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

Hori's Piranha Plant camera for the Nintendo Switch 2 boasts a modest resolution of just 480p, which is significantly lower than the 1080p resolution of Nintendo's official Switch 2 camera. This detail was confirmed by the UK My Nintendo Store, highlighting the difference in video capture quality between the two devices.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 C Button & Camera Slideshow

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Despite its lower resolution, Hori’s Piranha Plant camera, which is officially licensed by Nintendo, comes at a more affordable price point compared to Nintendo's $49.99 camera. Both cameras are set to be released alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, and users can opt for the Nintendo Switch 2 camera accessory or any compatible USB-C camera.

The Piranha Plant camera offers unique functionality: the part of the Piranha that contains the webcam can be detached from the pot, allowing for direct placement on top of the Switch 2. This feature enhances portability, something that Nintendo's camera does not offer. Additionally, the plant's mouth can be closed to obscure the lens, adding a playful element to the device.

Nintendo fans were taken aback by the news of the Piranha Plant camera's 480p resolution. "How do you even make a 480p camera in 2025?" questioned Reddit user Ramen536Pie. "That must be harder to do than a 1080p camera." LizardsoftheGhost humorously remarked, "That’s actually hilarious. Maybe they meant to release this back when the Wii U came out." Pokemonfitness1420 added, "Isn't 480p a crime nowadays?"

During the recent Nintendo Direct, Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2’s GameChat functionality, which can be activated by pressing the C button on the new Joy-Con. This feature allows players to watch each other play the same or different games and, with the aid of a camera, see each other. 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 information on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out our coverage of everything announced during the Nintendo Direct, our exclusive interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen, and insights on how Trump's tariffs might affect the Switch 2.