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The main difference is battery life: Nintendo estimates 2.5–6.5 hours for the original standard Switch (model HAC-001) and 4.5–9 hours for the revised standard Switch (HAC-001(-01)). Those are estimates, not guaranteed runtimes, and Nintendo says play time depends on the software and how the console is used. The revised model is still a standard Switch; this comparison does not refer to the Switch OLED.
Gen 1 vs. Gen 2 Switch at a glance
| What to compare | Original standard Switch (“Gen 1”) | Revised standard Switch (“Gen 2”) |
|---|---|---|
| Nintendo model number | HAC-001 | HAC-001(-01) |
| Serial prefix Nintendo associates with the model | XAW | XKW |
| Nintendo-estimated battery duration | About 2.5–6.5 hours | About 4.5–9 hours |
| Display and storage information in Nintendo’s cited specification | Not compared in the cited source; Nintendo’s specification page describes HAC-001(-01), not both revisions. Nintendo technical specifications | 6.2-inch, 1280×720 LCD; 32 GB internal storage |
| Storage expansion in Nintendo’s cited specification | Not compared in the cited source; see Nintendo technical specifications. | microSDHC and microSDXC cards up to 2 TB |
Nintendo uses model numbers and serial prefixes in its support information; “Gen 1” and “Gen 2” are common shorthand, not the identifiers used on that page. The battery ranges and model identifiers are listed in Nintendo Support’s battery guidance.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy‑Con V2 (Red & Blue Switch) | $214.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Red Joy-Con (Renewed) | $195.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con - Handheld Gaming Console | $339.00 | Buy on Amazon |
How to tell which standard Switch you have
- Check the model number. Look for HAC-001 for the original revision or HAC-001(-01) for the revised one. Use the console’s own label rather than relying on a seller’s title.
- Check the serial prefix if needed. Nintendo associates XAW with HAC-001 and XKW with HAC-001(-01). Take care with region-specific units, and use the model number when it is available.
- Ask for a clear photo when buying used. A listing that only says “Gen 2” is less specific than a photo showing the model number or serial prefix.
Does Gen 2 have better battery life?
Yes, according to Nintendo’s estimates. The revised HAC-001(-01) is rated for about 4.5–9 hours, compared with about 2.5–6.5 hours for HAC-001. The ranges overlap, and neither predicts an exact session length: Nintendo says duration varies by software and use.
Nintendo also cautions that lithium-ion battery life gradually decreases over time. It says that after about 800 charge cycles, a console battery’s duration is about 80% of that of a new console. That is general battery-aging guidance, not a guarantee about any particular used system. A used console’s actual battery condition may therefore matter more than its original model estimate.
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- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
What stays the same—and what the cited specs do not prove
The revised model remains a standard Nintendo Switch that can move between handheld play and docked TV play. Nintendo’s specification for HAC-001(-01) lists TV output up to 1080p through HDMI and built-in display output up to 720p. It also lists a 6.2-inch touchscreen, 32 GB of internal storage, and microSDHC/microSDXC expansion up to 2 TB.
Those specifications describe HAC-001(-01); they do not, by themselves, establish which specifications changed from HAC-001. The cited Nintendo sources do not provide a complete official side-by-side hardware comparison or establish a processor-speed or game-performance difference. Avoid treating “Gen 2” as proof that games run faster.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
Rank #3
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Rank #2
- Nintendo Switch Console (V2) with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con (Renewed).
- Professionally renewed, tested, and inspected to ensure proper functionality and reliable performance.
- Console is cleaned inside and out and verified for gameplay, connectivity, and system performance.
- Supports TV mode, tabletop mode, and handheld mode for flexible gameplay.
- May include accessories required for operation. See condition notes for details.
Which one should you choose?
- If you often play away from a charger: HAC-001(-01) has the longer published battery-life estimate.
- If you are buying used: confirm the model number, then consider the console’s battery condition rather than assuming it still achieves the factory estimate.
- If you are comparing specs: distinguish facts Nintendo publishes for HAC-001(-01) from proven differences between the two revisions. The model number and battery estimates are the clearest supported comparison.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
