Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: 1080p vs Hori's 480p Model

Hori's Nintendo Switch 2 Piranha Plant camera features a resolution of just 480p, significantly lower than the 1080p resolution of Nintendo's official Switch 2 camera. The UK My Nintendo Store has confirmed these specifications:

- Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: Video capture quality at 1080p.
- Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2: Camera resolution at 640 × 480.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 C Button & Camera Slideshow

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Hori's Piranha Plant camera, officially licensed by Nintendo, is priced lower than Nintendo's own $49.99 camera. Additionally, users can opt for the Nintendo Switch 2 camera accessory or any compatible USB-C camera for use with the Switch 2. Both cameras are set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5.

The Piranha Plant camera offers unique functionality. The part of the Piranha that contains the webcam can be detached from the pot, allowing it to be placed directly on top of the Switch 2 for increased portability, a feature not found in Nintendo's camera. Furthermore, the plant's mouth can be closed to cover the lens.

The gaming community expressed surprise at the Piranha Plant camera's low resolution. Reddit user Ramen536Pie questioned, "How do you even make a 480p camera in 2025? That must be harder to do than a 1080p camera." LizardsoftheGhost found humor in the situation, stating, "That’s actually hilarious. Maybe they meant to release this back when the Wii U came out." Meanwhile, pokemonfitness1420 wondered, "Isn't 480p a crime nowadays?"

During last week's Nintendo Direct, Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2's GameChat functionality, accessible via the C button on the new Joy-Con controllers. This feature enables players to watch each other play the same or different games and, with a camera, see each other as well. The built-in microphone is noted for its reliability across various gaming environments. The C button's chat menu is designed to be a comprehensive multiplayer feature, potentially marking Nintendo's most successful online initiative in decades.

For more on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out our coverage of everything announced during the Nintendo Direct, our interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen, and insights on how Trump's tariffs might impact the Switch 2.