Hands-On with the Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Size, Speed, and Mouse Functionality

At an exclusive event in New York, I had the chance to dive into the world of the Nintendo Switch 2, the anticipated follow-up to Nintendo’s best-selling console. It’s both familiar and fresh, an evolution poised to excite fans—but perhaps more due to the games than the hardware itself.

The Switch 2 is impressive, no doubt about it. But at $450, the real measure of its success will be the lineup of games Nintendo and other developers have in store for us. Having spent some enjoyable hours sampling these early titles, I’m already contemplating how to save up for the release.

Nintendo Switch 2 Hardware

First impressions matter, and the Switch 2 delivers with its sleek black matte finish on the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the system itself. At 1.18 pounds, it feels a tad heavier than the original Switch, yet the larger 7.9-inch display is a worthy trade-off. It’s still lighter than competitors like the Steam Deck OLED.

The minimal color scheme, save for some neon highlights around the joysticks, feels slightly off the usual Nintendo vibe. Even with their attempt at edgy design in the past, like the GameCube’s variety of colors, there’s just something about this aesthetic that’s different. But hey, if you miss the flair, variant colors are likely down the road.

Popping the Joy-Cons off is simple with release buttons, providing a solid click that reassures you the controllers aren’t going anywhere by accident. The slightly longer design of these controls makes them fit nicely in my hands, though the difference might be subtle for some.

When it comes to the tech inside, the control sticks have been redesigned for smoother movement, though they remain the traditional potentiometer style. A change longtime fans might have hoped for, such as the hall effect, isn’t present. So far, in short demos, the tweaks feel minor—I’ll need more playtime to truly gauge this.

A standout hardware improvement is the kickstand. It’s now broad and sturdy, ditching the flimsy original stand for something far more reliable, perfect even for airplane use.

The most remarkable feature, however, is the display—a 1920 x 1080 LCD with 120 Hz variable refresh and HDR10 support. While some may lament the absence of OLED technology, during my hands-on, games looked lively and sharp, especially on the new screen.

Regarding the dock, there’s not much to differentiate it from its predecessor, save for some added bulk to accommodate a cooling fan, observed when paired with the Switch 2 camera.

Nintendo Switch 2 Specs

Specs:

• CPU and GPU: A custom Nvidia processor endowed with DLSS and hardware ray tracing capabilities.
• Display: 7.9-inch, 1920 x 1080p touch screen featuring HDR10 and 120 Hz with VRR.
• Storage: Comes with 256GB (UFS), expandable via microSD Express cards up to 2TB.
• Networking: Includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and wired Ethernet through the dock.
• Audio: Equipped with stereo speakers and a noise-cancelling mono mic.
• Ports: Console boasts dual USB-C, a headphone jack, game card slot, and microSD Express card slot. The dock offers dual USB 2.0 Type-A ports, HDMI, and an Ethernet jack.
• Battery Life: Varies from 2 to 6.5 hours (per Nintendo’s estimates).
• Price: $449.99, with a bundle option featuring Mario Kart World at $499.99.
• Launch Date: Set for June 5, 2025.

Mouse Controls

Nintendo’s devices often emphasize simplicity, yet with the Switch 2, we see glimpses of PC gaming sensibilities. Both Joy-Con 2 controllers incorporate sensors, transforming them into mice in conjunction with accelerometers and gyroscopes. Curious about this modern spin on the SNES mouse from 1992, I gave them a whirl during Nintendo’s event.

The outcomes were mixed. In the Nintendo Switch 2’s version of Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, switching between controller and mouse-like modes was seamless, though the new, bulkier ZL and ZR buttons and the less-than-ergonomic Joy-Con build left my hand feeling strained after a while. In contrast, Civilization VII felt more PC-like, offering a reassuringly comfortable handheld experience, even with just a single Joy-Con acting as a mouse.

Resolution Options and Quality Modes

Another way the Switch 2 leans toward the enthusiast crowd is through its varied resolution and quality settings. Unlike the original Switch with its simpler options, the Switch 2 truly flexes its muscles here, easily paralleling what’s found on the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.

Docked, the Switch 2 pumps out 4K visuals at 60 fps or higher refresh rates for 1080p and 1440p displays, changing the gaming dynamics completely. Handheld or tabletop mode supports up to 1080p at 120 fps, which is quite the leap even for die-hard handheld mode fans.

Pro Controller and Nintendo Camera

The new $79.99 Pro Controller feels familiar yet offers clickier buttons and rear programmable buttons, which promise customization options. Meanwhile, the $49.99 Nintendo Camera caters to Game Chat needs but also plays a role in games like Mario Party Jamboree with fun, albeit somewhat rugged, green screen effects.

Game Notes

Nintendo also unveiled many upcoming games, including heavy-hitting first-party titles like Mario Kart World, which stole the show. This title pushed the visual envelope, delivering chaotic fun in Knockout Tour mode—a must-experience for multiplayer fiends.

Games across genres, like Donkey Kong Bananza and Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, shone brightly during demos, each highlighting the Switch 2’s power in unique ways. Yet, it’s intriguingly expansive new titles, and classic revivals from the Nintendo Classics: GameCube line that confirmed for me this console’s potential to attract diverse audiences again.

Ultimately, the Nintendo Switch 2 balances nostalgia and innovation, enough to entice old fans while piquing the interest of new admirers. Here’s looking forward to its full release and seeing how these promises hold up when it hits the market next year.