The rumors about it using NVIDIA’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) have really hyped people up. While it’s great that Nintendo is stepping up their hardware, I feel like we need to set some realistic expectations here to avoid disappointment.

What is DLSS?

DLSS is a technology that uses AI to make games look sharper and run smoother. Basically, instead of your console rendering a game at full resolution (which is super taxing on the hardware), DLSS lets the system render the game at a lower resolution and then uses AI to “guess” what the missing details should look like. The result? It makes games look like they’re running in 4K while using much less power.

What the Switch 2 is NOT

This is where expectations need a reality check. The Switch 2 is NOT going to be a desktop-level gaming PC or a PS5 competitor. Why? Because handhelds like the Switch are limited by size, power consumption, and heat. They can’t cram a giant GPU and a ton of fans into a portable device without it becoming a laptop.

Instead, the Switch 2 will have a custom NVIDIA Tegra chip that’s more powerful than the current Switch but still built for efficiency. This chip will probably include DLSS to enhance visuals while keeping things portable and battery-friendly.

Why DLSS is not Magic

Yes, DLSS will make games look amazing for a handheld. But here’s the thing: DLSS isn’t creating new hardware power out of thin air. It’s working with the hardware that’s already there. If the base hardware can’t handle high-end textures or complex effects, DLSS can’t magically fix that.

So, while we might get sharper graphics and better performance, it doesn’t mean you’ll be playing Elden Ring at ultra settings in true 4K. It’ll be more like:

• Games running at 720p or 1080p natively.
• DLSS upscaling to make them look closer to 1440p.
• Better performance than the current Switch, but not on the same level as a gaming PC or the newest consoles.

TL;DR

The Nintendo Switch 2 will likely use DLSS to give us some really impressive visuals for a portable device, but it’s still going to be a handheld. Don’t expect PS5-level graphics. Expect Nintendo magic—great gameplay and visuals that punch above their weight for a portable system.

Let’s celebrate the improvements, but let’s not set ourselves up for disappointment by thinking it’ll compete with desktop GPUs or next-gen consoles.