Which Nintendo Switch Accessories Will Work With the Nintendo Switch 2?

Nintendo recently announced details regarding the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console, setting its launch for June 5. As the release date approaches, gamers are considering essential accessories and their compatibility. While a number of original Nintendo Switch accessories will function with the new system, certain key peripherals will not be compatible.

Controllers and Compatibility

Joy-Con Controller Compatibility

The Switch 2 will include a new set of updated Joy-Con controllers. However, original Joy-Con controllers can still be utilized wirelessly with the new console. Although they will not physically attach to the Switch 2 due to the updated, larger, magnetic attachment system of the new Joy-Cons, users can pair original Joy-Cons wirelessly. This ensures continued multiplayer gaming with existing peripherals, negating the immediate need for additional purchases.

Pro Controller Support

Nintendo’s acclaimed Pro Controller has also been enhanced for the Switch 2, but similar to the Joy-Cons, the original Pro Controller remains compatible with the new console. It will connect wirelessly and can be recharged via a USB cable from the Switch 2 dock. The updated Pro controller will feature improvements such as enlarged buttons and triggers, ergonomics inspired by the GameCube controller, and customizable back paddles. However, with a price tag of $80, users who find the original Pro Controller sufficient will not be required to upgrade.

Legacy Nintendo Controller Support

Nintendo has also confirmed that wireless versions of NES, SNES, N64, and Sega Genesis controllers will operate wirelessly with the Switch 2. However, compatibility will vary by game. While specific titles remain unclear, it is expected that games supporting these controllers on the original Switch, and also compatible with Switch 2, will function correctly. Further updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.

Third-Party Controller Compatibility: Unconfirmed

The compatibility of third-party controllers remains uncertain. Confirmation from Nintendo or third-party manufacturers is pending. It is speculated that officially licensed third-party controllers will likely function with the Switch 2, given the original Pro Controller’s compatibility. However, official confirmation is still awaited. A representative from one vendor indicated ongoing discussions with Nintendo regarding compatibility, but details are currently confidential.

MicroSD Card Compatibility and Storage

A significant upgrade for the Switch 2 is an eightfold increase in internal storage, expanding from 32GB to 256GB. This enhancement reduces the immediate necessity for microSD cards. However, not all microSD cards compatible with the original Switch will function with the Switch 2.

Nintendo has specified that only microSD Express cards will be compatible with the Switch 2 for game storage and loading. While standard microSD cards can still be used to view screenshots and videos, they cannot be used for saving game data or playing games. MicroSD Express cards are identifiable by an “EX” marking.

Bluetooth Headphone Compatibility

The initial Nintendo Switch notably lacked Bluetooth capabilities, requiring wired headphones or adapters. Nintendo addressed this in later Switch iterations, and this functionality is retained for the Switch 2. Consequently, most Bluetooth headphones are expected to be compatible with the Switch 2.

Dock Compatibility and Upgrades

The Switch 2 dock has been significantly redesigned. It features a larger form factor with rounded edges and now supports 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, a substantial improvement for modern displays. Despite these advancements, users with multiple Switch consoles and televisions may reconsider purchasing additional Switch 2 docks for multiple locations within a home.

Notably, the original Switch dock is incompatible with the Switch 2, and conversely, it is anticipated that the original Switch will not function with the Switch 2 dock.

Third-Party Dock Uncertainty

As numerous third-party docks are compatible with the first-generation Switch, similar functionality is expected with the Switch 2, provided they deliver adequate power. Nevertheless, without official confirmation, definitive compatibility cannot be guaranteed.

Chargers, Cables, and Adapters: Compatibility Details

Charger Compatibility

The original Switch was known to be particular about non-Nintendo chargers, especially when docked. This trend appears to continue with the Switch 2. Due to a different power input, the original Switch charger is not fully compatible with the Switch 2 for TV mode. While direct charging of the Switch 2 console is possible with the original charger, TV mode functionality will be limited.

Information regarding third-party chargers for the Switch 2 remains unavailable. While several third-party chargers functioned with the original Switch, the power requirements of the Switch 2 are currently undisclosed, precluding definitive statements about charger compatibility. More details are expected closer to launch, but currently, only the included Switch 2 charger is confirmed to support TV mode.

Cable Compatibility

The Switch 2 likely supports HDMI 2.1, rendering the HDMI cable included with the original Switch incompatible. Although Nintendo has acknowledged this, specific details regarding third-party HDMI cable compatibility are pending. The Switch 2 will include an HDMI cable.

Adapter Compatibility

Nintendo has verified that the GameCube Controller adapter is the only adapter confirmed to work with the Switch 2. This adapter enables connection of wired GameCube controllers to the Switch dock and is confirmed to function in TV mode with the Switch 2 dock. Information on other adapter compatibility is not yet available.

While Nintendo has released substantial information about the Switch 2, including pricing, key upgrades, and the launch date, several details remain undisclosed. This overview will be updated with further information regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 as it emerges.