Switch 2 1080p display features NVIDIA G-SYNC technology for a smooth 120 Hz with VRR

Ahead of the big Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, many hoped the company would equip it with an OLED display or at least offer a premium version with OLED technology. For those who have experienced gaming on an original Switch, Steam Deck, or PC with an OLED display, you'll understand why there's hype for a Switch 2 OLED; it's one of those "one you try it" pieces of technology that's hard to come back from.

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That said, there is good news - the Nintendo Switch's 7.9-inch 1080p LCD is an impressive display. With an IPS panel that will deliver excellent color and clarity, HDR10 support for a wide color gamut, and VRR up to 120 Hz, it's a massive leap forward for Nintendo. Even better, the HDR and VRR are handled by NVIDIA G-SYNC, which is widely considered the gold standard for variable refresh-rate technology.

As part of NVIDIA's post about the NVIDIA GPU and technologies inside the Switch 2, it makes special mention of NVIDIA G-SYNC and HDR, which leads us to believe that the Switch 2's display will include a dedicated G-SYNC chip.

This means a lower threshold for when VRR "kicks in," so any games running faster than 30 FPS will look smoother and be more responsive. Also, G-SYNC allows games to run with minimal ghosting thanks to variable overdrive, which will update alongside refresh-rate changes. If a game on the Switch 2 handheld runs with a variable frame rate between 40-60 FPS, it will feel like playing the game at a locked 60 FPS. Also, for games that target the full 1080p 120 Hz mode of the display - you won't feel or see the difference when the frame rate fluctuates. And with G-SYNC enabled, screen-tearing is eliminated.

Variable overdrive, HDR quality, response times, and more vary from display to display, so the Switch 2 display having NVIDIA G-SYNC is a big deal.