A recent revelation by a YouTuber has shed light on what could be the motherboard of Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2. The console, which is set to hit the market soon, reportedly features an NVIDIA System-on-Chip (SoC) that doubles the size of its predecessor. According to the analysis, this new hardware may enable performance akin to the Steam Deck in handheld mode. While Nintendo provided some specifications in April during a Direct event, many details remained undisclosed until this latest leak.

The individual behind the discovery, known as Geekerwan, claims to have acquired the motherboard through an unconventional route—via a platform he refers to as "Chinese eBay." In his detailed video breakdown, Geekerwan highlights several key components. The motherboard boasts 12GB of LPDDR5X memory operating at an impressive speed of 8533MT/s, divided across two memory modules. Additionally, it integrates a MediaTek MT3681AEN chip for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functionality. However, the standout feature remains the NVIDIA processor, labeled T239.

This processor features a die size of 207mm squared, significantly larger than the original Switch’s Tegra X1 chip. Mapping the chip reveals eight A78C CPU cores paired with an Ampere-based GPU architecture, similar to NVIDIA's RTX 30-series graphics cards. Geekerwan likens the performance of the Switch 2's chip to a significantly downclocked version of the RTX 2050 laptop GPU. Simulated tests suggest that the device can match the Steam Deck's capabilities in handheld mode while maintaining the same thickness as the original Switch.

Furthermore, when docked, the Switch 2 is expected to deliver performance comparable to a GTX 1050 Ti. Both modes promise a substantial upgrade, estimated to be around seven times more powerful than the first Switch. Another notable addition is NVIDIA's DLSS technology, which should enhance graphical fidelity and allow smoother gameplay, even for demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077.

Priced starting at $449, the Nintendo Switch 2 is currently available for pre-order and is scheduled for release on June 5. With these advanced features and anticipated performance improvements, the Switch 2 is poised to redefine portable gaming. As we await its official launch, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how these upgrades will translate into real-world gaming experiences.