A revised Nintendo Switch 2 model is rolling out in Europe with significant improvements to battery accessibility, making repairs considerably easier than on the original console. Tech YouTuber Austin Evans recently examined the updated hardware in a teardown, finding that Nintendo has made several internal changes to comply with European Union requirements while leaving gaming performance largely unchanged.
The Nintendo Switch 2 revision can be identified through its serial number. Original consoles begin with “HA”, while the updated European models start with “HL”. The revised Joy-Con controllers also carry a different model number, BE01-01 instead of BE012, and replace the original tri-wing screws with standard Phillips screws.
The console itself now features two accessible Phillips screws, compared with none on the launch model. There is also a small difference in weight, with the revised system weighing 409 grams against the original’s 400 grams. Nintendo’s published specifications indicate that the Joy-Con battery capacity remains unchanged, while the console’s battery capacity is approximately 1% smaller.
Performance testing in Fortnite showed virtually no difference between the two versions. Both systems consumed around 20 to 22 watts of power, with measurements generally staying within one watt of each other. Exhaust temperatures also reached the same 58 degrees on both consoles.
The updated model does appear to have a different cooling fan, however. Evans found that it produced a lower-pitched sound and operated slightly more quietly than the original. The fan also carries a new model number, suggesting Nintendo has changed the component.
The biggest improvement concerns battery replacement. Evans found that opening the revised Switch 2 required removing approximately nine screws and releasing several plastic clips. By comparison, the original model required removing more than 30 screws, with its battery firmly glued into place.
On the revised console, the battery could be removed using a single finger, without needing to disconnect a cable. This makes the replacement process considerably simpler and avoids the difficulties associated with removing an adhesive-mounted battery.
Despite these changes, much of the internal hardware remains familiar. Evans noted that the motherboard appears similar to the original design, although it is a new revision. He also believes Nintendo has retained the same display panel used in the launch model.
Evans described the changes as “an actual legitimate step forward” and compared Nintendo’s approach favourably with Sony’s repairability efforts this year. He also questioned why the company wouldn’t introduce the revised hardware worldwide, arguing that the changes don’t appear to increase manufacturing costs.
