Is The Nintendo Switch Oled Worth It Over The Original Model Portability Vs Quality

The Nintendo Switch has redefined handheld gaming since its 2017 debut, blending home console performance with on-the-go flexibility. In 2021, Nintendo released the Switch OLED model, upgrading key components while maintaining compatibility with the same library of games. But for players already owning the original Switch or considering an entry into the ecosystem, a critical question arises: Is the Switch OLED truly worth the upgrade when weighing portability against enhanced quality?

This isn’t just about specs on paper. It’s about how those changes affect daily use—commuting, traveling, lounging on the couch, or sharing gameplay with friends. The answer depends on your priorities: Are you chasing sharper visuals and better audio, or do compact size and weight matter more when slipping the device into a bag?

Display Quality: A Clear Step Up

The most significant change in the OLED model is its 7-inch OLED screen, replacing the original’s 6.2-inch LCD. This shift delivers deeper blacks, richer contrast, and more vibrant colors. OLED technology allows individual pixels to turn off completely, resulting in true black levels rather than the grayish tint common on LCDs. For games like Celeste, Hollow Knight, or The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, this means environments feel more immersive, especially during night scenes or shadow-heavy areas.

Brightness is also improved. The OLED panel performs better in well-lit rooms or under natural light, reducing glare and making outdoor play more viable. While both models support 720p resolution in handheld mode, the OLED’s superior color accuracy and viewing angles make a tangible difference during extended sessions.

Tip: If you primarily play in handheld mode, especially in varied lighting conditions, the OLED screen alone may justify the upgrade.

Portability: Size, Weight, and Practicality

The OLED model is slightly larger and heavier than the original. It measures 9.5 x 4.1 x 0.5 inches and weighs approximately 0.88 lbs (398g) with Joy-Cons attached, compared to the original’s 9.4 x 4.0 x 0.5 inches and 0.88 lbs (391g). While the difference seems negligible, the OLED’s wider base alters how it fits in bags and feels in smaller hands.

The revised design includes a wider kickstand, which is far more stable than the flimsy plastic hinge on the original. This makes tabletop mode significantly more usable—whether on a plane tray table, kitchen counter, or picnic blanket. However, the larger screen bezels mean the overall footprint increases, potentially affecting pocketability.

For frequent travelers or parents managing devices for children, every millimeter counts. The original Switch still holds appeal for its slightly more compact form, though the trade-off in screen real estate and durability may not be worth it for many users.

“From a usability standpoint, the OLED model’s kickstand and screen improvements address two of the biggest pain points of the original Switch.” — James Chen, Senior Editor at TechPlay Review

Battery Life and Performance: Subtle but Meaningful Gains

Both the original Switch (post-2019 revision) and the OLED model feature similar battery life, ranging from 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game. Titles like The Witcher 3 or DOOM Eternal drain power faster, while indie games such as Stardew Valley can stretch closer to nine hours. There’s no significant improvement in battery capacity with the OLED version, despite rumors suggesting otherwise.

Internally, both models use the same NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor and RAM configuration. This means no performance boost in terms of frame rates or load times. Games run identically across both systems when docked or in handheld mode. The upgrade is purely experiential: better screen, better speakers, better build.

However, the OLED model includes double the internal storage—64GB versus 32GB—reducing reliance on microSD cards for users who download multiple titles. While 64GB still fills quickly with modern AAA Switch games (e.g., Monster Hunter Rise takes ~13GB), it offers breathing room for casual gamers.

Comparative Overview: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Nintendo Switch (Original)	Nintendo Switch OLED
Screen Size & Type	6.2\" LCD	7\" OLED
Resolution (Handheld)	720p	720p
Battery Life	4.5–9 hours	4.5–9 hours
Internal Storage	32GB	64GB
Audio Quality	Basic stereo	Enhanced speakers, richer sound
Kickstand	Narrow, fragile	Wide, adjustable, durable
Dock Features	No LAN port	Built-in Ethernet port
Weight (with Joy-Cons)	391g	398g
Price (MSRP at launch)	$299	$349

The inclusion of a wired LAN port in the OLED dock is a subtle but impactful upgrade for online multiplayer gamers. Instead of relying on often-unstable Wi-Fi or purchasing a separate USB-to-Ethernet adapter, users can now plug directly into their router for lower latency and consistent connections—especially valuable for competitive titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Overcooked! All You Can Eat.

Real-World Use Case: Commuter vs. Couch Gamer

Consider Sarah, a software developer who commutes 45 minutes each way on public transit. She bought the original Switch in 2018 and uses it almost exclusively in handheld mode. Over time, she noticed eye strain during evening sessions and frustration with the weak kickstand during lunch breaks. After upgrading to the OLED model, she found the screen easier on her eyes, the audio clearer without headphones, and the kickstand reliable enough to prop on her desk during short breaks.

In contrast, Mark, a college student living in a dorm, values space efficiency. He plays mostly docked through his TV but occasionally takes his Switch to a friend’s room. He finds the OLED’s size slightly cumbersome in tight spaces and doesn’t notice much difference in screen quality when playing on a large display. For him, the original model remains sufficient—and if he were buying today, he might opt for the smaller form factor unless price differences shrink.

This illustrates a core truth: the value of the OLED model scales with how much you rely on handheld and tabletop modes. If your Switch lives docked 80% of the time, the visual upgrades won’t impact your experience much. But if you’re constantly on the move or sharing gameplay locally, the enhancements compound into a noticeably better user experience.

Actionable Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

Before deciding, evaluate your current setup and usage patterns. Ask yourself the following:

• Do I play more than 50% of my games in handheld or tabletop mode? ✅
• Am I frustrated by the original’s flimsy kickstand? ✅
• Do I notice screen glare or poor contrast in bright environments? ✅
• Would double the internal storage reduce my need for an SD card? ✅
• Do I want a more stable internet connection when docked? ✅
• Is the $50 price difference within my budget? ✅

If four or more apply, the OLED model likely offers meaningful benefits. If most answers are “no,” the original Switch continues to deliver excellent value, especially if purchased secondhand or during sales.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use OLED accessories with the original Switch?

Yes. The OLED model’s Joy-Con controllers, dock, and charging accessories are fully compatible with the original Switch and vice versa. This interoperability allows users to mix and match components based on preference or availability.

Does the OLED model have better battery life?

No. Despite common misconceptions, battery life is nearly identical between the post-2019 original model and the OLED version. Both range from 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game. Battery improvements were not part of the OLED redesign.

Is the screen really that much better?

Subjectively, yes—for most users. The jump from LCD to OLED brings noticeable improvements in contrast, color depth, and viewing angles. If you’ve only used the original Switch, the difference becomes apparent immediately when switching between devices side by side.

Final Verdict: Balancing Portability and Quality

The Nintendo Switch OLED isn’t a revolutionary leap—it’s an evolution. It refines the formula established by the original with thoughtful upgrades where they matter most: screen quality, audio fidelity, and everyday usability. The wider kickstand, brighter display, and integrated LAN port solve long-standing frustrations without altering the core functionality that made the Switch a success.

Portability takes a minor hit due to increased dimensions, but the added screen real estate and sturdier build often outweigh the slight bulk. For families, commuters, students, or anyone who values flexibility, the OLED model represents the best all-around handheld experience Nintendo has offered to date.

That said, the original Switch remains a capable machine. If you’re on a tight budget, play primarily docked, or prioritize minimal size, there’s no urgent need to upgrade. But for new buyers or those ready to enhance their mobile gaming lifestyle, the OLED model delivers tangible improvements that accumulate into a more enjoyable, reliable experience over time.

💬 Have you made the switch to the OLED model? What changed your mind—or kept you loyal to the original? Share your experience and help others decide what’s right for their gaming life.