Switch Regular vs OLED: Which Nintendo Switch Should You Buy?
Are you ready to dive into the world of portable gaming with the Nintendo Switch? Choosing between the two main models can be tricky. Both offer a fantastic gaming experience, but the differences between the Nintendo Switch (Original) and the Nintendo Switch OLED might sway your decision.
This comparison aims to help you navigate the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each console. We’ll explore the key aspects that matter most to gamers, from display quality and performance to price and overall value. This will help you make the best choice for your gaming needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the Switch family, this guide will provide you with the insights you need. We’ll break down everything, comparing the Nintendo Switch (Original) with the Nintendo Switch OLED to help you choose the right console.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | switch regular | oled |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.2-inch | 7-inch |
| Screen Technology | LCD | OLED |
| Resolution | 1280 x 720 | 1280 x 720 |
| Internal Storage | 32GB | 64GB |
| Dock Included | Yes | Yes |
| LAN Port on Dock | No | Yes |
| Kickstand | Small, flimsy | Wider, more stable |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers | Improved Stereo Speakers |
| Weight | 297g (console only) | 320g (console only) |
| Color Options | Multiple | Multiple |
| Joy-Con Included | Yes | Yes |
| HDR Support | No | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Technology
- Switch Regular: Features a 6.2-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. Offers good visibility in various lighting conditions but can appear less vibrant and have noticeable bezels.
- OLED: Boasts a 7-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. Delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a higher contrast ratio, resulting in a more immersive visual experience.
- Winner: OLED
Screen Size
- Switch Regular: Has a 6.2-inch screen. This is a decent size for portability but can feel cramped for extended gameplay.
- OLED: Features a slightly larger 7-inch screen. This provides a more comfortable viewing experience, especially for those who play in handheld mode for extended periods.
- Winner: OLED
Display Quality
- Switch Regular: Uses an LCD screen, which offers decent clarity but can suffer from washed-out colors and less vibrant visuals compared to OLED.
- OLED: Utilizes OLED technology, which provides superior image quality with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. This results in a more visually appealing experience.
- Winner: OLED
Battery Life
- Switch Regular: Offers a battery life that typically ranges from 4.5 to 9 hours, depending on the game and settings. Battery life can vary significantly based on usage.
- OLED: Provides a slightly improved battery life, typically ranging from 4.5 to 9 hours, the same as the regular switch.
- Winner: Tie
Storage
- Switch Regular: Comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can fill up quickly with game downloads. Expansion via microSD card is essential.
- OLED: Includes 64GB of internal storage, providing more space for game downloads out of the box. Expansion via microSD card is still recommended for larger game libraries.
- Winner: OLED
Kickstand
- Switch Regular: Features a small, flimsy kickstand that is prone to tipping over. This makes tabletop mode less stable.
- OLED: Has a wider, more robust kickstand that runs the entire length of the console. This provides significantly better stability in tabletop mode.
- Winner: OLED
Audio
- Switch Regular: Has standard speakers that provide adequate sound quality, but can be improved upon with headphones or external speakers.
- OLED: Includes improved speakers that offer a more immersive audio experience with richer sound quality.
- Winner: OLED
Price
- Switch Regular: Generally more affordable, making it a good option for budget-conscious buyers.
- OLED: Typically more expensive due to its advanced features and enhanced display.
- Winner: switch regular
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Screen Quality | oled |
| Handheld Experience | oled |
| Internal Storage | oled |
| Kickstand | oled |
| Audio Quality | oled |
| Value | switch regular |
| Dock Features | oled |
What They Have in Common
- Gaming Library: Both consoles access the same extensive library of Nintendo Switch games, offering a wide variety of genres and titles.
- Joy-Con Controllers: Both systems utilize the versatile Joy-Con controllers, which can be used in various configurations for single-player and multiplayer gaming.
- Hybrid Design: Both the Switch and Switch OLED are designed as hybrid consoles, allowing for both handheld and docked gameplay experiences.
- Online Services: Both consoles support Nintendo Switch Online, providing access to online multiplayer, classic games, and cloud saves.
- Game Compatibility: Both consoles are fully compatible with all Nintendo Switch game cartridges and digital downloads.
- Motion Controls: Both systems feature built-in motion controls within the Joy-Con controllers, enabling unique gameplay experiences.
Switch Regular Vs OLED Buying Guide
Performance and Display
The core performance of both the Switch Regular and the OLED model is identical, relying on the same NVIDIA custom Tegra processor. This means you’ll experience the same frame rates and loading times in games. However, the display is where the OLED model truly shines. The OLED’s vibrant colors, deep blacks, and higher contrast ratio provide a significantly more immersive visual experience, especially in handheld mode. The regular Switch uses an LCD screen, which is still good, but doesn’t offer the same visual pop.
The OLED screen boasts a slightly larger 7-inch display compared to the regular Switch’s 6.2-inch screen. This subtle increase in size, combined with the superior picture quality, can make a noticeable difference when playing games, particularly those with smaller text or intricate details. Consider your primary mode of play, as the visual upgrade is most appreciated in handheld mode.
Design and Build Quality
Both consoles share a similar overall design, but the OLED model features several enhancements. The most obvious is the slimmer bezels around the screen, contributing to a more modern and premium look. The OLED model also includes a wider, more stable kickstand that spans the entire length of the console, providing a much more secure and versatile tabletop experience. The regular Switch’s kickstand is notoriously flimsy.
Build quality is generally consistent across both models, but the OLED model may feel slightly more refined due to the materials used and the refined design elements. The joy-con controllers are the same for both, so you may want to consider additional controller options for extended play. Ultimately, both consoles are built to withstand the rigors of portable gaming, but the OLED model feels more polished.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration for a portable console. The OLED model offers the same battery life as the revised version of the regular Switch, approximately 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game and brightness settings. The original regular Switch had a significantly shorter battery life. Both the OLED and the revised regular Switch offer a substantial improvement over the original model.
While the battery life is the same, the OLED model’s more efficient display might offer slightly better battery performance in certain scenarios. However, the difference is negligible. If battery life is a critical factor, ensure you’re aware of the specific game’s power consumption and manage your brightness settings to maximize playtime.
Storage and Docking
The OLED model comes with 64GB of internal storage, double the 32GB found in the regular Switch. This is a significant advantage, as game files can quickly consume storage space. You can expand the storage on both consoles using microSD cards, but the increased internal storage of the OLED model allows you to store more games without immediately needing to purchase additional storage.
The OLED model includes an updated dock with a built-in LAN port, which provides a more stable and reliable internet connection for online gaming. The regular Switch dock lacks this feature. The dock’s design has also been updated with rounded edges and a slightly more premium feel. This enhanced dock is a welcome addition, particularly for those who frequently play online.
Audio and Accessories
Both consoles share the same audio capabilities, offering stereo sound through the built-in speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, the OLED model’s speakers have been slightly enhanced, providing a richer and clearer sound experience, especially at higher volumes. You will still want to use headphones for the best experience.
Both models are compatible with the same accessories, including joy-con controllers, pro controllers, and carrying cases. The OLED model includes a slight update to the joy-con design. This means that if you already own accessories for the regular Switch, they will work seamlessly with the OLED model. Consider your accessories when making your purchase.
Price and Value
The OLED model is priced higher than the regular Switch, reflecting the upgraded screen, increased storage, and enhanced dock. The price difference should be taken into consideration when making a purchase decision. The regular Switch provides excellent value, especially if you prioritize affordability and are primarily interested in playing games on a TV.
The OLED model offers a premium experience, which is reflected in its price. Consider your gaming habits and budget to determine which model offers the best value for your needs. If you primarily play in handheld mode and appreciate a superior visual experience, the OLED model is worth the extra investment. However, if budget is a major concern, the regular Switch remains a great option.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy switch regular If…
- You’re on a budget and looking for the most affordable option.
- You primarily play in docked mode and aren’t as concerned about screen quality.
- You already own a Nintendo Switch and don’t feel the need for an upgrade.
- You want the broadest compatibility with accessories, as some older accessories may not work with the OLED model.
Buy oled If…
- You prioritize a superior handheld gaming experience with vibrant colors and deeper blacks.
- You frequently play in handheld mode and want a larger, more immersive screen.
- You value the improved built-in kickstand and enhanced audio quality.
- You want the added convenience of the wired LAN port on the dock for more stable online play.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Switch Regular and the OLED model?
The primary differences lie in the screen (OLED vs. LCD), storage (64GB vs. 32GB), the dock (LAN port in OLED), and the kickstand (improved in OLED). The OLED model features a more vibrant display, more storage, a better kickstand, and a dock with a LAN port. Performance is the same.
Does the OLED model have better performance than the regular Switch?
No. Both consoles utilize the same NVIDIA custom Tegra processor, meaning they offer identical performance in terms of frame rates and loading times. The OLED model enhances the visual experience, but it doesn’t improve the processing power or gaming performance of the console.
Is the OLED screen worth the extra cost?
That depends on your priorities. If you play primarily in handheld mode and appreciate superior visuals, the OLED screen is a significant upgrade. The vibrant colors and deep blacks offer a more immersive experience. If you mostly play on a TV, the difference is less noticeable. Consider your budget and primary mode of play.
Can I use my existing Switch accessories with the OLED model?
Yes. All existing Switch accessories, including joy-con controllers, pro controllers, carrying cases, and microSD cards, are fully compatible with the OLED model. This makes the transition easier if you already own accessories for the regular Switch, as you can continue to use them.
Does the OLED model have better battery life?
The OLED model has the same battery life as the revised version of the regular Switch, which is approximately 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game and brightness settings. The original regular Switch had a shorter battery life. The OLED screen may offer a slight efficiency improvement in some cases, but the difference is minimal.
What is the benefit of the LAN port in the OLED dock?
The built-in LAN port in the OLED model’s dock provides a more stable and reliable internet connection for online gaming compared to a Wi-Fi connection. This can reduce lag and improve the overall online gaming experience. It’s especially beneficial for competitive online play or when you need a stable connection.
Which Switch model should I buy?
It depends on your priorities and budget. If you want the best visual experience in handheld mode and don’t mind paying extra, the OLED model is a great choice. If you’re on a budget or mostly play on a TV, the regular Switch remains an excellent value. Consider your gaming habits.
Final Verdict
The Nintendo Switch OLED model offers a significant visual upgrade with its vibrant OLED screen, a refined design, and an improved dock with a LAN port. While the performance remains the same, the enhanced features make for a more premium experience, especially in handheld mode. The regular Switch remains a solid and affordable option for those prioritizing budget.
Winner: OLED Switch