The Nintendo Switch 2 brings a big improvement in High Dynamic Range (HDR) support, offering enhanced visuals in both handheld and TV mode. While the handheld display itself isn’t particularly suited for HDR, it performs better when connected to an HDR-capable TV. However, the Switch 2’s own screen, an edge-lit LCD, has limitations, such as a maximum brightness of only 450 nits. This brightness falls short of the levels needed to properly display HDR content.
Additionally, LCDs can’t match OLED displays in contrast, meaning the Switch 2 display lacks the deep blacks and vibrant colors typically seen on OLED screens. The arrival of an OLED version of the Switch 2 is expected to address this limitation.
For now, those using the Switch 2 in TV mode can still get a solid HDR experience, provided they have an HDR-compatible TV. However, Nintendo’s HDR settings aren’t the easiest to use. As noted by YouTuber My Life in Gaming, after adjusting the peak brightness setting, users can access an additional setting via the Y button that leads to another brightness control. This setting is known as the ‘paper white’ slider, distinct from the peak brightness adjustment. Adjusting this can help reduce an overly bright HDR effect. The YouTuber found that lowering the paper white setting improved midtones and shadows, making HDR-enabled games like Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition look better.
Another useful tip is to enable HGIG (HDR Gaming Interest Group) mode in your display’s settings. This feature disables dynamic tone mapping, preserving the creator’s original intent and ensuring the best HDR experience possible. While Nintendo’s first-party games still have some work to do when it comes to optimizing HDR, these tweaks can make a noticeable difference when playing third-party titles. For more in-depth insights on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out Chris’s full review.
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