Image: NintendoWhat it gets right
- Larger, clearer screen
- Games load faster and move more smoothly
- Most original Switch games still work
- Older games can look and run better without another purchase
- The new controller attachment feels secure and satisfying
The compromises
- Battery life is shorter than on the original Switch
- The number of must-have exclusive games is still growing
- Wireless headphones can have a noticeable sound delay
- Some older accessories do not fit the new console
- Reviewers disagreed about whether the new mouse-style control is comfortable
Buy it—or leave it?
- You do not own a Switch and want Nintendo's best current console
- You want your existing Switch games to load faster and often run better
- You mainly play while connected to a television or charger
- You spend long journeys playing away from a power socket
- Your current Switch still runs the games you care about
- You are waiting for more games that work only on the new console
What would you like to do now?
Choose the route that matches how confident you feel. The free review stays free whichever route you choose.
Check today’s price
£376.99 (console only)
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Retailer link last checked 1 August 2026These are Amazon affiliate links. UKTechExpert may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. How this worksCompare Switch with Switch 2
See the screen, performance, battery-life and price differences before deciding whether the upgrade is worthwhile.
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Browse reviewed gamingFree UKTechExpert guidanceWhat it is actually like
Open any section for the detail behind our verdict.
01The screen and the games
TechRadar called the larger screen a major improvement, and that description is fair. Text and small details are easier to see, while games move more smoothly than on the original console. When connected to a television, the improvement is even clearer. The screen is not the most expensive type available, but it avoids the risk of lasting marks from fixed game menus.
02Battery life
This is the clear weakness. Independent reviewers struggled to match Nintendo's most optimistic claims, and portable play can end after roughly three hours with demanding games. Lighter games last longer, but the original Switch can still run for considerably more time. Frequent travellers should include a charger or portable battery in the real cost.
03Controllers and talking with friends
The controllers now attach magnetically and feel much easier to fit securely. A new mouse-style option works in certain games, although reviewers disagreed about whether it feels natural. Talking with friends is easier than before, but sharing several video feeds can make the game picture feel crowded.
04Your old games and accessories
Most original Switch games work, and some gain shorter loading times or smoother play without another purchase. Compatibility is not complete. A few unusual games and accessories still need the original controllers or do not physically fit the new console. Check any specialist accessory by name before trading the old system in.
Price and value
The console costs £395.99 on its own, or £429.99 with a digital copy of Mario Kart World. Discounts have been small so far. Compare the final bundle carefully because a slightly higher price can be worthwhile when it includes a game you planned to buy anyway.
Price last checked 17 August 2026This price check is more than two weeks old. Use the retailer link for the latest price; this review is temporarily excluded from the buying finder until the price is refreshed.
Who will notice the difference?
Playing on a television
This shows the console at its best: a clearer picture, smoother games and no concern about battery life.
Returning to older Switch games
Many existing games load faster or play more smoothly without asking you to buy them again.
Long journeys
Shorter battery life makes a charger or portable battery much more important than it was before.
What else should you consider?
The original Switch remains cheaper and lasts longer away from a charger, but it cannot match the new console's screen or smoother games. New buyers should normally choose the Switch 2. Existing owners can sensibly wait until a particular new game gives them a clear reason to upgrade.
Our review process
We combined TechRadar's launch review with NBC Select's later follow-up, Nintendo Life's review summary and compatibility reporting. The sources agreed about the stronger performance and weaker battery, but reached different conclusions about how urgently existing owners should upgrade. The article keeps that disagreement instead of forcing one answer on every buyer.
Read our editorial standards