Nintendo Switch vs Nintendo Switch 2: Four reasons why gamers pick the new console

The newest Nintendo Switch 2 console is out. Here are the main reasons gamers should consider buying one over the older model

Christmas is rapidly approaching, and for many who enjoy gaming or know someone who is into their games, the Nintendo Switch 2 might be the console to snap up this holiday season. The Nintendo Switch 2 was released on June 5th earlier this year to great fanfare.

For those who still have their old Nintendo Switch, now might be the right time to snap up the new console, with Christmas just around the corner. How does it compare to the original Nintendo Switch?

Thanks to a wide range of improvements in hardware and software, it’s become a popular console. With quicker speeds, power and storage, there are lots of eye-catching features with the Switch 2.

The variety of games is also wider for Switch 2 users, as we highlight below, there are a number of exclusive Mario Kart (like Mario Kart World) only available on the newer console. Not forgetting, enhanced GameChat features.

We’ve rounded up the four main reasons why gamers should consider upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2 this holiday season.

Faster and more powerful hardware

First and foremost, the Nintendo Switch 2’s internal hardware is a massive upgrade. Shoppers can enjoy smoother gameplay, better graphics, and better loading times, making everyone’s gaming experience much better than its predecessor.

Not only that, the Nintendo Switch 2 supports 4K output with the new and improved dock. Screen-wise, the Nintendo Switch 2 has a larger, sharper, and more responsive 7.9-inch 1080p screen that can support up to 120Hz refresh rates. Compare this to the original Switch OLED’s 7-inch screen, and you can tell a massive difference while playing your favourite games.

However, for gamers who enjoy powerful consoles, there’s the PlayStation 5 Pro at £699 – Sony’s most powerful console ever, which will help PS5 games run and look better than ever. Another handheld option is the Logitech G Cloud, now £329.99.

Exclusive games

Another area that distinguishes the Nintendo Switch 2 from its older brother is exclusive games. Switch 2 owners can enjoy exclusives like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza on the newer console.

It doesn’t stop there, either, with new games coming soon like Kirby Air Riders, Metroid Prime 4, and Hyrule Warriors Age of Imprisonment – all set to look and play great on the Switch 2.

And for those that may already own some games on the original Switch, there’s Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade packs like Super Mario Party Jamboree TV, a new way to play that’s all about audience participation for Super Mario Party Jamboree, and Star-Crossed World, which adds a new story to Kirby and the Forgotten Land.

Other games have also been enhanced for Nintendo Switch 2 with a free update, like Super Mario Galaxy 1+2, which can be enjoyed at 4K resolution in TV mode or 1080p in Handheld and Tabletop mode.

Backwards compatibility with older Switch games

For many gamers who already own a Switch, they might worry about losing access to their games. Well, there’s no need to worry about that with the new Nintendo Switch 2, as most of the older Switch games are compatible with the newer console, including both physical cartridges and digital downloads.

However, there are some limitations: some games may have compatibility issues or require a performance-enhancing update, which can be free or paid, and a small number of games may not work at all or require specific hardware like the original Joy-Con.

Luckily, Nintendo has a comprehensive list and explanation of apps, games, and features that work or may not work with the Nintendo Switch 2, which shoppers can find right here.

Enhanced social features

The Nintendo Switch 2 also has enhanced social features so gamers can enjoy playing their favourite games with friends and family. There’s the new GameChat feature, which allows for voice and video chat with up to 12 friends, screen sharing, and optional live-streaming with a connected USB-C camera.

And until March 31, 2026, GameChat can be used without a Nintendo Switch Online membership, meaning gamers can enjoy gaming with the ones they love without paying a penny extra.

What do buyers think of the console so far?

So far, those who have upgraded to the Nintendo Switch 2 have been thrilled with the upgrades. One reviewer said: “Honestly, for the price, it’s absolutely fantastic. The screen and handheld mode look beautiful. In dark mode, it looks fantastic as well. I really don’t have any complaints. Did a great job.

Another buyer added: “Having owned the original Switch for over six years, it’s clear to see that this was a big upgrade.

“Bigger screen, more memory, better graphics, faster processor and new features like the joy-con mouse.” They did have some issues, though, with the screen. They added: “That being said, I do wish they had released the Switch 2 with an OLED screen.