Bad news for gamers Nintendo Switch 2 misses a key feature of PS5 and Xbox Series X

Mario Bautista June 2, 2025

Gamers eagerly anticipating the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 are in for a bit of a letdown. While this upcoming console is poised to be a technological leap forward compared to its predecessor, it looks like it won’t be able to match a key feature offered by both the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

No 4K + 120 FPS Combo for the Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to debut on June 5, 2025, with a significant power boost—rumored to be up to 10 times more powerful than the original Switch. It’s expected to support 4K resolution and 120 FPS on its LCD display, which is a major technical advancement. However, there’s a catch: it won’t be able to handle both 4K and 120 FPS at the same time.

In contrast, both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X have already managed to deliver 4K resolution at either 60 FPS or 120 FPS in several titles without relying on additional upscaling techniques. This is a major point of differentiation between Nintendo’s upcoming console and its competitors, and it’s likely to disappoint those who were hoping for a more powerful machine on par with Sony and Microsoft’s current offerings.

Nintendo’s Strategic Choice

While some may see this as a setback, it’s actually not all that surprising given Nintendo’s long-standing approach to gaming. The company has always focused on innovation, portability, and enhancing the player experience rather than chasing sheer raw power like its competitors. For instance, the Switch 2 will feature a 1080p LCD screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate when used in handheld mode, while offering 4K resolution and 120 FPS only through the dock, but only with compatible TVs using the DLSS technology.

For context, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, one of the most anticipated titles for the Switch 2, will offer two gameplay modes: one in 4K at 60 FPS and another at 1440p at 120 FPS. This provides gamers with some flexibility, but still doesn’t quite match the native 4K capabilities of the PS5 or Xbox Series X.

Comparing with PS5 and Xbox Series X

Meanwhile, the PS5 and Xbox Series X already support native 4K gaming at 60 or 120 FPS without relying on upscaling methods. Big-name titles like Call of Duty, Gran Turismo 7, and Halo all run smoothly at these high specifications, setting a higher bar for the Switch 2 in terms of graphical performance.

This focus on raw power is where Nintendo’s philosophy diverges. While other consoles aim to provide the best possible visual fidelity, Nintendo has always been more focused on accessible gameplay and a unique gaming experience. The Switch 2’s decision to forgo the 4K + 120 FPS combo likely reflects that mindset, prioritizing portability, innovation, and player-friendly features instead.

Exciting New Features

Despite this limitation, the Switch 2 does come with some exciting new features. The updated Joy-Con controllers are a major highlight, featuring an optical sensor that could provide more precise controls, similar to using a mouse. Additionally, the Switch 2 will include a new software called Game Chat, a voice communication tool that could rival Discord, offering players a new way to chat during gameplay, and further expanding Nintendo’s social gaming ecosystem.

Looking Ahead

While the Nintendo Switch 2 may fall short in some areas compared to the PS5 and Xbox Series X, it’s important to remember that Nintendo is still a leader when it comes to innovation and gaming experiences. If you’re looking for a portable gaming console that still offers impressive graphics, the Switch 2 will likely be a great choice, especially with the new Joy-Cons and Game Chat features.

In the end, Nintendo has never been about directly competing with Sony or Microsoft on power. Instead, the company continues to push boundaries with creative, engaging gameplay, and it’s clear that the Switch 2 will build on that legacy in its own way. However, for gamers who are looking for a console with raw graphical muscle, the PS5 and Xbox Series X will remain the top contenders for now.