Switch 2 VRR Exclusive to Handheld Mode

Back in early April, Nintendo Switch 2 fans spotted references to Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) on the system's information pages, but those details were quickly removed. Now, Nintendo has clarified exactly how and where VRR functions on the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a statement to NintendoLife, Nintendo confirmed that the original details published on its site were inaccurate: "Nintendo Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode only. The incorrect details initially appeared on the Nintendo Switch 2 website, and we apologize for the error."

When asked about VRR support for docked mode through a future firmware update, Nintendo replied that it has "nothing to announce on this topic."

So while the Switch 2 will offer VRR as a feature for portable gameplay, it appears that those playing on a TV won’t have access to the same functionality for the time being.

This update follows some earlier confusion after references to VRR were first noticed and then promptly removed. Over time, mentions of the feature disappeared from different regional sites, as noted by Digital Foundry contributor Oliver Mackenzie.

Although this may disappoint players hoping for variable refresh rate in the Switch 2's TV mode at launch, it doesn't necessarily mean the feature is off the table entirely. Sony rolled out VRR support for the PS5 in a post-launch update, so it's plausible that Nintendo could follow a similar approach.

In other Switch 2 updates, Nintendo just shared a list of games receiving free performance enhancements on the new console—including titles such as Pokémon Scarlet & Violet and Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury. Meanwhile, Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser reassures fans that the company will have enough Switch 2 consoles available "through the holidays" to meet demand.