In this guide, Nintendo Switch 2 is going to set a new standard for portable gaming in 2025 with significant changes in hardware and design. No matter if you are a veteran Switch user or someone who is buying a Nintendo console for the first time, this comparison guide will get you to know the main differences between Switch 2 and Switch 1 (Original, OLED, and Lite). We are going to break it down employing detailed tables and in-depth sections.
🧩 Design and Display
The Switch 2 has a slightly bigger body, more comfortable handle, and a gorgeous 7.9-inch Full HD screen. In comparison with the original 6.2-inch 720p LCD, the more recent model not only visualizes better but also refreshes at a more smooth pace.
📊 Design & Display Comparison
| Feature | Nintendo Switch 1 (Original/OLED) | Nintendo Switch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.2″ (Original), 7″ (OLED) | 7.9″ LCD |
| Resolution | 1280 x 720 | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | Up to 120Hz (Variable) |
| HDR Support | No | Yes, HDR10 |
| Build Size (approx.) | 9.4” wide, 4” tall | 10.7” wide, 4.5” tall |
| Weight | ~398g (with Joy-Con) | Slightly heavier |
| Joy-Con Controllers | Gen 1 | Gen 2 (Improved grip/sensors) |
⚙️ Performance and Features
Under the hood, the Switch 2 is powered by a custom NVIDIA chipset, includes faster UFS storage, more RAM, and better audio-visual capabilities. It’s designed for the modern gamer who expects seamless transitions, sharp graphics, and responsive controls.
🔧 Performance & Features Comparison
| Feature | Nintendo Switch 1 | Nintendo Switch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Custom NVIDIA Tegra | New Custom NVIDIA Chip |
| RAM | 4GB LPDDR4 | 12GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 32GB / 64GB eMMC | 256GB UFS |
| Display Tech | LCD (Original), OLED (Premium) | Advanced LCD, HDR10, 120Hz |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers | Stereo, 5.1-Channel PCM Output |
| Microphone | Basic | Built-in with Noise Cancellation |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, No LAN port | Wi-Fi 6, Built-in LAN (Dock) |
| Joy-Con Features | HD Rumble, Motion Sensors | HD Rumble 2, Mouse Sensor, NFC |
| Battery Life | 4.5 – 9 hours | 2 – 6.5 hours |
| Charging Time | ~3 hours | ~3 – 3.5 hours |
| Game Card Compatibility | Switch 1 Games | Switch 1 + New Card Format |
🎮 Joy-Con 2 Improvements
The Joy-Con 2 brings improved motion tracking with a new mouse sensor, better haptics (HD Rumble 2), and a refined ergonomic design. The battery life remains the same but the experience is much more engaging and accurate.
🔊 Audio & Visual Enhancements
The Switch 2 has HDR support, variable refresh rate up to 120Hz, and better audio output with 5.1-channel PCM through the dock. These features make it feel as close to a home-console-grade experience as a handheld can be.
🌐 Connectivity & Online Gaming
With Wi-Fi 6 and a built-in LAN port in the dock, the Switch 2 is able to fix one of the biggest problems of online and competitive players (network instability) at the root. Online games load faster, download speeds are improved, and latency is decreased to a large extent.
🎯 Game Compatibility & Storage
The Switch 2 is compatible with game cards from the original Switch, and also brings out new physical cards for enhanced titles. Besides this, it supports cloud saves, digital downloads, and microSD card expansion.
🕹️ Summary Highlights
- Larger 7.9″ FHD LCD with HDR10 & 120Hz refresh rate
- Massive performance boost with new NVIDIA chip & 12GB RAM
- Improved Joy-Con 2 with better tracking and haptics
- Wi-Fi 6 + built-in LAN for seamless online play
- Backward compatibility and new game card support
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a platform that has evolved boldly and powerfully, and is a great choice for both fans who return and new fans who are still searching for a good device.
🧠 Consultation: Need Help Choosing Between Switch 2 and Switch 1?
If you have not decided yet which one is more suitable for you, here is a quick guide that will help you make this choice basing on your preferences.
🎯 Choose Nintendo Switch 2 if:
- You want the best in performance and visuals.
- You are a person who usually connects and plays online and thus needs better connections.
- You love playing the newest games and shooting improved graphics.
- You are going to use the console for a longer period of time and want it to be compatible with new ones.
🧩 Choose Nintendo Switch 1 (OLED or Lite) if:
- Your budget is modest but you still want to get that library of Nintendo games.
- Your gaming style is mostly casual or retro.
- The portability factor and longer battery life are more important than power.
- You are going to buy a console for kids or people who use it not so much.
❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🔹 Q1: Will my old Nintendo Switch games work on Switch 2?
Yes. Switch 2 is compatible with the previous generation, so you can use most of your physical and digital games.
🔹 Q2: Does Switch 2 support OLED like the Switch OLED model?
No. Switch 2 has an improved LCD that supports HDR10 and has a higher refresh rate. Although it is not OLED, the performance and display quality have been greatly improved.
🔹 Q3: Can I use my old Joy-Cons with the Switch 2?
Yes. In other words, Joy-Con 1 controllers are still compatible, but you won’t be able to use some features exclusive to Joy-Con 2, such as the improved vibrations and motion tracking.
🔹 Q4: Is the Switch 2 dock compatible with the older Switch?
No. The new dock comes with increased features such as LAN, 5.1 PCM output, and the physical size may not be suitable for the older model. Therefore, just use each dock with the corresponding console.