Hands-on with the Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Size, Speed, and New Mouse Controls

At the recent Nintendo event in New York, the excitement in the air was palpable as I got to dive into the world of the Nintendo Switch 2. While it carries the legacy of the beloved original, it clearly charts its own path forward. The hardware is impressive, but it’s the promise of new games that truly piques my enthusiasm.

Now, let’s talk about the console itself. At $450, the Switch 2 is more than just a piece of tech; it’s a bridge to the creativity of Nintendo and third-party developers. This sequel, while faithful to its roots, clearly reflects how Nintendo envisions the future of gaming. After playing a few early titles, I left the event eager for more and with a new savings plan in mind.

### Nintendo Switch 2 Hardware

When you first see the Switch 2, the striking black matte finish on the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the console itself immediately grabs your attention. It’s slightly heavier than you’d expect at 1.18 pounds with the controllers attached, but the larger 7.9-inch display is well worth it. In comparison, it’s still lighter than many handheld PCs like the Steam Deck OLED, which sits at 1.41 pounds.

The subdued color scheme seems a bit out of character for Nintendo, famed for its vibrant palette. Even their earlier attempt to go edgy with the GameCube included colorful options. Yet, having owned a black GameCube, I can appreciate the sleekness. Plus, more color variants are likely on the way.

Removing the Joy-Cons is a breeze with release buttons on each side. While I didn’t spend much time swapping controllers during the demos (most systems were tucked away behind screens), the connections felt secure. I wouldn’t recommend trying to forcefully disconnect them, but accidental removals shouldn’t be a problem.

Holding the Joy-Con 2 controllers feels more natural. They’re still quite slim, but the added length somehow offers a more comfortable grip. Though, unless you’re comparing them side-by-side, the difference isn’t immediately obvious.

The control sticks, redesigned for larger and smoother movements, didn’t seem drastically different from the originals. The promise of improved control intrigued me, yet I’ll need more time with them for a thorough assessment.

The new kickstand is worlds apart from the original Switch’s flimsy one. Sturdy and adjustable to any angle, it’s practical, and I could see myself using it on an airplane tray table with ease.

But the device’s display is where things truly shine. While it isn’t OLED, the 1920 x 1080 LCD screen supports a 120 Hz variable refresh rate and HDR10. This made games like “Mario Kart World” look stunning. Even without OLED’s deeper blacks, I found the visuals satisfying—and I’m eager to test more games using this lush screen.

The dock resembles its predecessor in function but has gained some bulk, allowing for enhanced cooling. It was only visible in one demo alongside the new Nintendo Switch 2 camera.

### Nintendo Switch 2 Specs

Here’s what makes the Switch 2 tick: its custom Nvidia processor supports DLSS and hardware ray tracing. The display is a 7.9-inch 1080p touchscreen with HDR10 support and a 120 Hz variable refresh rate. Storage starts at 256GB (expandable up to 2TB via microSD), and connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and Ethernet. The system’s speakers and microphone have seen upgrades too.

With a price tag of $449.99—or $499.99 bundled with “Mario Kart World”—the Switch 2 hits the shelves on June 5, 2025.

### Mouse Controls

The Switch has always focused heavily on user-friendly gaming. Now, it dips a toe into PC gaming territory with mouse control features. Each Joy-Con 2 acts as a mouse thanks to its sensors, accelerometers, and gyroscopes. During Nintendo’s showcase, I was curious to see how they performed.

The experience varied. In “Metroid Prime 4 Beyond,” switching between controller and mouse modes allowed for precise shooting with Samus’s arm cannon. Nonetheless, the fit of the new Joy-Cons was a bit uncomfortable after extended mouse-like use, so I reverted to standard controls.

Conversely, “Civilization VII” felt right at home with its slower pace. Controlling the game with a single Joy-Con was straightforward, although binding quick actions to the opposite controller would have been a nice touch.

A surprising standout was “Drag x Drive,” a blend of “Rocket League” and wheelchair basketball. Using both Joy-Cons in mouse mode was a workout, though I hoped for a more traditional control option.

### Resolution Options and Quality Modes

Bringing more to the table for tech enthusiasts, the Switch 2 boasts various resolution options and quality modes. While the original supported 720p on the device and 1080p when docked, the switch to 4K at 60 frames per second when docked, with options for lower resolutions and up to 120 Hz, is significant.

Playing on the built-in screen, the experience caps at an impressive 1080p and 120 fps, whether handheld or tabletop. The system also provides graphical tinkering within games. “Metroid Prime 4 Beyond,” for example, offers both quality and performance-focused modes.

During the demo, the game ran docked at 1080p and 120 fps, without a hitch. This, along with mouse mode, provided a distinctly PC-like encounter from Nintendo’s stable.

### Pro Controller and Nintendo Camera

Together with the console, Nintendo unveils a $79.99 Pro Controller and a $49.99 camera.

The Pro Controller is instantly recognizable, though featuring slightly clickier buttons and two mappable rear buttons—a nifty addition for customizing gameplay.

The Nintendo Camera leans into Nintendo’s playful side. Beyond Game Chat, it allows players to insert themselves into games like “Mario Party Jamboree.” While enjoyable, the green screen effects weren’t without flaws, appearing a bit jagged. However, third-party USB-C cameras can be used, giving flexibility beyond Nintendo’s own accessory.

### Game Notes

A Nintendo showcase is never complete without games, and this one didn’t disappoint. “Mario Kart World” is a flagship title for the system, promising to be a key driver of sales, given its widespread appeal. The Knockout Tour mode was particularly exhilarating.

“Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition” demonstrates the Switch 2’s power, though the demo needs further polishing. Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch 2’s “Welcome Tour” was charming, but I found its price tag unjustified.

“Donkey Kong Bananza” allowed me to unleash some virtual aggression and reveled in the Switch 2’s handling of destructible environments. Collectors might find themselves obsessively thorough with the trove of items to gather.

“Metroid Prime 4 Beyond” continued the franchise’s legacy with impressive graphics, while “Drag x Drive” promised a strategic depth not immediately apparent, with gameplay akin to energetic sports.

“Nintendo Classics: GameCube” offered nostalgia through titles like “Soul Calibur II” and “F-Zero GX,” although with the caveat of needing Nintendo Switch Online for access.

Other games such as “Civilization VII,” “Hades 2,” “Hogwarts Legacy,” “Street Fighter 6,” and “Kirby and the Forgotten World” were also present, hinting at a promising catalog ahead.

As the Switch 2 ramps up, it remains clear: when it comes to gaming, Nintendo’s next chapter is ready to be written.