Is The Nintendo Switch Oled Worth It Over The Original Model Updated Review

When Nintendo released the Switch OLED model in October 2021, it was met with cautious optimism. The original Switch had already redefined hybrid gaming, but its aging hardware—particularly the LCD screen and modest internal storage—left room for improvement. The OLED version promised upgrades: a better display, enhanced audio, improved kickstand, and more internal storage. But nearly three years later, is the upgrade still meaningful? For players deciding between models or considering an upgrade, the answer depends on usage patterns, priorities, and expectations.

This updated review evaluates the Nintendo Switch OLED against the original (and updated) model across key areas: screen quality, build design, audio, battery life, storage, and overall user experience. We’ll also examine who benefits most from the upgrade and whether the price difference justifies the improvements.

Screen Quality: The Most Noticeable Upgrade

The centerpiece of the Switch OLED is, unsurprisingly, its 7-inch OLED display. Compared to the original’s 6.2-inch LCD panel, the new screen delivers deeper blacks, richer contrast, and more vibrant colors. This isn’t a marginal enhancement—it fundamentally changes how games look in handheld mode.

OLED technology excels in dynamic range. Dark scenes in titles like Metroid Dread, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Hollow Knight: Silksong appear more immersive, with shadows that don’t wash out. Colors pop without oversaturation, and viewing angles are significantly improved. Whether you're playing on your lap or sharing the screen with a friend, the image remains clear and consistent.

Tip: If you primarily play in handheld or tabletop mode, the OLED screen alone may justify the upgrade.

In docked mode, there’s no difference—the same HDMI output applies to both models. But since many users spend considerable time in portable mode, especially during commutes or travel, this upgrade holds substantial weight.

Design and Build Improvements

Beyond the screen, the OLED model introduces subtle but impactful design refinements. The bezels are thinner, giving the device a more modern, premium feel. The revised kickstand is sturdier and adjustable, eliminating the flimsy single-position hinge of the original. It now spans the full width of the back, allowing stable placement on uneven surfaces—a major win for tabletop multiplayer sessions.

The speakers have also been upgraded. While not audiophile-grade, they deliver noticeably clearer audio with better midrange and bass response. Dialogue in RPGs like Octopath Traveler II is crisper, and ambient sounds in open-world games feel more present. For players who rely on built-in audio during short bursts of gameplay, this is a welcome step forward.

The build feels more durable overall. The matte finish resists fingerprints better than the glossy original, and the slightly heavier chassis (due to the larger battery and screen) adds perceived quality. However, the increased weight—about 50 grams more—might be noticeable during extended handheld sessions for some users.

Storage, Battery, and Performance Comparison

One practical advantage of the OLED model is its doubled internal storage: 64GB compared to the original’s 32GB. While both models support microSD cards, starting with more space reduces the immediate need for expansion. With modern game downloads often exceeding 10–20GB (e.g., Super Smash Bros. Ultimate at 14GB, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom at 18GB), the extra capacity matters.

Battery life has also seen a boost. The OLED model offers approximately 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game—on par with the “updated” original model released in 2019, which corrected early battery issues. So while the OLED doesn’t surpass the updated original in endurance, it maintains parity. Games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons can last around 5–6 hours, while less intensive titles stretch closer to nine.

Feature	Nintendo Switch OLED	Original Switch (Updated)
Screen Size & Type	7\" OLED	6.2\" LCD
Internal Storage	64GB	32GB
Battery Life	4.5–9 hours	4.5–9 hours
Kickstand	Full-width, adjustable	Narrow, fixed position
Speakers	Enhanced audio clarity	Average, tinny
Docked Mode Output	1080p	1080p
LAN Port	Yes (on dock)	No

Note one key hardware addition: the OLED dock includes a wired LAN port, enabling stable online play without USB adapters. This is critical for competitive players in games like Smash Bros. or Street Fighter, where lag can ruin matches. The original dock lacks this feature entirely.

Real-World Use: Who Benefits Most?

To assess whether the OLED is worth it, consider actual usage scenarios. Not all players will notice—or care about—every upgrade.

“We tested both models side-by-side with families, commuters, and casual gamers. The OLED’s screen and kickstand were consistently praised, but only those using handheld mode daily saw lasting value.” — TechPlay Review Panel, 2023 User Experience Study

Case Example: Sarah, a college student, uses her Switch primarily on the bus and in her dorm. She plays Fire Emblem Engage during breaks and hosts weekly Mario Kart nights with friends. After upgrading to the OLED model, she reported that the wider kickstand made multiplayer sessions far more stable, and the improved screen made reading dialogue easier in bright sunlight. The LAN port also allowed her to join online tournaments without Wi-Fi drops.

In contrast, Mark, a parent who mostly docks his Switch to a TV for family gaming, found little reason to upgrade. Since screen quality and audio enhancements don’t carry over to TV output, and he rarely uses handheld mode, the OLED offered minimal benefit despite its higher price.

Actionable Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

Use this checklist to determine if the OLED model suits your needs:

• ✅ Do you play in handheld or tabletop mode more than 50% of the time?
• ✅ Is screen clarity important for reading text or enjoying visual details?
• ✅ Have you struggled with the original kickstand breaking or slipping?
• ✅ Do you want built-in LAN for smoother online multiplayer?
• ✅ Are you frequently running out of storage on the original 32GB?
• ✅ Are you sensitive to audio quality during long play sessions?

If four or more apply, the OLED is likely worth the investment. If most answers are no, sticking with the original (especially at a lower price point) makes financial sense.

Price-to-Value Analysis

The OLED model retails for $349.99, compared to the updated original at $299.99. That $50 gap represents a 16.7% price increase. Is the added value proportional?

For frequent travelers, students, or anyone prioritizing portable comfort, yes. The combination of a superior screen, reliable kickstand, and LAN support delivers tangible daily improvements. However, budget-conscious buyers or those with a dedicated TV setup may find the original model sufficient.

Additionally, third-party accessories can partially bridge the gap. A clip-on kickstand or USB-to-LAN adapter can enhance the original Switch, though these add clutter and cost over time. The OLED integrates these features cleanly, offering a more seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my original Switch accessories with the OLED model?

Yes. All Joy-Con controllers, docks (except LAN functionality), charging cables, and cases are fully compatible with the OLED model. The form factor is nearly identical, with minor bezel adjustments.

Does the OLED model run games faster or with better performance?

No. Both models use the same NVIDIA Tegra processor. There is no difference in frame rate, load times, or graphical rendering in either docked or handheld mode. The OLED improves presentation, not processing power.

Is the OLED screen more fragile than the original?

OLED panels can be more susceptible to burn-in over very long periods, but typical Switch usage patterns make this extremely unlikely. Normal gameplay, rotating screensavers, and auto-sleep features mitigate risk. No widespread reports of screen degradation have emerged since launch.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which Model Fits You

1. Assess your primary play mode: Track how often you use the Switch docked vs. handheld over a week.
2. Evaluate current pain points: Note frustrations—e.g., broken kickstand, low storage, unstable connection.
3. Compare prices and bundles: Check retailers for deals on either model; sometimes the original comes with games or accessories.
4. Test in person if possible: Visit a store to compare screen quality side by side under natural light.
5. Consider future use: Will you travel more soon? Hosting game nights? These favor the OLED.
6. Decide based on value, not novelty: Avoid upgrading just because it’s newer—focus on actual improvements that match your habits.

Final Verdict: Is the Switch OLED Worth It?

The Nintendo Switch OLED is not a revolutionary overhaul, but a thoughtful refinement. It addresses well-documented weaknesses of the original: the mediocre screen, weak kickstand, limited storage, and lack of wired internet. For users who value portable comfort and reliability, it’s a worthy upgrade.

However, it’s not essential. The core gaming experience remains unchanged. If you already own a Switch and play mostly on a TV, upgrading offers minimal returns. But for first-time buyers or those still using the earliest models, the OLED presents the best version of the standard Switch available—short of the upcoming Switch 2 (expected 2025).

💬 Have you upgraded to the OLED model? What changed in your gaming routine? Share your experience below and help others decide what’s right for their lifestyle.