Why the Switch 2's Piranha Plant camera is cheaper than the normal camera

During the Nintendo Switch 2 close-up, Nintendo showcased a surprise addition to the new console, a camera designed for GameChat.

Nintendo revealed GameChat during the presentation, which is a Switch 2 exclusive feature that enables players to join a chat room to play games together, or simply hang out while players enjoy titles separately. However, GameChat also comes with video feed support, which is why Nintendo is launching a camera alongside the Switch 2.

The newly announced camera is a dedicated 1080p camera specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch 2, while technical specifications for the device haven't been fully revealed, such as the sensor it uses, any motion tracking capabilities, etc, another Switch 2 camera has popped up. But this one features the aesthetics of a Piranha Plant. The standard Switch 2 camera is priced at $49.99, while the Piranha Plant camera is currently only available on the Nintendo UK store for £33.99, or $43 USD.

3

So, what is the difference? The camera quality. The Piranha Plant camera is only 480p, while the standard Switch 2 camera is 1080p. The Piranha Plant camera is created by peripheral manufacturer Hori with official licensing from Nintendo. While it serves as a decorative alternative to the standard Switch 2 camera, buyers should know that it's cheaper because the camera quality will be significantly worse than the standard Switch 2 camera.

3

• Read more: Nintendo explains low frame rate for Switch 2 GameChat screen sharing
• Read more: Nintendo confirms the Switch 2 won't have unlockable achievements