Switch OLED vs Original: Which Nintendo Switch Should You Buy?
Choosing a Nintendo Switch can be a tough decision, especially with two prominent models vying for your attention. The question of “switch oled vs original” often pops up for gamers looking to enter the world of Hyrule or explore the vastness of space in their favorite games.
This comparison dives deep, analyzing the key differences between the Nintendo Switch OLED Model and the original Nintendo Switch. We’ll explore everything from the screen quality and design to the internal components and overall gaming experience. Get ready to find out which console best suits your needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the Switch family, this guide will help you make an informed decision. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each console, ensuring you’re equipped to choose the perfect companion for your gaming adventures.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Switch OLED | Original |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 7-inch OLED | 6.2-inch LCD |
| Screen Resolution | 1280 x 720 | 1280 x 720 |
| Internal Storage | 64GB | 32GB |
| Docking Station | Enhanced Dock with LAN Port | Standard Dock |
| Kickstand | Wider, Adjustable | Small, Flimsy |
| Audio | Enhanced Speakers | Standard Speakers |
| Joy-Con Controllers | Same | Same |
| Battery Life | Up to 9 hours | Up to 6.5 hours |
| Weight | 0.71 lbs | 0.66 lbs |
| Color Options | White, Neon Red/Blue | Neon Red/Blue, Gray |
| CPU/GPU | Custom NVIDIA Tegra | Custom NVIDIA Tegra |
| Online Services | Nintendo Switch Online | Nintendo Switch Online |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Technology
- Switch OLED: Features a 7-inch OLED screen, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a wider viewing angle. This results in a significantly improved visual experience compared to the original. However, OLED screens are susceptible to burn-in over extended use.
- Original: Equipped with a 6.2-inch LCD screen. While functional, it lacks the color depth and contrast of the OLED. It’s less prone to burn-in, making it a more durable option for prolonged gameplay sessions.
- Winner: switch oled
Screen Size
- Switch OLED: Boasts a larger 7-inch screen, providing a more immersive experience, especially when playing in handheld mode. This makes text and UI elements easier to see.
- Original: Features a smaller 6.2-inch screen. This is still a decent size, but it feels less expansive compared to the OLED model.
- Winner: switch oled
Kickstand
- Switch OLED: Includes a wider, more stable kickstand that spans the entire width of the console. This provides a more secure and reliable tabletop gaming experience.
- Original: Has a smaller, less robust kickstand that’s prone to tipping over. This makes tabletop mode less stable.
- Winner: switch oled
Internal Storage
- Switch OLED: Offers 64GB of internal storage, double the capacity of the original model, allowing for more game downloads and content. It also has a faster storage speed.
- Original: Comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can fill up quickly, especially with digital game purchases. Requires frequent use of microSD cards.
- Winner: switch oled
Dock Features
- Switch OLED: The included dock features a built-in LAN port for more stable wired internet connections, improving online gameplay. It also has a slightly refined design.
- Original: The dock lacks a LAN port, relying solely on Wi-Fi for internet connectivity.
- Winner: switch oled
Audio Quality
- Switch OLED: The speakers have been slightly improved, offering better audio quality, especially in handheld mode.
- Original: The speakers provide adequate sound, but the audio quality isn’t as rich or clear as the OLED model.
- Winner: switch oled
Battery Life
- Switch OLED: Battery life is similar to the revised original model and is dependent on the game being played.
- Original: Battery life varies depending on the hardware revision. The original models had shorter battery life, while later revisions improved it.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Switch OLED: Typically more expensive than the original Switch, reflecting the upgraded features and components.
- Original: Generally more affordable, making it a good option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Winner: original
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Screen Quality | Switch OLED |
| Handheld Experience | Switch OLED |
| Docking Features | Switch OLED |
| Value | Original |
| Overall | Switch OLED (for most users) |
What They Have in Common
- Gaming Library: Both consoles share the same extensive library of games, including first-party titles like Zelda and Mario, as well as a wide range of third-party games.
- Joy-Con Controllers: Both the Switch OLED and the original Switch utilize the same Joy-Con controllers, allowing for versatile gameplay options, including tabletop mode and multiplayer gaming.
- Online Services: Both consoles require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for online multiplayer gaming, cloud saves, and access to a library of classic NES and SNES games.
- Game Cartridges: Both consoles use the same game cartridges, ensuring that all physical games are compatible with both the Switch OLED and the original Switch.
- Docking Capability: Both the Switch OLED and the original Switch can be docked to a TV for a larger-screen gaming experience, offering the flexibility to switch between handheld and TV modes.
Switch OLED Vs Original Buying Guide
Screen Quality
The Switch OLED boasts a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, offering richer colors, deeper blacks, and a higher contrast ratio compared to the original Switch’s 6.2-inch LCD. This results in a more immersive and visually appealing gaming experience, particularly noticeable in darker scenes and with games that utilize a wide color gamut. The OLED panel also provides wider viewing angles, allowing for better visibility even when playing with friends. The original Switch’s LCD screen, while functional, appears washed out in comparison.
Docking and TV Mode
The Switch OLED features an updated dock with a built-in LAN port, providing a more stable and faster internet connection for online gaming. This is a significant advantage for players who prioritize reliable online performance. The dock also has a slightly refined design with rounded corners. The original Switch dock lacks the LAN port, relying solely on Wi-Fi for online connectivity. Both consoles support 1080p output to a TV, but the improved screen on the OLED model makes the docked experience more visually pleasing.
Storage and Memory
The Switch OLED doubles the internal storage to 64GB, providing more space for game downloads and saves. While both consoles support microSD cards for expanded storage, the increased base capacity of the OLED is a welcome upgrade. This means less time spent managing your game library and fewer instances of needing to delete games to make room for new ones. The original Switch has 32GB of internal storage, which can fill up quickly with modern game sizes.
Audio and Sound
The Switch OLED features enhanced speakers, delivering clearer and louder audio compared to the original Switch. This improvement is noticeable whether playing in handheld mode or using the built-in speakers in the dock. The audio quality is richer, with better bass and overall clarity. While the original Switch’s speakers are adequate, the OLED model provides a more immersive audio experience, enhancing the enjoyment of games. Both consoles support headphone jacks for private listening.
Build Quality and Design
The Switch OLED has a slightly wider kickstand that is more stable and adjustable, allowing for better tabletop gaming experiences. This is a significant improvement over the original Switch’s flimsy kickstand, which often struggled to hold the console securely. The OLED model also features a sleek and modern design with a thinner bezel around the screen. The original Switch’s design is still functional, but the OLED model feels more premium and well-built, with the improved kickstand being a key factor.
Price and Value
The Switch OLED is priced slightly higher than the original Switch. However, the upgrades in screen quality, storage, and build quality justify the increased cost for many gamers. The OLED model offers a more premium experience, making it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize visual quality and improved features. The original Switch remains a good value, especially if you are on a budget or primarily play docked. Consider your needs and priorities when deciding which model offers the best value for you.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Switch OLED If…
- You want a more vibrant and immersive handheld gaming experience with a superior OLED screen.
- You desire a better built-in kickstand and improved audio quality.
- You frequently play in handheld mode and value the larger, more colorful display.
- You want the enhanced dock with a built-in LAN port for more stable online gaming.
Buy Original If…
- You are on a budget and want the most affordable option.
- You primarily play in docked mode and the screen quality difference is less important.
- You already own a Switch and don’t feel the need for an upgrade.
- You can find a good deal on a used or refurbished model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Switch OLED and the original Switch?
The primary difference is the screen. The Switch OLED has a 7-inch OLED screen, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and wider viewing angles. The original Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen. Other differences include the OLED’s updated dock with a LAN port, double the internal storage, and enhanced speakers. The OLED also has a more stable and adjustable kickstand.
Does the Switch OLED offer better performance?
No, both the Switch OLED and the original Switch have the same processing power and performance capabilities. The improvements are primarily in the display quality, storage, dock features, and build quality. Games will run at the same frame rates and resolutions on both consoles. The visual experience is enhanced on the OLED model due to the superior screen technology.
Is the Switch OLED worth the extra cost?
Whether the Switch OLED is worth the extra cost depends on your priorities. If you value a superior screen, improved audio, and a better build quality, the OLED model is a worthwhile investment. If you are on a budget or primarily play docked, the original Switch remains a great option. Consider how you play and what features are most important to you.
Can I use my existing Joy-Con controllers with the Switch OLED?
Yes, all Joy-Con controllers and other accessories are compatible with both the Switch OLED and the original Switch. You can use your existing Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controller, and other accessories without any issues. The controllers simply connect to the console or dock in the same way, regardless of the Switch model.
Does the Switch OLED have a better battery life?
The Switch OLED has a similar battery life to the updated version of the original Switch. Both consoles can provide between 4.5 to 9 hours of gameplay, depending on the game and settings. The OLED screen’s efficiency is comparable to the LCD screen in the updated original Switch model, so there is no significant difference in battery performance.
Does the Switch OLED support 4K resolution?
No, the Switch OLED does not support 4K resolution. Both the Switch OLED and the original Switch output at a maximum resolution of 1080p when docked to a TV. The main benefit of the OLED screen is the improved visual quality in handheld mode. The TV output is the same on both consoles.
What comes in the box with the Switch OLED?
The Switch OLED comes with the console itself, the Joy-Con controllers (left and right), the Joy-Con grip, the Switch dock, an AC adapter, HDMI cable, and the Joy-Con straps. The package includes everything you need to start playing, whether in handheld mode, tabletop mode, or docked mode. This is the same basic package as the original Switch.
Final Verdict
The Switch OLED offers a superior handheld experience with its vibrant screen, improved audio, and refined design. While both consoles share the same core functionality, the OLED’s enhancements make it a clear winner for those seeking a premium gaming experience, particularly in portable mode. The upgraded dock and increased storage further solidify its position as the better choice for most players.
Winner: Switch OLED