Since the initial release of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, while not the first iteration of the highly-acclaimed console the OLED model is perhaps the most exciting upgrade so far, but what's different?
If you're looking to add the Nintendo Switch or OLED model to your gaming arsenal, but aren't sure whether to go for the classic model or the newly reformed version, we're here to help.
We're here to bring you the rundown of all the major differences between the two consoles and offer our two cents on which could be the best option for you.
So, with that being said, let's get straight into it!
Nintendo Switch Vs Nintendo Switch OLED Price
The Nintendo Switch is usually priced at £259.99 / $300 whereas the OLED model will set you back slightly more, coming in at £309 / $350.
But with the greater price, do you get a lot more for your money?
If you're in the UK and following our Nintendo Switch OLED stock tracker, you'll know that the new console is not always easy to come by as it still sells out very quickly.
Nintendo Switch Vs Nintendo Switch OLED Specs
| Nintendo Switch OLED | Nintendo Switch | |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 7-inch OLED, 720p, 60 Hz | 6-inch LCD, 720p, 60 Hz |
| Battery Life | 4.5 to 9 hours | 4.5 to 9 hours (2019 and later, after battery upgrade) |
| Storage | 64 GB | 32 GB |
| Weight | 422 grams | 399 grams |
| Dimensions | 9.4 x 4.0 x 0.6 inches | 9.4 x 4.0 x 0.6 inches |
| TV Dock | Yes | Yes |
| Colour(s) | Black and White / Red and Blue | Grey / Red and Blue |
When it comes to raw specs, under the hood the Nintendo Switch OLED model has the same battery life and processing power as the reformed version of the original Nintendo Switch.
However, there are some key differences, most notably, as given away from the name of the new edition, the screen is different.
The Nintendo Switch is equipped with a 6-inch LCD panel, with a 720p resolution whereas the OLED model comes with a larger 7-inch display with OLED panel technology.
OLED stands for 'Organic Light Emitting Diode' meaning that, unlike LCD, these displays do not have a backlight as each individual pixel emits its own light.
This results in greater contrast as OLED displays can turn off individual pixels which consequently means that they produce sharper and more vibrant images than other display types.
However, you're not only paying for a better screen with the OLED upgrade, but you're also getting greater storage, larger speakers and a bigger kick-stand on the back of the console.
Nintendo Switch Vs Nintendo Switch OLED Design
click to enlargeThe Nintendo Switch OLED model on the surface looks almost identical to the original console, it is even available in the classic Red/Blue colour scheme, however, there are some differences.
More often than not, you'll likely see the OLED model displayed in its new exclusive Black and White colour scheme.
As mentioned before, the screen size, kickstand and speakers are also all different and another key difference is the TV dock.
While the output is the same as the original Switch (1080p) the OLED dock now features an Ethernet (LAN) port which allows for a more stable internet connection while gaming.
Nintendo Switch Vs Nintendo Switch OLED: Which Should You Go For?
Which one to go for ultimately comes down to your individual situation, preference and requirements.
We think the additional $50 or so for the OLED Model seems to offer an excellent upgrade with the display, storage, speakers and Ethernet connectivity via the dock.
And if you're looking to mainly use your Switch as a handheld console, then we think the OLED model is a clear upgrade thanks to the aforementioned improvements.
If however, you will be mainly looking to use the console in the TV dock, then it could be worth considering the more affordable Nintendo Switch as the TV output is the same on both devices.
If you've already got a Nintendo Switch and are wondering whether you should upgrade to the OLED model, while the screen is a fantastic upgrade, spending the price of a new console plus the difference may not be worthwhile.
It could a better option to wait for the rumoured release of the Nintendo Switch Pro, although, if you don't fancy waiting, the OLED model is still certainly an upgrade.