Nintendo cautions that Switch 2 could overheat during summer before winter introduces new issues

One of the advantages of the Switch 2 is that it can accompany owners enjoying warm summer weather. However, Nintendo Support in Japan is warning gamers to avoid the most brutal conditions. Temperatures in many parts of the country have soared well past 35°C, which exceeds the recommended threshold. With other regions experiencing similar temperatures, all gamers should monitor for Switch 2 overheating.

Translated by Automaton, Nintendo explained that extreme temperatures could result in malfunctions. The company isn’t specific about damage, likely hoping that the console’s safeguards will prevent catastrophe. As with the original Switch, the Switch 2 will produce a warning message when it detects overheating, before entering sleep mode.

Despite the preventive measures, some gamers worry that the enhanced Switch 2 specs put it at a greater risk of harm. While the sunny outdoors are often the focus, the console may experience more stress when docked. Gamers have observed that the handheld’s fan spins faster due to its GPU running at higher clock speeds. The Switch 2 dock also has an internal fan, but it’s only designed to keep the accessory itself cool.

So far, reports about Switch 2 overheating leading to bricked machines are rare. There has been evidence of possible battery swelling, where warm temperatures can contribute to the issue. Even less taxing Switch 2 games may push the system to its limits. Some buyers aren’t taking any chances, resorting to external solutions like the Jsaux USB-C Cooling Fan USB-C.

Nintendo Support also noted that temperatures under 5°C can also harm the Switch 2. Extreme cold may cause sensitive components and plastic parts to break down. That prompted some concerned replies to Nintendo's message from residents in Northern Japan. Safe to say, it’s not advisable to haul the Switch 2 around the ski slopes.