Is The Nintendo Switch OLED Worth Upgrading From The Original Model Gamers Weigh In

The Nintendo Switch has redefined handheld gaming since its 2017 debut, offering a seamless blend of portable play and home console performance. In 2021, Nintendo released the Switch OLED model, touting an upgraded screen, improved audio, and enhanced dock features. For owners of the original Switch, the question remains: Is it worth upgrading? Gamers across forums, review platforms, and social media have debated this extensively. This article dives into real user experiences, hardware differences, and practical considerations to help you decide if the upgrade delivers meaningful value.

Key Differences Between Original Switch and Switch OLED

The most immediate improvements in the Switch OLED are visible — literally. While the core processing power and game compatibility remain identical, several design and usability upgrades set the new model apart. Understanding these changes is essential before deciding whether they justify the cost of upgrading.

Feature	Original Switch (2017)	Switch OLED (2021)
Screen Size	6.2 inches	7.0 inches
Display Type	IPS LCD	OLED
Battery Life	2.5–6.5 hours	4.5–9 hours
Internal Storage	32GB	64GB
Dock Features	No Ethernet port	Built-in Ethernet port
Speakers	Basic stereo	Enhanced stereo sound
Stand	Small kickstand (limited adjustability)	Wide adjustable kickstand

While none of these changes alter gameplay mechanics or graphical fidelity in games, they significantly impact comfort, convenience, and visual experience — especially during extended handheld sessions.

Visual and Audio Experience: A Gamer’s Perspective

The jump from an IPS LCD to an OLED panel is arguably the most transformative upgrade. OLED technology delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and more vibrant colors. For games like *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild*, *Hades*, or *Ori and the Will of the Wisps*, the richer visuals make environments feel more immersive.

One long-time Switch owner, Maya Tran, shared her experience after upgrading: “I didn’t think the screen would make such a difference until I played *Fire Emblem: Three Houses* again. The character portraits had so much more depth, and nighttime scenes weren’t just dark gray — they were truly black. It felt like playing on a different device.”

Audio improvements are subtler but still appreciated. The OLED model’s speakers produce clearer highs and more defined mid-tones, making dialogue and ambient soundscapes easier to distinguish without headphones. While not a replacement for quality headsets, the built-in audio is now genuinely usable for casual play.

Tip: If you frequently play in handheld mode, the OLED screen and improved speakers offer the most noticeable benefits.

Real-World Usage: When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Not every Switch owner will benefit equally from upgrading. The decision largely depends on how you use your console. Below are common scenarios where users report high satisfaction with the OLED model.

1. Frequent Handheld Players

If you primarily use your Switch in handheld mode — during commutes, travel, or lounging around the house — the larger, crisper OLED screen and longer battery life deliver tangible improvements. The wider kickstand also makes tabletop mode more stable and comfortable on uneven surfaces.

2. Limited Access to TV Setup

For those who don’t regularly connect their Switch to a TV, the enhanced dock with an Ethernet port may seem irrelevant. However, the OLED model’s superior local display compensates by offering a better standalone experience. Gamers in dorms, small apartments, or shared living spaces often find the OLED ideal for impromptu gaming sessions.

3. Collectors and Enthusiasts

Some users upgrade simply for the refined build quality and modernized design. The matte finish resists fingerprints better than the original’s glossy back, and the overall construction feels sturdier. For collectors or those who appreciate premium hardware, the aesthetic and ergonomic upgrades matter.

“Hardware evolves not just in power, but in refinement. The OLED Switch isn’t faster, but it’s more polished — and sometimes, polish is what keeps you playing.” — Derek Lin, Senior Editor at GameLifestyle Weekly

When the Upgrade Might Not Be Worth It

Despite its improvements, the Switch OLED isn’t a universal upgrade. Several factors can diminish its value proposition depending on your current setup and usage habits.

• You mostly play docked to a TV. Since the internal hardware is identical, games look and perform the same when outputting to a television. The OLED screen’s advantages are lost in docked mode.
• You own a Switch Lite. If you’re coming from the Lite, the OLED offers a full hybrid experience, which is a significant leap. But this comparison wasn’t the focus here — original Switch owners gain less relative improvement.
• You’re saving for the next-gen Switch. Industry rumors suggest a successor console may launch in the near future. If you’re anticipating major hardware upgrades, spending $350 now might feel premature.
• Your original Switch works perfectly. If your current device has good battery life and no screen issues, the functional gains may not outweigh the cost.

Mini Case Study: Alex’s Upgrade Dilemma

Alex Rodriguez, a college student and avid indie gamer, used his original Switch daily during his first two years of university. By year three, the screen had developed slight clouding, and the battery barely lasted three hours. He considered repairs but found the OLED on sale for $329. After switching, he noted: “The screen fixed my eye strain during late-night study breaks, and the longer battery means I don’t need to carry a charger everywhere. For me, it was absolutely worth it — not because it’s revolutionary, but because it solved real problems I had.”

Step-by-Step Guide: Should You Upgrade?

Making the decision doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow this logical process to evaluate your personal needs:

1. Assess your primary play mode. Track how often you play in handheld vs. docked mode over two weeks. If more than 60% is handheld, the OLED’s screen and battery are more relevant.
2. Inspect your current device. Check for screen degradation, poor battery life, or hinge wear. Physical issues increase the justification for upgrading.
3. Evaluate storage needs. Do you constantly delete games due to limited space? The OLED’s 64GB helps, though both models support microSD cards.
4. Consider your internet setup. If you rely on Wi-Fi that fluctuates, the OLED’s wired Ethernet option can stabilize online play — a boon for competitive titles like *Splatoon 3* or *Super Smash Bros. Ultimate*.
5. Review upcoming purchases. Are you buying many big-budget titles soon? Bundles with the OLED model can improve value. Conversely, if you’re nearing a potential next-gen release, waiting might be smarter.
6. Test before you invest. Visit a retail store to compare the screens side by side. Seeing the OLED’s contrast and color depth firsthand often sways decisions.

Tip: Wait for holiday sales or refurbished options. The OLED frequently drops to $300 or lower, improving cost-effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. Using the System Transfer feature in the settings, you can move all your digital games, DLC, and save files from your original Switch to the OLED. Physical cartridges work on both models interchangeably.

Does the OLED model support all original Switch accessories?

Virtually all accessories are compatible, including Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controllers, charging docks, and carrying cases. The only minor issue is that some third-party cases may not accommodate the slightly thicker OLED body or wider stand.

Is the battery really that much better?

Yes, under similar conditions. Nintendo estimates 4.5 to 9 hours for the OLED versus 2.5 to 6.5 on the original. Real-world tests show consistent gains of 1.5 to 2 hours per charge, depending on brightness and game intensity.

Checklist: Is the Switch OLED Right for You?

Before purchasing, ask yourself the following:

• ✅ Do I play in handheld mode more than 50% of the time?
• ✅ Am I frustrated with my current screen quality or battery life?
• ✅ Do I want a more stable kickstand for tabletop multiplayer?
• ✅ Would built-in Ethernet improve my online gaming stability?
• ✅ Can I get a good deal (e.g., sale, bundle, or refurbished unit)?
• ❌ Am I expecting better graphics or performance in games?
• ❌ Am I likely to replace it with a next-gen Switch within 12 months?

If you answered “yes” to most of the positive points and “no” to the final two, the upgrade is likely worthwhile.

Final Verdict: Who Benefits Most?

The Nintendo Switch OLED isn’t a generational leap, but it’s a thoughtful refinement of an already successful platform. For original Switch owners who prioritize handheld play, the upgrade offers real, day-to-day improvements in visual clarity, audio quality, battery longevity, and ergonomics.

However, if your console is docked most of the time, functions well, or you're on the verge of a next-gen transition, the investment may be harder to justify. The core gaming experience remains unchanged — no higher frame rates, no resolution boost, no new features in software.

Gamers who’ve upgraded tend to praise the subtle but cumulative enhancements. As one Reddit user put it: “It’s like getting a better pair of running shoes. Same route, same pace — but suddenly, it just feels better.”

💬 Have you upgraded to the Switch OLED? Share your experience in the comments below — your insights could help another gamer decide!