Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on April 4, 2025—8 years after the release of the OG Nintendo Switch. It’s a huge step up and brings massive upgrades like new release buttons for magnetic joycons, full backwards compatibility, a full-body kickstand and the list goes on. Read on as I will guide you through the biggest differences between Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch to help you make the right call. Without further ado, let’s dive right into my verdict!
Table of Contents
Verdict
For a start, let’s go over the pros and cons of Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch (OG).
Nintendo Switch 2 Pros: ✅Larger Screen ✅Magnetic Joy-Con Controllers ✅Full Backward Compatibility ✅Slimmer Design ✅Better graphics ✅Faster load times. Cons: ❌ Higher Price ❌ No OLED Display | Nintendo Switch Pros: ✅Lower price point. ✅Extensive collection of games. ✅Reliable hardware. ✅ OLED Display Cons: ❌Smaller Screen ❌Non-Magnetic Joy-Con Controllers |
Here’s what we already know about the price of Nintendo Switch 2. So an employee from Costco (Canada) has shared the console’s price, and if the rumors are true the new Switch console will be $350 USD ($499 CAD).
That said, the OG Nintendo Switch (base model) costs $299.99 on Amazon. Also, please keep in mind that it came in three models:
- Nintendo Switch—OLED model ($349.99)
- Nintendo Switch ($299.99)
- Nintendo Switch Lite ($199.99)
Let us now see how the features of the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 stack up against those of the OG model.
In the next section, we’ll dive into the 4 biggest upgrades the Nintendo Switch 2 brings.
Best Overall: Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a serious upgrade over the original. With a more powerful processor, faster load times, and increased RAM, it’s all about smoother gameplay. What I really love about the Switch 2 are the new magnetic Joy-Con controllers.
They’re built with precision in mind, giving you the kind of control you’d expect from a PC mouse. This will literally be a game-changer for certain types of games. Plus, it’s fully backwards compatible with most of the games from the original Switch, so there’s no need to leave your old favorites behind.
Best Budget-Friendly Option: OG Nintendo Switch (Lite version)
Nintendo hasn’t made any official announcements on the new console’s price. But if the rumors are true, the price difference is not going to be that massive. Still, you can save some money by opting for the OG Switch that was released back in 2017.
It comes in at $299, which gets you access to Nintendo’s massive game library and the flexibility to play at home or on the go. If you want something even cheaper, the Switch Lite is priced at $199. It’s handheld-only, which means no dock or TV play, but it’s still a fantastic device if portability is your main concern. The Switch 2, on the other hand, will probably come with a higher price tag, given its fancy upgrades like the full-body kickstand. But if you’re on a tight budget, the OG models are hard to beat.
Best Display Quality: OG Nintendo Switch (OLED version)
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. Remember when I mentioned that the OG model comes in three versions? One of them is the OLED version, which makes the OG model win in this department.
The Nintendo Switch 2 won’t have an OLED display; instead, it will feature an LCD screen, which, by the way, is still an impressive step up compared to other consoles. However, if we compare it to the OLED model of the original Switch, the difference is clear. The OLED version has a beautiful 7-inch display with vibrant colors that really stand out.
That said, the Switch 2 is expected to come with a larger screen, which helps offset the absence of OLED. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely to match OLED’s deep blacks. Still, it’s an upgrade that will make games look sharper and more immersive. It’s a noticeable step forward, but it can’t quite match the OLED experience.
Best Controller Design: Nintendo Switch 2
In the controller department, the Switch 2 is switching things up — literally. The new magnetic Joy-Cons are not just more secure; they come with optical sensors that provide pinpoint precision, almost like a mouse.
I mostly play competitive games, and this feature alone will make it my go-to. If you play competitive games, too, you’ll know how pivotal precision is—especially in shooting games like Sniper Elite 4. The original Switch’s Joy-Con design was innovative, but those pesky drift issues have always been a problem. The Switch 2 addresses that so you won’t have to worry about those frustrating moments in the middle of a game.
4 Biggest Upgrades —Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch
*I haven’t tested these firsthand, but after thorough research, here’s my take.
| Feature | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch 2 (base model) |
| Screen Size | 6.2 inches | 8 inches |
| Display Type | LCD | LCD |
| Joy-Con Design | Standard | Magnetic |
| Backward Compatibility | ❌ | ✅ |
| Design | Bulkier | Slimmer |
| Load Times | Around 20-30 seconds for most games, | Expect 10-15 seconds |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Launch Price | $299 | TBA |
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch: Display
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 takes everything that made the original great and pushes it forward. First off, the screen is a big step up. The Switch 2 has an 8-inch LCD display, which is way bigger and sharper than the 6.2-inch display on the OG base model. I’ve noticed that this extra size and clarity really changes the game—everything feels more immersive. The colors pop more, and the added screen space makes everything from fast-paced action to intricate worlds feel less cramped.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch: Joy-Con Controllers
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2
This one’s my favorite upgrade! The Switch 2 is sleeker and more stable. I’ve always found the original stand a bit flimsy, so the new, sturdier one is a welcome change. It can hold up much better when you’re playing on a table or in tabletop mode with the new full-body kickstand. Yet, the most exciting upgrade is the magnetic Joy-Con controllers—they can snap on so easily you won’t worry about them coming off mid-game.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch: Performance
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 will be a big step up in performance. It’s expected to have a more powerful GPU, about three times stronger than the original Switch, which should make games load faster and run smoother. The Switch 2 will also have faster storage, so you’ll notice quicker load times and less waiting around, especially in more demanding games. While we don’t know the exact numbers yet, it’s clear the new Switch will feel much more polished and responsive than the original.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch: Charging
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2
Let’s talk charging, too. The Switch 2 is expected to feature USB-C ports on both ends, which could make charging much easier. In the past, I’ve had moments where I’ve struggled to find the right angle to plug in, especially when gaming in a cramped space. With a port on both ends, you won’t have to worry about the position of the outlet or your gaming setup—just plug it in however is most convenient. This small change could make a big difference when you’re in the middle of a game and need to power up quickly.
Top 2 Accessories for PS5
If you love the big console experience with the PS5 and want to step up your gaming setup, you’re in luck! PS5 owners should check out the Chroma Teal collection for a stylish upgrade. Here’s a look at the Chroma Teal console covers and wireless controller. With these, gaming is much more vivid and enjoyable.
PS5™ Console Covers (slim) – Chroma Teal
These official PlayStation console covers are simple to install. Just remove your old PS5 covers and snap the new ones into place for a stunningly vivid gaming experience.
- Price (Pre-order): $64.99
- Link to Product: PS5 Console Covers
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller – Chroma Teal
The PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller in Chroma Teal offers an eye-catching design with improved gaming features. The standout aspect is its immersive feedback, adjusting the feel of every action as you play. With its adaptive triggers and versatile connectivity, it’s built to elevate your gaming experience.
- Price: Pre-order and pay $80 instead of the regular $130
- Link to Product: PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
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Conclusion
The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner. In this comparison, we’ve seen that it comes with some serious upgrades over the original base model and excels in nearly every area—faster load times, a higher refresh rate, design improvements, flexible charging, and my personal favorite, the new Joy-Con controllers. While the price hasn’t been officially confirmed, rumors suggest it will be around $355 at launch. Stay tuned for more reviews on the Nintendo Switch 2, and as always, happy gaming—there’s a lot to look forward to!
