[Expired]Switch 2 Gaming Test | Experience Butter-Smooth Zelda Gameplay

After getting our hands on the Switch 2 at launch, we couldn't wait to unbox it and share our review:

Nintendo Switch 2 Review

Worh the Hype?

Nintendo

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Then, after eagerly playing "Breath of the Wild" and "Tears of the Kingdom" (NS2 upgraded versions) on the Switch 2, we wanted to share some thoughts about its gaming performance, along with comparison tests between the NS2, NS, and Steam Deck. Let's take a look!

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From top to bottom: Steam Deck | Switch | Switch 2

• Loading Speed: Incredibly Fast

Game loading times are significantly reduced compared to the original Switch. Below is a comparison of both the NS and NS2 opening "Tears of the Kingdom":

We also tested the loading speed comparison between NS2 and Steam Deck when opening "Divinity: Original Sin 2":

Loading screens barely have time to finish their animations, and the waiting time for map transitions and entering dungeons is dramatically reduced.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

This greatly enhances game pacing and immersion, especially benefiting players who prefer fast-paced gameplay.

• Visual Performance: Noticeable Upgrade, More Detailed

The Switch 2's screen supports higher resolution and HDR display, with particularly significant improvements in lighting effects for open-world games like "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom."

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

HDR support makes dark details more visible, enhancing the tense atmosphere during exploration. Overall colors are more vibrant, images clearer, and visual immersion dramatically improved.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

• Performance Experience: Smoother Gameplay and Faster Response

In real-world testing, the Switch 2 maintains stable frame rates with almost no stuttering or dropped frames, especially impressive in complex game scenes with rich particle effects.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

Actions in "Tears of the Kingdom" that occasionally stuttered before now feel incredibly smooth, with reduced input lag for a more responsive player experience.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

The game world loads faster, whether diving from the sky into the map or transitioning between scenes - you'll barely notice any waiting time.

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Death loading in Tears of the Kingdom takes only 3 seconds

• Battery Life and Heat Management: Balanced Performance

After more than two hours of continuous gaming, the NS2 body temperature remains well-controlled with no obvious overheating issues.

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After two hours playing Trombone Champ, the back shows no significant heating

Battery life is slightly improved over the original Switch but not quite as good as the enhanced battery model. For playing demanding games, it's still recommended to have a charging solution ready.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

The overall feel remains lightweight with excellent portability.

• Special Features: Mobile App Integration for Added Convenience

The Switch 2 version of "Tears of the Kingdom" supports syncing in-game audio logs to a mobile app, allowing you to listen while playing for a more immersive experience.

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• Switch VS Switch 2

NS2 features a larger 7.9-inch 1080p screen, more comfortable Joy-Con 2 controllers (with magnetic connection and larger shoulder buttons), a sturdier adjustable stand, and adds a USB-C port for convenient play while charging.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

Performance-wise, Switch 2 supports smoother 4K visuals, brings new titles like Mario Kart and more third-party AAA games, while optimizing the experience for older games. While the changes aren't revolutionary, they represent a solid upgrade for Switch players.

• Steam Deck VS Switch 2

While the Steam Deck offers slightly stronger performance, it's heavier, has loud fan noise, and generates more heat, making it less portable. The Switch 2 maintains its lightweight design perfect for commuting or playing while lounging.

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SD is overall larger than NS2, but has a smaller screen...

Switch 2 games like "Tears of the Kingdom" and "Mario Kart World" are specially optimized for the hardware—from controls and UI to performance tuning, they feel perfectly matched, unlike the "forced compatibility" feel sometimes experienced on Steam Deck.

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"Forced compatibility" with Genshin Impact VS native Zelda

The Switch 2 system maintains the "turn on and play" simplicity in its design, without complex background processes, update anxiety, or driver issues. Compared to the Steam Deck's mini-PC structure, the Switch is better suited for those who just want to "lay back and play for a while."

• Switch 2 Elevates Gaming Experience, a True Next-Gen Handheld

Overall, the improvements in visuals, performance, and experience that the Switch 2 brings aren't just about better specs—they genuinely enhance player immersion and gaming enjoyment.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

Especially for players who already love titles like "Tears of the Kingdom" and "Breath of the Wild," the Switch 2 versions breathe new life into these classics, making it a worthwhile investment.

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Image courtesy of @Gaming Expert, copyright belongs to the original creator

While exclusive games are currently limited, the hardware improvements deliver enough of a real-world difference to keep you engaged until new releases arrive.