If you already own an original Nintendo Switch, here's exactly what changes with the Switch 2 — screen, performance, battery life and price — so you can decide whether now is the right time to upgrade.
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Read one point at a time. The highlighted option has the advantage for that particular use—not necessarily overall.
6.2-inch, 720p, 60Hz
7.9-inch, 1080p, up to 120Hz, HDR10
The Switch 2 picture is larger, sharper and capable of much smoother movement in supported games. Text and small interface details are easier to see, although the larger console is less compact to carry.
Up to 1080p
Up to 4K
On a modern 4K television, supported Switch 2 games can look cleaner and more detailed. The improvement depends on the game and viewing distance; it will be less obvious on a smaller television across the room.
32GB
256GB
Switch 2 holds far more downloaded games before you need to delete anything or buy extra storage. Its games can also be larger, so heavy download users may still eventually need a compatible memory card.
Around 4.5-9 hours
Around 2-6.5 hours (closer to 3 hours in real-world testing)
The original Switch is more dependable for long journeys away from a socket. Switch 2's extra performance and larger screen use more power, so frequent handheld players should expect to charge more often or carry a power bank.
£259.99
£395.99
Switch 2 costs £136 more before adding a game, case or memory card. That premium makes most sense when you will regularly notice its faster performance or want a Switch 2-only game.
Rail-slide attachment, no mouse mode
Magnetic attachment, optional mouse mode in supported games
The new controllers are quicker to attach and remove, while mouse controls can make aiming or selecting items feel more like using a computer. The mouse feature only helps in games that support it.
N/A
Plays almost all original Switch games, often with faster loading and better performance
Most of your existing library moves with you, and some games load faster or run more smoothly without another purchase. Check Nintendo's compatibility information for any specific older game or accessory you rely on.
The performance leap is real and reviewers agree it's the single biggest reason to upgrade — old Switch games often load faster and run better without any patch. But if you mainly play handheld, away from a charger, the original Switch's better battery life and lower price may still suit you better. NBC Select's own year-later review put it plainly: existing owners without a strong pull toward a specific exclusive like Mario Kart World may be better off waiting for the game library to grow further before spending the extra £136.
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