Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch: What’s Actually New, and is it Worth the Upgrade?

It’s not every day that a console this successful gets a sequel. But after more than eight years, Nintendo’s juggernaut Switch—equal parts handheld innovation and living room staple—is finally making room for its next evolution: the Nintendo Switch 2.

So that begs the question: Are you going to stick with the tried-and-true original, or is it time to level up?

We’ve broken down everything that separates the new from the old: from design to processing muscle to exclusive titles, plus what you can expect to pay. In a nutcase, the Switch 2 is a major leap forward. But whether it’s right for you depends on how—and why—you play.

The Short Version

Well, the original Switch is showing its age. Graphics, loading speeds, and in-game performance have all been outpaced by what players now expect—even from a portable console. If you’re all about cutting-edge gaming and want access to the freshest, most powerful Nintendo experience, Switch 2 is the move. That said, if you’re on a budget or a casual player, the original still holds up for now.

There’s good news for longtime fans: Switch 2 is backward compatible—so you can bring your game library with you. But not the other way around: new-gen cartridges won’t run on the old system.

Design + Display: Slimmer, Sharper, Smarter

The biggest visual difference? That screen. The new Switch 2 boasts a 7.9-inch Full HD display (compared to the original’s 6.2-inch HD panel), with variable refresh rates up to 120Hz—and support for 4K resolution when docked to a TV.

The bezels are slimmer, and the overall ergonomics have been refined for longer play sessions. One standout upgrade: the magnetic Joy-Con controllers. No more awkward snapping in—just get them close, and they click into place. This new magnetic rail also opens up space for third-party accessories: think steering wheels, cases, and controller mods.

Hardware: More Power, More Battery, More of Everything

Under the hood, Switch 2 runs on a custom Nvidia T239 processor—future-proofed for at least six to seven years of game development. It’s paired with Wi-Fi 6 and a battery designed to keep up with the demands of beefier graphics and smoother performance (expect similar battery life to the original, thanks to smart optimization).

Storage has jumped to 256GB—eight times the original—and now uses microSD Express cards for lightning-fast load times. Audio also gets a boost: spatial, three-dimensional sound now makes handheld and tabletop play more immersive than ever. Whether you’re sneaking through Hyrule or tearing down Rainbow Road, the difference is real.

Features: New Buttons, Smarter Social

Nintendo is adding a new “C” button that opens GameChat, a built-in hub for voice and video calls. Want to show off your Mario Kart drift in real time? The Switch 2’s front-facing camera (or any USB-C cam) has you covered.

Also new: GameShare. Think of it as game lending for the digital age—you can let a friend jump into your title without them owning it, via local or online connection. Paired with GameChat, it turns the Switch 2 into a miniature party platform.

Games: The Real Reason You’re Upgrading

Nintendo heard the criticism: the Switch’s 2017 launch lacked killer exclusives. They’ve fixed that.

The Switch 2 drops with a blockbuster lineup, including:

• Mario Kart World – A massive open-world reimagining of the franchise, with 24-player races and “Survival Mode,” where losers get knocked out mid-race.
  
• Donkey Kong Bananza – A 3D platforming romp full of terrain destruction, hidden areas, and big DK energy.
  
• Kirby Air Raiders (late 2025)
  
• Hyrule Warriors: The Age of Exile (end of 2025)
  
• The Duskbloods (2026)
  
• Drag X Drive – A stylish new racing IP landing this summer
  

Older fan favorites are getting Switch 2 upgrade packs with enhanced visuals, extra content, and gameplay tweaks. Confirmed titles include:

• Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
  
• Zelda: Breath of the Wild
  
• Cyberpunk 2077
  
• Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition
  
• Fortnite, Civilization 7, Yakuza 0, Hogwarts Legacy, Street Fighter 6
  
• Plus a ton of cult classics and RPGs getting HD remasters

Switch 2 will also bring GameCube titles back through Nintendo Switch Online, with upgraded graphics and smoother performance.

The Price

• Nintendo Switch 2 (Console Only): HKD$3,450
  
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle: HKD$3,750
  
• Other accessories likes Joy-Con and game controllers: HKD$389 to HKD$548

Final Verdict: Upgrade or Hold?

If you’re new to Switch or you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in next-gen Nintendo, the Switch 2 is a must-buy. The design is sharper, the tech is smarter, and the game catalog is stronger from Day 1.

Still happy with your current Switch? Keep enjoying it for a bit longer—but know that a wave of exclusives, performance perks, and social features is just around the corner.

First published on gqitalia.it