OLED vs. Original Switch: The Ultimate Gamer’s Guide to Nintendo’s Consoles
Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch OLED: Which One is Right for You?
The Nintendo Switch has become a household favorite, beloved for its unique hybrid design that offers both handheld and docked play. With the release of the Nintendo Switch OLED model, fans have been curious about whether the OLED version brings enough to the table to warrant an upgrade. Let’s compare both models in detail to help you decide which one is right for you!
1. Display: OLED Brings Brighter, More Vivid Colors
Original Nintendo Switch: The original Switch model has a 6.2-inch LCD screen that provides vibrant colors and clarity. While it’s excellent for casual gaming, it’s noticeable that the colors aren’t as deep, and the contrast may feel lacking, especially for darker games.
Nintendo Switch OLED: The OLED version features a 7-inch OLED screen that takes visual quality to a new level. OLED screens are known for delivering richer colors, sharper contrast, and deeper blacks, which makes game environments pop. Whether you’re exploring dark caves in Zelda or admiring the landscapes in Mario Kart, the difference in vibrancy is noticeable and adds to the immersive feel.
2. Design and Build: Sleeker and More Refined with OLED
Original Nintendo Switch: The design is solid, featuring a plastic build that’s durable but shows its wear over time. The kickstand on the original Switch is narrower and more limited, so it can sometimes feel unsteady, especially on uneven surfaces.
Nintendo Switch OLED: The OLED model has undergone some design refinements. The larger screen size with thinner bezels adds a more modern touch, and the sturdier, full-width kickstand offers multiple angles, so playing in tabletop mode feels more secure. The added weight (22g heavier than the original) is subtle but contributes to a premium feel.
3. Storage: More Room for Games on OLED
Original Nintendo Switch: The base model comes with 32GB of internal storage, which fills up quickly if you’re a fan of digital downloads. Many users quickly find themselves needing a microSD card to expand storage.
Nintendo Switch OLED: The OLED model offers a welcome upgrade in storage with 64GB internally. While not a massive jump, it’s a nice boost for those who like to keep a variety of games on their device without relying too heavily on an SD card.
4. Audio: Subtle Yet Noticeable Improvement
Original Nintendo Switch: Audio on the original Switch is clear but can feel a bit underwhelming, especially in handheld mode. In docked mode, most people rely on external speakers or headphones for a more immersive experience.
Nintendo Switch OLED: With the OLED model, Nintendo improved the onboard audio quality for handheld and tabletop modes. The speakers are more robust and deliver clearer sound, making it easier to enjoy game audio without extra accessories. It’s not a massive upgrade but enough to be noticeable for those who prefer handheld play.
5. Battery Life: Nearly the Same Across Models
Original Nintendo Switch (2019 revision): With the battery upgrade in the 2019 revision, the original Switch offers 4.5 to 9 hours of gameplay, depending on the game. It holds up well for extended play sessions but may need a recharge for longer trips.
Nintendo Switch OLED: Battery life on the OLED model is nearly identical, lasting 4.5 to 9 hours. The difference is subtle, with the OLED display being more power-efficient, but overall, they’re on par with each other in this regard.
6. Dock Differences: A New Port for OLED
Original Nintendo Switch: The original Switch dock is simple and effective, with HDMI and USB ports to support peripherals. However, it lacks an Ethernet port, which can be inconvenient for players who prefer a wired connection.
Nintendo Switch OLED: The OLED model’s dock has a slight redesign, featuring a more refined look and an added Ethernet port. This addition allows for a more stable internet connection in docked mode, reducing lag in online multiplayer games. It’s a significant improvement for competitive players.
7. Pricing: The Value of OLED’s Premium Features
Original Nintendo Switch: Typically priced lower than the OLED model, the original Switch is a more affordable option, making it a great choice for those who want the core Switch experience without the extra features.
Nintendo Switch OLED: The OLED model is about $50 more than the standard Switch. While that may not be a massive difference, it’s worth considering if you value the upgraded display and improved build quality.
Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?
For New Buyers: If you’re purchasing a Switch for the first time and want a richer visual experience with a better build, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the way to go. The larger OLED screen, better kickstand, increased storage, and enhanced sound make it a worthy investment, especially if you plan to use handheld or tabletop modes often.
For Current Switch Owners: If you already have the 2019 Switch model, upgrading depends on how much value you place on the OLED display and minor design improvements. The gameplay experience remains fundamentally the same across both versions, but if visuals are a top priority, the OLED could be worth it.
The Nintendo Switch OLED is a refinement rather than a complete overhaul, but for those who love handheld gaming, its upgrades make it feel like a premium, immersive experience!
