Switch 2 first impressions: Better design, familiar flaws
The Switch 2 improves on Nintendo’s hybrid console with a larger screen, better Joy-Cons, and enhanced hardware, but retains an outdated interface. Early impressions are promising, but inconsistent upgrade policies and unclear availability in India raise caution.
This week’s column isn’t meant to be a detailed or definitive review of the newly launched successor to the Nintendo Switch. If this were a YouTube tech channel, you could probably call it a “first impressions” piece. While I’ve spent a fair number of hours with the Switch 2 in both docked and handheld modes, there’s still a lot I need to explore before I can confidently recommend it. Adding to the uncertainty is the lack of clarity around the device’s availability in India—so for now, it’s best to wait and watch.
However, irrespective of the challenges in acquiring Nintendo devices and games in India, it’s undeniable that a new console has arrived—and it’s worth understanding what it offers to those players who can get their hands on it. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
What’s changed?
At first glance, the screen is bigger, brighter, and more refined. The Joy-Cons are also larger, with more pronounced and usable side buttons. They feel sturdier, and overall, the Switch 2 no longer resembles a plasticky toy. The Joy-Cons now snap on with a satisfying “clack” instead of sliding into the sides.
Once powered on, the screen delivers more vivid colours, though it’s worth noting that it’s not an OLED panel. At 7.9 inches, it’s roughly the size of an iPad Mini, albeit noticeably heavier. That said, the design is well-balanced, and I didn’t feel any strain on my wrists during extended use.
There’s now a USB-C port on the top, allowing you to play while charging. The stand has also seen a significant upgrade. However, the Switch 2 no longer supports traditional microSD cards and now requires microSD Express cards.
What’s stayed the same?
The operating system and UI remain nearly identical to the original Switch. While some may appreciate the familiarity, the interface feels dated. A visual refresh—perhaps through new animations, a modern colour palette, or subtle raytracing—could have better reflected the hardware leap. Sadly, the same card-based, static layout persists.
On the positive side, Nintendo has embraced backward compatibility, allowing access to a wide range of classic titles. However, the upgrade policy is inconsistent. Some games require a $10 upgrade fee, while others do not. For example, Tears of the Kingdom requires the additional cost, whereas Pokémon Scarlet and Violet do not—raising questions about Nintendo’s logic.
Performance & early concerns
Battery life still needs thorough testing. So far, performance feels similar to the original Switch. Demanding titles delivered 2–3 hours per charge, while backward-compatible games fared better.
One notable omission is the game card slot. Most titles now reside on internal storage or the new SD Express card. I’m curious to see how much space large titles like Cyberpunk 2077 will consume on the Switch 2.
The original Switch was unmatched on long flights or train rides. Whether the Switch 2 still holds that crown remains to be seen, especially with many portable gaming alternatives available today.
At its new price point—roughly on par with a PS5—the Switch 2 is a significant investment for a device that may not become your primary gaming platform.
When in doubt, always wait it out.
