If you don’t have the Switch 2 Camera, there’s a way to enjoy its features without spending $55

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Summary

  • Nintendo Switch 2 owners can use smartphones for camera functions, saving money on peripherals.
  • Specific cables are needed for the smartphone trick, but can be bought for around $30.
  • The Switch 2 also supports most USB-C webcams for camera use, offering budget-friendly options.

For those who own the Nintendo Switch 2 and don’t possess the official $55 camera peripheral device, there’s an alternative method available. The new console will enable users to leverage their smartphones’ cameras for a comparable function. To make this work, users need specific cables connected to their Nintendo Switch 2 devices, but if they already have a functioning phone camera, this option offers the same effect while saving them some money.

On June 5, Nintendo released its latest console, and it appears sales are thriving for the corporation. Simultaneously, a variety of official Switch 2 accessories became accessible on the release date – items such as Joy-Cons, their attachments, carrying cases, and the device’s new external camera were among them.

For those budget-conscious Switch 2 owners, the cost of additional camera peripherals might seem steep, given that the console itself retails at $450. However, YouTube channel Will It Work? offers an affordable alternative by demonstrating how to use a smartphone as a substitute for the Switch 2 camera. The experiment was done with an iPhone, but by utilizing two readily available cables, Android devices can also replicate this experience.

How to Substitute a Smartphone for the Switch 2 Camera

To mirror the capabilities of the Switch 2 camera using a smartphone, owners will require a USB-C to HDMI cable and an HDMI capture cable. The former connects to the phone, while the latter links to the Switch 2 console. These cables are readily available online and usually cost around $30 if you don’t already own them. Additionally, it’s recommended to download a smartphone camera app that hides onscreen buttons to minimize visual obstruction. Once connected, the video demonstration reveals that the player’s screen is displayed on the Switch 2’s internal screen, albeit with a slight delay.

Absolutely, budget-conscious gamers can opt for a simpler approach: connecting a USB-C webcam to their console. Nintendo has confirmed that such devices are generally compatible with their system. However, these solutions lack the Mario-inspired style of the exclusive Switch 2 Piranha Plant camera. If you’re aiming to save money while still enjoying all the features of your console’s camera, these alternatives could be worth considering.

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2025-06-06 22:15