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

Hori's Nintendo Switch 2 Piranha Plant camera offers a resolution of just 480p, which is significantly lower than the 1080p resolution of Nintendo's official Switch 2 camera. The UK My Nintendo Store has confirmed these specifications, 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 than Nintendo's $49.99 camera. It's important to note that the Nintendo Switch 2 is compatible with both its official camera accessory and any other USB-C camera. Both cameras are set to launch alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5.

The Piranha Plant camera offers unique features, including a detachable webcam housed in the plant, which can be placed directly on top of the Switch 2 for enhanced portability—a feature not available with Nintendo's camera. Additionally, the plant's mouth can be closed to cover the lens, providing an extra layer of privacy.

The revelation that the Piranha Plant camera only offers 480p resolution has sparked a wave of reactions among Nintendo fans. 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 it amusing, stating, "That’s actually hilarious. Maybe they meant to release this back when the Wii U came out." Another user, pokemonfitness1420, humorously remarked, "Isn't 480p a crime nowadays?"

During last week's Nintendo Direct, Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2's GameChat functionality, which is 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 one another. The built-in microphone is designed to perform reliably across various gaming environments. The C button's chat menu is poised to be a comprehensive multiplayer tool, potentially marking Nintendo's most successful online initiative in years.

For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out everything announced during the Nintendo Direct, our exclusive interview with Nintendo of America's Bill Trinen, and updates on how Trump's tariffs might affect the Switch 2's pricing.