If you plan to play newer games, yes. For a patched console, there is no downside to keeping your firmware up to date. Unlike an unpatched console, where some older exploits are firmware-dependent, your patched Switch's fate is sealed by its hardware.
The "Mariko" processor in the V2 Switch was specifically designed to fix the hardware vulnerability (the RCM flaw) found in the original 2017 V1 "Erista" models. 2. Is My XKJ1 Switch Patched?
Highly advanced. You must be skilled in soldering micro-components onto the motherboard. is my switch patched xkj1 top
If you want to double-check your console manually without looking at the sticker, you can easily tell a V2 (XKJ) console apart from a V1 by its physical design and packaging:
Enjoy the console as intended by Nintendo. V2 consoles offer significantly better battery longevity and run slightly cooler than the hackable V1 models. If you plan to play newer games, yes
To be 100% certain, you need the (visible in system settings: Settings → System → Serial Information ). Use the following known-safe range:
or "Red Box" model), which was released with hardware-level security that fixed the original RCM exploit. What This Means for Modding No Softmod The "Mariko" processor in the V2 Switch was
I can’t generate a full “hackability report” for the serial number fragment because that alone isn’t enough to determine if a Nintendo Switch is patched.
: All XKJ serial numbers belong to the V2 (Mariko) hardware revision.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding what "patched" means for the Switch, how to check your serial number, and your options if you own a XKJ1 device.
This is the most practical route for many people. An unpatched original "Erista" Switch (V1) can often be found for a reasonable price on second-hand markets. Because of their status, these consoles are highly sought after by the homebrew community and can be hacked with the free, simple RCM jig method.