Hori’s Nintendo Switch 2 Piranha Plant camera offers a resolution of just 480p, which falls short of the 1080p video capture quality provided by Nintendo’s official Switch 2 camera. This information was confirmed by the UK My Nintendo Store, highlighting the stark difference in camera resolutions between the two products.
Nintendo Switch 2 Camera - Video capture quality: 1080p.
Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2 - Camera resolution: 640 × 480.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 C Button & Camera Slideshow
12 Images
Despite its lower resolution, Hori’s Piranha Plant camera, which is officially licensed by Nintendo, comes at a more affordable price than Nintendo’s own $49.99 camera. It's also important to note that users have the flexibility to use the Nintendo Switch 2 camera accessory or any compatible USB-C camera with the Switch 2. Both cameras are scheduled for release alongside the Switch 2 on June 5.
The Piranha Plant camera boasts unique features; the part housing the webcam can detach from the pot, allowing for direct placement on top of the Switch 2, enhancing its portability—a feature absent in Nintendo’s camera. Additionally, the plant's mouth can be closed to cover the lens, offering a playful and practical design element.
The revelation that Hori’s Piranha Plant camera only offers a 480p resolution shocked many Nintendo fans. On 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, commenting, "That’s actually hilarious. Maybe they meant to release this back when the Wii U came out." Another user, pokemonfitness1420, wondered, "Isn't 480p a crime nowadays?"
During last week’s 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 titles and, with the aid of 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 an all-encompassing multiplayer feature, potentially marking Nintendo's most successful online initiative in decades.
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 the latest on how Trump's tariffs might impact the Switch 2.
