Nintendo Switch Oled Vs Base Model Is The Screen Upgrade Still Relevant

When Nintendo released the Switch OLED model in October 2021, it marked the first major hardware revision since the original console launched in 2017. With a larger, vibrant OLED screen, improved audio, enhanced dock features, and expanded internal storage, the upgrade seemed compelling. But nearly three years later, with both models available at retail—and the base model often discounted—it's fair to ask: is the OLED screen upgrade still relevant?

This isn't just about pixels or brightness. The decision between the base and OLED Switch affects portability, visual immersion, longevity, and overall value. For new buyers, parents shopping for kids, or longtime fans upgrading their setup, understanding the real-world differences is essential. Let’s break down every key aspect to determine whether the OLED model still holds its ground.

Display Quality: Where the OLED Shines

The most obvious upgrade in the OLED model is the 7-inch OLED screen, replacing the 6.2-inch LCD found on the base model. This change brings several tangible benefits:

• Better contrast and deeper blacks: OLED technology allows individual pixels to turn off completely, producing true black levels. This results in richer visuals, especially in darker games like Metroid Dread or Hollow Knight: Silksong.
• Improved color vibrancy: Colors appear more saturated and natural, enhancing the experience in visually rich titles such as Super Mario Odyssey or The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
• Higher brightness and visibility outdoors: While not sunlight-readable like a phone, the OLED panel performs noticeably better in well-lit rooms or near windows.

In handheld mode—the primary use case for many Switch owners—this screen difference is immediately apparent. When playing in dim lighting, the OLED model creates a more cinematic feel. However, when docked to a TV, both models output identical 1080p resolution and frame rates. The visual advantage disappears entirely in tabletop or TV mode.

Tip: If you primarily play your Switch on a TV, the screen upgrade offers no benefit. Consider saving money with the base model.

Audio and Build Improvements Beyond the Screen

Nintendo didn’t stop at the display. The OLED model includes several subtle but meaningful upgrades that enhance daily use:

• Larger kickstand: The original plastic hinge was notoriously fragile and limited in angle. The new adjustable wide-angle kickstand is sturdier and supports multiple viewing positions—ideal for tabletop multiplayer sessions.
• Enhanced speakers: Audio output is louder and clearer, with better midrange and bass response. Dialogue in RPGs and ambient sounds in adventure games are more immersive.
• Improved dock (with LAN port): The OLED version includes a built-in Ethernet port, allowing stable wired internet connections without adapters. This is crucial for online multiplayer gaming, reducing lag in titles like Smash Bros. Ultimate or Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
• 64GB internal storage: Double the base model’s 32GB. While still insufficient for large game libraries, it reduces reliance on microSD cards for casual users.

These improvements may seem minor individually, but together they significantly elevate the user experience—especially for those who frequently use the Switch in tabletop or portable mode.

“Small hardware refinements often have outsized impacts on usability. The OLED model fixes long-standing pain points from the original design.” — David Chen, Console Hardware Analyst at GameTech Insights

Performance and Battery Life: No Meaningful Difference

Despite the upgraded screen, Nintendo maintained identical internals across both models. Both use the same NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor and offer similar battery life under typical usage:

Model	Processor	Battery Life	Max Output (TV)
Base Switch (2017/2019)	Tegra X1+	2.5–6.5 hours	1080p @ 60fps
OLED Model (2021)	Tegra X1+	4.5–9 hours	1080p @ 60fps

Note that the 2019 revision of the base model already improved battery efficiency over the original 2017 version. The OLED model builds on this with slightly better optimization, offering up to 9 hours in low-intensity games like Stardew Valley or Fire Emblem: Three Houses. However, graphically demanding titles still drain power quickly on both systems.

Critically, neither model supports advanced features like variable refresh rate (VRR) or HDR. From a technical standpoint, there’s no performance advantage to choosing OLED unless you count the marginally longer battery and superior audio.

Real-World Use Case: A Parent’s Decision

Sarah, a mother of two in Austin, Texas, recently replaced her child’s aging base model Switch. She considered both options before purchasing the OLED version. Her reasoning reflects common consumer priorities:

• The larger, sturdier kickstand makes shared gameplay easier during car trips and family gatherings.
• Her son plays mostly in handheld mode, so the brighter, crisper screen enhances enjoyment.
• She values the extra storage—fewer interruptions to manage downloads on a small SD card.
• She uses the wired connection for consistent online play, avoiding Wi-Fi dropouts during tournaments.

“It cost $50 more, but it feels like a more complete package,” Sarah said. “For a device my kids use every day, durability and reliability matter more than saving a little upfront.”

This scenario highlights a key insight: the OLED model excels when portability, screen quality, and build refinement are top priorities. For families, travelers, or frequent handheld players, the upgrades add up.

Is the Screen Upgrade Still Relevant in 2024?

Yes—but only under specific conditions. The relevance of the OLED screen depends entirely on how you play.

If your Switch spends most of its time docked to a TV, the base model delivers the exact same gaming experience at a lower price point. You won’t miss the OLED screen, enhanced speakers, or wider kickstand if you rarely use handheld mode.

However, if you prioritize mobile gaming—even occasionally—the OLED model provides a consistently better experience. The screen alone makes games more engaging, while the improved build quality increases long-term durability. Given that many users report cracked bases or broken hinges on the original model, the sturdier construction is a legitimate selling point.

Additionally, consider future-proofing. As game developers continue pushing visual boundaries (e.g., Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom), having a higher-quality screen ensures you get the most out of increasingly detailed worlds. While the hardware can’t run these games any faster, seeing them in richer contrast and color depth enhances immersion.

Tip: If buying used, inspect the kickstand and screen carefully. The OLED model is less prone to hinge failure, but secondhand units may show wear.

Checklist: Which Switch Should You Buy?

Use this checklist to make an informed decision based on your habits and needs:

1. Do you play mostly on a TV? → Base model is sufficient.
2. Do you travel with your Switch or play in bed/couch? → OLED offers better screen and audio.
3. Do you host multiplayer sessions using tabletop mode? → OLED’s adjustable kickstand is a major improvement.
4. Do you rely on stable online connections? → OLED’s built-in LAN port eliminates USB adapter clutter.
5. Are you on a tight budget? → The base model often sells for $20–$50 less.
6. Do you want the longest possible lifespan? → OLED’s reinforced design suggests better durability.

If four or more answers point to OLED, the upgrade is justified. If most align with TV-based or budget-conscious use, the base model remains a smart choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the OLED model run games better than the base Switch?

No. Both models use the same processor and GPU. There is no difference in frame rate, load times, or graphical fidelity when playing the same game. Any performance gains come from software updates, not hardware.

Is the OLED screen worth $50 more?

For handheld-focused players, yes. The combination of screen quality, audio, storage, and build improvements adds tangible value. For TV-only users, no—the extra cost doesn’t translate to better gameplay.

Will the base model be discontinued soon?

As of mid-2024, Nintendo continues to manufacture and sell both models globally. There is no official indication that the base model will be phased out, likely due to demand for a lower-priced entry point into the ecosystem.

Conclusion: Match the Hardware to Your Lifestyle

The Nintendo Switch OLED vs base model debate isn’t about which is objectively “better”—it’s about alignment with your gaming lifestyle. The OLED model is a refined evolution of the original concept, addressing known weaknesses and enhancing the portable experience. Its screen is genuinely superior, and the supporting upgrades make daily use smoother and more enjoyable.

Yet, for many users, those enhancements don’t justify the premium. If your Switch lives on your entertainment center and connects to a 4K TV, you gain nothing from the OLED panel. In that context, choosing the base model is not settling—it’s being practical.

The screen upgrade remains relevant in 2024, but only for those who value handheld play, visual richness, and long-term durability. For everyone else, the base model continues to deliver the same beloved Nintendo experience at a more accessible price.

🚀 Ready to upgrade or buy your first Switch? Evaluate how—and where—you play most often. The right choice isn’t the newest model; it’s the one that fits your life.