Nintendo Switch 2: Rumors, Specs, and Price Speculation

Anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2 keeps growing. More information is surfacing about the console's design, features, technical details, and release date.

The Nintendo Switch launched in 2017 following the failure of the Wii U and declining support for the 3DS. Built on lessons learned from the Wii U and 3DS, the Switch launched successfully.

As the Switch enters its seventh year, Nintendo has begun preparing a new model. By going through the many rumors circulating online, we've gathered everything known so far about the Switch 2; this new model could challenge portable devices like the Steam Deck. Here's everything we know about the Switch 2 so far.

What Are the Nintendo Switch 2's Specs?

• Processor: Nvidia ARM-based custom SoC "DRAKE" (T239)
• GPU: Nvidia Ampere architecture
• CUDA cores: 1280
• Display: 8-inch LCD
• RAM: 12GB LPDDR5
• Storage: 256 GB

Reuters sources have confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2 will run on a custom Nvidia chip. This custom SoC is reportedly ARM-based and expected to support DLSS 2 super resolution and DLSS 3.5 ray reconstruction. These features also suggest the Switch 2 could offer backward compatibility support.

Microsoft court documents state that the Switch 2 could be roughly as powerful as the PS4 and Xbox One. Additionally, according to YouTuber Moore's Law Is Dead, the Switch 2 is expected to run at a lower clock speed in undocked mode to extend battery life.

DLSS support could boost the Switch 2's performance and let it offer 4K gaming support, similar to lower-powered PCs. The console is also expected to use DDR5 RAM, though the amount is not yet known.

Nintendo is expected to use an NVMe or eMMC drive in the Switch 2, though the storage solution could also be soldered to the motherboard to prevent self-repair.

Nintendo Switch 2 Design and Image Leaks

Some developers are said to already have Switch 2 development kits. The new console is rumored to keep the hybrid form factor, letting players switch between handheld and docked modes. A new dock design patent from Nintendo shows an I/O panel using a rotating back panel.

The Switch 2 is expected to come with an 8-inch LCD display, and skipping an OLED screen is thought to be a cost-cutting move.

When Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Release?

As of 2024, reports suggest Nintendo plans to release the Switch 2 in 2025. This appears to be a strategic decision rather than the result of technical delays. With global supply chain issues improving, Nintendo is said to want enough stock on hand to launch the Switch 2 smoothly. It's also thought the company is planning the transition carefully given that the current Switch is still in high demand.

How Much Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Cost?

Toko Securities analyst Hideki Yasuda predicts the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch at a $499 price point. Yasuda says this price is relatively reasonable in US dollar terms and suggests the console could even come in under $499. This price range could let the Switch 2 compete with rivals like the ROG Ally X and Steam Deck.

It's also possible Nintendo will sell the device at a loss in order to build a wider user base for its software and accessories.

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Compatibility and Launch Titles

It's been confirmed that the Switch 2 will offer backward compatibility with the previous model. This is good news for current Switch owners, since they'll be able to carry over their game libraries. It's also said that popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey could be re-released with improved performance on the new hardware. There are also claims that Nintendo is working on entirely new games as well as Switch 2-optimized versions of existing major franchises.

Display and Dual-Screen Option

It's reported that an 8-inch LCD display will be used for the Switch 2's main screen. However, it's also said that Nintendo has obtained a patent for a return to the dual-screen design seen on the DS and Wii U. While not yet confirmed, this feature could give players a fresh way to experience new and classic games, especially in handheld mode.

New Accessories and an Improved Dock

The Switch 2's dock is thought to feature more advanced capabilities, offering HDMI 2.1 support for higher resolutions and smoother frame rates. A new patent shows a "rotation block" feature that would make the dock more flexible. This could make it easier to adapt to different TV and gaming setups.

Improved Online Services

Nintendo is working to improve its online infrastructure. This could include improvements in areas like faster multiplayer experiences, cloud storage, digital library access, and faster matchmaking. The new hardware and updated online services are expected to make Nintendo's online gaming experience more efficient.

With powerful graphics capabilities, backward compatibility, new accessories, and improved online features, the Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a serious contender among portable game consoles. The release date could be late 2024 or early 2025, though Nintendo is expected to reveal details in advance before making a more comprehensive presentation.

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