For years, the gaming world has been anticipating the arrival of the Nintendo Switch’s successor. The wait is finally over, and with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, we’re getting a clearer picture of what the future of portable gaming looks like. Tom’s Guide’s hands-on experience confirms what many have speculated: the upgrades are significant and impressive, but they come at a cost.

Here’s our take on the new console, based on key insights from the review.

The Big Upgrades: Performance and Display

The most impactful change in the Switch 2 is under the hood. The console is powered by a new custom Nvidia processor that, according to Tom’s Guide, delivers a dramatic leap in performance. This isn’t just a minor refresh—it’s a true generational leap that allows the console to handle modern, visually demanding games that were previously impossible on the original Switch. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy are now playable, making the Switch 2 a formidable device for both Nintendo exclusives and major third-party titles.

The display is also a huge selling point. It’s a new, 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. While some may have hoped for an OLED, the new screen is a vast improvement over the original’s 720p display. The increased size and resolution make games look sharper and more vibrant in handheld mode, while the higher refresh rate provides a buttery-smooth experience in supported titles.

A Familiar Design, But with Key Improvements

Nintendo hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the design, but they have perfected it. The Switch 2 feels like a more premium version of the original. The new Joy-Con 2 controllers are a major highlight, now attaching to the console with a satisfying and secure magnetic snap, eliminating the wobble of the original. The larger size of the console and redesigned controllers also provide a more ergonomic grip, making for a more comfortable handheld experience, especially during long gaming sessions.

The familiar hybrid form factor remains the heart of the system, but the new dock supports 4K resolution when connected to a TV, thanks to the more powerful processor.

The Price: The “Not Cheap” Elephant in the Room

As the title of the Tom’s Guide article suggests, the Nintendo Switch 2 is “not cheap.” With a launch price of around $449, it’s a significant jump from the original Switch and places it in the same price bracket as the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. This positions the Switch 2 as a more substantial investment, and for many, it may no longer be a secondary console.

This price hike reflects the powerful new hardware, increased internal storage (now 256GB), and premium build quality, but it will undoubtedly be a point of debate for many potential buyers.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is a powerhouse of a portable console. It delivers on the promise of a true next-generation hybrid gaming experience with its massive performance and display upgrades. The improved Joy-Cons and ergonomic design make it a joy to use.

For gamers who have been waiting for a more powerful Switch, and for those who see the value in a device that can play both blockbuster titles and beloved Nintendo exclusives on the go, the Switch 2 is a must-buy. However, for current Switch owners who are happy with their library and don’t need the latest and greatest, the high price point may make it a purchase to save up for down the line.