Two weeks with the Nintendo Switch 2: Is it worth buying now?

Nintendo is trying again. After the huge success of the first Switch, which managed to change the way we play games both indoors and outdoors, the Japanese company is back with a new version of its hybrid console: the Switch 2. It's not a revolution, but it is a clear improvement in almost every aspect that already worked well in the original model. More screen, more power, new games, and a smoother experience that shows that Nintendo has listened—at least in part—to its community. At ABC, we've spent the last two weeks testing it out with several of the launch titles, and we now have a pretty clear idea of ​​what it offers, what it improves... and also what we missed.

The average user—those who don't spend their lives with their hands glued to the controller—will probably notice few differences between the Switch 2 and the original. And that makes sense: Nintendo's offering is still practically a carbon copy of the previous one. The hybrid concept remains, allowing you to play both in handheld mode and connected to a TV, with the controllers separated. The console itself is a single screen with the Joy-Con 2—the new version of the controllers—on the sides. A familiar formula that has worked very well, and Nintendo has chosen to refine it rather than reinvent it.

The screen has grown to 7.9 inches, a considerable leap that can be seen when you place the Switch 2 next to the original model, which was 6.2 inches. But the difference isn't just a matter of size: there's also a clear improvement in image quality. The resolution in handheld mode increases to 1080p—compared to 720p on the first model—which translates to much sharper and more detailed graphics. The change is noticeable from the first moment and significantly improves the gaming experience.

In addition to the improved screen, the Joy-Con 2 has been redesigned, now attaching using a magnetic system . The change works surprisingly well: there are no issues with the grip, quite the opposite. The fit is firm, precise, and gives the whole thing a more solid feel.

On the back, the Switch 2 features a new, long, horizontal tab that allows the console to be used in handheld mode on a table. This is a significant change from the smaller tab of the original model, as it is now much more stable. Additionally, the console includes two new USB-C ports, one on the top and one on the bottom, providing more flexibility when charging. Users can choose the most comfortable position to keep it plugged in, even while playing.

Fewer new features are available for the dock , the base for connecting the console to the TV. Its design has changed slightly, with more rounded edges, and it now includes a fan to improve heat dissipation. But, in essence, it's still a very similar device to the previous model.

Beyond the console's ergonomics and solidity, we really liked the sound, which is truly outstanding. We also emphasize how quiet the Switch 2 is and how little heat it gets, even when connected to the TV or used in handheld mode while charging. What perhaps impressed us less was the battery life, which ranges between two and three hours when playing games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Mario Kart World. Too little. If you want to take the Switch 2 on vacation, we warn you that the charging cable will be your best companion.

Hardware aside, the best thing about the Switch 2 is, without a doubt, its power. Its ability to run demanding video games—until now unthinkable on a Nintendo console—brings it closer than ever to the likes of PlayStation and Xbox. And that makes it, arguably, the most interesting machine on the market right now. Thanks to this technical leap, users will not only be able to enjoy the company's exclusive classics (Mario, Zelda, and others), but also many of the most ambitious titles coming in the coming years from third-party developers.

Although the graphical performance doesn't reach the level of a PS5 or an Xbox Series X, the gaming experience on Switch 2 is barely affected. We've seen this with titles such as Cyberpunk 2077 itself or the new version of Yakuza 0, which has arrived exclusively on Nintendo Switch and, finally, with Spanish subtitles. Of everything we've had the opportunity to test in this launch, there hasn't been anything that has choked the new hybrid.

Another point in favor of the Switch 2 is that it's fully compatible with the entire catalog of the original console, both in physical and digital formats. This means that those who upgrade to the new version can enjoy a wide selection of games from day one, without having to start from scratch. However, if you already have a recent console, it might be worth waiting a bit to see if the price drops: the launch price of €470 isn't affordable for everyone. And be careful, because some of the new titles also come with high prices—the new 'Mario Kart World', for example, is priced at €90.

Overall, we found the Switch 2's revision to be remarkable. The Switch 2 improves on virtually everything the original offered, without reinventing anything. Nintendo hasn't taken any risks and has opted for a console that follows the same path, designed to appeal to both loyal Nintendo fans and those who missed out on trying the first hybrid. It's a solid evolution, with no surprises, but with enough arguments to continue competing at the top. Leaving aside the lack of innovation in the offering, we're left with the thorn in the side of battery life in handheld mode and the price tag for some of the games.