The Nintendo Switch 2’s imminent release in the next few hours is shaping up to be a global event for gamers. Unfortunately, with no early reviews available, eager players will have to discover the console’s capabilities firsthand once it’s in their hands.
With its upgraded hardware and new features such as Joy-Con mouse support and a Discord-like system called GameChat, gaming on this hybrid console has never looked better. Still, with all these systems in place, many are wondering: Can it run the best games smoothly, without performance issues or lag?
How to Improve System Performance on the Nintendo Switch 2
Right now, the most effective way to boost system performance is to keep the console updated to the latest firmware.
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+ 3There’s really no downside to staying current, unless you’re tinkering with the internals. Updating your Switch 2 ensures system-wide optimizations and can enhance the performance of first-party Nintendo titles.
How to Improve Gaming Performance on the Nintendo Switch 2
This will vary from game to game, but generally, selecting Performance Mode over Quality Mode is a game-changer if you prefer smoother gameplay and higher framerates.
click to enlarge+ 3Some games, like Cyberpunk 2077, offer both graphical options. However, it reportedly runs at 40fps in either mode, so your experience may vary.
Meanwhile, Mario Kart World, Nintendo’s latest entry in the franchise, is expected to run in Performance Mode at up to 120fps (even in 4K), a major leap from the previous title, which capped at 60fps.
How to Reduce Lag on the Nintendo Switch 2
Keeping your system updated is important to minimize lag, but using a wired connection is just as crucial.
click to enlarge+ 3Plugging an Ethernet cable directly into the Switch 2 Dock and connecting it to your modem drastically reduces input lag and ping issues in online games. This setup is especially beneficial for competitive fighting titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and the Switch 2 port of Street Fighter 6. That said, your internet speed, service provider, and region will also play a role.
The Nintendo Switch 2 doesn't have a magic fix for all performance or lag issues, but it will do its best to optimize the experience for top-tier games. Nintendo has a strong reputation for impressive technical optimization (see: Monolith Soft’s Xenoblade series), and we can expect the same attention to detail with their upcoming first-party entries. As for third-party titles, it’ll be up to individual studios to ensure their games run smoothly on Nintendo’s latest hybrid console.
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