Nintendo's hybrid console, Switch 2, now supports variable refresh rate (VRR) when docked and connected to a TV. However, the list of supported games is very short.
Switch 2 already supported VRR in handheld mode to make games look smoother with reduced input lag and judder, and Nintendo promised to later bring it to Switch 2 in docked TV mode.
VRR is finally being added with the release of update 23.0.0 for Switch 2. The Switch 2 dock must also be updated via Settings -> System -> Update Dock, and your TV must support HDMI 2.1 VRR.
- "When both the software and TV support VRR, video is output at a refresh rate that matches the game's processing," explained Nintendo.
Switch 2 connects to the TV via the dock. Photo: Nintendo
Only one game supports VRR
The bad news is that VRR officially works only with the Welcome Tour app from Nintendo at this time, although one users notes that it seems to also work unofficially in Star Wars Outlaws. Each individual Switch 2 game must apparently be updated to support VRR.
System software update 23.0.0 has been released in Japan and will roll out globally soon, so hopefully Nintendo is planning further game updates to support VRR.
Switch 2 supports up to 120fps at 1080p or 1440p but not 4K due to the lack of HDMI 2.1. As a consequence, VRR will also have limitations compared to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
- Source: Nintendo, Digital Foundry
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