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CNN
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
I play a ton of Nintendo Switch 2. Here's how it beats the Nintendo Switch 1
The Nintendo Switch 2 is an excellent successor to the original Nintendo Switch 1, delivering significant upgrades that include 4K gaming, a bigger and better design, and a solid selection of exclusive games that should only get better over time. But it's also very much a Nintendo Switch, one that might look and feel incredibly familiar for anyone who's spent significant time with the company's mega-popular handheld and home console hybrid that's been around since 2017. With that said, is the Switch 2 truly worth the upgrade if you already have the OG Nintendo Switch? And if you're buying your first modern Nintendo console in a while, do you really need the newest, most expensive one? Fortunately, I've logged a frankly irresponsible amount of time on both systems over the past eight years and am here to make those decisions easy for you. Here are the key differences between the Switch and Switch 2 — as well as some surprising similarities — to keep in mind before you buy. Nintendo Switch 2 The Nintendo Switch 2 upgrades the wildly popular hybrid console with 4K gaming capabilities, more storage, a bigger design and a growing library of exclusive games. Nintendo Switch Console With Neon Red and Blue Joy-Con The original Nintendo Switch provides access to one of the best gaming libraries of all time, complete with the ability to game on your TV at 1080p or on the go at 720p. TV, tabletop, handheld TV, tabletop, handheld TV, tabletop, handheld Handheld 7.9-inch, 1920 x 1080 LCD screen 7-inch, 1280 x 720 OLED screen 6.2-inch, 1280 x 720 LCD screen 5.5-inch 1280 x 720 LCD screen Up to 4K, HDR10 support Up to 1080p Up to 1080p N/A 256GB, expandable via microSD Express 64GB, expandable via microSD 32GB, expandable via microSD 32GB, expandable via microSD 2 to 6.5 hours 4.5 to 9 hours 4.5 to 9 hours 3 to 7 hours All Nintendo Switch 2 games, most Nintendo Switch games All Nintendo Switch games All Nintendo Switch games Most Nintendo Switch games The Nintendo Switch 2 is effectively a souped-up Nintendo Switch, offering a familiar design that's bigger and better than what came before in almost every way. Its magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers are much easier to attach and detach than the original Switch Joy-Con with their sliding lock mechanism, and their larger all-around buttons make both handheld and single Joy-Con gaming much more satisfying. The new console's full-width kickstand is a massive upgrade over the laughable gumstick-sized stand on the OG Switch, though it's not a huge difference from the improved stand on the Switch OLED. One upgrade I love is the additional, top-facing USB-C port, which is great for connecting a camera or charging the Switch 2 while playing in tabletop mode. Perhaps the most noticeable and obvious hardware difference is the Switch 2's 7.9-inch display, which is significantly bigger (and a bit sharper) than every Switch screen that's come before it. It'll be a major upgrade for anyone coming from the Switch or Switch Lite, though Switch OLED owners may feel a bit more mixed. The Switch 2's LCD display doesn't have the same rich pop of color or sharp contrast as the Switch OLED screen, nor is it quite as bright. This stood out to me at first, but now that I've lived with the Switch 2 for a few months, I can't say I'm missing OLED all that much. Having a bigger and sharper screen (1080p up from 720p) really does make a difference, and Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza still look beautiful on LCD — even if I occasionally wish the colors were a little more vibrant. And considering that the Switch 2 can play games in gorgeous 4K resolution while docked to a TV (the older Switch is limited to 1080p in TV mode) — something I'll dive in to more in a minute — I can live with this trade-off while playing on the go. The Switch 2's increased dimensions come with one other caveat: It's not very comfortable to hold for long stretches. I found my hands cramping pretty quickly while playing in handheld mode, something I was only able to alleviate after picking up this great Mumba Clear Case that adds some extra grip. And while the Joy-Con 2 aren't the most ergonomic out of the box, the system at least never got overly hot during long play sessions. But those with especially small hands (and no big attachment to having the latest tech) should consider the standard Switch or the especially compact Switch Lite for frequent on-the-go play. Side note: The Nintendo Switch Lite is still the most aesthetically pleasing Switch and arguably still the best option for any little ones in your life. Nintendo should make a Switch Lite 2, and I wouldn't be surprised if it did. On paper, the Switch 2's 256GB of internal storage is a major upgrade from the 32GB to 64GB you'll find on older models. But considering how huge some Switch 2 games are (Cyberpunk 2077 alone takes up about 64GB), you'll still want to pick up some external storage. This brings us to another caveat. The Switch 2 only works with microSD Express cards, the newer and more advanced version of this popular memory format you can use on your other Switch consoles. MicroSD Express cards are a bit pricier and harder to find at the moment, which adds some notable expense to what's already the priciest Nintendo console. When it comes to aesthetic variety and customization, the Switch 1 wins by a landslide for the time being. The Switch and Switch OLED are sold with various Joy-Con color options, and there's a massive ecosystem of first- and third-party Joy-Cons that truly let you make your Switch look and feel how you want it to. There's also a plethora of gorgeous limited-edition Switch models for those able to track them down. The Nintendo Switch 2 is currently limited to a plain black model with subtle red and blue highlights, though considering Nintendo's love for constantly launching new accessories, we suspect that'll change over time. Spoiler alert: The Nintendo Switch 2 is a lot more powerful than the Nintendo Switch. Nintendo's newest console is still a far cry from the blazing speeds and ultra-rich visuals of the PS5 and Xbox Series X, but it's a noticeable leap from its predecessor — and one that just makes for an overall more pleasant gaming experience. Forget the fact that the Switch 2 finally brings Nintendo into the 4K gaming era. You know what really excites me? Loading times. From firing up massive games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom to simply opening up the Nintendo eShop, everything loaded up significantly faster during my side-by-side tests between the Switch OLED and Switch 2. That saved time adds up when you're trying to squeeze in as many quests as possible on a short train ride. The Switch 2 also pumps out notably crisp visuals in both TV and handheld mode, offering up to 4K when you connect to a TV and 1080p on the go. That's a nice bump from the Switch and Switch OLED, which top off at 1080p on a TV and 720p in handheld (the Switch Lite is handheld only and can't be used with a TV at all). On top of that, the Switch 2 can deliver frame rates of up to 120 frames per second, an ultra-smooth level of motion that was previously reserved for powerful PCs and the latest high-end consoles. We've yet to see many games utilize 120 frames per second yet, but it does future-proof the Switch 2 quite well. While the Switch 2's performance and visuals are a clear step up from the original, battery life is a mixed bag. The Switch 2 is rated for two to six and a half hours of battery life, depending on what you're playing, which is actually the lowest battery estimate Nintendo gives for any of its Switch consoles. These numbers have mostly been consistent with my own use, though the Switch 2 isn't quite as far behind the pack as the ratings would suggest. To get a sense of how long each Switch console lasts under similar play conditions, I fired up Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and set up an endless eight-fighter brawl at full brightness and all possible settings cranked up for maximum chaos. The Switch 2 petered out at just under four hours, which doesn't quite beat the Switch OLED (four hours, 50 minutes) but manages to squeak by the 2019 Switch (three hours, 50 minutes) and topples the original 2017 model (two hours, 45 minutes). Of course, your own battery life experience will vary wildly based on what you're playing and how old your console is, but it's worth keeping these numbers in mind when picking a model. My advice? You should be keeping a good portable charger handy no matter which Nintendo Switch you pick up. If you ignored the rest of this guide and scrolled all the way here, well … I wouldn't blame you. You ultimately buy a console to play games, and the main reason to upgrade to a Nintendo Switch 2 is to play the fancy new titles that aren't coming to your dusty old Switch 1. The Nintendo Switch 2 plays virtually every original Nintendo Switch game in addition to its growing assortment of Switch 2 exclusives. Nintendo's compatibility page features a small list of titles with known issues on Switch 2, as well as a handful of games that'll require your old Switch Joy-Con (like Ring Fit Adventure and Nintendo Switch Sports) since they were made specifically for those older controllers. But the vast majority of your existing Switch collection will work great on Switch 2; heck, some of them will run even better than before, thanks to free updates to titles like Super Mario Odyssey, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, and Splatoon 3. The current list of exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 games is relatively small but already strong. You've got the expansive multiplayer racing of Mario Kart World and the delightfully smashing platforming of Donkey Kong Bananza — a true pair of instant Nintendo classics to start this new generation. Then there are the big third-party blockbusters like Cyberpunk 2077, Street Fighter 6 and WWE 2K25, which finally give Nintendo gamers a chance to experience some of the biggest hits that were once exclusive to other consoles and PCs. Looking further out, you can expect new Zelda, Splatoon and Kirby games, as well as a big exclusive from the Dark Souls team called The Duskbloods. There are also special Nintendo Switch 2 editions of games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Party Jamboree, which feature both enhanced visuals and new features. You can upgrade to these new versions for a small fee or get the upgrades for free as part of your Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription. And you should, because getting to finally play a modern Zelda in 4K at a smooth 60 frames per second really is something. The Switch 2 also has a small advantage for retro gamers. All Switch owners can dive into a big library of Nintendo, Super Nintendo, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games (the latter few require Nintendo's higher-end subscription), though only Switch 2 owners can access the newer GameCube collection that includes such hits as Soul Calibur II and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. That said, if you decide to save some cash and pick up an old Switch (or hold out on upgrading), you won't exactly be hurting for things to play. The 12,000-plus games available on the Nintendo Switch include some of the greatest titles of all time, from Nintendo essentials like Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Metroid Dread and Animal Crossing: New Horizons; must-have indies like Hades and Balatro; and the best of top franchises like Doom and Minecraft. Nintendo isn't stopping support for the original Switch anytime soon either. Hotly anticipated Nintendo titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon: Legends Z-A are coming to both Switch consoles (just keep in mind that previous Pokémon titles have had performance issues on Switch 1), and plenty of big-name third-party games from the Dragon Ball and Sonic franchises are still on the way. And once you're ready to move to a Switch 2, all those games will come with you, some of which will have optional upgrades to make them perform even better. If you're a big online gamer, the Switch 2 is for you. One of the system's biggest upgrades is its GameChat feature, which lets you finally voice chat with friends directly from your console, whether you're playing together or each doing your own thing. You can even hop on video (via either the Nintendo Switch 2 camera or any standard USB webcam you have handy) or share your screen to show off your Mario Kart skills or get help navigating a tricky Zelda dungeon. All this communication happens via the Switch 2's built-in microphone, so you don't even need a dedicated mic or headset to start chatting. By contrast, Switch 1 gamers will have to use some external tools to talk to their friends during Splatoon wars or Smash Bros. brawls. You can use Nintendo's own official Nintendo Switch Online app for your iOS or Android device, or go with a third-party option like the popular Discord app. I much prefer the latter, as it's far less limited, easier to use and not tied to a subscription. Also, the Switch 2's on-screen chat overlay looks a lot like a Discord call, so Nintendo's twist isn't exactly unique. You would think that buying an older Switch means spending less money. And you'd be correct, though recent price changes have blurred the lines a bit. In August 2025, Nintendo raised prices on all original Switch hardware due to 'market conditions,' bumping the Nintendo Switch Lite from $200 to $230, the standard Nintendo Switch from $300 to $340 and the Nintendo Switch OLED from $350 to $400. Considering the OLED model is only $50 less than a Nintendo Switch 2, the vast majority of people are better off just spending a little more for Nintendo's latest. That said, there are a few good reasons to go retro. Even the price-bumped Switch Lite and Switch are still significantly less expensive than the Switch 2, and as of this writing, stores such as Best Buy and Amazon are still selling the old consoles at their original pricing. And I'll continue to champion the Switch Lite as a great option for kids, especially since the other models have more moving (i.e. breakable) parts. It's worth noting that while the Nintendo Switch 2 is staying at its $450 starting price, Nintendo mentions in its pricing update that 'price adjustments may be necessary in the future.' Additionally, certain Nintendo Switch 2 accessories including the Joy-Con 2 and Switch 2 Pro Controller have seen a $5 price bump. So, what's actually different about the Nintendo Switch 2? You get a bigger design and display, better performance, an improved online experience and a pretty great handful of exclusive games that the original Switch can't run. It's the best Nintendo console out right now, and whether you're upgrading or getting your first-ever Switch, you're likely going to find a lot to love about it. That's not to say the OG Nintendo Switch doesn't hold any value in 2025. The classic Switch grants you access to one of the absolute greatest game libraries of all time, and it's one that's still set to get some big new releases before Nintendo sunsets the first-generation model for good. And even factoring in price bumps, it's a more affordable entry point into modern Nintendo gaming and a great option for youngsters or the extremely gaming-casual among us. The Switch 2 is still in its infancy, so there's no harm in waiting a bit for more big games to arrive. And once you are ready to upgrade, nearly all your games and gear can come with you. Can a Nintendo Switch 2 play Nintendo Switch 1 games? Can a Nintendo Switch 2 play Nintendo Switch 1 games? Yep! Almost all Nintendo Switch games work on the Nintendo Switch 2. Some titles, like 1-2 Switch and Ring Fit Adventure, will require you to use your older Joy-Con controllers, and a handful of others have known compatibility issues that are being worked on. But most of your favorite titles will work on the new system just fine. Will Nintendo Switch 1 controllers work on a Nintendo Switch 2? Will Nintendo Switch 1 controllers work on a Nintendo Switch 2? Also yes. Pretty much any wireless Switch 1 controller will work on your Switch 2, including the classic Joy-Cons and the original Pro Controller. Same goes for many wired options, such as those from PowerA. Some third-party Switch 1 controllers, such as those from 8BitDo, may require a firmware update before they work on Switch 2, though. Are the Nintendo Switch 2 or the Nintendo Switch 1 HDMI compatible? Are the Nintendo Switch 2 or the Nintendo Switch 1 HDMI compatible? Yes, the Switch 2 and Switch both connect to your TV via HDMI. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. Senior tech editor Mike Andronico has been covering gaming for more than a decade and has been writing tested reviews of Nintendo consoles since the Nintendo 3DS (which is still in his top five consoles). He's currently obsessed with chasing high scores in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 and chasing even bigger bananas in Donkey Kong Bananza.
Geeky Gadgets
03-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Budget 4K Gaming PC Build That Rivals High-End Systems
What if you could experience breathtaking 4K gaming without spending thousands of dollars? For many, the idea of building a high-performance gaming PC on a tight budget seems impossible—a dream reserved for those willing to compromise on quality or performance. But here's the truth: with thoughtful planning and a strategic approach, you can assemble a system that delivers smooth, immersive gameplay at a fraction of the cost of prebuilt alternatives. This overview challenges the notion that 4K gaming is only for those with deep pockets, proving that cost-efficiency and innovative performance can go hand in hand. In the following guide by Christian Selig, you'll uncover the secrets to crafting a budget-friendly 4K gaming PC that balances affordability, compact design, and future-proofing. From sourcing the right mix of new and used components to optimizing thermal performance and upgradeability, every decision in this build was made with precision and purpose. You'll also discover how small details—like a compact case with custom modifications—can transform a standard build into something truly unique. Whether you're a first-time builder or a seasoned enthusiast, this journey into budget PC building will inspire you to rethink what's possible without breaking the bank. Sometimes, the best gaming experiences come from the most unexpected places. Building a $700 4K Gaming PC Cost-Efficiency: Maximizing Performance on a Budget Achieving 4K gaming performance on a limited budget requires a strategic approach to component selection. By incorporating a mix of new and used parts, you can significantly reduce costs while maintaining quality. For instance, sourcing a pre-owned AMD Ryzen 5 5600 CPU and Nvidia 3060 Ti GPU can save hundreds of dollars compared to buying new components. In this build, the total cost for parts was $596, leaving room for additional customizations that brought the final expenditure to $642. To ensure reliability and performance, key new components were prioritized, such as a 1TB SSD for fast storage and 16GB of 3600 MHz RAM for smooth multitasking. This combination of second-hand and new parts demonstrates how thoughtful planning can stretch your budget while delivering a gaming experience that rivals more expensive systems. By focusing on cost-efficiency, you can allocate resources where they matter most, making sure a high-performance build without unnecessary expenses. Compact Design: Efficient Use of Space A compact PC case offers both practical and aesthetic benefits, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious builders. The Sama IM01 case was selected for this build due to its small footprint, affordability, and ability to house all necessary components, including a microATX motherboard. Despite its compact size, the case provides sufficient airflow to keep the system cool during intensive gaming sessions. Custom modifications further enhance the case's functionality and appearance. A 3D-printed front panel was added to improve ventilation, while upgraded case feet increased stability and airflow. These adjustments not only optimize thermal performance but also give the build a polished, professional look. By choosing a compact design, you can create a system that fits seamlessly into any space while maintaining excellent performance. How to Build a Budget 4K Gaming PC Watch this video on YouTube. Take a look at other insightful guides from our broad collection that might capture your interest in 4K gaming PC build. Upgradeability: Future-Proofing Your Build Building a gaming PC with upgradeability in mind ensures that your system can adapt to future gaming demands. The MSI Pro B550M VC Wi-Fi motherboard was chosen for its balance of cost and features, including additional RAM slots and compatibility with more powerful GPUs. This flexibility allows you to upgrade components like the GPU or RAM as needed, extending the lifespan of your system. An 850W power supply was included to provide ample headroom for future upgrades. Its modular design simplifies cable management, making it easier to install new components down the line. By prioritizing upgradeability, this build remains adaptable, allowing you to enhance its performance over time without requiring a complete overhaul. Modern Connectivity: Staying Current with Technology Modern connectivity features are essential for a seamless gaming experience. This build includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, making sure fast and reliable wireless connections for online gaming and peripheral devices. Additionally, USB-C ports were integrated into the case's front panel, replacing older USB-A ports to support faster data transfer and charging. These updates not only improve functionality but also enhance the system's overall usability. By focusing on modern connectivity, you can ensure that your build remains compatible with the latest devices and technologies, providing a more streamlined and efficient gaming experience. Gaming Performance: Prioritizing the GPU for 4K Excellence The GPU is the cornerstone of any gaming PC, particularly for 4K gaming. The Nvidia 3060 Ti was selected for its ability to handle demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong when paired with DLSS technology. By prioritizing GPU performance over CPU power, this build achieves a balance that supports high-resolution gaming without exceeding the budget. Performance testing revealed consistent frame rates and efficient thermal management. Under load, the CPU operated at temperatures between 75–85°C, while the GPU maintained a steady 70°C, making sure smooth and reliable gameplay. By emphasizing GPU performance, this build delivers an immersive gaming experience that meets the demands of modern titles. Customization and Thermal Management Customizing your PC allows you to enhance both its functionality and appearance. For this build, a 3D-printed front panel was designed to optimize airflow, while the case was painted in a sleek graphite color for a premium finish. Upgraded case feet, crafted from materials like walnut wood, further improved airflow and stability. Efficient thermal management was a key focus, with the system remaining cool and quiet during intensive gaming sessions. These modifications not only improve performance but also add a personal touch to the build, making it uniquely yours. By investing in customization, you can create a system that stands out while delivering exceptional performance. Assembly and Setup: Navigating the Build Process Building a PC involves several critical steps, from assembling components to configuring software. This process included updating the motherboard BIOS, installing drivers, and setting up Windows. Challenges such as static electricity precautions and BIOS updates were addressed with careful preparation and attention to detail. For first-time builders, this process offers a valuable learning experience, providing insights into how PCs function and how to troubleshoot common issues. The result was a fully functional system capable of delivering high-performance gaming at a fraction of the cost of prebuilt alternatives. By focusing on assembly and setup, you can ensure a smooth and rewarding building experience. Exploring 6K Gaming and Future Enhancements While the primary goal of this build was 4K gaming, its potential for 6K gaming was also explored. Although performance at this resolution was more demanding, the visual experience was stunning, showcasing the system's capabilities. This demonstrates the build's versatility and potential for handling even more advanced gaming scenarios. Looking ahead, additional upgrades—such as improved cooling solutions or increasing RAM to 32GB—could further enhance performance and extend the system's longevity. By planning for future enhancements, you can ensure that your build remains relevant and capable of meeting evolving gaming demands. Media Credit: Christian Selig Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
