Key Takeaways
1. Hori has released two portable camera alternatives for the Nintendo Switch 2, including a Super-Mario-themed Piranha Plant camera and a more compact option for handheld gaming.
2. The new compact camera measures 2 inches in length, weighs 30 grams, connects via USB-C, and includes a detachable pedestal for stability.
3. The compact camera is available exclusively on Amazon Japan for ¥3,981 (approximately $28), making it cheaper than Hori’s Piranha Plant camera and Nintendo’s own camera.
4. All three cameras are set to launch with the Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.
5. Hori’s cameras are more portable and affordable but have lower video quality (640×480 resolution) compared to Nintendo’s camera (1080p resolution).
Despite a foreboding notice from Nintendo about potential issues with third-party cameras, Hori, a gaming accessory manufacturer, has unveiled not just one but two portable camera alternatives for the Nintendo Switch 2. Alongside the previously announced Super-Mario-themed Piranha Plant camera, there’s now a more compact option that is perfect for handheld gaming.
Camera Specifications
Hori’s latest camera measures 2 inches (5 cm) in length and weighs merely 30 grams, which is significantly lighter than the 249 grams of the Piranha Plant version. This new camera can be directly connected to the USB-C port on the Switch 2 and can function individually or with a detachable pedestal that provides stability when placed on a table. Additionally, the pedestal isn’t just a standard base; it features a foldable wedge that allows the camera to clip onto the top of a TV, similar to a webcam setup.
Availability and Pricing
At the moment, this camera is exclusively available on the Amazon Japan website, and there is no information about it on Hori’s US site. Priced at ¥3,981 (approximately $28), it is priced significantly lower than the $60 Piranha Plant camera and is also cheaper than Nintendo’s own offering, which retails at $50. All three products are set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.
Quality Comparison
While Hori’s products win in terms of portability and affordability, they do come with a noticeable compromise in video quality. Nintendo’s camera boasts a 1080p resolution, whereas both of Hori’s alternatives only support 640×480 resolution— a marked decrease compared to Nintendo’s. Nevertheless, these cameras are compatible with GameChat and hold official Nintendo licenses, making them a safe pick for those on a budget or seeking a more playful camera experience.
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