Switch Showdown: OLED Vs. Original

Hey gamers, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of two titans in the handheld gaming world: the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Nintendo Switch (2019 model). Choosing the right Switch can be a tough call, especially with both offering a unique blend of portability and home console gaming. This article aims to break down the key differences between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the Nintendo Switch 2019, helping you decide which console best suits your gaming needs. We'll explore their displays, performance, design, and other factors so you can make an informed decision and get the best bang for your buck. Get ready to level up your knowledge!

Display: The OLED's Winning Edge

One of the most significant upgrades in the Nintendo Switch OLED is its display. The original Switch (2019) features a standard 6.2-inch LCD screen. While it's perfectly functional, the OLED model steps up the game with a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen. The difference is immediately noticeable, and it dramatically impacts the visual experience. Think of it like this: the original Switch is like watching a movie on a decent TV, while the OLED model is like upgrading to a top-of-the-line home theater. Colors pop, blacks are deeper, and the overall image quality is significantly enhanced. The OLED screen's ability to render true blacks creates a stunning contrast ratio, making games like Metroid Dread and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild look absolutely gorgeous. The OLED also offers a wider viewing angle, so you can enjoy the same great image quality even if you're not directly in front of the screen. This is a big win for those who enjoy playing in tabletop mode with friends or family. For those who prioritize the visual experience above all else, the OLED model is a clear winner in this department.

Another advantage of the OLED display is its improved energy efficiency. While both consoles have similar battery life overall, the OLED screen tends to be slightly more efficient than the LCD. This means you might squeeze a few extra minutes of playtime out of the OLED model on a single charge. It might not be a huge difference, but every little bit counts when you're on the go and want to squeeze every last drop of gaming time. The OLED's display is not just about aesthetics; it's about providing a better overall gaming experience, especially when playing in handheld mode. This is where the OLED really shines and the original Switch feels a bit dated. Ultimately, the OLED model's display is a major selling point, making games more immersive and visually stunning. This is definitely something to take into consideration when choosing between the two consoles. The impact of the display on your overall enjoyment of the games is undeniable, making the OLED a clear winner if visual quality is high on your list of priorities. The color contrast and vibrancy will make your games come to life, and enhance your gaming experience to a whole new level. This is definitely one of the main reasons why the OLED model has become so popular among gamers. The OLED's display is not just an upgrade; it is a game changer.

Design and Build Quality

While the core design philosophy of both consoles remains the same – a tablet that can be docked to a TV – there are some notable differences in design and build quality. The Nintendo Switch OLED has a slightly wider body to accommodate the larger screen, and the bezels around the display are slimmer. The most noticeable design change is the improved kickstand. The original Switch had a flimsy, small kickstand that was prone to toppling over if bumped. The OLED model features a much wider and more stable kickstand that runs the entire length of the console. This is a huge improvement, making tabletop mode a much more enjoyable experience. The build quality of the OLED model feels premium; the materials feel high-quality, and the overall construction is solid. The original Switch, while not feeling cheap, doesn't quite have the same level of refinement. The OLED model's design choices are all about improving the overall user experience. The improved kickstand, the slimmer bezels, and the more robust build quality contribute to a more enjoyable gaming experience, both in handheld and tabletop modes.

Audio Improvements

Another significant upgrade in the Nintendo Switch OLED is its enhanced audio. The speakers on the OLED model have been improved, offering better sound quality and louder volume than the original Switch. This means you can enjoy your games without headphones in noisier environments and not miss a single beat of the game’s soundtracks. The improved audio complements the visual upgrades of the OLED display, creating a more immersive gaming experience. It is a subtle but welcome enhancement that contributes to the overall premium feel of the console. Whether you’re playing in handheld mode or tabletop mode, the improved audio adds another layer of enjoyment to your gaming sessions, making the games even more captivating. The enhanced audio capabilities contribute to the OLED model's all-around improvements in enhancing the gaming experience, making it a better choice for those who want the best possible audio experience. This is especially true if you frequently play games without headphones, which is a great option in itself.

Performance and Features: Under the Hood

Both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Switch (2019) offer similar performance in terms of processing power. Both consoles run on the same custom NVIDIA Tegra processor, so you can expect similar frame rates and loading times in most games. However, the OLED model boasts a few added features that enhance the overall experience. The most notable is the upgraded internal storage. The OLED model comes with 64GB of internal storage, double the 32GB found in the original Switch. This means you can download more games and save more data without needing to rely on a microSD card. This is a welcome improvement, especially for those who prefer to download their games digitally.

The OLED model also includes a new dock with a built-in Ethernet port. This allows for a more stable and faster internet connection when playing online games while docked to your TV. The original Switch dock requires an external USB Ethernet adapter for a wired connection, which is an extra purchase. If you’re a heavy online gamer, this is a significant advantage. The Ethernet port ensures a more reliable and lag-free online experience. This is a great feature for serious gamers who do not want to sacrifice the online quality. It's a nice little addition that gives the OLED model a leg up over the original in terms of online gaming. All these features come together to create a more compelling package. While the core performance remains the same, the improved storage, enhanced dock, and other features make the OLED model a more attractive option for many gamers. The built-in Ethernet port alone might be a deciding factor for some players. Ultimately, both consoles offer a similar gaming experience in terms of raw power, but the OLED model edges ahead in terms of added features and overall convenience. In addition, the improved storage means you don't have to worry about running out of space as quickly, and the dock provides a more reliable online gaming experience.

Battery Life: A Close Match

When it comes to battery life, both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Switch (2019) offer similar performance. Nintendo has made some improvements to the efficiency of the OLED model's components, but the difference in battery life is not dramatic. You can expect to get around 4.5 to 9 hours of playtime on a single charge, depending on the game and screen brightness. The exact battery life will vary based on the game you're playing. More graphically intensive games will drain the battery faster. For example, playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will consume more battery than a simpler title. Both models offer similar performance, but it's important to remember that the OLED model's larger screen might draw slightly more power, especially at higher brightness settings. However, the overall battery life is still quite reasonable for portable gaming. Whether you choose the OLED or the original Switch, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy your favorite games on the go. The battery life is adequate for most gaming sessions, and it won't impact your decision much, as both consoles provide similar performance in terms of battery. You can expect to charge the consoles from time to time, but not very often.

Which Switch Should You Choose?

So, which console is right for you? It really depends on your priorities and budget. If you prioritize the best visual experience, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear winner. The vibrant OLED screen, improved audio, and enhanced build quality elevate the handheld gaming experience to a whole new level. The improved kickstand and added features are also significant benefits. If you want the most immersive experience, then the OLED is a solid choice. However, if you are looking to save some cash, the original Switch (2019) is still a great console. It offers the same core gaming experience at a lower price point.

If you already own a Switch (2019), upgrading to the OLED model might be worth it if you're a big handheld gamer who values visual quality. If you mostly play docked to your TV, the upgrades might not be worth the cost. Both consoles are fantastic, but the OLED model offers a more premium and refined experience. Consider your budget, your gaming habits, and your preferences when making your decision. Consider whether or not you spend a lot of time playing in handheld mode, if you do, then the OLED is the perfect choice for you. If you primarily play on your TV, then the original Switch is still a great option. Both consoles are great, but the OLED does an amazing job in the visual experience.

Comparing the Specs

Here's a quick comparison of the key specs:

Conclusion

Ultimately, both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Switch (2019) are fantastic consoles. The OLED model offers a premium experience with its stunning display, enhanced features, and build quality. The original Switch is still a great choice, offering the same core gaming experience at a more affordable price. Consider your budget, gaming habits, and preferences when making your decision, and happy gaming!