The Nintendo Switch 2 has been officially announced, featuring a 7.9-inch display with 120 frames per second variable refresh rate and supports 4K at 60 frames per second when docked

Nintendo Switch 2 launches June 5 with a 7.9-inch display and advanced features for $450.

: The Nintendo Switch 2, officially announced, boasts a 7.9-inch capacitive touch display with variable refresh rate supporting up to 120 frames per second. This new model supports 4K at 60 frames per second when connected to a television and features increased internal storage of up to 256GB with options for expansion. Controllers have been redesigned as Joy-Con 2, featuring magnetic attachment and other enhancements such as mouse mode and GameChat functionality. The upgraded docking system includes a fan to handle extra heat generated during extended docked gameplay sessions.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has been eagerly anticipated, and its recent announcement came with impressive enhancements that set it apart from the original model. With a significantly larger 7.9-inch capacitive touch display that supports a dynamic 120 frames per second variable refresh rate, this new console promises a more fluid and visually striking gaming experience. The screen itself supports high dynamic range (HDR), ensuring improved contrast and color fidelity compared to its predecessor.

Under the hood, the Switch 2's power stems from a custom-built CPU/GPU developed in collaboration with Nvidia, although Nintendo has not revealed specific details about these components. The new processor configuration, however, has implications on power consumption, resulting in a shorter playtime range of two to 6.5 hours per charge, a noticeable decrease from the original Switch but justified by the enhanced visual capabilities.

A major improvement comes in the form of storage, with the Switch 2 featuring 256GB of internal memory, a substantial upgrade from the first-generation model. This increase will particularly appeal to gamers who install numerous titles and downloadable content. The inclusion of microSD Express for expandable storage highlights Nintendo's commitment to digital flexibility while retaining support for physical game cards, now marked by a color change to red.

The Joy-Con 2 controllers introduce several key changes including the use of magnetic attachment to the device for a more secure connection, a feature initially met with skepticism but which Nintendo has effectively addressed through deep inset sockets and robust magnets. The inclusion of mouse mode enables users to use a single Joy-Con as a mouse-like device for certain games, while the new 'C' button facilitates easy access to GameChat, addressing a longstanding user complaint.

Completing the new package is a redesigned docking system that incorporates a cooling fan to manage increased heat production while delivering 4K HDR output at 60 frames per second when docked. Pre-orders open on April 9 at $450, or $500 when bundled with a game, with shipping starting on June 5. This comprehensive range of updates ensures the Nintendo Switch 2 stands as a formidable successor within the handheld console market.

Sources: TechSpot, Nintendo Direct

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