The Nintendo Switch has been a phenomenal success, offering a unique hybrid experience that lets you play your favorite games on your TV or on the go. In 2021, Nintendo introduced a new model to the family: the Nintendo Switch OLED. Featuring an upgraded display and other enhancements, it aims to offer an even more immersive gaming experience. But is it worth the upgrade or the higher price tag? Let’s dive into the pros and cons.

Nintendo Switch OLED

Price: $346

At launch, the Nintendo Switch OLED was priced at $349. As of April 2025, prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

Pros:

• Stunning OLED Screen: The most significant upgrade is the vibrant 7-inch OLED display. Compared to the standard Switch’s LCD screen, the OLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and a higher contrast ratio. This makes games look more immersive and visually appealing, especially in handheld and tabletop modes. Imagine the lush greens of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or the vibrant tracks of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe popping with more intensity.
• Wider Adjustable Stand: The OLED model features a much sturdier and wider kickstand that spans the entire back of the console. This allows for more flexible viewing angles in tabletop mode, making it significantly easier to play multiplayer games on the go without worrying about the console tipping over.
• Enhanced Audio: The built-in speakers on the Switch OLED have been improved, offering clearer and more immersive audio in handheld and tabletop modes. While it won’t replace a good pair of headphones, it’s a noticeable upgrade from the standard model.
• Increased Internal Storage: The OLED model doubles the internal storage to 64GB, compared to the standard Switch’s 32GB. This provides more space for downloading digital games, although a microSD card is still highly recommended for a larger game library.
• Wired LAN Port in Dock: The included dock with the OLED model now features a built-in wired LAN port. This is a welcome addition for players who prioritize a stable and low-latency internet connection for online gaming in TV mode.
• Premium Feel: The slimmer bezels around the screen and the overall design give the OLED model a slightly more premium and modern feel.

Cons:

• Higher Price: The most significant drawback is the higher price point compared to the standard Nintendo Switch. The added features might not justify the cost for all users, especially those who primarily play in docked mode.
• No Performance Upgrade: Despite the new screen and other improvements, the internal processing power and RAM remain the same as the standard Switch. This means that game performance and resolution in docked mode are identical. If you were hoping for a “Switch Pro” with better graphics, the OLED model isn’t it.
• Same Battery Life: The battery life on the OLED model is similar to the standard Switch, ranging from approximately 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game being played. While this is decent, it’s not an improvement over the original.
• Joy-Con Controllers Unchanged: The Joy-Con controllers included with the OLED model are the same as those that come with the standard Switch. They still have the potential for “drift” issues, and there are no ergonomic improvements.
• OLED Burn-in Potential (Though Unlikely in Typical Use): While generally not a significant concern for gaming consoles due to the varied content displayed, OLED screens can theoretically be susceptible to burn-in over very long periods with static elements. However, with typical Switch usage, this is highly unlikely to occur.

Who is the Nintendo Switch OLED for?

The Nintendo Switch OLED is a great option for:

• New buyers: If you’re purchasing your first Switch and prioritize the best possible handheld and tabletop experience, the OLED model is worth considering.
• Handheld enthusiasts: If you primarily play your Switch in handheld mode, the vibrant OLED screen will significantly enhance your gaming sessions.
• Tabletop gamers: The wider, adjustable stand makes multiplayer gaming on the go much more enjoyable.
• Those who value a stable online connection: The built-in LAN port is a boon for serious online players.

Who might want to stick with the standard Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite?

• Budget-conscious gamers: The standard Switch and especially the Switch Lite are more affordable options.
• Docked mode players: If you primarily play on your TV, the benefits of the OLED screen will be less noticeable, and the performance is the same.
• Those satisfied with their current Switch: If you already own a standard Switch and are happy with its screen and features, the upgrade might not be essential unless the handheld/tabletop improvements are a major draw.

In Conclusion:

The Nintendo Switch OLED offers a noticeable upgrade in terms of display quality, kickstand stability, and audio in handheld and tabletop modes. The increased storage and wired LAN port are also welcome additions. However, the higher price and lack of performance improvements mean it might not be the right choice for everyone. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the Switch OLED depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value a stunning portable screen and a more versatile tabletop experience, the OLED model is a fantastic option.

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