Nintendo’s recent Direct presentation for the Switch 2 ignited a flurry of online discussions, with one of the most prominent topics being the console’s pricing. Set at $450, the initiation price for the Switch 2 represents a notable increase from the original Switch, which launched at $300 in 2017. Whether influenced by tariffs or various economic elements, it’s clear that the latest console is an expensive commitment.
Nevertheless, after dedicating several hours to trying out the Switch 2 during a press event, I left feeling that it lives up to the anticipation—and the price tag. Beneath the sticker shock and flashy promotion, there’s a console that genuinely feels like a significant upgrade from its predecessor. If you’re undecided, here are three strong reasons why the Switch 2 is definitely a worthwhile purchase, even if you have to hold off for a bit before getting one.
3 Reasons Why the Nintendo Switch 2 Is a Smart Buy
Yes, it comes at a cost. But consider this.
1. Significant Performance Enhancements
A major complaint about the original Switch was its outdated hardware. Even Nintendo’s titles began to struggle on the platform in recent years. However, the Switch 2 changes the game significantly.
In the demo, I tried an enhanced version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild—an eight-year-old title that was first released on the Wii U. On the Switch 2, it displayed a remarkably higher resolution and a fluid frame rate. It was one of those moments where you immediately recognize that the hardware upgrade is genuine.
New games designed specifically for the Switch 2 are even more remarkable. Mario Kart World features a vibrant, expansive open world teeming with character. Donkey Kong: Bananza introduces a lively environment where nearly all objects can be destructed in real time. These experiences simply weren’t feasible on the original Switch—at least not without significant compromises in either performance or graphics.
2. A Significantly Enhanced Display for Portable Gaming
The original Switch’s 6.2-inch, 720p screen was adequate for its era, but it hasn’t held up well. Some titles, like Xenoblade Chronicles 2, struggled to keep that resolution in handheld mode, leading to a blurry, unsatisfactory experience.
The Switch 2 remedies this with a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen that supports a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR. In my hands-on experience, games like Metroid Prime 4 seemed to run consistently at 120 frames per second—something previously unimaginable on the original hardware.
Additionally, the revamped Joy-Con controllers offer a more comfortable grip for adult hands, making handheld gaming on the Switch 2 a far more enticing proposition. Of course, we still need to gauge how the battery performs with all that power.
3. Online Capabilities That Could Actually Work
Nintendo has consistently faced challenges with online functionalities, from cumbersome friend codes to restricted multiplayer options. While it’s premature to herald success, the Switch 2 exhibits promising advancements.
A new “C” button on the right Joy-Con activates GameChat, a built-in voice and text chatting system that resembles a streamlined version of Discord. It enables players to communicate with friends across various games and even share screens—though the video quality still requires improvement. At the very least, it marks a move in the right direction.
Most notably, the Switch 2 dock now features a built-in ethernet port. This is a minor yet vital upgrade that should enhance online gaming for all users. If you haven’t done so yet, it’s time to adopt a wired connection.
Final Remarks
Though the Switch 2 comes with a high price, it delivers significant enhancements across the board—from performance and graphics to online features and portable usability. If you’re not ready to purchase on launch day, that’s perfectly reasonable. However, based on my observations, this is a console worth saving up for.
Preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 9.