With the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2, many gamers are weighing one key question: Is it worth upgrading from the original Switch—or making the investment for the first time? We’ve taken a close look at what the Switch 2 brings to the table. Our verdict? The Switch 2 is not just a modest update—it’s a strategically engineered evolution that justifies its higher price point.

Display & Visual Performance of Switch 2: A Noticeable Leap

The most immediate and striking difference comes in the display. The Switch 2 features a 7.5-inch OLED panel with improved brightness and color depth compared to the original’s 6.2-inch LCD screen. Beyond the size increase, the OLED technology delivers superior contrast ratios, resulting in richer blacks and more vivid visuals—especially noticeable in handheld mode.

What’s more, the refresh rate has been boosted to 120Hz, offering a much smoother experience during fast-paced gameplay. Titles like Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros. feel more responsive, making the Switch 2 ideal for competitive or action-heavy gaming.

Processing Power & Load Times of Switch 2

One of the most substantial upgrades lies in performance. Powered by a next-generation NVIDIA chipset, the Switch 2 significantly reduces load times and supports more graphically demanding games. Frame rate drops, once a common issue on large open-world titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, are now far less frequent—even when the console is used in handheld mode.

Gamers will appreciate the expanded internal storage as well. The Switch 2 comes standard with 256GB—double the previous capacity—giving users more space for digital downloads without needing an immediate SD card upgrade.

Audio, Haptics, and Camera of Switch 2: Quality-of-Life Upgrades

Nintendo has also refined several “invisible” aspects of the console. The audio output is crisper and fuller, making the handheld experience more immersive without external headphones. New haptic feedback engines improve in-game interaction, offering a deeper level of tactile realism during gameplay.

Perhaps one of the most surprising additions is the inclusion of a front-facing camera, opening up new possibilities for augmented reality games and video communication. While not a core feature, its presence signals Nintendo’s ambition to broaden the console’s utility beyond traditional gaming.

Ergonomics & Pro Controller Support of Switch 2

The Switch 2 is slightly heavier but far more comfortable to hold, thanks to redesigned Joy-Con curves and better balance. For those who prefer traditional controllers, native support for the improved Pro Controller makes a notable difference—especially in docked mode. The Pro Controller now features lower latency and USB-C charging, both of which contribute to a seamless long-session setup.

Pricing vs. Value of Switch 2

At around $399, the Switch 2 is certainly a step up in cost. However, when assessed against its upgrades—not just in hardware specs but in user experience—the pricing holds up. You’re not paying for novelty; you’re paying for longevity, modern game compatibility, and a higher-quality gaming ecosystem.

Additionally, developers are already optimizing titles specifically for Switch 2 hardware. This means that over time, more AAA games will take advantage of the enhanced specs, further increasing the console’s value in the long run.

Conclusion: A Smart Investment for the Future

For casual players, the original Switch may still suffice. But for anyone who prioritizes visual fidelity, smoother gameplay, and faster load times—or who wants to future-proof their console—the Nintendo Switch 2 is worth every dollar. It isn’t just an incremental upgrade; it’s a meaningful leap forward that justifies its premium.

And of course, once you’ve made the investment, don’t forget to protect it. ProCase offers a range of durable, travel-friendly Switch 2 cases and accessories designed to keep your console safe and stylish wherever your gaming takes you.