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Nintendo did confirm a successor to the Switch on May 7, 2024, but it did not say the console would launch by the end of that year. The company promised to announce the successor within its fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. The system later became Nintendo Switch 2 and launched on June 5, 2025. The old headline’s “launch will take some time” framing was a reasonable reaction to the 2024 announcement, but it is no longer a current forecast.
What Nintendo actually confirmed in May 2024
On May 7, 2024, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa said the company would announce a successor to Nintendo Switch during fiscal year 2024. Nintendo’s fiscal year ran from April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025, so the statement set a deadline for an announcement—not a retail launch. The original report reproduced Nintendo’s announcement.
Nintendo also said it would hold a separate Direct presentation about software planned for the latter half of 2024. The successor announcement was notable because the original Switch had been announced in March 2015.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The May statement did not reveal the successor’s final name, hardware, price, launch date, compatibility, or launch games. At that point, readers could reasonably conclude that a reveal was due by March 31, 2025; they could not conclude that the console itself would be on sale by then.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
How the timeline unfolded
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| March 2015 | Nintendo announced the original Switch. |
| May 7, 2024 | Nintendo confirmed that it would announce a Switch successor within fiscal year 2024. |
| January 2025 | Nintendo formally presented Nintendo Switch 2. |
| April 2025 | A dedicated Switch 2 Direct provided broader hardware, software, and pricing information. |
| June 5, 2025 | Nintendo Switch 2 launched. Nintendo’s Mario Kart World launch information gives that release date. |
The important correction is the distinction between reveal and release: Nintendo met its announcement window, while the console reached buyers later, on June 5, 2025.
Rumors in the 2024 coverage were not specifications
The original article discussed inconsistent reports of roughly four teraflops in docked mode and compared them with roughly one teraflop for the original Switch. Those figures were rumors, not specifications Nintendo confirmed in May 2024. They should not be read as official measurements or as evidence of a particular real-world performance level.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What Switch 2 offers in software
Switch 2 software falls into several categories: games made for Switch 2, original Switch games that work through compatibility, and enhanced editions or upgrade paths for selected older games. Those categories matter because an upgrade is not necessarily free, and compatibility is not universal.
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- Mario Kart World is a Switch 2 exclusive and was available at the system’s June 5, 2025 launch. See Nintendo’s launch information.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition also released June 5, 2025. Nintendo lists details and file sizes on the Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom pages.
- Some compatible Switch games receive free updates; other titles have paid Switch 2 Edition upgrades. Check the specific game’s listing rather than assuming an upgrade is included.
Physical packaging also does not always mean the complete game is stored on the card. A Switch 2 game-key card can require a download, so check the product description, file size, and available storage before buying. Nintendo explains the distinctions between Switch 2 game formats and hardware in its hardware and software guide.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which Switch games and accessories carry over?
Switch 2 plays many physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, but not every title works perfectly. Nintendo maintains compatibility information and updates its lists of games with startup or in-game issues. Check the current compatibility guide and the specific question about playing Switch games on Switch 2 before relying on a particular game. Its issue lists include games with startup issues, playable games with known issues, and issues Nintendo planned to address.
| Original Switch item | What to expect on Switch 2 |
|---|---|
| Physical and digital games | Many work, but compatibility varies by title; check Nintendo’s compatibility guidance. |
| Original Joy-Con controllers | Can pair wirelessly, but cannot attach directly to Switch 2. |
| Original Switch Pro Controller | Can be used wirelessly and charged through the Switch 2 dock. |
| Original Switch dock | Not compatible with Switch 2. |
| Original Switch AC adapter | Can charge Switch 2 directly, but cannot power it in TV mode through the Switch 2 dock. |
| Conventional microSD card | Can be used under Nintendo’s stated limitations to view existing screenshots and videos, but not to install Switch 2 games. |
Switch 2 uses microSD Express cards for expanded Switch 2 game storage. Ordinary microSD cards are not a substitute for installing those games. Storage needs vary by title, and Nintendo’s listed file sizes show that the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom take more space than their original Switch versions.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
New features and online requirements
Switch 2’s Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically rather than using the original Switch’s rail system. The system also adds features including GameChat, GameShare, and virtual game cards, alongside access to Nintendo Switch Online services. Nintendo’s hardware and accessory guide describes differences between the systems.
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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →GameChat requires a Switch 2 system and an internet connection. Its introductory access period ended March 31, 2026; afterward, Nintendo Switch Online membership is required. Video chat also requires a compatible USB camera sold separately. See Nintendo’s GameChat FAQ for the current conditions.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Prices, imports, and what to check before buying
There is no single price that applies to every Switch 2 game or buyer. Price depends on region, physical or digital format, publisher, retailer, and whether a purchase is a full game or an upgrade. Beginning in May 2026, certain new Nintendo-published digital games exclusive to Switch 2 can have a different MSRP from their physical versions; retailers set their own physical prices. Nintendo explains the policy on its game-pricing support page.
Nintendo says Switch 2 game cards are not region-locked, but that does not make every part of an import interchangeable. DLC, eShop cards, warranty coverage, voltage, and support can differ by region. For US buyers, purchasing the console and related digital content from the intended sales region avoids many of those complications. Consult Nintendo’s regional compatibility FAQ.
- Check whether the games you already own are listed as compatible and whether they have known issues.
- Compare the cost of any paid upgrades and new games you want with the value of the Switch 2 features you will actually use.
- Inventory accessories before budgeting: some controllers can be reused, but the original dock cannot substitute for a Switch 2 dock.
- Digital buyers and owners of game-key cards should check each game’s download requirement and file size, then plan for microSD Express expansion if needed.
- Compare the current physical and digital listing in your region instead of relying on a launch-era price or a price quoted for another format.
Is Switch 2 worth upgrading to?
It is a stronger fit if you want Switch 2-only games
If a Switch 2 exclusive such as Mario Kart World is a priority, or you want the enhanced version of a game you already own, the new system is the route to those releases. The case is strongest when those specific games and new features matter enough to justify the console and any additional storage or upgrade costs.
Keeping an original Switch can make sense
If most of your playtime is in compatible original Switch games and you do not need Switch 2 exclusives, there is no requirement to replace a working system. That option is especially sensible if you have accessories that will not carry over in the same way or want to avoid spending on a second system before your preferred games require it.
Families and digital-first players should plan for the extras
Families should account for controllers, storage, online membership needs, and whether video chat requires a separately purchased camera. Digital-first players should pay particular attention to download sizes and game-key cards, since both can make storage and internet access part of the purchase decision.
Quick Recap
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.
