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Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Its First Teardown: A Closer Look at the Hardware
As the calendar rolls to June 5th across parts of the globe, the eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2 has officially launched and is already in the hands of early adopters. Ahead of any in-depth reviews or official repair analyses, popular YouTube channel ProModding has released a comprehensive 17-minute teardown video, offering the gaming community its first close-up look at the Switch 2’s redesigned innards—including the powerful custom Nvidia processor that is expected to drive performance enhancements.
Inside the Switch 2: What’s Changed?
Disassembling the Nintendo Switch 2, ProModding found that while Nintendo has hidden several screws and release mechanisms beneath strategically placed stickers, the process is relatively straightforward for those equipped with the right tools and know-how. Accessing major components like ribbon cables and connectors does require some care, and opening up the handheld will, as expected, void the device’s warranty.
Early inspection of the Switch 2’s hardware reveals a few notable improvements and some familiar design choices. The new Joy-Con controllers attach more securely to the updated console, providing a tighter fit than the original Switch—although a slight wobble is still possible. Nintendo appears to have retained the same thermal paste formula as in the first-generation Switch, a detail that some seasoned gamers may want to upgrade themselves for better cooling performance and enhanced hardware longevity.
One area of concern noted in the teardown is the fold-out kickstand. While designed for convenience, it remains “too flimsy,” with a heightened risk of breakage if opened from just one side. This is a crucial consideration for users who frequently use their Switch 2 in tabletop mode.
Repairability and Industry Comparisons
For those considering self-repair or long-term maintenance, the jury is still out on the Nintendo Switch 2’s overall repairability. Notably, iFixit—an authority on hardware repairs—recently downgraded the original Nintendo Switch’s repairability score from 8 to 4 out of 10. This decision was influenced by challenges with the battery and improvements made by competitors such as Valve’s Steam Deck, rather than the infamous Joy-Con drift issues.
Enthusiasts and tech professionals tracking innovations in gaming hardware should stay tuned: a full teardown and repair assessment from iFixit will soon provide deeper insights into how the Switch 2 stacks up in terms of maintenance and component accessibility.
Why This Matters
The Nintendo Switch 2 aims to address the evolving needs of gamers with upgraded hardware and improved performance, setting fresh benchmarks in the portable console market. As early adopters and technology analysts explore its build quality and repair potential, the insights gleaned from teardowns like ProModding’s will be instrumental for both consumers and industry watchers keen on digital innovation and electronic longevity.
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