What does a Nvidia chip mean for Nintendo Switch 2?
Like the original Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be powered by a custom Nvidia chip. The original Switch had a Tegra X1 System-on-a-Chip (SoC) with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 CPU and a 256-core GM20B Maxwell GPU.
Nintendo itself hasn’t provided details of the new chip, but Nvidia says the new Switch is getting a custom Nvidia processor also featuring a custom Nvidia GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores, which could mean a big upgrade in visuals and AI-driven enhancements.
Visual Upgrades
The new RT Cores bring real-time ray tracing, a technique that simulates how light interacts with objects that is already present on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. This means Switch 2 games could have more realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows, which potentially means more immersive worlds.
Nvidia’s Tensor Cores will power AI-driven features like Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), boosting resolution for sharper details without sacrificing image quality or sending power consumption too wild. They also enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat use cases, enhancing social gaming and streaming.
Performance Upgrades
Nvidia describes the overall result as 10x the graphics performance of the original Nintendo Switch, while a variable refresh rate via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode should ensure ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.
The upgrades also mean that developers can use the latest features in game engines and better physics and optimized APIs for faster, more efficient game creation (see our pick of the best game development software).
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch 2’s custom Nvidia chip brings a significant upgrade in visuals and AI-driven enhancements, making it a powerful gaming console. With its ability to support 4K gaming in TV mode, 120 frames per second at 1080p in handheld mode, HDR, and ray tracing, the Switch 2 is poised to deliver an immersive gaming experience.
FAQs
Q: When can I preorder the Nintendo Switch 2?
A: Preorders will open on 9 April 2025 in most countries, but US preorders will start later as Nintendo assesses the tariff situation.
Q: What is the release date of the Nintendo Switch 2?
A: The release date of the Nintendo Switch 2 is 5 June 2025.
Q: Will the Nintendo Switch 2 support 4K gaming?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2 will support 4K gaming in TV mode.
Q: What is the difference between the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2?
A: The Nintendo Switch 2 has a larger screen, improved display, and a custom Nvidia chip with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores, making it a more powerful gaming console.
Q: Will the Nintendo Switch 2 support ray tracing?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2 will support real-time ray tracing, enabling more realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows in games.
Q: Can I use the Nintendo Switch 2 for social gaming and streaming?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2 will support AI-powered face tracking and background removal in video chat use cases, enhancing social gaming and streaming.
