Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minutePS5 is the better version for image quality, graphics modes and consistently higher frame rates. Switch 2 is the better version if you want to play The Witcher 3 handheld or move between handheld and TV play. The native Switch 2 Remastered release is a major advance over the 2019 Switch edition, but its dynamic resolution and performance limits remain visible beside PS5. This comparison covers the Switch 2 Remastered edition launched September 29, 2026, and the PS5 Remastered version—not the older Switch 1 port.
The verdict is also time-sensitive. On October 8, 2026, CD PROJEKT RED said it was working on a Switch 2 update to bring versions closer together and improve image clarity and sharpness, without announcing a release date. Treat the technical comparison below as an October 2026 snapshot.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Switch 2 vs PS5: the decision at a glance
| What matters most to you | Better choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Highest image quality and the strongest graphics options | PS5 | It offers a 30 FPS ray-tracing mode and a 60 FPS performance mode. PS5 Pro adds ray tracing at 60 FPS and can reach up to 90 FPS with VRR. |
| Playing in bed, while travelling or away from the TV | Switch 2 | The game runs in handheld mode and can resume on a television through the dock. |
| Steady 30 FPS play on a normal 60 Hz television | Either, with different priorities | Switch 2 is capped at 30 FPS at 60 Hz; PS5 can use its 30 FPS ray-tracing mode or 60 FPS performance mode. |
| A 40 FPS option | Switch 2, conditionally | A 40 FPS cap is available only when Switch 2 is connected to a 120 Hz display, and independent testing reports dips into the 30s in demanding scenes. |
| Existing ownership and the lowest upgrade cost | Depends on what you own | Original Switch owners can claim the Switch 2 Remastered version free. Existing PS5 owners receive the PS5 upgrade; a PS4 copy does not qualify. |
Both versions include the complete Remastered package, including Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. The practical choice is therefore less about missing content and more about whether you value visual headroom or portability.
Which editions are being compared?
The Switch 2 release is a native Remastered edition that launched on September 29, 2026. It should not be judged by the original Switch Complete Edition released in 2019. CD PROJEKT RED describes the Remastered project as improving environment, non-player-character and monster textures, foliage, lighting, rendering and, on supported platforms, ray tracing. The launch announcement is available from CD PROJEKT RED, while the Switch 2 announcement is dated September 9, 2026.
#1 Best Overall
![NAMCO - CD Projekt Red - The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt - Complete Edition, Playstation 5 [English Edition]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51dWUfwFl5L._SL160_.jpg)
- 1205504
- High-quality material
- Durable
- robustness
The PS5 version is the current Remastered release for Sony’s console. PlayStation lists it as a PS5 product with 4K and HDR support, separate graphics modes and platform-specific DualSense and audio features. This is not a comparison between a current PS5 edition and an obsolete Switch build; Switch 2 receives its own upgraded release, with different technical compromises.
Graphics and image quality
What the Switch 2 Remastered edition improves
Switch 2 brings substantially richer assets than the old Switch version: denser-looking foliage, upgraded textures, improved lighting and better shading. A hands-on report from T3 describes the new release as much less blurry than the earlier port. The same report notes that fine edges can still look fuzzy in handheld mode and become clearer when the console is docked. That is an individual reviewer’s observation rather than a laboratory measurement; you should expect the handheld screen to reveal more softness than a television.
The Remastered feature list also identifies Switch 2 support for HDR, handheld VRR and platform-specific input features. HDR depends on a compatible display and does not by itself make every scene brighter or sharper. VRR can smooth changes in frame delivery on a compatible handheld or display, but it cannot turn a 30 FPS cap into a 60 FPS game.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Internal resolution is not the same as output resolution
Digital Foundry’s measurements, reported by Nintendo Life and Nintendo Everything, describe a dynamic internal resolution rather than a fixed native resolution. In docked mode, the game can render internally from 540p to 1080p and uses DLSS to target a 1080p output. In handheld mode, the reported internal range is 360p to 720p, with a 720p DLSS output target.
| Switch 2 mode | Reported dynamic internal resolution | Upscaled output target | What that means in practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Docked | 540p–1080p | 1080p with DLSS | Image quality can vary with scene complexity; the output target is not a promise of native 1080p rendering. |
| Handheld | 360p–720p | 720p with DLSS | Small-screen play is possible, but distant detail and thin edges can look softer during demanding scenes. |
The measurements come from independent Digital Foundry analysis relayed by Nintendo Life on October 4 and Nintendo Everything on October 3, 2026. They are not official CD PROJEKT RED specifications. The distinction matters: a 1080p or 720p output target describes the signal sent to the display, not a constant native render resolution.
How PS5 handles the same game
PlayStation’s product page lists 4K/HDR support and gives PS5 owners two explicit modes: Ray Tracing Mode at 30 FPS and Performance Mode at 60 FPS. The page describes the modes and capabilities supplied by PlayStation, not an independent frame-time test. A compatible HDMI 2.1 display is required for certain visual enhancements.
PS5 therefore offers a clearer high-fidelity path. You can choose ray-traced lighting and effects at a 30 FPS target, or give up that mode for a 60 FPS performance setting. The page does not justify saying that every PS5 scene is rendered natively at 4K; display output, mode and scene conditions determine what you actually see.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #2
- A fully modernized remake of the originals: Stunning HD-2D visuals fuse pixel art with 3D graphics, along with an improved and modernized UI, and other quality of life improvements make these the best versions of the games yet.
- Traditional DRAGON QUEST style battles: A refined take on the classic turn-based battle system, featuring new animations, additional improvements such as an adjustable battle speed, an auto-battle setting, and more.
- Two legendary adventures, in one package: Experience the epic origins of the DRAGON QUEST series with both DRAGON QUEST I and DRAGON QUEST II. Two games beautifully remade and bundled together in one definitive offering.
- Experience a timeless musical score: An immersive, authentic, and diverse musical composition that captures the timeless essence and magic of the DRAGON QUEST universe.
PS5 Pro expands the options
On PS5 Pro, PlayStation lists Ray Tracing Mode at 60 FPS. Its Performance Mode is also listed at 60 FPS with higher resolution, and both modes support VRR and uncapped frame rates. PlayStation says Performance Mode can reach up to 90 FPS when VRR is active. “Up to 90 FPS” is a ceiling under the listed VRR conditions, not a locked 90 FPS guarantee. If you are buying specifically for that range, you need a compatible high-refresh display as well as the Pro console.
Performance and frame-rate behavior
Switch 2: 30 FPS at 60 Hz, 40 FPS at 120 Hz
Switch 2’s frame-rate choice depends on the display refresh rate. At 60 Hz, the game is capped at 30 FPS. With a 120 Hz output, a 40 FPS cap becomes available. That 40 FPS option is not a universal 40 FPS experience: the Digital Foundry findings reported by Nintendo Life and Nintendo Everything describe drops into the 30s in demanding areas such as Novigrad and in combat involving several enemies.
The practical recommendation is straightforward. Use the 30 FPS cap if you prefer consistent delivery, especially during large fights and busy city sections. Try 40 FPS only when your display supports 120 Hz and you accept that the frame rate can fall below the cap. A 120 Hz television does not automatically make the game render at 120 FPS; it merely enables the alternate 40 FPS cap.
PS5: a more predictable high-frame-rate route
Standard PS5 offers the explicit choice between 30 FPS Ray Tracing Mode and 60 FPS Performance Mode. That gives you a stable decision between visual effects and responsiveness rather than tying the available cap to a 120 Hz output setting. PS5 Pro adds the 60 FPS ray-tracing listing and a VRR-enabled Performance Mode that can reach up to 90 FPS.
Patch 5.01 was live on PS5 on October 8, 2026, and included fixes for frame-rate-limit issues in PS5 graphics modes. The patch notice is published by CD PROJEKT RED. As with any patched game, check the installed version before drawing conclusions from older footage or launch-day reports.
Portability, docked play and display conditions
Why Switch 2 is the portable winner
Switch 2 is the only one of these versions designed to move from a television to handheld play without buying another copy or changing platforms. You can continue the same adventure docked, undock it, and use the built-in screen away from the TV. That flexibility is the strongest reason to accept its lower resolution range and less consistent frame-rate options.
Handheld play is not identical to docked play. The reported internal range falls as low as 360p in handheld mode, compared with 540p in docked mode, and T3’s hands-on account says fuzzy edges are more noticeable in the portable configuration. The smaller screen can make that compromise easier to tolerate, while players using a large television from a short viewing distance may notice it immediately.
Rank #3
- Incredibly detailed 7” scale figure based off The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Video Game
- Designed with Ultra Articulation with up to 22 moving parts for full range of posing
- Includes Geralt’s silver sword, steel sword, sheath, Griffin head trophy, Igni fire blast, and base
- Figure may vary as ultra rare Chase Figure may be received
- Showcased in The Witcher themed window box packaging
PS5 is a home-console experience
PS5 is built for a fixed television or monitor setup. It can provide a sharper, more responsive presentation and supports HDR, VRR and high-refresh features when the display and cable support them, but a standard PS5 setup does not provide native handheld play. Remote-play solutions are separate from the console edition and should not be treated as equivalent to Switch 2’s integrated portable mode.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Controls and platform-specific features
Switch 2 additions
CD PROJEKT RED lists motion controls, gyro aiming, mouse controls, touch input and Joy-Con 2 HD Rumble for the Switch 2 version. These options can change how you interact with menus, aiming and movement, but they are preferences rather than universal image or performance upgrades. Touch and mouse input are particularly useful to players who prefer direct cursor control for inventory and interface tasks; motion and gyro controls appeal to players who want fine aiming adjustments.
Switch 2 also supports handheld VRR and HDR. Those features require compatible hardware and do not remove the game’s resolution scaling or frame-rate caps.
PS5 controller and audio features
The PS5 version supports DualSense adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. PlayStation also lists Tempest 3D Audio, which requires compatible headphones. These features make the PS5 presentation more immersive for players with the appropriate accessories, but they do not substitute for the portability that Switch 2 provides.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Upgrade eligibility, edition details and storage
Original Switch owners
Owners of the original Switch game can claim the native Switch 2 Remastered version free, according to CD PROJEKT RED’s launch announcement and support FAQ. Check the account and regional store conditions shown in the official FAQ before assuming an individual cartridge or account is eligible.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →As of October 4, 2026, Nintendo Life reported that the Switch 2 Remastered release was eShop-only. An original Switch physical Complete Edition can therefore be a qualifying ownership route for the free upgrade, but it remains the older Switch version—not a physical Switch 2 Remastered cartridge. Verify the edition, region and current eligibility before buying a used copy.
Existing PS5 owners
PlayStation says existing PS5 owners receive the PS5 Remastered upgrade. A PS4 copy does not qualify for that PS5 upgrade, so owning the older-generation edition is not the same as owning the eligible PS5 license. Confirm the entitlement on the account that owns the game.
Rank #4
- Incredibly detailed 7” scale figure based off The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Video Game
- Designed with Ultra Articulation with up to 22 moving parts for full range of posing
- Geralt features his classic Viper Armor dyed teal like you can do in game
- Includes silver sword, steel sword, and base
- Showcased in The Witcher themed window box packaging
Install size
Nintendo Life reports a 55 GB install size for the Switch 2 version. Treat that as a storage-planning figure reported in 2026; updates can change the space required. The number is useful when checking available internal storage or a compatible expansion solution, but it does not indicate image quality or performance.
Patch status: why the Switch 2 verdict can change
On October 8, 2026, CD PROJEKT RED published Patch 5.01 notes stating:
“In addition to this, we are also working on an update for the Nintendo Switch 2 version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered, introducing closer parity between all versions of the game, including the same global changes as on other platforms.”
“It will also improve on some Nintendo Switch 2-specific aspects, such as image clarity and sharpness.”
The statement confirms work in progress, not a released patch or a guaranteed frame-rate target. No release date was included in the notice. If you are making a purchase decision after October 2026, check the latest version notes and independent testing because image reconstruction, sharpness and parity may change.
Which version should you buy?
Choose Switch 2 when portability is the priority
- You want a full-length open-world RPG on a handheld screen.
- You regularly switch between portable and docked play.
- You already own the original Switch version and qualify for the free native upgrade.
- You value motion, gyro, touch or mouse controls more than the highest image quality.
- You accept a 30 FPS cap at 60 Hz and possible dips from the 40 FPS cap at 120 Hz.
Choose PS5 when graphics and responsiveness come first
- You play primarily on a television or monitor.
- You want a clear 60 FPS Performance Mode on standard PS5.
- You want ray tracing at 30 FPS on standard PS5, or the PS5 Pro’s listed 60 FPS ray-tracing option.
- You have a compatible VRR or HDMI 2.1 display and want the Pro’s higher-refresh potential.
- You prefer DualSense haptics and adaptive triggers over portable play.
Use ownership to break a tie
If you own the original Switch game, first verify the free Switch 2 entitlement before paying for another copy. If you own the PS5 version, verify the free PS5 Remastered upgrade. A buyer who owns neither platform should choose based on play location first, then graphics mode: portability points to Switch 2, while a fixed-screen 60 FPS or ray-traced presentation points to PS5.
How to set realistic expectations before you play
- Identify your display. A 60 Hz screen limits Switch 2 to its 30 FPS cap; a 120 Hz screen is required for the 40 FPS option. VRR and HDR require compatible hardware.
- Decide whether you prefer clarity or smoothness. On Switch 2, use the 30 FPS cap for steadier delivery, or test 40 FPS on 120 Hz if occasional dips are acceptable. On PS5, select Ray Tracing Mode for effects or Performance Mode for 60 FPS.
- Compare the correct editions. Use the native Switch 2 Remastered build and PS5 Remastered build, not old Switch 1 footage or PS4 performance claims.
- Install current updates. PS5’s Patch 5.01 includes frame-rate-limit fixes, while the announced Switch 2 clarity/parity update may alter the portable version after its release.
- Check upgrade entitlement. Original Switch ownership can provide the Switch 2 version free; PS5 ownership can provide the PS5 upgrade, while PS4 ownership alone does not.
Bottom line: graphics or freedom to play anywhere?
PS5 remains the stronger technical showcase. Its explicit 30 FPS ray-tracing and 60 FPS performance modes—and PS5 Pro’s higher options with VRR—make it the better choice for a large-screen setup, sharper presentation and responsive combat. Switch 2 is the more versatile way to experience the same complete adventure. Its native Remastered build is far ahead of the old Switch release, supports handheld and docked play, and adds useful control options, but dynamic resolution, softer handheld detail and conditional frame-rate caps are real trade-offs. Buy Switch 2 for the freedom to play anywhere; buy PS5 for the best graphics and performance available in this comparison.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
