Nintendo Switch 2 Camera Review: Solid Performer, But Not Essential

For those diving into the Nintendo Switch 2’s GameChat feature, the official camera accessory offers a straightforward, plug-and-play solution. It delivers 1080p video quality and doubles as a standard PC webcam, though its value is less clear if you already own a compatible USB-C webcam. The rigid stand design also limits its usefulness during handheld play, making it best for docked console sessions.

If you plan to use GameChat regularly for online multiplayer, the Switch 2 Camera is a solid choice. While its simple look lacks the playful personality of something like the Hori Piranha Plant Camera, it’s a more capable device overall, even if it doesn’t rank among the top-tier webcams available today.

Modern webcams should really offer at least 720p resolution, with 1080p being the sweet spot. The Switch 2 Camera easily outpaces Hori’s model here, which only manages 480p. With full HD support, your video feed in GameChat, or during PC video calls, appears crisp and clear.

Pricing, however, may give some shoppers pause. At $54.99 in the US, it’s cheaper than the Hori alternative, but in the UK it’s priced higher. You’re largely paying for the official Nintendo branding, since similarly performing 1080p webcams can be found for less.

Although the camera can technically be used while the console is undocked, its fixed stand and lack of a clip or mount make it awkward for handheld mode. It’s clearly intended for TV play. The tall stem helps position the lens to capture your face comfortably from a distance, like when you’re relaxing on the sofa.

This design also supports the camera’s wide 110-degree field of view, which is broader than what many PC webcams offer. That extra width fits Nintendo’s family-oriented approach, allowing several people to appear on screen together during group gaming sessions.

You can tilt the camera vertically by about 30 to 40 degrees, which is helpful given the otherwise stationary mount. A built-in privacy shutter lets you block the lens when not in use, and you can also disable the video feed directly in GameChat settings by pressing the ‘C’ button on your controller.

In terms of performance, the 1080p video is decent, though some softness can be noticed around the edges. During GameChat, the system automatically removes your background and replaces it with a solid color that matches your profile, a nice feature that saves you from adjusting blur settings manually.

One issue that came up during testing involved the separation between myself and the new digital background. Even with a plain wall behind me, the edges looked slightly fuzzy. In one Mario Kart World session, my image occasionally flickered in and out of the frame. Results will likely vary depending on your room’s lighting and background setup.

On the plus side, setup is incredibly simple. As a first-party accessory, the camera is recognized instantly when plugged into the Switch 2’s USB-C port. The same is true on a PC, no extra drivers or software needed. It also works with a USB-A adapter if that’s your preference.

Specifications at a Glance:

• Price: $54.99 / £49.99 / AU$69.95
• Resolution: 1080p at 30fps
• Field of View: Approximately 110 degrees
• Dimensions: 6.3 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches (160 x 64 x 38 mm)
• Weight: 0.3 lbs (136 g)
• Compatibility: Nintendo Switch 2, PC, macOS

Who should buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera?

Consider buying if:

• You mainly play in docked mode. The camera’s stand and wide-angle lens work well when the console is connected to a TV.
• You want solid 1080p resolution. It’s a clear step up from 480p competitors and handles a variety of distances reasonably well.

Think twice if:

• You’re watching your budget. Similar-spec webcams are available for less and will usually work with the Switch 2.
• You frequently play in handheld mode. Without a clip or flexible mount, it’s not the most practical option for on-the-go gaming.

Alternative Option: Hori Piranha Plant Camera While its 480p video quality is a letdown, the Hori Piranha Plant Camera does offer an L-shaped mount that works better for handheld use. Its fun, themed design will also appeal to Super Mario fans.

Testing Methodology This camera was tested over one month in both GameChat multiplayer sessions on the Switch 2 and as a daily webcam for work and social calls on Discord. Testing included multiple Mario Kart World matches and experimentation with all available GameChat settings, using an AOC Gaming 24G2SP monitor during docked play.

(Source: techradar)