Nintendo Switch 2 Gets New Battery Design and Internal Changes

Nintendo is releasing a revised version of the Switch 2 with major repairability upgrades, especially for battery replacement. The newer model features a more accessible battery design, fewer screws, and several internal improvements. While the overall hardware specs remain nearly the same, these tweaks could make long-term maintenance a lot easier for Switch 2 users.

Nintendo Switch 2 Introduces a More Accessible Battery Design

Thanks to European Union regulations, Nintendo is introducing an updated Switch 2 with easily accessible batteries for both the console and its Joy-Cons. Unlike the previous Switch revision, which was identifiable through its red packaging, distinguishing between the original and updated Switch 2 requires checking the serial number. The original model uses an HA serial number, while the newer version starts with HL.

Updated Joy-Cons Receive Different Screws and Model Numbers

The new Joy-Cons show one noticeable change right away. Nintendo has swapped out the traditional tri-wing screws with standard Phillips screws, which are easier to access with basic screwdrivers. The original design required a specialized screwdriver bit, following Nintendo's approach dating back to the Game Boy era.

The model numbers also differ. The original Joy-Cons carry the BEE012 designation, while the updated versions use BEE01-01. The console itself also has two easily accessible Phillips screws, replacing the previous design's approach and potentially making internal access simpler.

New Switch 2 Is Slightly Heavier With a Smaller Battery

Weighing both consoles reveals another difference. The original Switch 2 weighs about 400g, while the updated model weighs 409g. The extra 9g likely comes from chassis and internal mounting hardware improvements.

Nintendo also confirmed that the Joy-Con batteries maintain their original capacity. However, the console's primary battery is about 1% smaller than the original. This is technically a reduction, but it's unlikely to have a visible impact on regular use, especially with the revised battery arrangement.

Power Consumption Remains Almost Identical Between Models

Comparing both consoles while running Fortnite reveals virtually identical power consumption. The measurements differ by about 1W, meaning Nintendo hasn't made major changes to the hardware's total power needs.

There is nonetheless a little variation in the fan noise. The new model sounds a little different, especially at lower frequencies. Revised cooling fan? Thermal testing gives the same result. Both consoles have an exhaust temperature of around 58°C. Therefore, cooling performance appears largely unchanged.

Battery Replacement Becomes Significantly Easier

The biggest improvement becomes apparent during disassembly. Opening the updated Switch 2 requires approximately nine screws and several plastic clips. By comparison, the original model requires more than 30 screws before reaching the battery.

The difference becomes even more significant when you look at how Nintendo secures the battery. The original Switch 2 uses substantial adhesive, making removal difficult and requiring careful work to avoid damaging components.

The updated model takes a completely different approach. Its battery uses a much simpler mounting mechanism and can essentially be released with a single finger. Instead of struggling with adhesive, replacing the battery becomes much more straightforward.

New Motherboard and Cooling Fan Introduce Internal Changes

Further inspection reveals that the updated Switch 2 features a new motherboard. The basic design is the same as the original; however, several internal components have changed. The cooling fan also has a different model number, so it's a different design. But the display seems the same as the original launch variant, so there's no definitive sign the screen has improved.

Nintendo's Updated Switch 2 Is a Meaningful Step Forward

The redesigned Nintendo Switch 2 is a major leap forward in terms of repairability. The reduced battery capacity and slightly heavier chassis are negligible trade-offs compared to the much quicker replacement process. Nintendo also made several practical enhancements, including fewer screws, standard Phillips fasteners, and a revised battery mounting method, but did not greatly change the machine's performance.

Especially when the adjustments improve long-term maintenance without substantial downsides, it would make a lot of sense to bring this upgraded design to the US and other international markets.