Nintendo Switch 2 to Feature User-Replaceable Batteries in Europe and Beyond

By: Harsh Vardhan

|

Updated on: 08-Jul-2026 09:00 AM

4,101 views

Follow Us:

4,101 views

Nintendo will introduce user-replaceable batteries in its upcoming Switch 2 consoles starting this autumn. The update will affect all new units sold in the 27 European Union member states, as well as Norway, Switzerland, the UK, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and South Africa. Nintendo announced these hardware changes on its official website.

Key Highlights

• Nintendo Switch 2 will have user-replaceable batteries starting this autumn in multiple regions.
• New Switch 2 features a 5,172mAh battery, 1 percent less capacity than the previous version.
• Switch 2 Pro controller will launch this winter with a 16 percent smaller-capacity battery.

Switch 2 Hardware Updates

The revised Switch 2 will come equipped with a 5,172mAh battery. This is a slight reduction of 1% compared to the current model's 5,220mAh battery. The updated console will also weigh 401 grams, making it 10 grams heavier than the previous version. Nintendo will extend the user-replaceable battery feature to the bundled Joy-Con 2 controllers as well.

The company is also updating its Switch 2 Pro, N64, and GameCube controllers. These controllers will soon feature removable batteries. The new Switch 2 Pro controller, expected this winter, will have a battery with 16% less capacity than the current model.

Regulatory Compliance Drives Changes

Nintendo's decision to introduce user-replaceable batteries is influenced by new regulations in the European Union. The Right to Repair Directive will take effect on July 31 this year. This directive aims to make it easier for consumers to repair their own devices.

Additionally, the EU Batteries Regulation requires that all consumer electronics sold in the EU must have removable and easily replaceable batteries. This rule will apply from February 2027. Devices must allow users to remove and replace batteries using commercially available tools. Nintendo is implementing these changes ahead of the regulatory deadlines.

Global Impact of the Update

While the regulations are specific to the EU, Nintendo will also apply these updates to Switch 2 units sold in several other countries. This move ensures compliance and consistency across multiple markets. The changes will affect both the main console and its controllers, offering users more flexibility in battery replacement.

Nintendo's proactive approach aims to align with upcoming legal requirements and improve the repairability of its devices for consumers worldwide.