Nintendo Switch 2: all differences between Switch V1 and V2 listed

Now that the Switch 2 release date is finally announced, there's more information available about a possible release date, backwards compatibility, technical specifications, and the differences between the Switch V1 and V2. This is everything we know about the Nintendo Switch 2!

Updated on: 04-04-2025 Author: Lennart

Nintendo Switch 2 release date

June 5, 2025

The Switch 2 releases on June 5, 2025! You can pre-order the console from April 8 and that'll cost you £395.99.

Nintendo Switch 2 backwards compatibility

New switch 2 games like Mario Kart World are already announced, but Nintendo also confirmed that Switch 1 games will be backwards compatible on the new device. Games from popular series like Zelda are already confirmed to get a Switch 2 version.

Mario Kart played on a Nintendo Switch Console with detached joycons

Technical specifications of the Nintendo Switch 2

These are some of the specifications confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2:

256 GB storage
7.9-inch LCD screen
HDR10 support
1920x1080 pixels

Differences between Nintendo Switch V1 and V2

These are the most important differences between the Switch V1 and V2:

Bigger screen, same thickness

One of the best things about the new Switch 2 is the bigger screen. The new screen is 7.9 inches, which is 1.7 inches wider than that of the Switch 1. Even though the Switch 2 is bigger, Nintendo was able to keep the same thickness. Which hopefully means the handheld experience will feel the same. Aside from that, the Switch 2 also has a 1080p screen, allows 120fps and supports HDR10. This means, more details, smoother gameplay and more vivid images!

The Joy-Cons

The new Joy-Cons that come with the Switch 2 attach magnetically, which will keep them better attached to the device. The Joy-Cons are also bigger, with a larger SL- and SR-buttons and control sticks. So, no more cramps during an intense round of Mario Kart! That's not all: the Switch 2 Joy-Cons can also be used as a mouse. Both the controllers support this function, so we might see some exciting new gameplay options.

Voice chat with players from around the world

The Switch 2 has a built-in microphone which allows you to voice chat with players from all over the world. The audio quality on the Switch 2 is also improved and the device supports 3D-audio.

More updates

Aside from these updates the Switch 2 will also have a bigger stand that's freely adjustable for better table-top gaming. It has 2 USB-C ports, 256 GB storage (8x that of the Switch 1), and the new dock supports 4K resolution.

Get ready for the Switch V2 with these Nintendo games

Can't wait for the release of the Nintendo Switch 2? Get in the mood with the biggest Switch games of the moment! Hopefully, we can soon enjoy these titles and much more on the latest console from Nintendo. Don't forget to top-up your Nintendo eShop account with our Nintendo eShop Gift Cards!

Super Smash Bros: Ultimate

£59.99

{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Offer","priceCurrency":"GBP","price":"59.99","url":"https:\/\/startselect.com\/gb-en\/super-smash-bros-ultimate-switch\/55536"}

Pokémon Legends: Arceus

£49.99

{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Offer","priceCurrency":"GBP","price":"49.99","url":"https:\/\/startselect.com\/gb-en\/pokemon-legends-arceus-switch\/66389"}

Mario vs. Donkey Kong

£39.99

{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Offer","priceCurrency":"GBP","price":"39.99","url":"https:\/\/startselect.com\/gb-en\/mario-vs-donkey-kong-nintendo-switch\/71519"}

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

£59.99

{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Offer","priceCurrency":"GBP","price":"59.99","url":"https:\/\/startselect.com\/gb-en\/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom\/69908"}

About the author: Lennart is a self-proclaimed Pokémon Master and certified tryhard in shooters ranging from COD and Halo to Overwatch and Fortnite. When he's not gaming, he's either reciting movie lines or enjoying guitar-infused music.