In the past week, we’ve been treated to quite a few credible leaks showcasing what seems to be the final design of the Nintendo Switch 2. The leaks reached a new peak when Dbrand unexpectedly released a complete 3D render of the Nintendo Switch 2. Interestingly, they also adapted their Dbrand Killswitch carrying case, initially crafted for handheld PCs, to fit the new Switch 2. During a chat with The Verge, Dbrand’s CEO, Adam Ijaz, mentioned that they accessed the genuine dimensions of the Switch 2 via a 3D scan of the actual hardware. The measurements reveal it’s about 270mm wide with Joy-Cons attached (200mm without), 116mm in height, and 14mm thick.
The new Nintendo Switch 2 design appears significantly updated. It features a larger 8-inch screen compared to the Switch OLED’s 7.2-inch and the original Switch’s 6.2-inch displays. Another change is the addition of an extra “C” (possibly capture) button on the right Joy-Con. The Joy-Con controllers are magnetically detachable and exhibit a more pronounced curved design, while the device boasts USB-C ports on the top and bottom. Additionally, there’s a wide U-shaped kickstand much like the improved one on the Switch OLED.
Based on everything known, with the Switch 2 anticipated to launch as soon as the first quarter of 2025, it seems the design has notably evolved from the Switch OLED. However, it may not feature an OLED screen; most leaks indicate that the device will sport a 1080p IPS LCD screen, hopefully of a higher quality than previous LCDs.
With regards to Dbrand’s Killswitch case for the Switch 2, the design doesn’t include fully enclosing casings or an upgraded kickstand typically seen in previous Killswitch cases like those for the Steam Deck. This is due to the necessity of keeping the Joy-Cons detachable. The case pieces separate to allow for this, and a teal bungee cord secures it all together. It’s a standout design, and given Dbrand’s strong reputation as a manufacturer of protective cases for phones and handhelds, we’re optimistic about the final product’s appeal.
For those eager to see the Switch 2 in its basic form, this isn’t quite available yet. However, the specifications leaked by Dbrand do correlate with a 3D-printed mock-up that the SwitchUp YouTube channel received earlier this week, offering some insight into the design and feel of the base model.
This significant leak courtesy of Dbrand, who seemingly aren’t restricted by any NDAs, hints at an impending announcement and release date for the Nintendo Switch 2. Previous insights had suggested a release by late 2024, and Nintendo has mentioned revealing Switch 2 details by March 2025 at the latest. With that deadline looming just a few months away, the window for the official rollout is closing swiftly. Meanwhile, companies like Dbrand are already gearing up for production, feeding the anticipation for Nintendo’s next big leap in handheld hybrid consoles.