The USB-C ports of the Nintendo Switch 2 include some encryption chips and methods that restrict which accessories can be used on the system, according to reports from some accessory makers. While some third-party accessories will still work as intended on the Switch 2, third-party docks for Nintendo’s new console may become scarce.
Compared to its predecessor, the Switch 2 has two USB-C ports, located on the top and bottom of the console. Alongside charging the Switch 2 in Handheld mode, the top-side USB-C port can be used to connect accessories, including the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera and similar products from manufacturers like Logitech. By comparison, the bottom-side USB-C port is primarily used to connect the Switch 2 to its Dock, which enables features like 4K output and Ethernet connectivity to a router. Both ports can be used to keep the system battery topped off via the AC adapter included with the Switch 2.
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However, the bottom-side USB-C port of the Switch 2 also includes some features that dictate which Docks made for Nintendo’s hit system will work. As reported by The Verge, two third-party accessory makers claimed that the Switch 2’s USB-C port includes encryption methods and an extra chip that limits the accessories that will work with the new console. The accessory makers stated that Nintendo’s encryption measures were intentionally made to restrict third-party access to the Switch 2. When the Switch 2 is connected to its Dock, the USB-C port sends out instructions to deliver both power and access to features like HDMI video. While some third-party docks are currently available for the Switch 2, their long-term use may be limited due to firmware updates that Nintendo could implement to change its encryption methods.
Switch 2 USB-C Port Encryption Makes Third-Party Accessories Difficult to Manage
The USB-C encryption discovery is not the only thing that the Switch 2 has dealt with since its launch. On social media, some Switch 2 users reported that their console had overheated while playing games like Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma while in Docked mode. Although the Switch 2 Dock includes an additional fan to keep the entire system cooled, an open space on a shelf is recommended to allow the console to properly cool off and avoid placing the console near any heat sources.
While Nintendo has drawn scrutiny from Brazil’s consumer protection program over its aggressive EULA policy, that has not stopped the console from selling millions of units within its first month. It remains to be seen if Nintendo will respond to the USB-C encryption reports.
- Brand
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Nintendo
- Original Release Date
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June 5, 2025
- Original MSRP (USD)
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$449.99
- Operating System
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Proprietary
- Resolution
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1080p (handheld) / 4K (docked)
- HDR Support
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Yes
The successor to 2017’s Nintendo Switch continues down the same path as its predecessor, providing a hybrid experience that supports both home and handheld gaming. Launching on June 5, 2025, with games like Mario Kart World, the basic Nintendo Switch 2 bundle comes with the console, Joy-Con 2, straps for the controller, a dock, an AC adapter, an HDMI cable, and a Joy-Con 2 grip.
