Is the Nintendo Switch 2 worth the upgrade? I tested one to find out.

It's 2026, and it's looking like an exciting time to be a Nintendo Switch gamer. With new games in the Pokémon series, Professor Layton and The New World of Steam and Resident Evil Requiem, I'm pretty stoked.

Gaming is one of the best hobbies, and I've shared my best tips on how to save on video games to make it even better. Now, since the much-anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 in June last year, I've been wondering whether it was time for an upgrade.

As a huge fan of the original Switch, I bit the bullet and bought the Nintendo Switch 2. I've played it for almost 5 months now, so here are my thoughts. I'll be diving into the current line-up of games, hardware prices, and more to help you make your own decision.

What is the difference between the Switch and Switch 2?

The biggest difference between the two is that the Switch 2 is a vastly more powerful system, which is able to run games at 4K resolution and up to 120fps.

While most games are available on both Switch 1 and 2, they will run better on the Switch 2. With the upgrade, you'll experience a better framerate, quicker loading screens and more gameplay features (if they're labelled as a 'Switch 2 Edition' like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom).

How much does the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?

Right now, the Nintendo Switch 2 costs £395.99. Alternatively, you can purchase the Switch 2 bundled with Mario Kart World for £429.99.

It's worth noting that if you planned on purchasing Mario Kart World, you'll be saving yourself at least £40 if you opt for the bundle instead of purchasing it separately.

Nintendo Switch screen

The Nintendo Switch 2 is 7.9 inches, while the original Switch is 6.2 inches, so you'll be getting a big upgrade.

In terms of quality, both screens are LCD, but the Switch 2's screen supports up to 120fps and HDR, providing smoother gameplay and deeper colours.

Can you play any Nintendo games on the Switch 2?

Yes, you can expect to be able to play most games on the Switch 2. On top of that, the Switch 2 has around 6 exclusive games that you can't play anywhere else.

Here are some of the best:

• Mario Kart World
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
• Kirby Air Rides
• Mario Tennis Fever
• Cyberpunk 2077

For those who own a PlayStation 5 or an Xbox, you might be wondering whether it's time to make the switch. But if the games mentioned previously don't do it for you, then maybe it's better to try the original Switch instead.

A lot of games are still coming to the first Switch, and if you own other consoles, there's a chance you've already played (and loved) the games available.

In terms of upcoming games for the Switch 2, right now we don't know too much, but we expect to be hearing news from future Nintendo Direct Showcases around the summer time.

Nintendo Switch 1 vs 2

Nintendo Switch 2: would I recommend it?

For those who currently own the original Switch and are looking for an upgrade, yes, I would recommend the Nintendo Switch 2. It does pretty much everything that the original Switch does, except better. The screen is bigger, it feels better to hold, and it even looks and feels like a more impressive piece of tech.

However, if you already own one of the newer consoles like the Xbox Series X or the PlayStation 5, I'd stick with the original Switch for now. You'll still get a few of the much-anticipated games, as Nintendo is releasing them on both consoles.

Are there any Switch 2 alternatives?

Yes, I previously created an extensive guide to all of the Switch 2 alternatives if you're interested in finding out which of the best Switch 2 alternatives suits you.

If you value handheld gaming, the cheapest option would be Valve's Steam Deck, which will set you back by £349.

If you're just looking for a new console, the PlayStation 5 currently costs £479.99, the Xbox Series X costs £499.99, and the Xbox Series S costs £299.99. In fact, the Xbox Series S is cheaper and slightly more powerful than the Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 verdict: Should you buy one in 2026?

Reasons to buy: If you've got the cash and have only had an original Switch for the last few years, I would recommend picking one up. You'll be able to catch up on a few third-party games that couldn't run on the original Switch.

Reasons to hold off: Right now, it's not offering that much in terms of exclusive games. While games like Donkey Kong Bananza are fantastic, they're not worth shelling out £400.

If you're solely looking for a portable gaming console to take with you when you're on the go, I would look at the Steam Deck. You'll have access to a much larger library of games and a more powerful piece of tech.

When is the best time to buy a Nintendo Switch 2?

I would hold off until Summer or around November of this year. Nintendo usually puts out games either during the Summer (last year we saw Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza in the Summer), and all other big triple-A games tend to release around October/November, so hopefully some of those come to Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 discount code

Here at MyVoucherCodes, we have an entire page dedicated to only the best gaming discount codes. These are updated regularly to ensure that you’re getting the best possible deals.

If you decided to go ahead and purchase the Nintendo Switch 2, be sure to use our verified discount code below to help you save.