Just a few years after the release of the first Nintendo Switch, Nintendo introduced an exciting upgrade, namely, Switch OLED. This latest version, particularly recognized for its high-end display, generated interest in the ways it is different from the regular Switch.
The comprehensive guide discussing Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo OLED is worth taking a look at, especially for those who are fond of using handheld consoles for playing and looking to upgrade to a better version. Although both consoles are handheld with superb capabilities, however as the Nintendo Switch starts to show its age, OLED emerges with upgraded features and improved panel technology.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo OLED: Quick Specifications
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Nintendo OLED | |
| Price | $299.99 | $349.99 |
| Screen | 6.2 inches, LCD | 7 inches, OLED |
| Battery life | 4 to 9 hours | 4 to 9 hours |
| Resolution | 720p (handheld), 1080p (connected to TV) | 720p (handheld), 1080p (connected to TV) |
| Internal storage | 32GB (built-in) | 64GB (built-in) |
| Charging port | USB-C (cable included) | USB-C (cable included) |
| Console size | 4.02 inches tall9.41 in. wide0.55 in. thick | 4.02 inches tall9.53 in. wide0.55 in. thick |
| Console weight | About 0.66 lbs | About 0.71 lbs |
| Built-in speakers | Open-type | Closed-type |
| System-on-chip | Nvidia Tegra X1 | Nvidia Tegra X1 |
Major Comparison Categories
Listed below are the major categories that we will cover while discussing Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo OLED.
- Power
Although the OLED screen lets games appear brighter and more alive than ever before, however, the Switch console does not boost efficiency in any way. The Switch OLED has the identical NVIDIA custom Tegra processor and standard RAM on the Switch model, and there’s nothing new beneath the hood.
Since it cannot provide the potential to develop more extensive games for the upcoming console, we cannot consider it as a competitor to the previous mid-generation consoles. This means that the Switch OLED is great for playing the games available on the Switch and vice versa.
- Battery Life
While OLED screens generally consume much more energy than LCD screens, Nintendo claims that both current versions have the same battery life. According to Nintendo, they anticipate the standard Switch or OLED battery to run between 4 to 9 hours on one charge. The hours may gradually fall throughout the Switch’s lifetime and be less in games that require greater processing power.
- Display
Nintendo claims that although Switch 2 comes with a larger display, it will be less advanced than the one of the current OLED models, and will stick to LCD technology. As the model’s name implies, it has an OLED panel, which offers greater accuracy in display colors, better contrast, and overall superior image quality. It also offers a wider viewing angle compared to the LCD panel used in the traditional Switch. The OLED panel is cooler in white output, which gives it the appearance of more brightness – it’s a much cleaner image.
- Built-in kickstand
Although the original Switch has an integrated kickstand, it’s small, ranging around 10mm wide, and also not well-suited to support the console’s desktop mode. The Switch OLED is a much more powerful kickstand, since it’s not just across the back, but is adjustable to a range of angles, allowing for easier repositioning for desktop games. The MicroSD slot for cards is hidden behind the console’s kickstand.
- Design
Nintendo Switch OLED looks similar to the original Switch following its refresh in 2019 as it features removable Joy-Con controllers, the same button layout, and comes with the iconic vibrant Neon Blue and Red color scheme. Nintendo has revamped the kickstand on the Switch to make it less fragile, and also less fragile. It’s now extending across a large portion of the back of the console, which has helped keep it on its feet more solidly. The stand can also be adjusted and allows to display of different angles when playing tabletop mode.
It’s not obvious at an appearance, but Nintendo also updated and redesigned the Switch speaker system, which is known as OLED. They’re still on one side of the device and are positioned one on either side and provide superior audio quality over the original speakers. They’re a lot more punchy, and effective, and don’t distort even at full volume.
- Dock
Each console comes with a charging dock that includes television connectivity. Each console has 2 USB 2.1 ports on their sides as well as they also have an HDMI output. The main difference between regular OLED and OLED docks is the latter has internet connectivity wired – via the network port. This replaces the concealed USB socket that was on the back of the previous Switch. It is only possible to connect to the original Switch through Wi-Fi.
If docked together, the consoles will output 1080p60 or as high as 5.1 PCM stereo. It’s important to note that the dock that supports The Switch OLED is available separately and works with the previous Switch.
Which Is Better?
In light of the numerous advantages of the OLED, it is the best choice for most of the players who find it difficult to choose from. Users can buy Nintendo OLED by paying $349.99, however, the standard version can cost them $299.99. Though many players find it a little more expensive than the regular version, the larger screen, along with superior audio quality makes the extra cash worth it. If a user already owns the standard version, there’s no reason to upgrade, unless the current Switch is beyond repair.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a model that connects with your television, then probably you need to select between Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo OLED. In this comprehensive user guide, we discussed a lot of information about the two for our players who face an impossible choice between the two. Nintendo still sells and supports both models and, although they’re pretty similar in many ways, however, the OLED comes with a few major enhancements that are worth a look.
Moreover, there are not only these two choices, but the players can also find Nintendo Switch Lite released in 2019. It emerges as a solely handheld alternative, without the regular Nintendo Switch’s switchable Joy-Con controllers. Some people are drawn to its hybrid style of Switch which is an excellent alternative for those who prefer to focus on playing with a handheld.
