The Successor Arrives
Nintendo officially unveiled the Switch 2 in early 2026. The hybrid console-handheld model continues with significant hardware upgrades that close the gap with current-generation consoles.
Confirmed Hardware Specifications
- Processor: Custom NVIDIA chip based on Ampere architecture
- RAM: 12GB LPDDR5 (up from 4GB)
- Display: 8-inch LCD, 1080p handheld mode
- Docked output: 4K at 60fps with DLSS upscaling
- Storage: 256GB internal with microSD Express support
- Controllers: Joy-Con 2 with hall-effect sticks and magnetic attachment
Backward Compatibility
Full backward compatibility with physical and digital Switch games. Original Joy-Con works with Switch 2, and new Joy-Con 2 works with the original Switch.
Launch Games
Launch window includes a new 3D Mario game, Mario Kart sequel, and enhanced ports of Switch exclusives with improved resolution and frame rates.
Price and Release
$399 for the standard model. Holiday 2026 release window with pre-orders expected late October.
Online Features
Built-in voice chat, cloud saves for all games, revamped eShop with wishlists. GameChat for in-game voice and text communication is in development.
Should You Wait?
If you do not own a Switch, the current OLED model at $299 remains excellent. If you can wait two months, backward compatibility means you lose nothing by holding off.
