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Stuff.tv
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Stuff.tv
I tested dozens of Nintendo Swatch 2 accessories, and these are ones I'd actually spend money on
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a shiny piece of hardware, our best handheld gaming console, and arguably Nintendo's most premium console ever made. While it comes built in with many great features out of the box, from its incredible noise-cancelling mic to its magnetic Joy-Con that can act as single controllers and mice, there's still plenty more you'll want to buy to enhance the experience. Of course, if you owned a Switch previously, you'll be pleased to know that many of your old accessories will still be compatible, albeit with some limitations, but some things need to be upgraded, such as the new microSD Express cards, while old controllers can't be used to turn on your console. Whether you're after extra controllers for different play styles or occasions, need extra juice when taking it on the go and also want to make sure it's well protected, we've put together some of the best accessories you'll want to get your hands on along to go with your new Nintendo investment. Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Given that the Pro Controller for the original Switch has proven popular for even those who don't own Nintendo's console, there wasn't much that needed to change with this new version. The design is almost the same but sports a sleeker matte finish that complements the new, more premium-feeling console, though it does feel a bit more slippery without textured grips. The d-pad, however, feels like an improvement, a test of Tetris in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S, showing I was no longer mis-dropping blocks like before. There are, however, more additions, such as the C-button for GameChat and a much-requested headphone jack for you to plug in a headset. But the standout feature (and likely why this is more expensive than its predecessor) is two programmable back buttons on the rear grips called GL and GR, which you can even map the capture button to so that you can finally take screenshots while still fully in control of gameplay. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera The console already has a built-in mic to take advantage of the new GameChat feature, but if you also want to be seen by your friends, then you'll want to get an official camera. While you can also plug in any USB-C webcam as well, this camera has both 1080p resolution and a wide lens to ensure it can capture you or anyone else in your living room and zoom in accordingly while ensuring you still appear visible on your friends' Game Chat feeds as if you were streaming directly to them. The camera also comes with a stand that is easy to adjust, at a height you can place behind the Switch 2 dock, or you can also use it when playing in handheld or tabletop mode. SanDisk MicroSD Express Card While the Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal storage, the larger size of Switch 2 games means you'll definitely need to expand your storage, and your old microSDs will not be good enough. MicroSD Express has much faster read speeds and enables games to load much faster than previously. However, the only cards you're likely to find only offer an additional 256GB, with larger sizes either scarce or running extortionate prices. You might get confused by the labelling over whether or not you have the right card. Fortunately, you'll be glad to know that Nintendo is selling an officially licensed express card and isn't charging extra for it. GameCube Controller – Nintendo Classics GameCube games are finally available to Switch Online members with the expansion pack tier, and the best way to enjoy them is with a GameCube controller – indeed, the analogue shoulder buttons make it essential for F-Zero GX. While it's been possible to use OG wired GameCube controllers and an adaptor for dedicated Super Smash Bros. players, this new wireless controller, available exclusively on My Nintendo Store, has a nicer matte finish as well as additional buttons like the Home, Capture and C-Button. Just bear in mind that it's not going to be ideal as your only other controller since it's missing several inputs that a modern controller has. Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro Gaming Headset While this is a professional studio-quality open-back gaming headset for PC, a console adaptor means you can still plug it into either your Switch 2's audio jack or a Switch 2 pro controller so that you can enjoy incredible sound and comfortable pads for extended gaming sessions, whether at home or on the go. It's admittedly quite pricey for what it is, and annoyingly, its microphone isn't detachable, which might make it less appealing to take on the train, but you'll at least also be able to make use of it during GameChat sessions, as the noise-cancelling tech is in the Switch 2 hardware itself. Belkin Portable Power Bank with Integrated Cable Switch 2's battery life is unfortunately not great, so you want to ensure you have a power bank if you're planning to take it on a long-haul trip. This power bank from Belkin is about the size of an iPhone (albeit thicker) and has a rechargeable 20,000 mAh battery, which can recharge your console twice. It also comes with an integrated cable in case you forget to bring a cable, just enough to plug into the device's USB-C port on top when playing in tabletop mode. Of course, it also has an additional USB-C and USB 2.0 port if you need to charge your phone or another device. SnakeByte System Organiser S2 This is a bargain because only for a quid more than the official carry case, you actually get not just a carry case for your Switch 2 but also for its other components, including the dock, cables, and even room for other accessories like a controller and power bank. The Switch 2 case itself is moulded nicely for the triggers, buttons and sticks and contains space for 10 game cards and comes with a wrist strap if you want to carry it hands-free. This can then fit on the top part of the system organiser, while an an attachable and adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy and comfortable to take your whole console with you whether it's for a house party or you're heading home for the holidays. Belkin Gaming Nintendo Switch 2 Charger Case If you're taking your Switch 2 places, then a protective case is essential, but this dedicated case also comes with a power bank that fits snugly inside the case with a cable that can neatly plug into the console while stored, ensuring that once you're seated and have time to relax you'll find your Switch 2 has plenty of juice. That does however make for a bulkier case though it does have a handle so that you can carry it in your hand instead of putting it in your bag, while it also has room to store 12 game cards, additional cables or Joy-Con wrist straps, and even a hidden space you can fit an AirTag. PowerA Advantage Wired Controller If you're after a budget controller, PowerA has a range of wired Switch 2 controllers, each sporting some Nintendo-themed designs. On the whole, it's not that different from the company's Switch 1 range, apart from of course the addition of a C-button and headphone jack to take advantage of GameChat functionality. Its lower cost does mean it skimps on a few other features, such as HD rumble, gyro controls and NFC support for Amiibo, but it does have programmable back buttons. The caveat is that these are not the same as the GL and GR buttons on the official Switch 2 pro controller. For that reason, you won't be able to use these back buttons to take a screenshot. SnakeByte Twin Charge S2 While you can still use Switch 1 Joy-Cons, if you do plan to buy more Switch 2 Joy-Cons you'll also want new charging docks for them since they have new designs. For this Twin Charge, you just need to put each Joy-Con down on its side much like when using them as a mouse and an LED light on the front will let you know when it is charging or fully charged. There's also a Quad Charge available if you plan on buying more of Joy-Con 2s, perhaps when more colours and designs are available in future.
CNN
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- CNN
I found the 11 best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories after a week of nonstop testing
Looking for the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? I don't blame you. Nintendo's new console works well out of the box, but you might find your palms hurting after a few hours of handheld gaming. Or you may notice the fact that your internal storage is full from downloading just a handful of games. Or maybe you're just wondering how the heck to transport this $450 machine without scuffing it up. Fortunately, there are accessories to aid with all those issues and more, and I've tested a whole ton of them to help you figure out which ones are actually worth it. You can already buy a wealth of Nintendo Switch 2 add-ons from both Nintendo and some of our favorite third-party brands, whether you need a spare controller or just an easy way to keep your pricey new console safe. But given the price of Nintendo Switch 2 games, you won't want to blow whatever budget you have left on just any piece of junk. That's why I've done the hard work of playing lots of Switch 2 with various gizmos attached to it in the name of finding the legitimately good accessories. Oh, and a quick bonus tip: While it's not technically an accessory, I'd say that a Nintendo Switch Online membership is a must for any Switch 2 owner. The $20 per year base membership allows you to play games online and will be necessary for GameChat starting early next year. But I'd strongly encourage you to check out the $50 per year Nintendo Switch Online and Expansion Pack membership, as it also throws in the library of Nintendo GameCube classics that are exclusive to Switch 2 owners, as well as free upgrade packs for Switch 2 enhanced games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Got it? Good. Let's dive into some hardware. SanDisk 256GB MicroSD Express Card If you buy one thing for your Switch 2, it should be a microSD express card. While the console's 256GB of built-in storage is far more generous than what we got last generation, new games like Street Fighter 6 and Cyberpunk 2077 — not to mention all the Switch 1 games you're probably transferring over — will eat up that space before you know it. And even if you're a physical game collector, many Switch 2 cartridges will essentially just be key cards that still require you to download the full game. You also can't use just any microSD card like you could on the original Switch; only microSD express models (which have faster transfer speeds) will work on the console. Options are limited and pricey at the moment, but I went with this SanDisk card given how well the brand's SD cards served me during the Switch 1 days. I personally bought a 128GB card since it was available sooner, but you should really invest in at least a 256GB model, especially with space-sucking titles like Star Wars Outlaws and Madden NFL 26 on the horizon. MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, 6-Pack Your Switch 2 screen is gonna get dirty and smudgy. It's just a fact of life. Fortunately, microfiber cloths make it easy to wipe away those unsightly fingerprints and specks of debris, and the ones from MagicFiber are what I keep buying year after year. On top of being sleek, lint-free and quick to eradicate gunk, they're also a great value with options ranging from $10 for a two-pack to $30 for a 30-pack. Mumba Clear Case for Nintendo Switch 2 One of my biggest issues with the Nintendo Switch 2 is that the Joy-Cons dig into my palms when I play in handheld mode. Fortunately, I was able to alleviate this discomfort significantly by throwing on a case, and this Mumba model is my favorite of the batch I tested. Its polycarbonate shell is rugged but flexible enough to easily snap on to my Switch 2, and its soft, rubberlike grips allowed me to game in comfort for hours on end. Best of all, its dock-friendly design means you don't have to snap it off whenever you want to play in TV mode. If this case seems like your jam, you can save 15% by using our exclusive code MUMBACNN15 at both Amazon and Mumba. Supcase Heavy-Duty Adjustable Stand The Nintendo Switch 2's built-in kickstand is pretty reliable, but sometimes it helps to have a little bit of elevation. This ultra-sturdy aluminum Supcase stand is a great solution and came especially in handy when I wanted to better see the action on my coffee table while trying not to get my butt kicked in Street Fighter 6. Its highly articulate design allows for 270 degrees of unique viewing angles, and it'll also work great for your phone, tablet or any other screen you'd like to prop up. Folks looking to give their Switch 2 an extra lift can save 15% at Amazon and Supcase with our exclusive code SUPCNN15. Anker Nano Power Bank The Switch 2's battery life isn't the best — I've gotten around three to four hours on a charge, depending on what I'm playing — so you'll want to keep one of the best portable chargers handy for longer trips. And there are few we love more than the Anker Nano Power Bank, a product so good that I almost never see our tech writer Henry T. Casey without it. Don't let its attractive, highly pocketable design fool you; this 30W brick gave me an extra 20% battery in about 20 minutes, which is perfect for when you're trying to beat just one more Zelda shrine on the road. Read our reviewDbrand Prism 2.0 Screen Protector I've never been a big screen-protector person. I'm always worried about them messing up my display more than any actual foreign objects, and if you install them wrong, you run the risk of an awkwardly misaligned covering filled with those ever-unsightly bubbles. But Dbrand has really figured something out with its Prism 2.0 protector. This two-pack of screen protectors includes what the company calls an "idiot-proof" installation tray, and as somewhat of a klutz myself, I can confirm that it works. You just pop the tray on top of your Switch, peel off the adhesive cover, do a quick finger swipe and use the included squeegee to wipe away any bubbles, and you now have a scratchproof, fingerprint-resistant display that can comfortably survive a trip in your bag. As a nice bonus, you also get a microfiber cloth and a few alcohol wipes for keeping your screen pristine. Belkin Charging Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Have you ever experienced the horror of taking your Switch out at the start of a long trip just to realize it's dead? You'll want to check out the Belkin Charging Case, which packs a 10,000mAh portable charger right into its design so that you can keep your system juiced up in between play sessions on the road. While I wish the case left just a little more breathing room for the charger's USB-C cord, it still worked well in my testing, allowing me to enjoy a freshly charged Switch by the time I walked from a friend's place to the subway. It features storage for up to 12 game cards, a pouch for your cables and even a handy AirTag slot for easily tracking it down, all packed within a slick, understated design that hides the fact that you're carrying around a kids' toy. It's pricey for a carrying case, but you're also getting a fully removable Belkin power bank that you can pop out and use for your phone or tablet and even features an LED battery status indicator. And if you don't need portable charging, the cheaper $30 Travel Case features the same attractive aesthetic within an even slimmer design. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera You don't need the official Switch 2 camera to video chat with your friends — the USB webcam you may already have should work fine — but Nintendo's delivered a pretty good one at a reasonable price. Its built-in base made it easy to set up on both my entertainment center and coffee table, and it captures a decently wide angle that made it easy for friends to see me during multiplayer sessions. The physical privacy shutter is a nice touch too. Just don't expect amazing sharpness from its 480p StreamCam While the Switch 2 Camera is perfectly reliable, I much prefer using my beloved Logitech StreamCam, which captures a sharper 1080p picture and can clip to the top of my TV or console for a more natural viewing angle. If you don't feel like splurging, you can always grab a cheaper webcam like the Logitech C920 and connect it via a USB-A to USB-C adapter. Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller If you already have a Pro Controller from your previous Switch, you can just keep using it on the Switch 2. But if you're new to the fold and want a proper console-style gamepad for playing action games with precision, this latest model has held up very well during my sweaty Mario Kart and Street Fighter Switch 2 Pro Controller feels a bit lighter and snappier than its predecessor, complete with an attractive two-tone design, a dedicated GameChat button, a headphone jack and, most significantly, programmable rear buttons that are especially handy for competitive games. If its steep price is too high for you, I'd recommend looking at alternatives like PowerA's Advantage Wired Controller and Nintendo's Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip that also gets you those bonus rear buttons. Dbrand Killswitch Kit Calling the Killswitch a case would be doing it a disservice. This thing straight up transforms your Switch 2 into a better version of what's already one of the best consoles around. Its impact-resistant shell is rated to provide protection against hardwood and concrete, and its incredibly ergonomic grips are an absolute delight that make the system feel more like a Steam Deck and help stave off those dreaded hand cramps. Better yet, since each portion of the Switch gets its own distinct covering, you can pop the Joy-Cons off without having to take the case off (and enjoy those amazing ergonomics even in TV mode). The one big downside is that the Switch 2 won't fit into Nintendo's dock with the Killswitch applied, but Dbrand throws in a free Dock Adapter that'll work within the case's dimensions. You can also order your Killswitch with some handy optional add-ons, such as stick grips that make the thumbsticks feel way more tactile and a travel cover that lets you safely throw your Killswitch-equipped Switch (say that three times fast) into a bag. Storage and comfort Before buying anything else for your Switch 2, you should be investing in storage and protection. As I mentioned above, the Switch's 256GB of storage will fill up very fast, and you'll want to grab a microSD express card so that you're not constantly deleting games to make room for new ones. Your next priority should be some sort of grip case like the Mumba and Dbrand models we recommend above. This will alleviate a lot of the uncomfortable pressure that the Joy-Con 2 may put on your palms by default and will add some extra protection in the unfortunate event that you drop your console. Travel essentials Unless you plan on never taking your Switch 2 out of the house (and what's the point if not?), you need a good carrying case for the road. We've tested both fabric and hard-shell models, and we found both reliable. As such, you should look for things like how many game cards a case holds (especially if you're big on physical games), as well as how much room there is for things like cables and controllers. Speaking of travel, you should ideally have a portable charger handy when you're playing Switch 2 on the go. The one you're already using for your phone or laptop is likely good enough, but be sure to double-check for any compatibility issues. Of course, you could always grab Belkin's excellent charging case, which packs a 20W power brick right into its design so you can charge while you travel. Choose your controller The Switch 2 includes a pair of Joy-Con 2 as well as a Joy-Con 2 Grip out of the box, which is enough for some quick two-player tabletop sessions and traditional controller play once you use the grip. You can also use your existing Pro Controller and Joy-Con wirelessly (as well as select wired gamepads), meaning original Switch owners won't have to start from scratch for their next big multiplayer game night. There's also a new and improved Switch 2 Pro Controller, as well as a few fresh third-party options available. If you play Switch 2 on your TV at all and game pretty regularly, I highly recommend using a proper full-size controller, whether you're bringing over an older one, picking up the Switch 2 model or going with a reliable third-party alternative. Can you use older Nintendo Switch accessories as Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Can you use older Nintendo Switch accessories as Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? In many cases, yes! Just about any Switch-compatible wireless controller will work with the Switch 2, including your existing Pro Controller and Joy-Cons (just don't try and attach your old Joy-Cons to your new console; it won't work). Switch-friendly wired controllers should also work via a USB connection. Since Switch 2 game cards are the same size as Switch 1 cartridges, any game card holders you have will work just fine as well. Don't expect to use any cases, grips or screen protectors from older Nintendo Switch models with the Switch 2, though, as the new console is significantly bigger and has a larger screen. Also, the regular microSD card you may have used for your old Switch is no good here; the Switch 2 only works with the newer, faster microSD express standard. Are Nintendo's accessories better quality than third-party Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Are Nintendo's accessories better quality than third-party Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Based on our experience, both yes and no. I tend to find Nintendo's Pro Controllers better than similar wireless controllers, and I certainly would never use a dock that isn't made by Nintendo. But items like third-party carrying cases are often just as good as — if not superior to — what Nintendo offers. And while the official Switch 2 Camera works just fine for chatting online, you'll get much better video quality and a wider range of mounting options if you just go with a good computer webcam. Also, if a third-party accessory is officially licensed by Nintendo — as is the case with certain microSD cards and controllers — you can feel pretty safe picking one up for your Switch 2. Where are the best places to buy Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Where are the best places to buy Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Nintendo Switch 2 accessories are pretty widely available online and in-store at most major retailers, including Best Buy, Walmart, Target, GameStop and Nintendo itself. Interestingly, Amazon US no longer seems to sell official Nintendo products (including the console and first-party games and accessories), but the retailer still carries plenty of third-party add-ons, including several we recommend. As a rule of thumb, any store that sells the Switch 2 will likely sell the accessories you want for it. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled 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. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, senior tech editor Mike Andronico tried and tested numerous Switch 2 accessories to find out which are the best buys.
The Irish Sun
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Nintendo Switch 2 is THE fastest-selling console of all time – it's worth upgrading for major new game and Joy-Con trick
NINTENDO Switch 2 - it's the game console everyone is talking about. People queued overnight to get hold of the latest gadget and it's now sold out in many stores. Advertisement 5 Mario Kart just got even better Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun 5 New Joy-Con detachment mechanism is a massive improvement Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun 5 Playing with friends using GroupChat on camera adds to the fun Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun Nintendo has revealed that more than 3.5million units have been sold worldwide in the first four days since launch. This makes it the company's fastest selling debut ever - but As The Sun's Assistant Technology and Science Editor I had the privilege to Read more about Nintendo I received a Switch 2 to review just before general release and have been playing away at it ever since. Advertisement And I can wholeheartedly say it is well worth upgrading for. While there is a lot of familiar elements, the Switch 2 feels like a natural, big, fitting, fresh-faced sibling to the first Switch. There is nothing radically different about the new console - and rightly so, the Switch is a great piece of kit that deserves evolution over revolution. Most read in Gaming Here's how I found my first week with the Switch 2. Advertisement Setting up Getting started with the Switch 2 is pretty easy even if you already own a Switch. In fact, you can transfer any games and the save data from your first Switch to the new one, so long as they're both connected to Wi-Fi and they're close by. The user interface looks practically the same, with a few additions like GameChat. Using GameChat The ability to chat with friends in video form seems like a natural way forward for Nintendo in the ever-growing world of online gaming. Advertisement GameChat makes that possible with supported games - and it can be enjoyed for free without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription by everyone until the end of March 2026. Nintendo has its own camera accessory which you can buy separately but "typical third-party cameras should also work," the firm says. I managed to give it a go on the new Mario Kart World game with a group of other journalists eager to try it all out. Everything we know so far about the Nintendo Switch 2 Quality will obviously depend on your broadband connection but in our game of four we took the wild Mario racer title to the next level, with the ability to cheer - or yell - at each other as we competed for that unpredictable finish line. Advertisement It adds a whole new layer of excitement to what is already a pretty thrilling game - and it's amusing to see our heads bobbing around above our cars, as well as giving me a better idea of who I should target with my weapons. There are lots of pretty tight safety controls for GameChat too, many of which can be accessed in the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. 5 No more fiddly sliding on the Joy-Cons Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun Mario Kart World I don't want this to descend into a Mario Kart World review, but this is a key launch title after all. Advertisement Aside from GameChat I'm loving new features like the ability to free roam, playing loads of mini games along the way, it's something Nintendo continues to do so well. Mario Kart World is also an opportunity for me to talk about the graphic and performance improvements too. There is a noticeable huge boost to the visuals here making everything appear super clear. The handheld Switch 2 has a larger 1080p screen which looks gorgeous and you can play in up to 4K resolution when docked to a TV with frame rates up to 120 fps. Advertisement Joy-Con 5 Joy-Cons are miles better - but you can still use your old Switch ones Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun The Joy-Cons are arguably the biggest hardware upgrade. Gone are those fiddly silde-in controllers and now it's all magnetic. They snap into place with ease and come off simply by pressing a button on the back. Advertisement What's more, your old Joy-Cons from the first Switch need not gather dust in a draw. You can connect these too for when you're playing in groups, as I did with Mario Kart World when I had friends over. I'm glad Nintendo is making an effort to keep older kit supported where possible, rather than fleecing people out of money to buy new extra Joy-Cons. You can even use the Joy-Cons as a mouse, with some mini-games to test it on in the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour and I absolutely loved. Advertisement THE DOWNSIDES For all it's glory, there are some downsides to the Switch 2 - though some will be addressed soon. Firstly, the lack of launch title exclusives. As much as I love Mario Kart World, it was the only big new game to come for the Switch 2 - the other, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, doesn't really count as it's a bit of a taster to get used to the console. The next big title to come is Donkey Kong Bananza in July. My other gripe is the cost for games now too, with the Mario Kart World coming in at £66.99 for the digital download alone. And finally, battery. Nintendo says you can expect to get approximately two to 6.5 hours out of the Switch 2, which aligns with my experience testing the console. This is a drop from the Switch OLED with approximately 4.5 to nine hours. Verdict The shortcomings listed above are pretty limited. On the whole, the Switch 2 is a worthy successor of an already great console. Nintendo proves once again that you don't need fancy graphics and huge cinematic games to make a good console. Rating: 4.5/5 Advertisement All prices in this article were correct at the time of writing, but may have since changed. Always do your own research before making any purchase.
Scottish Sun
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Nintendo Switch 2 is THE fastest-selling console of all time – it's worth upgrading for major new game and Joy-Con trick
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) NINTENDO Switch 2 - it's the game console everyone is talking about. People queued overnight to get hold of the latest gadget and it's now sold out in many stores. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Mario Kart just got even better Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun 5 New Joy-Con detachment mechanism is a massive improvement Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun 5 Playing with friends using GroupChat on camera adds to the fun Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun Nintendo has revealed that more than 3.5million units have been sold worldwide in the first four days since launch. This makes it the company's fastest selling debut ever - but experts say it's also the fastest selling console of all time too. As The Sun's Assistant Technology and Science Editor I had the privilege to get a taster of the Switch 2 weeks before general release in a top secret event - but that experience only scratched the surface. I received a Switch 2 to review just before general release and have been playing away at it ever since. And I can wholeheartedly say it is well worth upgrading for. While there is a lot of familiar elements, the Switch 2 feels like a natural, big, fitting, fresh-faced sibling to the first Switch. There is nothing radically different about the new console - and rightly so, the Switch is a great piece of kit that deserves evolution over revolution. Here's how I found my first week with the Switch 2. Setting up Getting started with the Switch 2 is pretty easy even if you already own a Switch. In fact, you can transfer any games and the save data from your first Switch to the new one, so long as they're both connected to Wi-Fi and they're close by. The user interface looks practically the same, with a few additions like GameChat. Using GameChat The ability to chat with friends in video form seems like a natural way forward for Nintendo in the ever-growing world of online gaming. GameChat makes that possible with supported games - and it can be enjoyed for free without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription by everyone until the end of March 2026. Nintendo has its own camera accessory which you can buy separately but "typical third-party cameras should also work," the firm says. I managed to give it a go on the new Mario Kart World game with a group of other journalists eager to try it all out. Everything we know so far about the Nintendo Switch 2 Quality will obviously depend on your broadband connection but in our game of four we took the wild Mario racer title to the next level, with the ability to cheer - or yell - at each other as we competed for that unpredictable finish line. It adds a whole new layer of excitement to what is already a pretty thrilling game - and it's amusing to see our heads bobbing around above our cars, as well as giving me a better idea of who I should target with my weapons. There are lots of pretty tight safety controls for GameChat too, many of which can be accessed in the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. 5 No more fiddly sliding on the Joy-Cons Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun Mario Kart World I don't want this to descend into a Mario Kart World review, but this is a key launch title after all. Aside from GameChat I'm loving new features like the ability to free roam, playing loads of mini games along the way, it's something Nintendo continues to do so well. Mario Kart World is also an opportunity for me to talk about the graphic and performance improvements too. There is a noticeable huge boost to the visuals here making everything appear super clear. The handheld Switch 2 has a larger 1080p screen which looks gorgeous and you can play in up to 4K resolution when docked to a TV with frame rates up to 120 fps. Joy-Con 5 Joy-Cons are miles better - but you can still use your old Switch ones Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun The Joy-Cons are arguably the biggest hardware upgrade. Gone are those fiddly silde-in controllers and now it's all magnetic. They snap into place with ease and come off simply by pressing a button on the back. What's more, your old Joy-Cons from the first Switch need not gather dust in a draw. You can connect these too for when you're playing in groups, as I did with Mario Kart World when I had friends over. I'm glad Nintendo is making an effort to keep older kit supported where possible, rather than fleecing people out of money to buy new extra Joy-Cons. You can even use the Joy-Cons as a mouse, with some mini-games to test it on in the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour and I absolutely loved. THE DOWNSIDES For all it's glory, there are some downsides to the Switch 2 - though some will be addressed soon. Firstly, the lack of launch title exclusives. As much as I love Mario Kart World, it was the only big new game to come for the Switch 2 - the other, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, doesn't really count as it's a bit of a taster to get used to the console. The next big title to come is Donkey Kong Bananza in July. My other gripe is the cost for games now too, with the Mario Kart World coming in at £66.99 for the digital download alone. And finally, battery. Nintendo says you can expect to get approximately two to 6.5 hours out of the Switch 2, which aligns with my experience testing the console. This is a drop from the Switch OLED with approximately 4.5 to nine hours. Verdict The shortcomings listed above are pretty limited. On the whole, the Switch 2 is a worthy successor of an already great console. Nintendo proves once again that you don't need fancy graphics and huge cinematic games to make a good console. Rating: 4.5/5 All prices in this article were correct at the time of writing, but may have since changed. Always do your own research before making any purchase.
Tom's Guide
13-06-2025
- Tom's Guide
The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is cute and functional, but you might not need it yet
The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera ($54) might not be the most essential peripheral for the Nintendo Switch 2. Still, it's certainly useful for those who want to be seen when playing online with friends. It's not mind-blowing, but it works as advertised. Unlike the best webcams that you stick to the top of your TV or monitor, the Switch 2 Camera sits on top of a small circular stand. The camera is small enough to place on your desk or near your TV easily. The all-black color also helps it blend into the environment, especially if your electronics are also dark. The 1080p resolution can help deliver a relatively sharp image, and the wide-angle lens can capture multiple people in the same room. The camera has great face detection, which is useful if you only want your face to show when you're in a GameChat session. Built-in GameChat camera controls allow you to display yourself and your surroundings as you see fit, though. If you already own a compatible webcam, then you might not need the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera. That said, it's a solid little device that pairs nicely with Nintendo's new console. For the asking price, it's at least worth considering. Find out why in my full review. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera Price $54 Resolution 1080p Connectivity USB-C Features Video chat, in-game camera functions Diagonal field of view Wide-angle Privacy shutter Yes Cable length 4.5 feet Dimensions 6.3 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches Weight 0.32 pounds Thanks to its small size, sharp image quality and handy GameChat options, the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a great peripheral for people who frequently play online games. At 6.3 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches and 0.32 pounds, the Switch 2 Camera is one charmingly small peripheral, which certainly fits Nintendo's aesthetic. The actual camera has a half-oval shape, and it sits on top of a thin shaft that's connected to a circular base. You can pivot the camera up and down by a few degrees, but you can't turn it side to side. There's a privacy shutter you can easily enable by twisting the front of the camera, and a USB-C port on the camera's lower back side. There's a small rubber hook on the shaft you can tuck the cable through. The cable is 4.5 feet long from tip to tip, which I think is good enough for most setups. I would have liked a braided cable instead of a plastic one, but this is a small nitpick at best. Then we have the circular stand. It has a rubber base, which does a decent job of keeping the peripheral in place. Aside from a discreet Nintendo Switch 2 logo, the stand is free of embellishments. It's unassuming, but I like that. Since the camera is so small and light, it's as easy to travel with as the Nintendo Switch 2. If you're wondering, the camera works if the console is in handheld or tabletop mode. So if you want to play with friends while you're on the road, all you have to do is connect the camera to the Switch 2's top USB-C port and you're all set. The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera streams and records at 1080p resolution. 4K resolution would've been preferable, but I suspect Nintendo didn't go beyond 1080p since a 4K camera would consume more bandwidth when playing online. Because of that, I think it's a decent trade-off. Image quality is generally good. Details come through clearly enough, and colors are pretty close to real life, if only slightly washed out. I used the Switch 2 Camera in my apartment and at the office, both of which have good lighting conditions. Your results may vary, depending on your lighting situation. The camera doesn't automatically pan, tilt, or zoom. While having to move the camera around to get an optimal angle can be a bit annoying, you can frame yourself better by using the built-in GameChat camera controls, which I'll cover next. Again, this camera doesn't have particularly great image quality. But if you have favorable lighting conditions, you should be clearly visible to those you're in a chat with. GameChat is a new Switch 2 feature that allows you to talk with friends while playing games. It enables voice chat, screen sharing, and even video chat via a compatible USB-C camera like the Switch 2 Camera. You can have up to 12 players in a voice chat session, and up to four can share their screens or participate in video calls. As expected, the Switch 2 Camera works nicely with GameChat. Within GameChat, you're able to choose between showing everything the camera captures or just your head. It does the latter with reasonably accurate face tracking. If there are multiple people in the room with you, it'll track everyone's face, which can be beneficial for local multiplayer sessions. For your background, you can opt to show what's on your game screen. This is especially useful if you're playing a different game than others in the chat. Just keep in mind that the game's frames per second will be sub-30 fps. However, your in-camera frame rate will remain at a relatively consistent 30fps. The features I mentioned above aren't new for PS5 and Xbox Series X players. But even though Nintendo is late to the party when it comes to basic online chat features, I think it's good that said features are here. The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera works as advertised and can be useful if you want to be seen when playing online. However, you might not need to buy it, depending on your circumstances. Being able to show yourself or see others online can help enhance one's gaming experience. Conversely, others might find this off-putting. If you fall into the latter category, then the Switch 2 Camera won't be necessary. You can communicate just fine with the Switch 2's built-in mic or with one of the best gaming headsets that are compatible with Nintendo's console. The next reason you might not need a Switch 2 camera is if you already own a compatible USB-C webcam for handheld mode or a USB-A one for docked mode. My colleague Ryan Epps used a very old webcam we had in the office and it worked perfectly fine with his Switch 2 since he still had access to the aforementioned GameChat webcam features. Not every webcam will be compatible with Switch 2, but there's a good chance your current webcam will play nice. The Switch 2 Camera has some cool features that can make gaming online more fun. Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of games that fully utilize the camera's unique features. Right now, Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV is the only game that takes the most advantage of the Switch 2 Camera. As my colleague Anthony Spadafora, who attended the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal event, told me, you can use your hands, head, or even your whole body to play several mini-games. The camera tracked Anthony and three other players simultaneously, and it also snapped a photo to give everyone their own little photo icon, like in Mario Kart World. While that experience sounds great, it's a shame that the only game that takes advantage of the Switch 2's camera so far is an upgraded version of a game from 2024. Hopefully, Nintendo will soon release more games that are compatible with its camera. The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a cute little peripheral that works as advertised. Though it's not necessary if you don't want to be seen when playing online or if you already own a compatible USB-C camera, it's a quality peripheral that pairs nicely with the Nintendo Switch 2. And though not exactly cheap, its asking price isn't egregious for what it offers. If you're looking for an official webcam for Switch 2, the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is the best option right now.
