In the past week, we’ve witnessed several intriguing leaks concerning the Nintendo Switch 2’s final design. The crescendo came yesterday when Dbrand unexpectedly unveiled a comprehensive 3D render of the Nintendo Switch 2. This render included a redesigned version of their Killswitch carrying case, originally crafted for handheld PCs but now tailored for the Switch 2. In a conversation with The Verge, Dbrand’s CEO, Adam Ijaz, disclosed that the company had gotten access to the actual dimensions of the Switch 2. They achieved this through a 3D scan of the real hardware, which measures around 270mm in width with Joy-Cons attached (200mm without), standing 116mm tall, and 14mm thick.
The purported Nintendo Switch 2 appears to boast a significantly larger screen, measuring 8 inches compared to the Switch OLED’s 7.2 inches and the original Switch’s 6.2 inches. Interestingly, there’s an additional button, possibly for capturing, on the right Joy-Con. It also features magnetically-detachable Joy-Con controllers with a noticeably more pronounced curve, USB-C ports at both ends, and a sturdy U-shaped kickstand reminiscent of the Switch OLED’s improved stand.
With a potential release slated for Q1 2025, all current information suggests that the Switch 2 design is a robust evolution from the Switch OLED. However, it seems it might not feature an OLED display. Instead, many leaks indicate this 8-inch screen will be a 1080p IPS LCD. Let’s hope it’s a marked improvement over the current Switch LCD.
Regarding Dbrand’s Killswitch case for the Switch 2, this design does not include the typical upgraded kickstand or full-body enclosure found in previous versions for devices like the Steam Deck. The detachable Joy-Cons necessitate a design that separates into parts, secured with a striking teal bungee cord. Given Dbrand’s solid reputation in producing protective cases for phones and handhelds, we have confidence in their final design’s success.
For those eagerly hoping for a more unaltered glimpse of the Nintendo Switch 2, we understand the anticipation. While we don’t have that just yet, Dbrand’s leaked specifications align closely with a 3D-printed mock-up that the YouTube channel SwitchUp received earlier this week. This mock-up offers a sneak peek into what the standard unit might look and feel like.
This significant reveal from Dbrand, a company evidently not bound by a NDA, suggests that an official announcement and release date for the Nintendo Switch 2 could be imminent. Previous hints placed the Switch 2’s release before the close of 2024, with Nintendo itself setting March 2025 as the ultimate deadline for revealing details. As that window is quickly narrowing, manufacturers like Dbrand are already gearing up both their production lines and the public anticipation for Nintendo’s next big handheld hybrid console.
