Nintendo Switch 2: Everything We Know in 2025
If you love handheld gaming and the freedom to dock on a TV, the Nintendo Switch 2 is the natural next step. It keeps the hybrid idea that made the original a hit, and adds a brighter screen, faster performance, and better battery life. The big question is simple. Is it worth the upgrade, and who is it for?
Key upgrades at a glance
- Display: brighter OLED panel with richer colour and deeper blacks
- Performance: faster chipset for smoother play and shorter load times
- Battery: more efficient hardware for longer sessions
- Docked mode: sharper output on a TV, with support for higher resolutions
- Backwards compatibility: your original Switch library still works
- Quality of life: refined Joy-Con experience, improved storage options
Design and build
The design feels familiar. You still get a slim tablet with detachable controllers, and a dock that connects to your TV. The difference is in the details. The OLED panel lifts everything, from indie pixel art to big first-party worlds. Colours pop, text looks cleaner, and outdoor play is easier thanks to higher brightness.
The body feels solid and practical. The kickstand is sturdy for tabletop play. The system menus are fast and simple. It is still a console you can throw in a bag and use anywhere.
Performance and visuals
Switch 2 targets a smoother experience across the board. Expect more stable frame rates and quicker loads in both handheld and docked play. On a TV you can enjoy higher resolution output where games support it. Handheld mode benefits from the OLED screen and a cleaner image, which helps everything from retro collections to modern releases.
Backwards compatibility
Your existing Switch library remains the heart of the experience. Most titles you already own will run, many with performance or stability improvements. Save data transfer and cloud saves keep the move simple, and you can keep using popular accessories where supported.
Launch and early games
At launch you can look for a mix of first-party and third-party titles. Expect the usual heavy hitters: Mario, Zelda, and a fresh Metroid entry. Indie studios are here as well, which suits handheld play. Classic collections shine on the OLED, so retro fans are well covered.
Switch 2 vs Steam Deck
Both are great, but they serve different players.
Switch 2 strengths
- Exclusive Nintendo games and family-friendly classics
- Seamless docked and handheld play
- Simple UI, quick pick-up-and-play sessions
- Broad support from indie devs and first-party studios
Steam Deck strengths
- PC library and deep customisation
- Powerful emulation and mods
- Flexible settings and control over performance targets
If you want the Nintendo library and a frictionless console feel, Switch 2 wins. If you love tinkering and you own a big PC library, Steam Deck stays compelling. Many players choose both, using Switch 2 for exclusives and the living room, and Steam Deck for PC titles and experiments.
Storage and accessories
Games are getting larger. A fast microSD card is the best first purchase. Look for U3 or V30 rated cards from trusted brands. A tempered glass screen protector is cheap insurance, and a slim carry case keeps the console clean and safe. If you play docked a lot, a spare USB-C charger by the TV makes life easier.
Who should upgrade
- New to Switch: easy recommendation, this is the model to buy
- Original Switch owners: upgrade if you value handheld play, the OLED screen alone is a big step up
- Switch OLED owners: upgrade if you want faster performance, cleaner docked output, and longer sessions
- PC-first players: consider Switch 2 for Nintendo exclusives and couch co-op, it pairs well with a Steam Deck
Verdict
Nintendo kept the parts that matter and made them better. Brighter screen, faster performance, strong battery life, and a library that starts good and keeps growing. If you enjoy handheld and living room play in one system, the Switch 2 is a confident upgrade.
FAQ
Does my original Switch library work?
Yes, backwards compatibility is a core feature. Most titles carry over.
Can Switch 2 output at higher resolution on a TV?
Docked output is sharper. Final resolution depends on the game.
Is the screen really that much better?
Yes. OLED brings deeper blacks and high contrast, which helps every genre.
Will my old accessories work?
Many popular accessories still work. Check product pages for specific support.