Nintendo's highly anticipated Switch 2 has officially launched worldwide, marking the first major console release in half a decade. As the gaming community gets their hands on the new handheld system, early analyses and teardowns are revealing both the capabilities and limitations of Nintendo's latest hardware offering.
Launch Details:
- Worldwide release: June 5, 2025
- Day-one update required for network features and eShop access
- No early review units distributed to media outlets
- First major console launch in 5 years
Display Performance Falls Short of HDR Expectations
The Switch 2's display has become a point of concern following detailed technical analysis. The handheld's screen delivers a maximum peak brightness of approximately 400-450 nits, which falls significantly short of providing a proper HDR experience. Testing with popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild showed brightness levels capping at 420 nits, while Cyberpunk 2077 reached the apparent maximum of 450 nits. This LCD display also struggles with black level representation due to backlighting issues and a constant black level rise of 0.5 nits, further compromising the visual experience.
Display Specifications:
- Maximum peak brightness: 400-450 nits
- Display type: LCD with backlighting issues
- Black level rise: 0.5 nits constant
- HDR performance: Below average in handheld mode, adequate in docked mode
Docked Mode Offers Improved HDR Performance
When connected to external displays in docked mode, the Switch 2 shows marked improvement in HDR delivery. The system-level calibration proves adequate for most gaming scenarios, with titles like Cyberpunk 2077 providing an HDR experience comparable to other platform versions. However, certain games still suffer from washed-out visuals and poor contrast, particularly those with specific aesthetic designs that don't translate well to the console's HDR implementation.
Internal Hardware Design Maintains Familiar Approach
The first teardown analysis reveals that Nintendo has largely maintained its design philosophy from the original Switch. The disassembly process remains relatively straightforward, though Nintendo has strategically placed screws and release latches beneath stickers on both sides of the console. The company continues to use similar thermal paste compounds as the original Switch, which some users previously replaced to enhance performance and longevity.
Build Quality Shows Mixed Results
While the Joy-Con controllers demonstrate improved attachment stability compared to the original Switch, they still exhibit some wobbling when connected. More concerning is the folding support stand on the console's rear, which early analysis suggests is overly fragile with a high risk of breakage if not handled carefully during deployment.
Hardware Design Changes:
- Improved Joy-Con attachment stability (still some wobbling present)
- Similar thermal paste compound as original Switch
- Fragile folding support stand with high breakage risk
- Screws and latches hidden beneath stickers
Review Process Adapts to Launch Strategy
Nintendo's decision to forgo early review units has created an unusual situation for tech journalists and reviewers. Unlike previous console launches, major outlets are receiving their units alongside consumers, citing the need for day-one software updates. This approach means comprehensive reviews will arrive after launch day, but potentially offer more real-world testing scenarios, particularly for multiplayer features like the new GameChat service that requires active user participation to evaluate properly.
Day-One Update Enables Core Features
The Switch 2 launched with a mandatory day-one update that activates essential network features and provides access to the redesigned eShop. This update requirement explains Nintendo's reluctance to distribute early review units, as the console's full functionality remains locked until the patch is applied.