The Switch OLED is a recent, revised, and improved version of the classic Nintendo Switch. It has been on the market since 2021 and offers some specifications compared to its predecessor, but it is not revolutionary. Since October 8, 2021, a new portable console has entered the Switch range: the Switch OLED. It follows the classic Switch in a Lite version. But if we expect a more powerful version, with features that stand out completely, this is not the case. Nintendo has instead focused on design and a few improvements. So, for someone who already owns a Nintendo Switch, switching to a Switch OLED is not much of a difference if the goal is not comfort. Below, we look back at the differences between the two console models.
The screen
The screen is probably the difference in size between the two versions. This is also why the latter has “OLED” in its name. The Switch OLED is indeed equipped with a 7-inch OLED screen and a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. On the other hand, the classic Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen, but with the same definition.
In operation, the OLED Switch offers better image quality with excellent color accuracy and even higher contrast. Also, one has the impression that the improved version brings more brightness, but on the datasheet, nothing of the sort is stated. This surely comes from the white background of the OLED panel.
Size and weight
The Switch OLED is much larger than the Nintendo Switch. However, this is because concessions have been made in other parts of the console. For example, the edges of the OLED have been trimmed to keep the same height as the regular Switch version. So, even though the OLED screen is large, the Joy-Cons have remained compatible between the two.
In addition to the screen size, the recent version of the Switch is a bit longer than the first one. Also, it is a bit heavier, but it is not noticeable. The Nintendo Switch weighs 398g compared to 420g for the OLED.
The design
In terms of design, the Switch OLED is similar to the first version, but it incorporates a few changes. For example, it has a slightly wider base. Also, it is more stable in table mode. You can also adjust the viewing angle thanks to an adjustable rear support to your liking. This is a big improvement over the classic Switch which had a tiny kickstand and was really not able to support the console in table mode.
For colors, the Switch OLED benefits from another color. In addition to being available in classic colors like the Nintendo Switch, there is another bright white OLED.
The Docking Station
Both versions of the Switch each have a docking station for charging and connecting the console to the television. For this, they both have an HDMI port and two USB 2.1 ports. But the difference is that the dock of the Switch OLED is also equipped with an Ethernet port. This allows for wired internet connectivity, in addition to Wi-Fi connection, the only option available for the classic Nintendo Switch.
Technical specifications
In terms of technical specifications, the improvements do not make the Switch OLED more powerful than the classic Switch. Both versions use the same processor (Nvidia Tegra), the same amount of RAM (4 GB), and the same battery life. On the other hand, the OLED version has 64 GB of storage memory, while the classic version only has 32 GB. This therefore gives you the possibility of downloading more games available at a. If you buy a microSD, you can extend this capacity.
In addition, the OLED version offers a sound improvement thanks to its built-in speaker. In addition to the OLED display, the onboard sound quality increases the comfort of playing in portable mode. This is a big difference compared to the classic version.
So, should you ditch the Nintendo Switch for the Switch OLED?
Considering the differences between the versions of the Switch family, someone who abandons the classic Nintendo Switch for the OLED version does not benefit from an increase in power. But in terms of comfort, it is clear that this is a real evolution. On this latest console, the games benefit from a better display, which is not insignificant. The sound quality is also there and you have the possibility of having a better internet connection thanks to the Ethernet port.