Charles Esther
Did you pick up a Switch 2 recently, or are thinking of getting one soon?
One of the best features of Nintendo’s new console is its portability, allowing you to play games anywhere.
However, portability is less useful if the battery doesn’t last.
The Switch 2 struggles a bit with battery life right from the start.
Here’s how you can help your Switch 2’s battery stay healthier and last longer over the years.
You Can Limit Charging on the Switch 2
The Switch 2 includes a useful feature missing from the original Switch: the ability to limit charging once the battery reaches 90%.
This feature is now common in many smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Lithium-ion batteries, like those in the Switch 2, last longer when kept between 40% and 80% charge.
Letting the battery fully drain or storing it at 100% charge damages the cells faster.
Why Battery Health Matters
Over time, all batteries degrade naturally.
This means your Switch 2 will hold less charge as it ages, regardless of how you use it.
For example, most smartphones lose about 30% of their battery capacity after three years of normal use.
The Switch 2’s quoted battery life is between 2.5 and 6 hours on a single charge, so any loss affects how long you can play.
How to Enable Limited Charging on Your Switch 2
To activate this battery-saving feature, wake your Switch 2 and go to:
System Settings > System
Scroll down to find “Stop Charging Around 90%” and toggle it on.
You can also enable the battery percentage display using the toggle just above it.
Once enabled, your Switch 2 will stop charging around 90% to help prolong battery life.
Note that occasionally the battery will still charge to 100% to keep capacity readings accurate, so don’t worry if you see it at full charge sometimes.
Why You Should Enable This Setting
Limiting the charge to 90% is a small trade-off for better battery longevity.
It’s especially useful if you often keep your Switch 2 docked, where it charges continuously.
By preventing constant 100% charging, you reduce faster battery degradation.
You Can Turn Off the Limit When Needed
Unlike some smartphones, the Switch 2 does not prompt you to temporarily disable this setting.
If you want a full 100% charge—like before a long trip—you’ll need to manually turn off “Stop Charging Around 90%” in System Settings > System.
After your trip, you can turn the setting back on to protect battery health.
Use a USB-C Power Bank for Longer Playtime
If you travel frequently or play on the go, consider investing in an external USB-C power bank.
This can extend your Switch 2’s playtime without needing to charge it to 100%.
Final Thoughts on Battery Care for Switch 2
Nintendo’s inclusion of this charging limit feature is a welcome upgrade from the original Switch.
If you often leave your console docked, enabling this setting can help preserve your battery’s capacity over time.
Remember, your Switch 2 is made to be played with frequently—not kept on a charger all the time.
This simple toggle lets you protect your battery without stressing over complicated charging routines.
Just set it and enjoy your games!
