Since its launch in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has revolutionized the world of gaming thanks to its unique hybrid design, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite games both in the comfort of home and on the go. With the ability to easily switch between TV, desktop and laptop mode, the console has managed to capture the attention of gamers of all ages and preferences.

In 2021, the Japanese company Nintendo released an improved version of its successful console: the Nintendo Switch OLED . This version looks to enhance the gaming experience and add value to the already impressive lineup of features that the original Switch offers. In this article, we'll dive into the specs of the new Nintendo Switch OLED, discuss its key features , and do a detailed comparison with the original version to determine if the investment in this new console is worth it for current and potential gamers.

Design and display

One of the highlights of the Nintendo Switch OLED is its improved design and the addition of a new screen . Next, we will delve into the differences and advantages offered by the OLED screen and how the design has been optimized to improve the gaming experience.

OLED display

The Nintendo Switch OLED features a 7-inch touchscreen with a 1280 x 720-pixel resolution, compared to the original version's 6.2-inch LCD. OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) technology is known for offering a superior viewing experience in terms of contrast, brightness and color reproduction.

This screen offers more vibrant and accurate colours, sharper contrast and deeper blacks. Image quality on the Switch OLED is noticeably superior, especially in games with dark scenes or high-contrast environments. Additionally, the OLED screen provides wider viewing angles, allowing gamers to enjoy an uncompromised gaming experience, even from off-center angles.

optimized design

The Nintendo Switch OLED has been designed to offer a more comfortable and streamlined gaming experience compared to its predecessor. Although the overall size of the console has not changed significantly, its thickness has been reduced slightly, and the screen edges have been slimmed down to accommodate the larger screen without increasing the overall dimensions of the console. These improvements make Switch OLED lighter and easier to hold during long handheld gaming sessions.

The console frame has also been redesigned with sturdier construction and higher quality materials . This not only provides a more premium feel when holding the console, but also improves durability and resistance to wear and tear during use.

In short, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers an improved visual and design experience compared to the original version. The larger, higher-quality OLED screen, coupled with a thinner and lighter design, delivers a more immersive and comfortable gaming experience for gamers in all usage modes. These improvements make the Nintendo Switch OLED an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their console or for new users looking for the best possible experience on a hybrid console.

audio quality

Sound is an essential component of the gaming experience, immersing gamers in the virtual world and allowing them to enjoy the narrative, music, and sound effects of their favorite games. The Nintendo Switch OLED has significantly improved audio quality compared to the original version, and we'll take a closer look at these improvements below.

Enhanced stereo speakers

The Nintendo Switch OLED features redesigned and improved stereo speakers that deliver clearer, richer, and more powerful sound . These new speakers offer greater audio fidelity and better reproduction of low, mid and high frequencies, resulting in more balanced and enveloping sound.

The improved audio quality is especially noticeable in handheld mode, where the built-in speakers play a crucial role in the gaming experience. Gamers can enjoy their game's music and sound effects in greater detail, allowing them to immerse themselves in the experience and gain a deeper appreciation of the developers' sound design work.

Noise and vibration reduction

The Switch OLED has also optimized the design and construction of the console to reduce noise and unwanted vibrations during use. This improvement means fewer distractions while gaming and a cleaner audio experience. Gamers can focus on the sound of their games without console vibrations or fan noise interfering with the experience.

Headphone and audio device compatibility

The Nintendo Switch OLED maintains compatibility with wired headphones via the 3.5mm port, as well as Bluetooth audio devices thanks to a software update that also made it to the original version. This allows gamers to enjoy a high-quality, personalized audio experience based on their preferences and the audio equipment they choose to use.

In short, the improved audio quality on the Nintendo Switch OLED significantly contributes to the overall gaming experience and offers gamers clearer, more powerful and immersive sound. These enhancements, combined with the OLED screen and the console's other advanced features, make the Nintendo Switch OLED a tempting option for both new users and those looking to upgrade their current console.

adjustable stand

The adjustable stand is an important feature for a hybrid console like the Nintendo Switch, as it allows gamers to enjoy their games in tabletop mode in various situations and surfaces. The Nintendo Switch OLED has significantly improved the design and functionality of the adjustable stand compared to the original version, and in this section, we'll take a look at these improvements in detail.

Stand design and stability

The adjustable stand for the Nintendo Switch OLED has been redesigned to offer greater stability and versatility. Unlike the original version's stand, which was small, narrow, and prone to wobbling, the new stand is wider, spanning almost the entire length of the rear of the console. This provides a more solid base and prevents the console from tipping or falling during gameplay, even on uneven or less stable surfaces.

angle adjustment

Another major enhancement to the Switch OLED's adjustable stand is its ability to adjust to multiple angles. The stand can be extended and placed in different positions, allowing gamers to find the optimal viewing angle based on their preference and position. This versatility is especially useful when playing in groups, as it makes it easy for multiple players to view the screen in different positions and angles.

Easy to use

The Nintendo Switch OLED Adjustable Stand has been designed with ease of use in mind. It's easy to extend and adjust, and it folds securely and flat against the back of the console when not in use. This ensures that the bracket is not accidentally damaged or snagged during transport or storage of the console.

In short, the improved adjustable stand on the Nintendo Switch OLED significantly improves the gaming experience in tabletop mode. With a more robust and versatile design, gamers can enjoy their games in a variety of situations and viewing angles, increasing comfort and enjoyment of the gaming experience. This enhancement, along with the other advanced features of the Switch OLED, makes this console an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their current console or for new users who want the best possible gaming experience on a hybrid console.

Storage and battery life

Storage and battery life are two key things gamers consider when choosing a console, especially when it comes to a hybrid console like the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch OLED has made improvements in these areas compared to the original version. In this section, we'll take a closer look at these enhancements and how they can affect your gaming experience.

Internal storage

The Nintendo Switch OLED comes with 64GB of internal storage, double the 32GB of the original version. This increased capacity allows users to save more games, downloadable content, updates, and screenshots without having to worry about running out of space.

Despite the increase in internal storage, the Switch OLED still supports microSD cards to further expand storage capacity. This is especially useful for gamers who download a large number of games or additional content, or for those who want to keep their games from the original version of the Switch.

Battery duration

Battery life is an essential aspect of the gaming experience in handheld mode. The Nintendo Switch OLED offers similar battery life to the upgraded version of the original Switch, which released in 2019. Depending on the game and usage, the battery can last between 4.5 and 9 hours , allowing gamers Enjoy your favorite games for long periods without constantly charging your console.

While battery life hasn't increased significantly compared to the upgraded version of the original Switch, it's still adequate for most handheld gaming situations. Additionally, support for USB-C power adapter and external batteries allows gamers to easily charge the console during gameplay or on the go.

In short, the Nintendo Switch OLED has improved internal storage and maintains similar battery life to the upgraded version of the original Switch. These features ensure that gamers can enjoy a large number of games and downloadable content without worrying about storage space or the need to charge the console frequently. These improvements, along with the other advanced features of the Switch OLED, make this console an attractive option for both new users and those looking to upgrade their current console.

improved docking

The dock is an essential component of the Nintendo Switch, allowing gamers to easily switch between handheld mode and TV mode. The Nintendo Switch OLED comes with an improved dock that features some improvements and additional features compared to the original version's dock. Below we will take a closer look at these enhancements and how they can affect the gameplay experience.

design and construction

The Nintendo Switch OLED dock has been redesigned with a sleeker and more streamlined look compared to the original model. Rounded edges and a matte finish give it a more modern and attractive look. Additionally, the dock features stronger construction and higher-quality materials, improving durability and stability when plugging and unplugging the console.

integrated LAN port

One of the most significant additions to the improved Nintendo Switch OLED dock is the inclusion of an integrated LAN port. This port allows gamers to connect their console directly to the Internet using an Ethernet cable for a faster and more stable connection. This is especially useful for those who play competitive online games or who require a constant, low-latency connection.

The addition of the built-in LAN port also frees up one of the dock's USB ports, since users of the original version of the Switch had to purchase a separate LAN adapter that took up one of the available USB ports.

Improved port access

The improved Nintendo Switch OLED dock also features easier and more convenient port access. The rear cover of the dock can be easily opened, revealing the HDMI, USB ports and the new LAN port. This makes connecting and disconnecting cables easier and faster, preventing potential port damage due to forced or incorrect connections.

In summary, the improved Nintendo Switch OLED dock features several improvements in terms of design, construction, and functionality compared to the original version's dock. With the addition of the built-in LAN port and easier port access, gamers can enjoy a more stable and comfortable TV mode gaming experience. These improvements, along with the other advanced features of the Switch OLED, make this console an attractive option for both new users and those looking to upgrade their current console.

Nintendo Switch OLED vs. Original Nintendo Switch

In the world of hybrid consoles, the Nintendo Switch has been a smash hit thanks to its versatility and vast library of games. With the release of the Nintendo Switch OLED, it's critical to assess how this new version compares to the original. Here's a rundown of the key differences between the two consoles, highlighting the areas where the Switch OLED enhances the gaming experience and offers additional advantages over the original version.

  • Display: The Switch OLED has a 7-inch OLED touchscreen that offers more vibrant colors, sharper contrast, and wider viewing angles, while the original version has a 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen.
  • Design and construction: The Switch OLED features a thinner and lighter design, with higher quality materials and a more robust frame compared to the original version.
  • Audio Quality: The Switch OLED features improved stereo speakers that provide higher audio fidelity and less noise and vibration compared to the original version.
  • Adjustable Stand: The Switch OLED has a wider, more versatile adjustable stand that provides greater stability in tabletop mode, while the original version has a narrower, less stable adjustable stand.
  • Storage: The OLED Switch offers 64 GB of internal storage, double the 32 GB of the original version.
  • Battery life: Both consoles have similar battery life, with the OLED Switch offering 4.5 to 9 hours, while the upgraded version of the original Switch offers similar battery life.
  • Dock: The Switch OLED dock features a built-in LAN port for a more stable and faster Internet connection, as well as improved port access. The original version dock lacks a built-in LAN port and has a less streamlined design.

These key differences make the Nintendo Switch OLED an attractive option for those looking for an enhanced gaming experience, especially in handheld mode and online.

Conclusion

Since its launch, the Nintendo Switch has revolutionized the world of gaming, offering gamers a unique hybrid experience that combines portability with the ability to play games on a big screen. The introduction of the Nintendo Switch OLED presents an updated option for those interested in purchasing a new console or upgrading their original Switch. This article has taken an in-depth look at the differences and similarities between the two models, covering things like design and display, audio quality, adjustable stand, storage and battery life, as well as the improved dock.

In short, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers a number of significant improvements over the original version. These enhancements include a larger, more vibrant OLED display, a thinner and lighter design, improved speakers, a more versatile adjustable stand, increased internal storage capacity, and a redesigned dock with an integrated LAN port. Despite these improvements, battery life and gaming performance remain similar between the Switch OLED and the upgraded variant of the original version.

The decision to choose between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original version will depend on the individual priorities and preferences of each player. Those who value an improved handheld gaming experience, higher storage capacity, and better online support can opt for the Switch OLED. On the other hand, those who are satisfied with the gaming experience provided by the original version and do not see the need for the additional improvements can keep their current console or buy the original version at a lower price.

Regardless, both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original version remain solid and viable options for gamers looking to enjoy a wide variety of games on a hybrid console. The choice between the two will depend on the needs and preferences of each user, ensuring that the gaming experience is as satisfying as possible.