Nintendo has officially set the record straight regarding Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) capabilities on its upcoming Switch 2 console, confirming the feature will be exclusive to handheld mode at launch. This clarification comes after initial confusion caused by erroneous information previously published on the company’s website.
The gaming giant issued statements to multiple outlets, apologizing for an “error” that had suggested VRR would also be supported when the Switch 2 is played in docked (TV) mode. The corrected information definitively states: “Nintendo Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode only.”
VRR technology is a sought-after feature that synchronizes a display’s refresh rate with the console’s frame rate output. This results in smoother gameplay, reducing visual artifacts like screen tearing and stuttering, which can be particularly beneficial for games with fluctuating frame rates. The Switch 2’s built-in 7.9-inch LCD screen, boasting a 1080p resolution and refresh rates up to 120Hz, will be able to leverage this technology for an enhanced portable gaming experience.
However, those hoping for the same smooth visuals on their VRR-compatible TVs when the console is docked will be disappointed, at least for now. Nintendo has stated they have “nothing to announce on this topic” regarding the possibility of docked VRR support being added via a future firmware update. While not a definitive “no,” it means TV mode VRR will not be available when the Switch 2 launches, reportedly on June 5, 2025.
Speculation among tech analysts, including Digital Foundry, suggests the limitation may stem from the Switch 2 dock’s DisplayPort to HDMI conversion hardware. The way the video signal is processed for TV output might currently preclude VRR support over HDMI.
This news clarifies a key technical aspect of the highly anticipated console. While handheld players can look forward to the benefits of VRR, the community will be watching to see if Nintendo addresses docked mode VRR support in the future, similar to how Sony implemented the feature for the PlayStation 5 post-launch.
