In the ever-evolving world of gaming, the Nintendo Switch has remained a fan favorite, combining the joys of console and handheld gaming. With the launch of the Nintendo Switch OLED model, gamers have been presented with a tough choice: stick with the tried and true original Switch or upgrade to the OLED? This comprehensive guide delves into the critical aspects of Nintendo Switch vs. OLED, providing a side-by-side comparison, focusing on key areas such as size, price, and overall features.
Nintendo Switch: The Innovative Hybrid Console
The Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, is a unique hybrid console that can seamlessly transition between handheld and docked mode for TV play. This dual-purpose console comes with a 6.2-inch LCD touch screen with a 720p resolution, providing good, but not exceptional, visual performance. Its portability and versatility, combined with an array of top-tier games, have made it a hit among gaming enthusiasts.
The Switch comes with detachable Joy-Con controllers that provide multiple gameplay options and enable multiplayer games. It has 32GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card, and a battery life that varies from 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game being played.

Nintendo Switch OLED: The Premium Experience
Introduced in 2021, the Nintendo Switch OLED model brings several upgrades to the Nintendo Switch’s existing design. The standout feature is its 7-inch OLED screen, which offers more vibrant colors and better contrast than the LCD display of the original Switch. Despite the larger screen size, the OLED model maintains the same 720p resolution when in handheld mode and 1080p when docked.
Alongside the improved display, the OLED model also features a more robust and adjustable stand for tabletop play, enhanced audio for handheld and tabletop play, and a doubled internal storage capacity of 64GB. It also retains the original’s battery life and the ability to detach Joy-Cons.
Nintendo Switch vs OLED: Size and Other Key Differences
One of the key areas of comparison between the Nintendo Switch vs. OLED is the size. The Nintendo Switch OLED model has a slightly larger form factor due to its 7-inch screen, compared to the 6.2-inch screen of the original Switch. However, this size difference does not significantly impact the overall portability of the device.
Other crucial differences between the two models include:
Screen Quality: The OLED model’s screen is not only larger but also offers superior visual performance, with richer colors and deeper blacks, thanks to the OLED technology.
Audio: The OLED model boasts improved audio for handheld and tabletop modes, providing a more immersive gaming experience.
Storage: With 64GB of internal storage, the OLED model offers double the space of the original Switch.
Stand Design: The OLED model features a wider, more adjustable stand for tabletop mode, offering greater stability than the original Switch’s small, flimsy kickstand.
Nintendo Switch vs OLED: Price Considerations
Price is always a significant factor in any tech purchasing decision. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced higher than the original Nintendo Switch, reflecting its improved features. For gamers who value a higher-quality display, improved audio, and increased storage, the additional cost may be justified. However, for those on a budget or those who primarily use their Switch docked to a TV, the original model may still be the better option.
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Conclusion
When it comes to the debate of Nintendo Switch vs. OLED, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. The Nintendo Switch OLED model offers several enhancements, such as a larger, more vibrant screen, improved audio, more storage, and a better stand, but these come at a higher price point.
The original Nintendo Switch, while lacking these upgrades, remains a versatile and highly enjoyable gaming console at a more affordable cost. The key is to consider what aspects – be it size, screen quality, price, or otherwise – matter most to you in your gaming experience.
Both the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED model deliver the innovative hybrid console experience that has made the Switch line so popular. Whether you’re an on-the-go gamer, a docked console gamer, or a mix of both, there’s a Switch model designed with your gaming needs in mind. Happy gaming!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED?
A: The main difference lies in the display and a few other upgraded features. The Nintendo Switch OLED has a 7-inch OLED screen compared to the original’s 6.2-inch LCD, resulting in richer colors and better contrast. The OLED model also offers improved audio, a sturdier and adjustable stand, and double the internal storage (64GB vs. 32GB).
Q: Can the Nintendo Switch OLED model be docked to play on a TV like the original Switch?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED model retains the hybrid design and can be docked to play games on a TV.
Q: Is there a difference in battery life between the Nintendo Switch and the OLED model?
A: No, both the Nintendo Switch and the OLED model have comparable battery lives, ranging from 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game and settings.
Q: Is the Nintendo Switch OLED model larger than the original Switch?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED model is slightly larger due to its 7-inch screen, compared to the original Switch’s 6.2-inch screen. However, this size difference does not significantly impact portability.
Q: Is the Nintendo Switch OLED more expensive than the original Nintendo Switch?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED model is priced higher than the original Nintendo Switch, reflecting its improved features.
Q: Do the Joy-Cons of the original Nintendo Switch work with the Nintendo Switch OLED?
A: Yes, the Joy-Cons are interchangeable between the two models.
Q: Can the Nintendo Switch OLED model play all the games that the original Switch can?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED model is compatible with the entire library of Nintendo Switch games.
Q: Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have better speakers than the original model?
A: Yes, the OLED model has improved audio for handheld and tabletop play, providing an enhanced audio experience.
Q: Is there a difference in weight between the Nintendo Switch and the OLED model?
A: The OLED model is slightly heavier than the original Nintendo Switch due to its larger screen and improved components.
Q: Are there different color options for the Nintendo Switch OLED model?
A: Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED model comes in different color options, including white and neon red/neon blue.