How to Use Your Elgato Webcam with Nintendo Switch 2 Video Chat

Nintendo Switch 2 introduces GameChat, a built-in system for multiplayer communication that now supports both audio and, for the first time, video. Even better, GameChat works with third-party cameras, giving players more freedom in how they connect. At Elgato, we’ve made sure nearly all our cameras are ready to go with a simple firmware update. In this guide, you’ll learn which Elgato cameras are compatible, how to set them up, and why they’re the best way to level up your GameChat experience.

Elgato offers a range of high-quality webcams designed for creators, streamers, and gamers, and we're thrilled to confirm that most of our lineup is now fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 after a firmware update.

Here's a breakdown of our compatible cameras:

• Elgato Facecam Neo: Our compact and versatile Full HD webcam, capturing 1080p at 60 fps with HDR for enhanced detail and reduced motion blur. It includes a built-in easy-slide privacy shutter, a 77° field of view, and a 1/2.9" CMOS sensor, making it ideal for on-the-go gamers or those with limited desk space. The firmware update ensures seamless integration with Nintendo Switch 2. Get Facecam Neo
• Elgato Facecam MK.2: The upgraded version of our classic Facecam, featuring crystal clear 1080p60 video, enhanced optics, improved dynamic range, and built-in privacy shutter. It boasts even better image quality with HDR support, making your GameChat sessions look vibrant and professional. The firmware update ensures full compatibility for Nintendo Switch 2 without sacrificing quality. Get Facecam MK.2
• Elgato Facecam 4K: The new addition to our premium lineup, this camera delivers true 4K60 Ultra HD video with a large Sony STARVIS 2 sensor, 49mm lens filter support, and a wide-angle f/4.0 lens for studio-quality optics. It's designed for users seeking the highest detail in their streams and calls. With the latest firmware update, it is fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 while maintaining superior image quality. Get Facecam 4K.

These cameras stand out for their build quality, reliability, and gamer-centric features. Unlike basic webcams, our cameras are engineered for long sessions, with anti-flicker technology and customizable settings that elevate your video in games like Mario Kart World or Super Mario Party Jamboree.

To make your Elgato camera work with the Nintendo Switch 2, a quick firmware update is required.

Firmware versions:

• Facecam Neo: firmware 1.79
• Facecam MK.2: firmware 2.00
• Facecam 4K: firmware 2.32

Firmware update steps:

1. Download Elgato Camera Hub: Head to the Elgato software downloads and download Camera Hub 2.1 for Windows or macOS.
2. Connect Your Camera: Plug your Elgato Facecam, Facecam MK.2, Facecam Neo, or Facecam 4K into your computer.
3. Check for Updates: Open Camera Hub. You should recieve a pop up letting you know a firmware update is available. click "Update" and follow the on-screen instructions. The process typically takes just a few minutes.
   1. If there is no pop-up, click on the camera settings icon next to the camera name to check the firmware version.
4. Connect to Switch 2: Once updated, connect your camera to the Switch 2's top USB-C port and your camera will be automatically detected, ensuring smooth performance in GameChat.

With Facecam 4K there is one more step to making it Switch 2 compatible, and that is switching it to the Switch 2 mode. We've made a Windows utility to make this easy.

Note: These steps require a Windows PC.

1. Quit Camera Hub completely. Don't just close the window, make sure the app isn't running in the background. If Camera Hub is running when you connect Facecam 4K, it will detect the camera and automatically switch it back to normal mode.
2. Download the switching tool above and save it anywhere on your PC. No installation needed.
3. Connect Facecam 4K to your Windows PC.
4. Launch the switching tool and select the option to switch to Nintendo Switch 2 mode.
5. Wait for the camera to reconnect. Facecam 4K will disconnect and reconnect once as it applies the change. This is expected.
6. Unplug Facecam 4K from your PC. Facecam 4K is now in Nintendo Switch 2 mode.
7. Connect Facecam 4K to the top USB-C port on Nintendo Switch 2. It's ready to use in GameChat.

Important: While in Nintendo Switch 2 mode, Facecam 4K won't work properly on Windows, macOS, or other operating systems. If you want to use it on your computer again, you'll need to switch it back.

Switching Facecam 4K back to normal mode

1. Connect Facecam 4K to your PC.
2. Open Camera Hub. Camera Hub will detect the camera and automatically switch it back to normal mode.

One of the biggest advantages of using an Elgato camera with the Nintendo Switch 2 is the deep customization options available through our Camera Hub software. Unlike generic cameras, Elgato lets you tweak settings and save them directly to the camera's internal memory. This means your preferred adjustments carry over seamlessly when you plug the camera into your Switch 2, not possible with any other webcams.

Here's how to optimize your setup:

1. Launch Camera Hub and Connect: With your camera plugged into your computer, open the software and select your device.
2. Adjust Key Attributes:
   1. Tone and Color Balance: Fine-tune saturation and contrast for a natural look that matches your gaming environment.
   2. Illumination and Exposure: Adjust brightness, exposure, and white balance to handle different lighting conditions—ideal for late-night GameChat sessions.
   3. Warmth and Sharpness: Set color temperature (warmth) for a flattering appearance and sharpen details for clearer video.
   4. Other Features: Enable noise reduction, anti-flicker, or even add a digital zoom for focused framing. For models like Facecam Neo and Facecam 4K, take advantage of HDR settings for even more dynamic range.
3. Save to Internal Memory: Once you're happy with the settings, hit the blue "Save" button . These changes are now stored on your camera, so when you connect to the Nintendo Switch 2, everything applies automatically.
4. UseGameChat: Disconnect from your computer, plug the camera into your Switch 2 , and launch a GameChat-enabled game. Your custom profile will shine through, making you look your best.

This level of control is a game-changer for which Elgato camera is compatible with Nintendo Switch 2, as it allows personalization that basic cameras can't match.

Elgato cameras are more than just compatible with Nintendo Switch 2—they're designed to enhance your GameChat experience with thoughtful features and reliable performance.

• Clear, Vibrant Video: Thanks to high-quality sensors and precision optics, Elgato cameras deliver sharp, natural-looking video. Whether you’re using the compact Facecam Neo with HDR or capturing every detail in 4K with Facecam 4K, your video will look clean and consistent.
• Firmware Compatibility: We've released firmware updates to make Facecam, Facecam MK.2, Facecam Neo, and Facecam 4K work seamlessly with Nintendo Switch 2. (Note: Facecam Pro is not supported.)
• Saved Settings Onboard: Use Camera Hub to adjust tone, exposure, and other image settings—then save them directly to the camera. Your preferences carry over to the Switch 2 without needing extra software.
• Designed for GameChat: Our cameras offer smooth, low-latency video that works well with Nintendo’s GameChat system, making it easy to stay connected during multiplayer matches.
• Built for Everyday Use: Elgato cameras are plug-and-play, built to handle long sessions, and include practical features like privacy shutters and versatile mounting options.
  

Whether you're chatting casually or playing competitively, an Elgato camera makes sure you look your best. And with full support for Switch 2 after a quick update, getting started is simple.