Tag: Nintendo Switch 2

April 4, 2025
Nintendo Explains Switch 2’s LCD Choice Over OLED Display
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features significant enhancements, including increased power, improved Joy-Con functionality, a larger and faster display, and a bigger battery.
2. The decision to use an LCD screen instead of an OLED was made to enable HDR support, reflecting advancements in display technology.
3. The new console has a 7.9-inch LCD display with 1920×1080 resolution, HDR10 support, and variable refresh rate up to 120 Hz, offering a more immersive gaming experience.
4. Additional upgrades include 256 GB of storage, Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, and the ability to output 4K resolution at 60 FPS.
5. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available on June 5, with pre-orders starting on April 9, priced at $450, and a bundle option available for $500.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was officially revealed on April 2, showcasing notable enhancements compared to the original Switch. It boasts increased power, improved functionality with the Joy-Cons, a larger and quicker display, and a bigger battery. However, fans were a bit taken aback by the decision to use an LCD screen instead of an OLED one. This choice was made to enable HDR support.
Insight from Nintendo’s Management
During a hardware-centered discussion that included IGN and other media outlets, Tetsuya Sasaki, General Manager of the Technology Development Division and Senior Director of the Technology Development Department at Nintendo, shared that there were many factors to weigh when deciding between LCD and OLED for the Switch 2. Ultimately, the team opted for LCD due to significant advancements in display technology, which allowed the new console to support HDR—something the Nintendo Switch OLED lacked.
Display and Performance Upgrades
The Nintendo Switch 2 is equipped with a 7.9-inch LCD display featuring a resolution of 1920×1080, HDR10 support, and variable refresh rate (VRR) up to 120 Hz. In comparison, the Switch OLED has a 7.0-inch OLED screen with 1280×720 resolution. This increase in size, resolution, and overall picture quality is expected to provide a more immersive gaming experience on the Switch 2. Additional enhancements include 256 GB (UFS) of storage, Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, and a maximum output resolution of 3840×2160 (4K) at 60 FPS. The Joy-Cons now magnetically attach to the console and feature a mouse mode, alongside larger SL and SR buttons.
Availability and Pricing
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to hit stores on June 5, with pre-orders beginning on April 9. The console is priced at $450, and there’s also a Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle available for $500.
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Tags: HDR, Nintendo Switch 2, Tetsuya Sasaki
April 4, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons: Hall Effect Sensors Uncertainty
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo revealed key details about the Switch 2, including screen size, price, and release date.
2. The new Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 attach magnetically and may include a mouse mode.
3. Hall effect sensors are being considered to solve the stick drift issue from the original Switch controllers.
4. There are ongoing uncertainties about the new Joy-Con technology, with no confirmation of Hall effect sensors.
5. Future events are planned for gamers to experience the Switch 2 firsthand, with more information expected soon.
Nintendo revealed a lot of details on April 2nd about the Switch 2, answering plenty of questions that gamers had. Now, players are aware of the console’s screen size, its price, and the exact date when it will be released. Additionally, the new Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 attach magnetically, and there is an optional mouse mode. However, it still isn’t known if the analog sticks will also use magnets. To tackle the stick drift issue that plagued the original Switch controllers, Hall effect sensors are being considered.
Criticisms of Joy-Cons
Similar to Microsoft and Sony, Nintendo has received criticism for issues with their Joy-Cons. The first Switch’s analog sticks often became unreliable over time. After some usage, players might experience inaccurate movements in games or even random inputs. Hall effect technology addresses this challenge by using magnetic sensors to recognize inputs. This design prevents physical components from colliding, which can extend the lifespan of the analog sticks. Despite gamers requesting it, Nintendo and its competitors have not adopted Hall effect technology in their official controllers.
Ongoing Uncertainties
While some journalists have had a chance to try out the Switch 2, many questions remain unanswered. Hopes were raised when the NY Times Wirecutter mentioned Hall effect sensors during its preview, but the writer later explained that this statement was based on speculation. In an Ask the Developer interview, Kouichi Kawamoto from Nintendo only mentioned that the new Joy-Con sticks are more durable and operate more smoothly. Tetsuya Sasaki, the General Manager of the Technology Development Division, reiterated that the controllers have been completely redesigned.
Leaks and Future Expectations
In the lead-up to the Nintendo Direct, there were leaks suggesting that stick drift issues were being addressed. Back in January, NextHandheld, known for its reliable information, found Hall effect sensors in a teardown of the Switch 2.
Unfortunately, the specifications for the Switch 2 Pro Controller do not mention Hall effect sensors. It seems like it’s only a matter of time before gamers receive more information. Journalists anticipate more opportunities to interact with the console in the next few weeks. Moreover, Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events are being organized to give attendees hands-on time with the new system.
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Tags: Hall effect sensors, Joy-Cons, Nintendo Switch 2
April 4, 2025
Affordable and Cool Third-Party Camera for Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has announced the Nintendo Switch 2 along with new accessories, including third-party options that may offer better features and prices.
2. The Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a USB-C device priced at $50, designed for GameChat and specific minigames, but has a basic design.
3. Hori’s camera features a unique Piranha Plant design from Super Mario Bros., allowing it to close for privacy when not in use.
4. The Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera connects via USB-C and can be detached from its base for direct connection to the Switch 2.
5. The camera is currently available for pre-order in Germany for €39.99 (about $44), with no pricing details for other countries yet.
Along with the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has revealed a range of new accessories for this gaming handheld. As anticipated, various third-party makers are launching their own accessories, which may provide better features than those from Nintendo, and could even be more affordable. Some of these accessories are beginning to appear, including the Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera.
Camera Details
The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a USB-C device that connects to the Switch 2, enabling GameChat and allowing for some specific minigames. With a price tag of $50, its design and functionality aren’t particularly impressive. It appears to be just a standard-looking camera mounted on a stand. If you’re in the market for something with a bit more flair, the Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera might be just what you need.
Hori’s Unique Design
Hori is a well-known name in the world of Nintendo Switch accessories (the OLED model is currently priced at $339 on Amazon), and their latest offering features a design inspired by the Piranha Plant from the beloved Super Mario Bros. games. The camera cleverly hides inside the plant’s mouth and can be closed for privacy when it’s not in use. This accessory connects via USB-C, and according to the images, the plant element can be detached from the pipe base and plugged directly into the Switch 2.
Availability and Pricing
Currently, the Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is available for pre-order in Germany at Mediamarkt for €39.99 (approximately $44). There is no information about pricing in other countries at this time. While this is the first alternative camera for the Nintendo Switch 2 that we’ve come across, it probably won’t be the last one we see.
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Tags: Gaming Accessories, Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, Nintendo Switch 2
April 3, 2025
Nvidia Reveals Nintendo Switch 2 TFLOPs and Tech Specs
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 supports 4K at 60 fps when docked and 1080p at 120 fps in handheld mode.
2. Speculations suggest it uses the Nvidia Tegra T239 chipset with 12GB of RAM and an Ampere GPU.
3. The console’s performance is comparable to the Xbox Series S, with around 3.9 TFLOPs in docked mode.
4. The Switch 2 features hardware-accelerated ray tracing and AI-driven upscaling through dedicated RT and Tensor processing units.
5. It supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) in handheld mode to reduce screen tearing during gameplay.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was revealed on Wednesday, and many hands-on videos have already appeared online. While it’s known that games can operate at 4K with 60 frames per second when docked or 1080p at 120 fps in handheld mode, Nintendo hasn’t shared any specifics about the built-in processor or how the console performs overall.
Potential Specifications Leaked
There are speculations that the Switch 2 utilizes the Nvidia Tegra T239, which boasts eight ARM Cortex-A78E performance cores, 12GB of RAM, and an Ampere GPU with 1,536 CUDA cores. Just for context, this GPU architecture was rolled out with the GeForce RTX 3000 series. Nvidia has released some technical information about the Nintendo Switch 2 on their blog. Although Nvidia doesn’t specifically name the Tegra T239 chipset, they assert that the chip delivers ten times the GPU performance of the original Nintendo Switch.
Performance Insights
In docked mode, this equates to around 3.9 TFLOPs, meaning that the hybrid console will be as fast as the Xbox Series S. Nvidia points out that the chip has dedicated RT and Tensor processing units for hardware-accelerated ray tracing and DLSS, which provides AI-driven upscaling to higher resolutions. Additionally, the Tensor cores enable the Nintendo Switch 2’s camera to follow the user’s face and isolate it via AI technology. Another noteworthy detail is that the Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode, allowing the display’s refresh rate to adjust according to the games’ frame rates, thus minimizing screen tearing.
Nvidia’s recent insights have sparked excitement in the gaming community, with many eager to see how these advancements will influence gameplay.
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Tags: 4K gaming, Nintendo Switch 2, Nvidia Tegra T239
April 3, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says
Key Takeaways
1. Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers are increasingly accepting digital gaming, while Switch fans are slower to shift from physical cartridges.
2. Analysts are raising concerns about the high prices of Switch 2 games, with physical copies costing more than digital versions.
3. Digital distribution is more cost-effective for Nintendo, especially due to rising manufacturing costs for physical cartridges.
4. Nintendo is encouraging digital purchases with new features like virtual game cards, allowing some transferability between consoles.
5. Other gaming companies, like Sony and Microsoft, may follow Nintendo’s lead and consider phasing out physical media due to rising costs.
Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers have slowly started to accept digital gaming. In contrast, fans of the Switch have been a bit slower to make this shift, still building their collections of cartridges. Now, analysts are weighing in as consumers raise concerns about the pricing of several Switch 2 games. One expert suggests that Nintendo wants to encourage more players to move away from physical media.
Analyst Insights
MIDiA Games Industry Analyst Rhys Elliott has voiced his thoughts after the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 pricing. He pointed out the unexpectedly high prices for certain Switch 2 games, such as Mario Kart World. This popular kart racing game is going to an open-world format, but that freedom comes with a higher price tag. In certain regions, the physical version of Mario Kart World will cost 10 Euros more than the digital version. Elliott believes this is a tactic to cut down on manufacturing expenses during a tough economic climate.
Digital Distribution Benefits
Due to the high costs of making cartridges and their cases, digital distribution is a more cost-effective option for Nintendo. Some industry insiders suggest that the company might be using pricier 3D NAND flash memory for the Switch 2, which could lead to even higher costs. Additionally, the launch of virtual game cards shows how Nintendo is attempting to facilitate the shift towards digital purchases. With some restrictions, players can transfer their downloads between consoles similarly to how they would with physical cartridges.
Elliott also noted that Nintendo doesn’t profit from the resale of physical media. The compact Switch cartridges are cheap to ship, making them popular on auction platforms. Unfortunately, Nintendo only benefits from the initial sale of these titles. In contrast, while virtual game cards can be shared, digital games are more closely linked to online accounts.
Future Trends
It might not be long before Sony and Microsoft take a page from Nintendo’s playbook. New tariffs in the U.S. are increasing the costs of manufacturing and importing consoles and game discs. Naturally, Nintendo’s competitors also have the choice to completely eliminate physical media from their offerings.
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Tags: digital gaming, Mario Kart World, Nintendo Switch 2
April 3, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 $100 Cheaper in Japan: What You Need to Know
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo announced the Switch 2 during a Nintendo Direct event on April 2, 2025, with a global release set for June 5, 2025.
2. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 will begin on April 8, 2025, exclusively through the My Nintendo Store.
3. The standard price for the Switch 2 will be approximately $449 in the US and €469 in Europe, while Japan will feature two models, including a budget version.
4. The Japanese budget model will be priced at 49,980 yen (around $341) and is only available through local retailers, with restrictions on language and account registration.
5. The cheaper Japanese model can function outside Japan, but users will face limitations, such as a fixed Japanese language setting and access only to the Japanese eShop.
It finally occurred: On April 2, Nintendo revealed the Switch 2 during a Nintendo Direct event. The new gaming console is set to be released globally on June 5, 2025, with pre-orders beginning on April 8 solely through the My Nintendo Store. In the US, the standard version will be priced at approximately $449, while in Europe, it will be around €469. However, in Japan, Nintendo is opting for a different strategy by introducing a notably less expensive model.
Two Versions for Japan
Nintendo is launching two different models of the Switch 2 in Japan: the regular model priced at 69,980 yen (which is about $478), available through the My Nintendo Store Japan, and a more affordable version for 49,980 yen (around $341), which is only sold by local retailers. This budget-friendly model is limited to the Japanese language and requires a Nintendo account that is registered within Japan. Industry analyst Dr. Serkan Toto mentioned to VideoGamesChronicle that Nintendo views Japan as its core market. To keep its dominant position there, the company seems to be intentionally lowering the price of the entry-level model. “Japanese customers generally don’t prefer multilingual hardware,” Toto remarked.
Importing the Cheaper Model
In theory, gamers from other countries could also obtain the Japanese Switch 2. Nevertheless, since the lower-priced version is exclusively available in physical shops, you would need someone in Japan to buy and send it to you. Be mindful that shipping costs and import taxes might greatly diminish your savings. If you’re still considering getting the economical model, it’s essential to be aware of the restrictions that come along with it.
The less expensive Japanese Switch 2 can function outside of Japan as long as you create a Nintendo account set to Japan – no need for a VPN. Physical games from different regions should work without issues, as the console isn’t region-locked for cartridges. However, the system language is fixed to Japanese and cannot be altered. Users will also have access only to the Japanese eShop, where much of the content is solely offered in Japanese. Furthermore, as of March 25, 2025, the Japanese eShop has stopped accepting foreign credit cards or PayPal accounts.
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Tags: gaming console, Japanese version, Nintendo Switch 2
April 3, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Launches: 120Hz Display, Nvidia Chip for $449
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features a new design with a 7.9-inch LCD screen, 1080p resolution, and a 120Hz refresh rate for improved visuals.
2. It is powered by a custom Nvidia processor, offering enhanced GPU and CPU performance, along with 256GB of internal storage expandable up to 2TB.
3. The console includes connectivity options like WiFi 6, Bluetooth, and Ethernet through the dock, and has detachable JoyCon controllers and a built-in kickstand.
4. The Switch 2 is equipped with a 5,220mAh battery, ensuring portability and extended playtime.
5. It will be released on June 5 for $449.99, with pre-orders starting on April 9, and will launch with new titles including Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza.
After much waiting, Nintendo has at last revealed a new handheld console. This new device is the direct successor to the original Switch and goes by the name Nintendo Switch 2. The latest console from Nintendo brings a host of upgrades compared to its forerunner, along with a bunch of new games that are enhanced as well.
Key Features of Nintendo Switch 2
The Switch 2 features a completely revamped design, a bigger display, and more powerful internals. It has a thickness of only 13.9mm and weighs about 399 grams when the controllers are attached. Thus, this console remains a portable gaming device. The second-generation Switch boasts a 7.9-inch LCD screen with a boosted 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, along with support for variable refresh rate (VRR). The improvements in screen size, resolution, and refresh rate will provide better visuals.
Performance and Storage
Beneath the surface, the Nintendo Switch 2 is powered by a new custom Nvidia processor that delivers enhanced GPU and CPU performance. The specific model of this chip is not yet known, but the company asserts that it will enhance graphical quality and shorten load times. This chipset is combined with 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 2TB using a microSD Express card. A large 5,220mAh battery is what powers this device.
Connectivity and Accessories
Additional features worth mentioning are WiFi 6, Bluetooth, and an Ethernet option through the dock. Similar to its predecessor, the redesigned JoyCon controllers can be detached, and a built-in kickstand is included. When the console is docked, Nintendo asserts that the Switch 2 delivers improved performance with effective cooling. During the launch event, the company introduced a new lineup of titles, including Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, alongside a special Switch 2 Edition from its existing game library. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5, priced at 449.99 US Dollars. Pre-orders for this console will start on April 9.
Tags: gaming upgrades, handheld console, Nintendo Switch 2
April 3, 2025
Duskbloods: FromSoftware’s First Exclusive for Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. FromSoftware announced a new game for the Nintendo Switch 2 titled The Duskbloods, set to release in 2026.
2. The game features a Gothic atmosphere reminiscent of Bloodborne, with a 19th-century backdrop and Lovecraftian elements.
3. The Duskbloods includes futuristic features like jetpacks and machine guns, setting it apart from traditional Gothic games.
4. There is currently no information on whether The Duskbloods will be available on other gaming platforms, with speculation of it being a timed exclusive.
5. More details about The Duskbloods will be revealed on April 4 during a special event.
While the Nintendo Switch 2 didn’t showcase too many exclusive titles, it did come with a shocker that left even the most devoted fans scratching their heads. Out of the blue, FromSoftware revealed that they have something exciting for Switch 2 users set for 2026. The game, titled The Duskbloods, has a three-minute trailer that brings up several intriguing questions.
A Gothic Atmosphere
The opening of the trailer gives off a subtle Bloodborne-esque feeling, enhanced by a 19th-century Gothic backdrop that strongly reminds players of Yharnam. The Duskbloods also features Lovecraftian eldritch horrors, but that’s where the comparisons to Bloodborne stop. FromSoftware has added some futuristic aspects into The Duskbloods, like jetpacks and machine guns, which gives it a unique twist.
Future Platforms
At this moment, there’s no information on whether The Duskbloods will be available on other gaming platforms. It’s quite possible that it will be a timed exclusive, especially considering it’s been ten years since FromSoftware restricted a title to a certain platform, and that game was, ironically, Bloodborne. More details about The Duskbloods are expected to be unveiled on April 4 during a special event.
Tags: FromSoftware, Nintendo Switch 2, The Duskbloods
April 2, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Design Insights Revealed in Developer Interview
Key Takeaways
1. Upgraded Hardware: The Switch 2 features enhanced hardware, including 256 GB of internal storage and faster microSD Express card support, aiming to satisfy developers and gamers alike.
2. Improved Display and Performance: The device includes a larger 7.9-inch, 1080p LCD display that can operate at 120 fps, providing a smoother gaming experience for various users.
3. Enhanced Joy-Con 2 Controllers: The new Joy-Con 2 controllers boast improved rumble motors, durable analog sticks, and magnetic attachment, offering better comfort and functionality, including mouse-like capabilities.
4. New Communication Features: The Switch 2 introduces GameChat for voice communication and an optional external camera for video chats, enhancing social interaction during gameplay.
5. Backward Compatibility Solutions: The Switch 2 employs dynamic recompilation to achieve backward compatibility with Switch 1 games, allowing for improved performance and the potential for enhanced resolutions and frame rates.
Nintendo has shared important insights regarding the design choices and considerations for the Switch 2 in an interview with leading developers featured in the 16th edition of Ask the Developer.
Key Development Team
The article consists of interviews with Producer Kouichi Kawamoto from the Entertainment Planning & Development Department, Director Takuhiro Dohta, and Technical Director Tetsuya Sasaki from the Technology Development Division. These three began their work on the Switch 2 project around 2019, with research and development already in progress.
Upgraded Hardware for Gamers
The team meticulously considered what game developers aimed to accomplish with the original Switch but could not, leading to enhancements in the Switch 2. This upgrade includes hardware that they believe will satisfy software developers throughout the console’s lifespan, as the first Switch was launched in 2017. Their initial aim was to provide early prototypes during development for game programmers to start working on.
Nintendo has always prioritized system memory, so the internal storage has been boosted to 256 GB, with quicker read/write speeds. Additionally, the card expansion slot now requires a faster microSD Express card, utilizing a PCIe Gen 3-NVMe interface for read/write speeds that typically surpass 400 MB/s.
Enhanced Gaming Experience
This results in a handheld device that caters to a diverse array of gamers, as both the games and the eShop function more smoothly on the larger 7.9-inch, 1080p LCD display that operates at 120 fps. Interestingly, during the Switch 2’s development, there was a discussion about eliminating the touchscreen feature due to its perceived unnecessity in TV mode. However, this idea was ultimately dismissed, as Iwata believed that some games would still benefit from it.
The Joy-Con 2 controllers have been improved with more powerful rumble motors, larger, more durable analog sticks, and extended shoulder buttons. These modifications enhance the comfort for players with both big and small hands. Now, the controllers attach magnetically to the Switch 2 and can be released with a button press.
Innovative Features for Joy-Con 2
The Joy-Con 2 can also function like a computer mouse when used with the Switch 2. This concept had been on the mind of the Technology Development team for a while, and Kawamoto discovered this when he pitched the same idea.
The Switch 2 Pro Controller has been redesigned with “seamless grips” that resemble those of the GameCube controller, allowing more space for the fingers and a better feel. Two new customizable buttons, GL and GR, have been added to the back of the grips, while the joysticks are now smoother and quieter than they were.
New Communication Options
Players can now communicate using the new GameChat feature, which is activated by pressing the newly added C button on the Switch 2 Pro controller. An optional external camera can enable video chats as well.
Voices are captured through the microphone positioned at the upper edge of the Switch 2, and players also have the option to use a headset via the audio jack in the Pro controller. A powerful audio processing chip minimizes background noise, ensuring clear communication even when a vacuum cleaner is running nearby.
Backward Compatibility Challenges
Achieving backward compatibility was more difficult, as the Switch 2 does not share any hardware components with the Switch 1, unlike the DS/3DS or Wii/Wii U. This limitation forced designers to decide between fully emulating the Switch 1 through software or employing dynamic recompilation to convert its code into Switch 2 code in real-time, with the latter option ultimately chosen.
The main advantage of this method is prolonged runtime. However, to counterbalance the higher power demands of the enhanced hardware, the Switch 2 had to be equipped with a battery 1.2 times larger than that of its predecessor.
Compatibility Testing and Improvements
The company assessed over 10,000 Switch 1 games to identify any compatibility issues and potential fixes, discovering that the Switch 2 boasts high compatibility. The faster hardware might even enhance older games by allowing them to run at higher resolutions and frame rates, and Nintendo is contemplating updates for older titles with these improvements.
You can find a list of compatible and incompatible games here, and game compatibility is expected to improve as Nintendo addresses emulation challenges.
Data Transfer and New Features
Nintendo plans to enable Switch 2 owners to log in with their Nintendo Accounts to transfer data from their original Switch units. Furthermore, games can be rapidly swapped between older and newer Switch devices using the Virtual Game Card feature, similar to swapping physical game cartridges.
The GameShare feature lets users stream and share parts of a game between several Switch 1 and Switch 2 consoles, although at a reduced image quality. This feature works with locally connected consoles or through GameChat with Switch 2 units.
Final Thoughts on the Switch 2
Despite the team facing difficulties in deciding on a name for their new console, they ultimately chose Switch 2, as it is a fitting sequel to the original console, with backward compatibility being a key factor. The Super NES lacked backward compatibility, making the naming of that console sensible.
Interested readers can register to purchase the Switch 2 at My Nintendo Store when it launches on June 5. Other retailers, such as the Nintendo store on Amazon, will likely have limited quantities available.
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Tags: GameChat, Joy-Con 2, Nintendo Switch 2
April 2, 2025
Benefits and Drawbacks of MicroSD Express for Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features a 120Hz 1080p display and a dock with 4K HDR capability and an active fan.
2. It supports microSD Express technology, allowing for data rates up to 985 MB/s, improving loading times significantly.
3. Previous Nintendo Switch memory cards are not compatible with the Switch 2, necessitating new purchases.
4. The cost of new microSD Express memory cards is higher, with a 512GB card priced at least $99.
5. Increased game storage requirements may lead players to frequently delete games, although Nintendo’s cartridges allow play without upfront installation.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been officially revealed today. Notable upgrades include a 120Hz 1080p display, a dock with an active fan and 4K HDR capability, and enhanced multiplayer options. Among these improvements, the memory card reader stands out as a key feature. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, which only supported UHS-I SD cards with speeds up to 104 MB/s, the Switch 2 now embraces microSD Express technology.
Speed Improvements
The main benefit of this upgrade is the speed increase. The slowest SD Express standard uses PCIe 3.0 x1, allowing for data rates of up to 985 MB/s. This can drastically reduce loading times for games. However, there are two major drawbacks for those looking to buy the Nintendo Switch 2. Firstly, memory cards from the previous Nintendo Switch cannot be transferred to the new device. Secondly, expanding storage for the new console is going to be more expensive.
Pricing Details
To illustrate, a 512 GB UHS-I memory card that works with the original Switch is available for $39 on Amazon. Conversely, the same brand sells a 256GB microSD Express card for $59, while a 512GB version will set you back at least $99.
Game Storage Concerns
Given that it’s likely Nintendo Switch 2 games will require more storage owing to the console’s superior resolution and graphics, the high prices for memory cards could compel players to frequently delete games to make room for new ones. However, it’s worth noting that Nintendo’s game cartridges allow users to purchase and play games without needing to install them upfront, unlike the PlayStation 5 and other competitors.
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Tags: gaming storage, microSD Express, Nintendo Switch 2