Nintendo Switch 2 European revision improves battery replacement

A teardown of the revised Nintendo Switch 2 in Europe by Austin Evans shows the console now features significantly better battery accessibility. The revised model, identified by a serial number starting with "HL" instead of the original "HA", requires removing approximately nine screws and several plastic clips to open. The launch version needed over thirty screws removed and featured a glued battery. Users can lift out the new battery with one finger and no cable disconnection.

The Legend of Zelda · official art via IGDB

The hardware changes include two accessible Phillips screws on the console and the replacement of tri-wing screws with standard Phillips screws on the BE01-01 Joy-Cons. The revised console weighs 409 grams, while the original weighs 400 grams. Nintendo specifications indicate the console battery capacity is approximately 1% smaller than the original, though Joy-Con battery capacity is unchanged.

Performance in Fortnite shows both versions consume between 20 and 22 watts and reach exhaust temperatures of 58 degrees. The revised model uses a new cooling fan that operates slightly more quietly. While the motherboard is a new revision, the display panel appears to be the same as the launch model.

Nintendo states that exact replacement components for the Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2, dock, Joy-Con 2, or Pro Controller will not remain available forever.