In the past week, we’ve seen a flurry of intriguing leaks regarding the Nintendo Switch 2’s final design. Among these, what really caught everyone’s attention was Dbrand’s audacious move – they dropped a full 3D render of the Nintendo Switch 2. Interestingly, this render came with a revamped version of their Killswitch case, initially designed for handheld PCs but now adapted for the Switch 2. When The Verge reached out for comments, Dbrand’s CEO, Adam Ijaz, mentioned that their design was informed by measurements taken from a 3D scan of the actual hardware. According to him, the Switch 2 is about 270mm wide with Joy-Cons attached, 200mm without, stands 116mm tall, and is 14mm thick.
The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 seems to be all about enhancements. It reportedly boasts a larger 8-inch screen, a notable step up from the 7.2-inch screen of the Switch OLED and the original Switch’s 6.2-inch display. An intriguing addition is an extra “C” button on the right Joy-Con, potentially a capture button. The Joy-Con controllers have a stylish, magnetically-detachable design with a distinctive curve. This upcoming model also features top and bottom USB-C ports and a wide U-shaped kickstand reminiscent of the Switch OLED’s upgraded stand.
As we edge closer to an expected Q1 2025 launch, all signs suggest that the Switch 2 will showcase a mature evolution from the Switch OLED’s design. However, it seems it might shy away from incorporating an OLED screen. Rumors predominantly hint at a 1080p IPS LCD display, which hopefully means a major quality leap from the original Switch’s LCD displays.
Interestingly, Dbrand’s take on the Killswitch case for the Switch 2 diverges from past designs seen for devices like the Steam Deck. There’s no full-body enclosure or advanced kickstand feature this time around. Instead, the case adapts to accommodate the Switch 2’s detachable Joy-Cons. The ensemble is held together with an eye-catching teal bungee cord. With Dbrand’s solid reputation in crafting protective cases for phones and handhelds, there’s high confidence that their final product will hit the mark.
For those longing for an untouched glimpse of the Nintendo Switch 2 itself, the wait continues. However, Dbrand’s leaked specifications align with a 3D-printed mock-up recently unveiled by the YouTube channel SwitchUp. This should give enthusiasts a rough idea of what to expect regarding the system’s physical feel and appearance.
In the grand scheme of things, Dbrand’s significant leak – seemingly free from any non-disclosure agreements – suggests that an official announcement regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 might be just around the corner. Earlier hints pointed to a release by the end of 2024, while Nintendo has committed to unveiling details by March 2025 at the latest. With that timeframe fast approaching, the buzz around production and excitement is building as accessory makers like Dbrand gear up for the next big leap in Nintendo’s handheld hybrid console lineup.