Nintendo Switch 2 FAQ: Easy answers to simple questions

The Nintendo Switch 2 is out now and we’ve had plenty of time to go hands-on with a variety of games and solve a variety of problems. In this FAQ we’re going over the simple questions that thousands of players have, such as screenshot resolutions, battery life concerns, third-party peripherals, Switch 1 controller compatibility, and more.

For all of the little things you need to know about Nintendo Switch 2, read through our FAQ below.

What is the battery life of the Switch 2?

Nintendo’s official specs report 2 to 6.5 hours of battery life, which is a wide range, but some gamers online are complaining of less than two hours of play with Mario Kart World in handheld mode.

Can you use a regular mouse on Switch 2? 

Not natively, it is supported in some games but it’s not a drop-in replacement for mousecon.

Can you use a regular webcam on Switch 2? 

You can, you don’t need the official Nintendo camera.

Can you use the Nintendo Switch 2 webcam on PC? 

You can, see above.

Do Switch games run in 1080p when handheld on Switch 2? 

Nope, they run in their original handheld profiles, which cap at 720p. Though there is Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition, which has the same 1080p profile in both handheld and docked modes, which does seem to see some visual benefits from that decision on Switch 2.

Do Switch games run better on Switch 2? 

Overwhelmingly yes. While a solid 60fps isn’t guaranteed without an update, games like Batman: Arkham Knight and Dragon Quest Builders 2 have seen massive performance gains on Switch 2 without a dedicated patch. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is another game that benefits massively.

What is the screenshot and video resolution on Switch 2? 

1080p for Switch 2 games, 720p for Switch 1 games, both docked and handheld. Video frame rate is 30fps no matter what. 

Can you use Switch 1 controllers on Switch 2?

Yes, you can connect Switch 1 controllers and use them in Switch 2 games like Mario Kart World.

Can you use Switch 1 charging adapters on Switch 2 docks?

No. For whatever reason, the new power supply must be used with the new dock exclusively. When in handheld mode, the Switch 2 can be powered from a variety of sources, just like the original console, though it may be more power hungry.