The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally, officially out, and Verge staffers have spent a bunch of time playing with it. The new console has a lot of improvements, like a bigger screen and an extra USB-C port. There’s a bunch of games to play, too, including a new Mario Kart and nice updates to older games.

This isn’t quite what we expected to see last year, but the ROG Xbox Ally still marks a new chapter in the rapidly developing “handheld war.”

On paper, the Xbox Series S beats the Switch 2 in terms of raw specs. Yes, that is confusing since Nintendo's handheld can hit 4K 60fps in docked mode while Microsoft's digital-only console targets 1440p, but the former portable relies on Nvidia AI upscaling shenanigans to make that happen.

Wondering just how powerful the Nintendo Switch 2 is in terms of raw computing power? One developer has said it’s closer to the Xbox Series S than the PlayStation 4. In an interview with wccftech, Takuto Edagawa,

Okay, sure, we can check the specs and see that the Switch 2 is half an inch (12.7mm) taller and 1.2 inches (30.48mm) wider than the original — and it’s 0.22 pounds (99.79 grams) heavier. But don’t just bark numbers at me! Nah, man, get that nerd math out of here. What about vibes-wise? How much bigger does it feel?

The Switch 2 is Nintendo's safest console generation leap possibly ever, but is it worth the rising price? I tested it for a week to find out.

Now, five years later, the Switch 2 is similarly offering a less than jaw-dropping jump (if still a much needed one). Except, instead of bringing the forefront of what can be done to your living room and on the go,

Nintendo just made a better Nintendo Switch, and that's a good thing. This powered-up console delivers in every way that counts, even with a couple of headaches at launch. Now, we just wait for more games.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller offers a more comfortable and precise way to play Switch 2 games. This is thanks to its ergonomic design and responsive buttons and joysticks. Though expensive, it’s essential for Switch 2 users who primarily play in docked mode or who just want a better controller.