Nintendo of Europe has announced that the upcoming Switch 2 console and its accessories will feature swappable batteries, a change mandated by European Union regulations. This shift will begin in the fall of 2026 and extend into 2027 for updated models and accessories. The new Switch 2 will include a 5172mAh swappable battery, a minor 1% decrease in capacity compared to the current model. This change will add approximately 10 grams to the console's weight, bringing its total to 411 grams. When paired with the new Joy-Con 2 controllers, the system will weigh around 548 grams, about 14 grams more than the current iteration.
The updated Joy-Con 2 controllers are scheduled for release in Europe during the winter, with no alterations to battery capacity. However, they will be approximately 2 grams heavier each due to the user-replaceable batteries. The Switch 2 Pro Controller, also launching in Europe this winter, will adopt a swappable 897mAh battery. This will result in a more significant battery capacity reduction of 16% and a lighter feel, with 7 grams shaved off to reach a total weight of 228 grams.
Further accessories receiving these battery updates include revised editions of the Nintendo 64 controller for Switch and the GameCube controller for Switch 2. Both are expected in early next year. The Nintendo 64 pad will see a minimal 1-gram increase in weight, while the GameCube controller will gain 5% more battery capacity along with a 5-gram weight increase.
It is important to note that these changes are not related to a recall or safety issue and will not affect existing Switch 2 owners. This announcement comes shortly after the Switch 2 celebrated its first anniversary last month. The implementation of swappable batteries in Europe highlights Nintendo's adaptation to regional regulations for its hardware.