The first Nintendo Switch debuted in 2017, innovating the gaming landscape by merging the traditional bulky consoles with portable systems. The recent Switch 2, launched eight years later in 2025, brings significant enhancements, particularly in performance, with Nvidia asserting a tenfold increase in graphics power, likely aided by AI-driven upscaling through DLSS technology.
In our evaluation, we found that playing resource-heavy games like “Split Fiction” on the Switch 2 was an enjoyable experience. However, the beloved “Mario Kart World” remains the go-to for casual couch gaming. Regardless of your gaming preferences, the Switch 2 possesses robust hardware capable of supporting graphically demanding titles such as “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Assassin’s Creed Shadows.”
Generally, the Nintendo Switch 2 is crafted to handle games smoothly from the outset. Yet, as a handheld device, you may notice performance dips when running on battery compared to when it’s plugged in. If you encounter performance-related issues, it may be beneficial to adjust a few specific settings that influence frame rates and connectivity.
Switch to 120 Hz for enhanced gameplay smoothness
Traditionally, consoles have maxed out at 60fps, with numerous PS4 titles like “Grand Theft Auto V” limited to 30fps even at 1080p. For those who primarily game on consoles, 60fps can be quite engaging; however, increasing the frame rate can genuinely enhance the game’s responsiveness. New generation consoles, such as the PS5, can achieve 120fps in compatible titles, and the Nintendo Switch 2 can do the same.
A standout feature of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its capability to deliver games at either 4K resolution or 120fps, marking a substantial upgrade from the original model. However, users must choose between 4K at 60fps or 1440p/1080p at 120fps. For visually rich games, 4K is beneficial, but for faster-paced titles, the advantage of a higher frame rate can be tremendous.
The availability of 120fps games for Switch 2 is somewhat limited, and having a television or monitor capable of 120 Hz output is necessary. To enable this feature, go to the Home menu on your Switch 2 and select System Settings > Display. Scroll down to set “TV Resolution” to “Automatic” and enable the “120 Hz Output” toggle along with the “Auto Low-Latency Mode.”
Connect to a 5 GHz Wi-Fi network for enhanced connectivity
The primary distinction between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi lies in speed, with the latter able to deliver speeds up to 10 times faster. Provided your internet plan and router are capable, contemporary devices, including smartphones and computers, thrive on 5 GHz connectivity, and the Nintendo Switch 2 is no exception.
While lower or unstable Wi-Fi speeds might not directly impact frame rates, they can hinder overall gameplay quality. Players may face slower download speeds leading to issues in online multiplayer experiences, such as lagging, latency in control responses, or even connection drops.
Slow network performance in gaming often relates to inconsistent connections rather than just speed. Your router’s 2.4 GHz band could be congested with other devices. If your setup separates the two frequency bands into distinct SSIDs, ensure your Nintendo Switch 2 is connected to the faster band. Newer routers with band steering will usually connect devices to the optimal band automatically; however, it’s wise to confirm which band your console is utilizing by heading to System Settings > Internet > Internet Settings.
Enhance performance by managing storage and thermals
A key advantage of opting for a console rather than a gaming PC is the minimized need to adjust numerous settings for peak performance. The Nintendo Switch 2 is already optimized for a balanced experience, although regular maintenance is still vital to ensure it operates as efficiently as it did upon unboxing.
The Switch 2 is equipped with 256 GB of internal storage, with part of that space utilized for system processes. While storage extension via microSD Express cards is available, standard microSD cards won’t work. To maximize performance and load times, it’s advisable to save frequently played games on the internal storage, leaving less-played games on the microSD Express card.
This console employs active cooling; therefore, users should avoid obstructing any vents during use to prevent overheating, which can lead to thermal throttling. Regularly cleaning your Nintendo Switch is also significant for maintaining proper temperature levels. To speed up game load times, consider disabling the profile selection screen. Navigate to System Settings > User and toggle the “Skip Selection Screen” option.
