Comparison Reveals Modded Nintendo Switch “Pro” Performance in Backward Compatible Games Against Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 vs. Modded Switch: A Performance Showdown

The Nintendo Switch 2 has gained recognition for its enhanced power relative to its predecessor. However, a recent online analysis suggests that with specific hardware optimizations, the original Switch could have performed comparably against this new console.

Performance Insights from the YouTube Comparison

A detailed video shared by naga on YouTube delves into critical performance aspects such as loading speeds, gameplay experiences in both handheld and docked modes, and battery longevity across several titles.

This comparison highlights a modded “pro”version of the Nintendo Switch OLED. Key upgrades to this modified system include:

An overclocked CPU at 1707 MHz
An enhanced GPU running at 1724 MHz
Increased RAM capacity of 8 GB
A robust 8600 mAh battery
Enhanced cooling systems to manage heat effectively

Loading Speeds and Gameplay Performance

In terms of loading times, titles like The Witcher 3 and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom showcase significantly superior performance on the Nintendo Switch 2. However, other games like Hogwarts Legacy reveal only minor disparities between the two systems. Additionally, the modded Nintendo Switch impressively handles backward-compatible games, often matching the new console’s performance.

For instance, GRID Autosport performs almost identically on both devices in handheld mode, with the Switch 2 slightly outperforming it due to its advanced CPU. Notably, in docked mode, the modded Nintendo Switch maintains a frame rate close to 60 FPS for Zelda: Breath of the Wild, albeit at a lower resolution compared to the newer model.

Unpatched Game Performance: A Compelling Comparison

The performance disparity becomes even more intriguing with unpatched games. For example, in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, the modded Switch sustains a smooth 60 FPS while the Nintendo Switch 2 is capped at 30 FPS. Additionally, the modded version can handle Metroid Prime Remastered at a striking 1440p resolution, consistently maintaining 60 FPS. Similarly, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy plays seamlessly at 60 FPS on the modded Switch, contrasting with the locked frame rate on the newer console.

Significance of Hardware Design Decisions

While it may seem unfair to contrast the performance of unpatched games on both systems, the findings emphasize how certain design choices—like the original Switch’s limited RAM—have constrained its capabilities. On the flip side, the Nintendo Switch 2 overcomes these limitations dramatically. It has already demonstrated commendable handling of ports from platforms such as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, exemplified by titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Star Wars Outlaws, and the anticipated Resident Evil Requiem. The latter is particularly noteworthy, as the development team expressed astonishment at its excellent performance on the device.

This comparison not only showcases the advancements made in the Nintendo Switch 2 but also raises questions about potential hardware modifications for the original model and what it could achieve with similar enhancements.

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