Nintendo Support gives Switch 2 battery advice to extend life and stop swelling

Many gamers know the dangers of leaving a console with a lithium-ion battery unattended. Still, Nintendo Support felt it was wise to remind fans about the risks. On social media, the company recommended charging or playing a Switch or Switch 2 at least once every 6 months.

Nintendo's common-sense advice

In a Japanese post noticed by Genki, the gaming giant warns:

Lithium-ion batteries built into game consoles and similar devices may become unable to charge if they remain in a state of neither charging nor use for an extended period of time.

The advice applies to the Switch 2 battery and components in the original Switch and older Nintendo consoles. When ignored for long periods, charge levels will gradually drop. If it reaches 0%, the handheld may no longer power on, even after being plugged in. Or, battery life will dwindle, forcing more frequent recharging.

Although Nintendo Support doesn’t mention the possibility, lithium-ion battery swelling can be an issue. So far, in part because the Switch 2 is relatively new, reports of bulging handhelds have been sporadic. Nevertheless, it’s wise to follow the precautions outlined in the social media post, since a gas buildup can prove disastrous.

Maximizing Switch 2 battery life

The manufacturer has taken several other steps to prolong Switch 2 battery life and facilitate replacement. In its settings, owners will find an option to “stop charging around 90%". That safeguard can also preserve capacities throughout multiple charging cycles. For idle consoles, it’s best to store them with a 40-60% charge in cool and dry conditions.

More recently, the company revealed that it would redesign its latest handheld to become easier to fix. It responded to EU right-to-repair regulations, and other regions may not see the revisions. For these gamers, if capacities degrade or swelling occurs, there are alternatives to Nintendo’s sometimes slow service.