and 2.12 inches thick). Unlike its predecessor, the updated base dock will incorporate an Ethernet port for users preferring to connect a LAN cable directly.

GAMECUBE TITLES ON NINTENDO SWITCH ONLJNE

Enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting GameCube games to be added to the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) library for some time, and that wait is finally coming to an end starting June 5, but only for the upgraded Switch 2 model. The existing Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription on the original Switch grants access to games from the NES, SNES, N64, Genesis, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance. However, subscribers of the Switch 2 will enjoy not only these classic titles but also GameCube games as well. Some popular titles like “The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker,” “Soulcalibur 2,” and “F-Zero GX” are set to be available from day one, with additional games such as “Luigi’s Mansion,” “Super Mario Sunshine,” “Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness,” and many others being added later.

PRICING CHANGES

As an avid fan, I must express my disappointment about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Contrary to my excitement for this new release, I find myself disheartened by the significant price hike. Initially, the original Switch was priced at $299 in the U.S., but Nintendo has set the price for the next-gen console at a whopping $449. With the ongoing tariff issues, there’s a strong possibility that this price might escalate even further before its launch, especially here in the U.S.

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2025-04-12 04:42