Switch 2 vs. Switch Lite: is the upgrade justifiable considering the high cost?

      Each generation of video game consoles is extending in duration, with the Switch lasting 8 years before we received any official details about the Switch 2. During this period, several versions of the original Switch were released, each with unique features. But how does each model compare to the Switch 2? We can analyze the Switch 2 in relation to the original Switch as a baseline, but what about comparing it to the Switch OLED and Switch Lite? With the Switch 2 priced significantly higher than existing systems and upcoming games set to see price increases, should you keep your Switch Lite, or is investing in the Switch 2 justified?

      For those who favor PC gaming in handheld mode, we've also compared the Switch 2 to the Steam Deck to determine which handheld reigns supreme.

      **Switch 2 vs. Switch Lite Specifications**

      - **Nintendo Switch Lite**

       Size: 8.2 x 3.6 x 0.55 inches

       Weight: 0.61 pounds

       Screen: 5.5-inch LCD / 1280 x 720

       CPU/GPU: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor

       Storage: 32 GB internal (expandable via microSD card)

       Wireless: Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac)

       Video Output: No

       Audio Output: No

       USB Connector: USB Type-C

       Headphone/Mic Jack: 3.5mm 4-pole stereo

       Game Card Slot: Nintendo Switch game cards

       microSD Card Slot: Compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC

       Internal Battery: Lithium-ion / 3570mAh

       Battery Life: Approximately 3 to 7 hours

       Availability: Available now

      - **Nintendo Switch 2**

       Size: 4.5 x 10.7 x 0.55 inches

       Weight: TBD

       Screen: 7.9 inches, 1080p HDR, 120Hz

       CPU/GPU: Custom Nvidia chipset

       Storage: 256 GB internal

       Wireless: Yes

       Video Output: 4K docked via HDMI, 1080p handheld

       Audio Output: 3D audio

       USB Connector: 2 USB Type-C ports

       Headphone/Mic Jack: Built-in mic with noise-canceling, plus audio jack in new Pro Controller

       Game Card Slot: Nintendo Switch game cards

       microSD Card Slot: Supports microSD Express

       Internal Battery: Lithium-ion / 522mAh or ~20Whr

       Battery Life: Estimated 2 – 6.5 hours

       Availability: Launching on June 5

      The specifications of the Switch 2 significantly surpass those of the Switch Lite. Although the specific chips for the Switch 2’s CPU and GPU are not fully disclosed, it is confirmed to utilize a newer Nvidia chipset, enabling it to reach resolutions of up to 4K when docked and 1080p in handheld mode. The Switch Lite, which cannot be docked, is limited to its handheld display that tops out at 720p.

      In addition to superior graphic output, the Switch 2 also supports HDR, DLSS, and ray tracing functionalities. While it is up to developers to leverage these features, the Lite cannot utilize any of them.

      Frame rates present another significant difference. Although we can't guarantee how each game will perform on the Switch 2, it is capable of running at up to 120fps in both docked and handheld modes. Most titles, such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, are likely to include both quality and performance settings. This presents a higher maximum performance compared to the Switch Lite, which rarely reaches 60fps.

      The internal storage of the Switch Lite is the same as that of the base Switch, which is a modest 32 GB. Conversely, the Switch 2 offers 256 GB of built-in storage—eight times more. While games on the Switch 2 will likely be larger than their predecessors, they will not be eight times bigger, thus representing a significant upgrade. Additionally, the Switch 2 benefits from much faster game loading times. Both consoles support easy expansion using SD cards, but the Switch 2 has the advantage of faster microSD Express cards.

      Battery life is crucial for the Lite due to its lack of docked play, yet it remains an important aspect for the Switch 2 as well. Typically, both devices have similar battery performance, with the Lite lasting about 3 to 7 hours, while the Switch 2 is expected to last 2 to 6.5 hours. Actual performance will depend on the demands of the game being played, but neither unit boasts particularly impressive battery longevity.

      **Switch 2 vs. Switch Lite Design and Features**

      The Switch 2 maintains a familiar design, effectively being a