Alleged Nintendo Switch 2 Images Leak Online, Shows Hardware Design

Leaks of supposed images of the Nintendo Switch 2 have popped up online and appear to show the upgraded console's hardware design.

The unconfirmed photos are renders that were confirmed with a source for the VideoGamesChronicle. The first thing that comes to mind when looking at the images is that it looks quite similar to the base Nintendo Switch.

Nintendo Switch 2 Images

The images show no outstanding and major differences between the two Nintendo consoles. What is more surprising is that there is such little change despite Nintendo's hardware history throughout the years.

Rumor: leaked photos of Nintendo Switch 2 design https://t.co/YLeJgmvywH

"While the images are unverified, one source, who has not seen the final ‘ Switch 2’ console but has been briefed on Nintendo’s plans, told VGC that the Reddit images match what the company has told… pic.twitter.com/0zqvUM4SnR
— Wario64 (@Wario64) September 18, 2024

Considering the company's various consoles and devices, there have been many major changes, particularly in design. But the leaked images show barely any differences between the Nintendo Switch and its supposed successor, according to Forbes.

However, this could be understandable given just how successful the original Nintendo Switch has been for the company. The device has sold more than 143 million units, which is just behind the PlayStation 2 and the Nintendo DS.

Nintendo doesn't really need to make any drastic changes or some unique gimmick to get players to buy the Switch 2. The main thing that people are looking for with the new device is more power over the current handheld console.

Based on the leak, the Nintendo Switch 2 will sport 12GB of RAM, which is an upgrade to the original unit's 4GB. It will also support HDMI 2.1 and 256GB of internal storage. The latter is an increase from its predecessor's 32GB, the VideoGamesChronicle said.

While similar to the original Nintendo Switch, the leaked images show some minor differences in design. These include revised SL/SR buttons and front-facing player LEDs. The leak also coincides with previous reports about the Switch 2's design.

Upgrade From the Base Unit

Previous reports noted that the Nintendo Switch successor would have an eight-inch screen. Furthermore, a Nintendo patent suggested that the Switch 2 will have a new magnetic attachment for its controllers.

Two sources for the VideoGamesChronicle also talked about the new unit last year. They said it would launch with an LCD screen instead of an OLED version. This was supposedly a decision to bring the console's cost down.

Hours after the leaks first surfaced, people started to debate whether or not the images came from a 3D modeling enthusiast. They argue that they may have had access to a mock-up of the console from an accessory manufacturer, according to CNET.