Nintendo Switch 2 leak describing 4K dock creates more confusion about console's specs

Insider Gaming's Tom Henderson recently revealed that some Switch 2 dev kits lacked a 4K output. That surprised some gamers, who had seen conflicting specs in earlier leaks. The April 2nd Nintendo Direct might settle any debates, but there is already promising news for gamers. A Famiboards user revealed that the Switch 2 dock utilizes a DisplayPort 1.4 to HDMI 2.1 converter. The Realtek chip supports 4K and 60Hz gameplay, as well as higher settings with DSC (Display Stream Compression).

The Realtek component in question is labeled as RTD2175N-CG. Although there is no publicly available information about the chip, a similar RTD2173 exists. If the newer version at least matches its capabilities, the Switch 2 dock would even allow a 4K/120 Hz output with DSC. This applies only to a docked console, but previous rumors discussed a handheld 120Hz mode with VRR, likely at lower resolutions. The information about the Realtek chip doesn't confirm VRR, but it does list support for HDR.

Gamers should note that the Switch 2 software and games would have to support 4K resolutions. Also, unless the console is more powerful than expected, upscaling will be needed to meet this target. Nevertheless, the new Switch 2 leak alleviates some fears prompted by Henderson's reports on dev kits. If the dock uses the RTD2175N chip, it's possible that the dev kits don't match all final Switch 2 specs.

Based on earlier accounts, a dock with 4K output should also not be surprising. During the 2023 Gamescom, rumors spread that the Switch 2 was running The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild at 4K and 60 fps. Now, Nintendo is finally ready to showcase how the console has advanced. If the next Nintendo Direct emphasizes the console's hybrid abilities, an improved dock may share the spotlight.