Nintendo Switch 2 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Nintendo just launched its next-gen hybrid console, the Nintendo Switch 2, on June 5, 2025. With upgraded specs, new features, and a higher price tag, the Switch 2 promises a leap forward—but is it worth the upgrade for gamers in 2025? Let’s dive in.
🆕 Design & Display
The Switch 2 keeps the familiar hybrid look but gains a larger 7.9″ 1080p LCD screen with HDR and a 120 Hz refresh rate. It’s about half an inch taller and slightly heavier than the original, with a sturdier kickstand and revamped Joy‑Con 2 controllers that magnetically snap on.
⚙️ Performance & 120 FPS Gameplay
Powered by custom Nvidia Tegra T239 (ARM Cortex‑A78C, Ampere GPU) with 12 GB LPDDR5X RAM, the console offers DLSS, ray‑tracing, and smooth 120 FPS in handheld mode, though only a few games currently utilize it
🎮 Game Experience & Backward Compatibility
The Switch 2 supports all major first-party titles—like Mario Kart World and Tears of the Kingdom—and plays most original Switch games. Docked output reaches 4K/60 fps, while handheld mode delivers crisp 1080p/120 fps. GameChat, built-in mics, and optional camera bring new social features.
🔋 Battery & Storage
It packs a robust 5,220 mAh battery, delivering roughly 2–6.5 hours of runtime depending on the game. Internal storage has jumped to 256 GB UFS 3.1, and while it supports microSD Express cards, internal memory is noticeably faster.
💰 Price & Value
Priced around $449.99 (or $499.99 bundled with Mario Kart World), UK pricing sits near £395–£400. Though pricier than the original Switch, Nintendo quickly sold 3.5 million units in four days, making it their fastest launch yet.
👍 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Crisp 1080p screen, 120 Hz refresh rate
- DLSS and ray-tracing support
- Backward compatible with top-tier performance
- 256 GB fast internal storage
Cons
- Price higher than original Switch/OLED
- Limited game support for 120 FPS initially
- Battery life drops under 3 hours in intense gaming
- microSD cards expensive; internal memory is best
🎯 Final Verdict: Is Nintendo Switch 2 worth it?
Nintendo Switch 2 is a smart evolutionary upgrade—not a revolution. It brings meaningful improvements: faster performance, higher-resolution display, and robust social features. It excels for Nintendo fans ready to invest, but if you already own an OLED Switch and don’t crave 120 FPS, you might want to wait for more optimized games or a price drop.
🛒 Where to Buy
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