Is The Nintendo Switch Oled Really Worth It If You Already Own The Original Model

For many gamers, the original Nintendo Switch was a revelation—a hybrid console that seamlessly transitioned from living room TV to handheld adventures. Since its 2017 launch, millions have built expansive game libraries and developed strong attachments to their devices. When Nintendo released the Switch OLED model in 2021, it wasn't a full redesign but rather a refined version: brighter screen, improved audio, better kickstand, and increased internal storage. The question remains: if you already own the original Switch, is upgrading to the OLED model truly worthwhile?

The answer isn’t universal. It depends on how you use your Switch, what kind of games you play, and whether specific improvements align with your lifestyle. For some, the OLED’s enhancements are transformative. For others, they’re merely nice-to-haves. Let’s examine the differences in detail, assess real-world impact, and help you decide whether this upgrade makes sense for you.

Key Upgrades in the Nintendo Switch OLED

The OLED model retains the same core hardware as the original—same processor, same battery life (roughly), same performance in docked and handheld modes. However, several meaningful upgrades enhance the user experience, particularly for those who primarily play in handheld or tabletop mode.

• Larger, vibrant OLED screen: 7-inch diagonal display (up from 6.2 inches) with deeper blacks, richer colors, and higher contrast.
• Improved audio: Enhanced speakers with clearer sound output during portable play.
• Better kickstand: A wide, adjustable kickstand replaces the flimsy plastic hinge of the original.
• More internal storage: 64GB (double the original’s 32GB), reducing reliance on microSD cards for smaller downloads.
• New dock design: Includes a wired LAN port for stable online play when connected to TV.
• Slightly longer battery life: Ranges from 4.5 to 9 hours depending on usage—about 30 minutes more than late-model original Switch units.

Tip: If you frequently play on the go or in tabletop mode, the OLED screen and kickstand offer tangible quality-of-life improvements.

When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Not every Switch owner will benefit equally from upgrading. Here are the scenarios where the OLED model delivers noticeable value:

1. You Play Mostly in Handheld Mode

If you commute, travel often, or prefer playing in bed or on the couch without docking, the larger, crisper OLED screen is a significant upgrade. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Metroid Dread, and Hollow Knight: Silksong benefit from enhanced visual clarity and contrast. Text is easier to read, UI elements stand out more clearly, and dark scenes in horror or atmospheric titles become far more immersive.

2. Tabletop Mode Is Your Go-To Setup

The original Switch’s narrow, single-hinge kickstand was notoriously unstable. The OLED’s wide, dual-angle kickstand allows for secure placement on tables, trays, or uneven surfaces. This makes multiplayer sessions—like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Overcooked! All You Can Eat—more enjoyable and less frustrating. No more propping up the console with books or worrying about it tipping over mid-game.

3. You Value Audio Quality

The built-in speakers on the OLED model are noticeably louder and clearer. While most players eventually use headphones, having better onboard audio enhances quick pickup-and-play moments—like playing a round of Animal Crossing: New Horizons while cooking or unwinding after work.

4. You’ve Run Out of Storage

With 64GB of internal storage, the OLED gives you breathing room. Modern AAA indie titles and first-party games can easily consume 10–20GB each. While an SD card solves this on the original model, not everyone wants to rely on external storage. The extra space reduces friction when downloading demos, updates, or digital purchases.

“Upgrading to the OLED felt like switching from standard definition to HD for my daily gaming. It didn’t change the games, but it changed how I experienced them.” — Daniel Reyes, Gaming Lifestyle Blogger

When the Upgrade Might Not Be Worth It

Despite its improvements, the OLED model doesn’t offer a generational leap. If your current setup works well, the cost of upgrading may outweigh the benefits.

1. You Primarily Play Docked

When connected to a TV, both models perform identically. The OLED screen offers no advantage here, and the new dock’s LAN port only matters if you have Wi-Fi stability issues. Unless you're frustrated by frequent lag during online matches, this feature alone rarely justifies the upgrade.

2. You’re Satisfied With Your Current Experience

If your original Switch still functions well, has adequate battery life, and meets your needs, spending $349 (MSRP) on nearly identical hardware feels hard to justify. The emotional appeal of “newer” shouldn’t override practicality.

3. You’re Waiting for a True Successor

Rumors of a “Switch 2” or next-gen successor have persisted for years. If you suspect a major overhaul is imminent, holding off might make more financial sense. Upgrading now to a slightly refined version of aging hardware could feel short-sighted in hindsight.

4. Budget Is a Concern

$350 is a significant investment, especially if you’re also buying games, accessories, or additional controllers. That money might be better spent on expanding your library or upgrading peripherals like a Pro Controller or capture card.

Tip: Consider selling your original Switch to offset the cost of the OLED. Used models still fetch $150–$200 depending on condition.

Comparison Table: Original vs. OLED Switch

Feature	Original Switch	Switch OLED
Screen Size	6.2 inches	7.0 inches
Display Type	IPS LCD	OLED
Internal Storage	32GB	64GB
Kickstand	Narrow, single hinge	Wide, adjustable
Battery Life	2.5–6.5 hrs (early), 4.5–9 hrs (revised)	4.5–9 hrs
Dock Features	No LAN port	Wired LAN port included
Audio Quality	Average speakers	Enhanced speakers
Price (MSRP)	$299 (discontinued)	$349

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah, a college student and avid gamer, bought her original Switch in 2018. She used it heavily during her commute and for weekend tabletop sessions with friends. By 2023, her battery had degraded, the screen showed minor scratches, and she constantly worried about the kickstand failing mid-match.

She considered the OLED after seeing gameplay videos showcasing the screen’s depth. After testing one at a friend’s place, she noticed immediate improvements: text in Fire Emblem: Three Houses was easier to parse, and the wider kickstand made local co-op stress-free. She sold her original Switch for $180 and purchased a refurbished OLED for $300—effectively paying $120 out of pocket.

For Sarah, the upgrade was worth it. The device fit her mobile-centric lifestyle, and the enhancements directly addressed her pain points. Her experience underscores a key principle: value isn’t about specs—it’s about alignment with your habits.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Whether to Upgrade

1. Evaluate your primary play style: Do you use handheld, tabletop, or docked mode most often? If it’s handheld or tabletop, lean toward OLED.
2. Assess your current device’s condition: Is the battery weak? Screen cracked? If so, repair or replace—but consider whether OLED fixes those issues.
3. Check your storage needs: Are you constantly managing space or using a large SD card? The extra 32GB may reduce hassle.
4. Test the OLED in person: Visit a retailer to compare screens and try the kickstand. Real-world feel trumps spec sheets.
5. Calculate true cost: Factor in resale value of your original unit and any trade-in programs.
6. Consider future plans: Are you anticipating a new console soon? If yes, delaying may be wiser.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the OLED model have better battery life?

The OLED has slightly improved battery efficiency—about 30 minutes more than the revised original model under similar conditions. However, the difference is marginal. Both offer 4.5 to 9 hours depending on game intensity and brightness settings.

Can I transfer my games and save data to the OLED?

Yes. Using the System Transfer tool in Settings, you can move all your accounts, saves, and downloaded games from one Switch to another. Note that physical cartridges work on either system, but digital licenses are tied to your Nintendo account.

Is the OLED screen worth the price difference?

Subjectively, yes—for handheld players. The jump from IPS LCD to OLED is visually striking, especially in dim environments. However, if you mostly play on TV, the screen upgrade provides no benefit, making the $50 premium harder to justify.

Final Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?

The Nintendo Switch OLED is not a necessity, but it is a refinement. It improves upon the original’s weakest aspects—screen quality, build durability, and audio—without altering the core experience. For owners deeply embedded in the Switch ecosystem, the decision boils down to personal usage patterns and pain points.

If you play frequently in handheld or tabletop mode, struggle with storage, or want a more durable, enjoyable portable experience, the OLED is a worthy upgrade. Its screen alone transforms how games look and feel. The improved kickstand and audio add polish that accumulates into a noticeably better daily experience.

However, if you’re happy with your current setup, primarily play docked, or are budget-conscious, sticking with the original—or waiting for a true next-gen console—is the smarter choice. The OLED isn’t revolutionary; it’s evolutionary.

Conclusion: Make the Upgrade Work for You

Technology upgrades should serve your lifestyle, not dictate it. The Switch OLED offers meaningful improvements, but only if they align with how you actually play. Don’t upgrade for the sake of novelty. Instead, assess your needs, test the device if possible, and make a deliberate choice.

If you do decide to move forward, consider reselling your original model to reduce net cost. And remember: the best console is the one that gets used. Whether it’s the original gray brick or the sleek OLED variant, what matters most is the joy it brings.

💬 Have you upgraded to the Switch OLED? Share your experience—was it worth it for you? Join the conversation and help fellow gamers make informed decisions.