Since its debut in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has been a revolutionary force in the gaming world, offering both handheld and docked gaming modes with a rich library of games. Fast forward to October 2021, and Nintendo introduced a new variant: the Nintendo Switch OLED model. But is this shiny upgrade worth the extra cost? In this detailed comparison, we break down the key aspects of both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the regular model to help you determine which one offers better value for your gaming needs.
Design and Build Quality
On first glance, the most noticeable difference between the two models is the screen. The Switch OLED sports a larger, 7-inch display compared to the original’s 6.2-inch screen. While that might seem like a minor difference, the real upgrade lies in the panel type.
- Nintendo Switch: 6.2-inch LCD display
- Nintendo Switch OLED: 7-inch OLED display
OLED technology provides deeper blacks, richer colors, and higher contrast, making games look more vibrant and immersive during handheld play. If you often play in handheld mode, the OLED model delivers a noticeably superior visual experience.
In terms of physical build, the OLED model boasts a sturdier, more premium feel. It also includes a much-improved kickstand. The original’s tiny stand was a common complaint among fans for being wobbly and unstable. The OLED model’s wide, adjustable kickstand adds versatility and supports multiple viewing angles, making tabletop gaming much more enjoyable.
Internal Storage and Audio Enhancements
One of the most functional upgrades in the OLED model is the increase in internal storage. While the regular Nintendo Switch offers 32 GB of onboard storage, the OLED model doubles that to 64 GB. Though both support microSD card expansions, having more internal storage is always welcome for installing more games and updates without additional purchases.
Audio also gets a subtle but appreciated upgrade. The OLED model includes enhanced onboard speakers, which produce clearer and fuller sound during handheld or tabletop play. This means a more immersive gaming experience without always needing to plug in headphones.
Performance and Battery Life
Here’s where things stay fairly level between the two devices. Both the regular Switch and the OLED model share the same Nvidia custom Tegra processor. This means that:
- Game performance and loading times remain nearly identical
- Frame rates and resolution during docked and handheld play are the same
The battery life is also comparable, as both devices use the revised battery introduced with the updated regular Switch in 2019. Gamers can expect approximately 4.5 to 9 hours of battery life, depending on the intensity of the game being played.
So, if you’re looking for a device that loads games faster or offers better performance during intensive gameplay, neither of these systems has a clear advantage. Upgrades here are more visual and user-experience focused than technical.
Dock Features and Connectivity
The dock for the OLED model receives a subtle yet functional upgrade: it now includes a built-in wired LAN port. This is incredibly helpful for competitive gamers who require a stable connection during online gaming sessions. The regular Switch dock requires an additional adapter to achieve wired connectivity, which adds to your overall cost and peripherals clutter.
Visual output through the dock remains identical between both models—up to 1080p resolution when docked to a TV and 720p on the handheld screen. Despite the OLED screen’s higher visual fidelity, resolution limits are unchanged, which might be a missed opportunity for an overall gaming upgrade.
Pricing and Value
Price is one of the most significant determining factors in assessing value. As of now:
- Regular Nintendo Switch Price: Around $299.99 USD
- Nintendo Switch OLED Price: Around $349.99 USD
The $50 difference translates into a better screen, improved audio, more robust build quality, increased internal storage, and a better kickstand. Whether that’s worth it depends largely on how you plan to use the device.
When the Regular Switch is Better Value
- You’re a mostly docked player: If you game primarily on a TV with a Pro Controller, the updated screen, speakers, and kickstand are unnecessary.
- You’re on a strict budget: Saving $50 could go toward buying additional games or accessories.
- You already own a regular Switch: If you own the newer version introduced in 2019, with improved battery life, the upgrade might not be justifiable unless you’re a devoted handheld player.
When the OLED Switch is Better Value
- You play a lot in handheld or tabletop modes: The improved display and kickstand dramatically enhance these gaming experiences.
- You don’t want to deal with external storage right away: The extra internal storage saves you from needing a microSD card immediately.
- You value superior audio and display quality: Casual and hardcore gamers alike will appreciate the visual and sound improvements, even if the gameplay itself isn’t faster.
How Does It Compare to the Switch Lite?
It’s worth noting that the Nintendo Switch Lite is also an option for budget-conscious gamers. Priced around $199.99 USD, it sacrifices TV connectivity entirely and is purely a handheld device. It doesn’t feature detachable Joy-Cons, has a smaller screen (5.5 inches), and lacks features like rumble and motion controls. Compared to both the regular and OLED Switch, it’s the most affordable option, but also the most limited.
If you’re deciding between all three models, here’s a quick comparison:
- Switch Lite: Most affordable, handheld only, smallest screen
- Regular Switch: Balanced option, full feature set minus OLED enhancements
- OLED Switch: Premium experience without change in performance
Conclusion: Which One Offers Better Value?
Ultimately, value is determined by how you’re going to use the Nintendo Switch. For serious handheld players or those new to the Switch ecosystem, the OLED model offers the best experience for a modest increase in price. The enhanced screen, build quality, and storage make it a forward-thinking choice that feels future-proof without compromising on performance.
However, if you’re primarily a docked player or already own the regular Switch, the $50 jump might not provide enough benefit to justify an upgrade. The regular Switch remains a robust system with identical gameplay performance and a thriving game library, making it the better value for more casual users or those on a tighter budget.
Either way, both models are outstanding options that serve different needs. Carefully consider your play style and preferences, and you’ll end up with a device that delivers countless hours of Nintendo magic.