What is the Nintendo Switch 1 or 2?
The first Nintendo Switch was released in 2017 and revolutionized mobile gaming with its hybrid design. It can be used both on the go as a handheld and at home as a TV console - a real all-rounder with games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
The Switch 2 is the direct successor - with a better display, more powerful hardware and new features such as 4K support in dock mode. It remains true to the hybrid principle, but offers a significantly smoother and more brilliant gaming experience. So if you're faced with the choice today: Switch 1 or Switch 2, you should take a close look at the following comparison.
Performance & hardware
The original Switch uses an Nvidia Tegra X1 chip, which was powerful for its time - but is now reaching its limits. The Switch 2 relies on a new Nvidia chip, which not only offers shorter loading times and more performance, but also displays modern games in stable image quality.
Switch 1: 720p in the handheld, 1080p in the dock
Switch 2: 1080p in the handheld, up to 4K in the dock
The Switch 2 also has a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, which is particularly noticeable in action games.
Display & design
One big difference is the screen: The Switch 1 offers a 6.2-inch LCD display, which is solid but not outstanding. The Switch 2 scores with a 7.9-inch OLED screen with brilliant color reproduction, higher contrasts and better viewing angles.
Switch 1: LCD, 6.2 inch, 720p
Switch 2: OLED, 7.9-inch, 1080p, HDR-capable
The housing has also been redesigned: The new console is slightly lighter, slimmer and more robust thanks to improved materials - ideal for on the go.
Media functions & connectivity
The Switch 1 was functional but not modern: no Bluetooth audio, limited memory, Wi-Fi without 6E. The Switch 2 offers tri-band Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth audio, 256 GB of internal storage and state-of-the-art USB-C connectivity - ideal for multiplayer gaming, cloud streaming or simply stable online connections.
Why rent a Nintendo Switch?
Don't want to commit right away? Then simply rent the Nintendo Switch 1 or 2 from Grover - flexible, risk-free and always up to date.
Advantages of renting from Grover:
🔁 Flexible: rent for weeks or months as you wish
💸 No pressure to buy: save yourself the high one-off payment
🛡️ Grover Care included: Repairs? No stress
🎮 Try instead of buy: Ideal for families, events or trying out
🌱 Sustainable: less e-waste, more shared technology
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I continue to play my Switch 1 games on the Switch 2?
Yes, the Switch 2 is fully backwards compatible.
2. Does the Switch 2 support 4K resolution?
Yes, in dock mode you can enjoy compatible games in up to 4K.
3. What is the biggest advantage of the Switch 2?
Clearly: the new OLED display, higher resolution and better performance.
4. Do I need to buy new accessories?
Not necessarily - many Joy-Cons and docking stations from the Switch 1 are compatible.
5. Does renting make sense if I'm not sure yet?
Absolutely - rent from Grover, test the console at your leisure and then decide without any pressure.