Switch 2: Nintendo confirms the bad news, the old dock will be unusable
The reception station delivered with the Nintendo Switch 2 does not recognize any of the old models in the range. This includes the 2017 switch, the Lite version – devoid of video output but sometimes modified via Third Dock – as well as the OLED version. Confirmation comes from several official sources: the Japanese Nintendo site, exchanges with European support, and the local assistance page of the manufacturer.
A dock cut for switch 2… only
The Switch 2 would adopt a USB-C interface using the USB 3.2 Gen 1 standard, against USB 2.0 for previous models. This bandwidth (from 480 Mbps to 5 GBPS) makes it possible to manage more demanding video signals, in particular for a 4K display at 60 Hz, or even in VRR (variable refresh rate). The previous dock, technically limited, is therefore offside.
Another element: Nintendo will deliver the Switch 2 with an HDMI 2.1 Ultra High Speed cable (48 Gbit/S (against 18 Gbit/s in HDMI 2.0), essential to exploit new video standards and ensure signal stability. A classic HDMI cable would not be enough to achieve these performance.
Finally, the current sector adapter (39 W) is no longer functional in TV mode with the Switch 2. It remains compatible for portable load, but does not provide enough power for prolonged use via the dock.
Nintendo should market the dock alone around € 89.99, as for that of the OLED Switch. A technical transition that will force players to renew part of their equipment, willy -nilly.
