How to Optimize Graphics Settings on Nintendo Switch 2 for the Best Performance

Nintendo Switch 2
Credit: Nintendo

The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here, and folks have started tinkering with what Nintendo’s latest hybrid console has to offer, from the fantastic new Mario Kart World and testing out the new GameChat system, to trying out the quirky Joy-Con mouse support.

Now that the Nintendo Switch 2 is in everyone’s hands, the big question is: how do you optimize graphics for the best possible gaming experience?

How to Optimize Graphics Settings on the Nintendo Switch 2

The most straightforward way to optimize graphics settings on your Nintendo Switch 2 is by adjusting them through the in-game options menu. However, this will vary by title.

MK World Screenshot
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Credit: Nintendo
Daisy in Mario Kart World

For example, CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 offers two settings, Performance and Quality. Both run at 40fps, but Quality Mode provides the sharper textures and better rendering, giving a noticeably improved visual experience over Performance Mode.

In contrast, Mario Kart World, Nintendo’s latest entry in the franchise, runs at a default performance mode and can reach up to 120fps on supported 4K TVs, no tweaking required.

If your TV supports HDR (and most modern TVs do), enabling it through the Switch 2 settings menu can instantly enhance color vibrancy and lighting realism without much fuss.

Nintendo Switch 2 display settings
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Credit: Nintendo
Enable HDR Mode

Upgrade a Nintendo Switch 1 Game to Switch 2 for Better Visual Fidelity

Another great way to boost a game’s visual quality is to upgrade it to its Nintendo Switch 2 version.

Nintendo Switch 2 Tears of the Kingdom Screenshot
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Credit: Nintendo
Tears of the Kingdom will look even better on Switch 2

If you already own the original Nintendo Switch version, many titles allow you to upgrade for just $10; a small price for a big leap in performance and graphics. Both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom run exceptionally well in their upgraded forms.

Some developers go a step further by offering free performance upgrades. Fortnite and No Man’s Sky, for instance, both allow users to upgrade to the Switch 2 versions at no extra cost.

Can Docked Mode Improve Graphics on Nintendo Switch 2?

Absolutely. Docked Mode is one of the easiest ways to maximize visual fidelity.

MK World Screenshot
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Credit: Nintendo
Mario Kart World Screenshot

Not only does it allow you to play on a larger screen, but if your TV supports 4K, the difference can be significant. Even if you're not getting native 4K resolution, many titles upscale beautifully.

It’s especially worth docking your Switch 2 when playing action-heavy or open-world games like Hogwarts Legacy or the upcoming Elden Ring. Bigger screens make a big difference when exploring vast, detailed environments.

Keep Your Nintendo Switch 2 Updated

Finally, don’t forget to update your Switch 2 to the latest firmware.

Nintendo Switch 2 Cyberpunk 2077 Screenshot
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Credit: CD Projekt Red
Dogtown in Cyberpunk 2077

Not only do these updates often include vital bug fixes and new features, but they can also improve overall system performance and optimization. If a new update is available, you’ll usually see a big notification when you boot up your console, hard to miss, and definitely worth installing.

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