Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has confirmed that VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) will only be available in handheld mode for the Switch 2, not in docked mode.
2. The initial incorrect information about VRR on the Nintendo Switch 2 website has been acknowledged and apologized for by the company.
3. The limitations in VRR support are attributed to the Switch 2 dock’s specifications and its adapter connections.
4. VRR is a crucial feature for modern gaming, enhancing performance by synchronizing display refresh rates with video output frame rates.
5. Competitors like Xbox Series X and PS5 offer VRR support, highlighting the Switch 2’s limitations in comparison.
As the launch of the Switch 2 approaches, Nintendo is finally addressing some of the questions surrounding the new handheld console. After some conflicting details appeared on its website, it has now been clarified that VRR will not be available in docked mode. Nintendo Life has confirmed this directly from the company, leaving many gamers disappointed who intended to use the Switch 2 both at home and on the go.
Nintendo’s Clarification on VRR
In their statement, Nintendo clarified the confusion: “Nintendo Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode only. The incorrect information was initially published on the Nintendo Switch 2 website, and we apologise for the error.” When further inquiries about the possibility of a firmware update to enable the feature were made, the company chose not to provide additional comments.
Limited VRR Implementation
While it’s unfortunate for users, the limited support for VRR isn’t exactly shocking. Digital Foundry has shared the full specifications of the Switch 2, detailing the capabilities of its Nvidia T239 chip and how it utilizes memory. The report indicated that the Switch 2 dock does not support VRR when linked to TVs or monitors. The assumption is that the DisplayPort v1.4 to HDMI 2.1 adapter may be the reason for this limitation.
VRR has become an essential feature for modern graphics cards, monitors, TVs, and consoles. It synchronizes the refresh rate of a display with the frame rate of the video output, which is especially beneficial for competitive gaming at high refresh rates, helping to minimize screen tearing and input lag. The Switch 2 is capable of reaching up to 120 fps at 1440p in handheld mode, meaning some games may experience fluctuating frame rates. Even if gamers primarily use the dock for 4K at 60 fps, there are still benefits to having VRR.
Competition and Similar Limitations
Both the Xbox Series X and PS5 offer VRR support, with Sony integrating this feature into its console in 2022. However, docks for other handheld devices, like the Asus ROG Ally, are also facing similar restrictions with HDMI connections.
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