Nintendo Switch 2’s LCD screen is rather rudimentary, despite HDR support

One of the biggest surprises from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was the confirmation that the sequel system’s screen will not only be upping its resolution to 1080p, but also supports up to 120hz and even HDR. Unfortunately, the real-world impact of these changes may not be quite as transformative as one might hope – owing to its use of a rather basic LCD screen.

In a video published by Nintendo Life, in which they got hands-on with the Switch 2 and Breath of the Wild, it was noted that in a dark room the screen offered clear signs for exactly what kind of LCD screen is being used.

Though it is undeniably an improvement when compared to the OG Switch’s non-laminated LCD display, it still falls behind the Switch OLED’s screen in many aspects.

Despite offering HDR support, the Switch 2’s screen appears to be using a traditional edge-lit method for lighting, as opposed to Full Array Local Dimming or even mini-LED – both of which would allow for far deeper blacks and greater contrast.

HDR can of course still work on traditional edge-lit panels, however what players will likely encounter is a notable amount of light-bleed and elevated black levels; negating much of the visual impact of HDR.

Still, for those who owned an original Nintendo Switch, the Switch 2’s screen will easily represent a generational leap in quality. For OLED owners however, you might notice a bit of a downgrade.

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KitGuru says: What do you think of the screen so far? Will it look better or worse in person? Do you notice inconsistencies such as light-bleed? Let us know down below.

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