How to identify the Nintendo Switch 2 with a removable battery

While no official announcement was made, it is now possible to purchase the new Nintendo Switch 2 with a user-replaceable battery in select markets in Europe. However, this new version is currently being sold alongside the original version, and with no labelling specifying which is which, buyers can end up with either version. Thankfully, there's a way to identify which version of the Switch 2 you are getting, before paying.

According to the Spanish site Nintenduo, there are a few ways to identify the Nintendo Switch 2 with replaceable batteries, and three of them require a visual inspection of the retail box.

The first way to know is by looking at the image of the console on the box. If you can see a visible screw above the “+” symbol on the right rail, then you have the version with a removable battery. The original version only shows the “+” symbol on the rail, as the screw is hidden under the orange sticker.

The second way to identify the version of the Switch 2 is by looking at the number above the barcode. The barcode can be found at the bottom of the box, and for the new version made for Europe, it begins with “OSM”.

Buyers who want to purchase a Switch 2 with a removable battery can also confirm by checking the serial number. The serial number for the new version begins with “HLE”, unlike the first version which begins with “HAE”. This serial number is also written under the kickstand of the Switch 2. You can also open the box, which isn't sealed, for a visual inspection of the handheld, to be sure of the version you are getting.

Unfortunately, these methods only work for those who are buying the Switch 2 at brick and mortar stores. For those purchasing online, there's no way to tell, until you receive your order; unless you are buying from a seller that specifically states the version they have.

As stated above, Nintendo will continue to sell both versions of the Nintendo Switch 2 (available on Amazon) until stock of the first one finishes.