The Switch 2 bundle includes the console, two Joy-Con controllers, a dock, an HDMI cable, a USB-C power adapter, and a wrist strap for each controller

When you open a new Switch 2 bundle, you get the hardware needed to play games on your TV or as a handheld device right away. You do not need to buy anything else to start playing — the bundle is complete enough to work out of the box. What you get depends on which bundle version you purchase, since Nintendo sells the console alone and also sells it bundled with games or extra accessories.

The standard bundle contains everything listed above. Some retailers and Nintendo's own store offer bundles that add a game (usually The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom or Mario Kart 9) or a carrying case. The contents are the same across all standard bundles — the difference is what game or case comes with it, not what console hardware you receive.

Key Takeaways

  • The standard Switch 2 bundle includes the console, two Joy-Con controllers, dock, HDMI cable, USB-C power adapter, and one wrist strap per controller.
  • You can play games when ready after unboxing without buying additional hardware, though you will need a game cartridge or a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play digital titles.
  • Game bundles and accessory bundles add items to the standard contents but do not change what console hardware comes in the box.
  • The USB-C power adapter works with other USB-C devices, but Nintendo's official charger is designed specifically for the Switch 2's power requirements.

What the dock does and when you need it

The dock is a plastic stand that holds the Switch 2 upright and connects it to your TV via HDMI. When the console sits in the dock, it charges and displays games on a larger screen. You can play handheld games without the dock — the console has its own screen and battery.

If you plan to play only handheld or only on a single TV in one room, you might not need the dock that comes in the bundle. Some people buy a second dock for a bedroom or living room so they do not have to move the console between rooms. The dock itself is sold separately if you want an extra one later.

The Joy-Con controllers and what they do

The two Joy-Con controllers that come in the bundle can be used separately (one in each hand) or attached to the sides of the console to play handheld. They connect wirelessly to the console and have buttons, triggers, and motion sensors inside. The wrist straps that come with them are safety straps — they attach to the bottom of each controller so the controller does not slip out of your hand during active games.

Some games require a single Joy-Con per player, while others need both controllers attached to the console or held together as one unit. The bundle gives you enough to play most games with one person, but if you want to play multiplayer games with another person in the same room, you will need to buy additional Joy-Con controllers separately.

The power adapter and charging

The USB-C power adapter in the bundle is what charges the Switch 2 console. It plugs into a wall outlet and connects to the console via a USB-C port on the bottom. The adapter is rated for the Switch 2's specific power draw, so it is the safest option to use.

You can charge the console using other USB-C power adapters — many phones and laptops use USB-C — but Nintendo's official adapter is designed for the Switch 2 and will charge it at the correct speed. If you lose the original adapter or want to charge the console in multiple rooms, you can buy a replacement from Nintendo or from retailers that sell Switch accessories. Third-party USB-C adapters may work, but they carry a small risk of charging too slowly or, in rare cases, damaging the battery over time.

What you do not get in the bundle

The bundle does not include a game. You need to buy games separately as physical cartridges or read them digitally. To read games, you need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription (a paid service) or you can buy individual games from the Nintendo eShop.

The bundle also does not include a carrying case, screen protector, or extra Joy-Con controllers. If you plan to take the console with you, a carrying case is useful but not required. Screen protectors are optional — the Switch 2 screen is durable, but some people add protection anyway. Extra Joy-Con controllers are only necessary if you want to play multiplayer games with other people or if you want backup controllers.

Bundle versions and what changes between them

Nintendo and retailers offer several bundle options. The standard bundle is the console with the dock, controllers, and power adapter. Game bundles add a popular title like The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom or Mario Kart 9. Accessory bundles might include a carrying case, extra Joy-Con controllers, or a screen protector alongside the standard console contents.

The console hardware itself is identical across all bundles. The only difference is what extra items come in the box. If you see a bundle advertised as "special edition" or "limited edition," check the product description to see what is actually different — sometimes it is just the color of the console or controllers, and sometimes it is the included game or case.

Storage and what you need to know about the console's memory

The Switch 2 comes with built-in storage for games, but the amount varies by model. The standard model has less storage than a larger model, so if you plan to read many games digitally, you may run out of space. You can expand storage by buying a microSD card (sold separately) and inserting it into a slot on the console.

Physical game cartridges do not use the console's storage — they run directly from the cartridge. If you buy games as cartridges, you do not need to worry about running out of space. Digital games take up storage space, so most people who read games also buy a microSD card to have room for more than a few titles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy anything else to play games right away?

You need a game, but the hardware is complete. You can play physical cartridges when ready, or you can read games if you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. The console, controllers, dock, and power adapter are all included and ready to use.

Can I use my old Switch dock with the Switch 2?

No. The Switch 2 dock is different from the original Switch dock and is not compatible with older consoles. The dock that comes in the bundle is designed for the Switch 2 only.

What if I lose the USB-C power adapter?

You can buy a replacement from Nintendo's official store or from retailers that sell Switch accessories. You can also use another USB-C power adapter in a pinch, but Nintendo's official adapter is the safest choice for long-term charging.

Do I need a second dock if I have one TV?

No, one dock is enough for one TV. You only need a second dock if you want to play on multiple TVs without moving the console, or if you want to keep a dock set up in a different room.

Are the Joy-Con controllers in the bundle enough for two players?

The two Joy-Con controllers can be split between two players for some games, but many multiplayer games require each player to have their own controller or controller pair. Check the game's requirements before assuming two people can play with just the bundle controllers.