Nintendo Switch Oled Vs Original Is The Screen Upgrade Significant

When Nintendo released the Switch OLED model in 2021, it didn’t overhaul the hardware—instead, it refined the experience. The most noticeable change? The screen. But for players still using the original 2017 Switch, the question remains: is the jump to the OLED model worth it, especially when the internal specs remain unchanged? The answer lies not just in numbers, but in how those improvements affect daily gameplay, portability, and immersion.

The core appeal of the Nintendo Switch has always been its hybrid design—seamlessly transitioning from handheld to docked play. While the original model set the standard, the OLED version rethinks the handheld experience with a superior display, improved audio, and subtle ergonomic upgrades. For casual users and frequent travelers, these changes may matter more than expected. Let’s break down whether the screen upgrade alone justifies an upgrade.

Display Technology: OLED vs LCD

The original Nintendo Switch uses an IPS LCD panel measuring 6.2 inches with a 720p resolution. While serviceable, this screen often struggled with contrast, color accuracy, and visibility in bright environments. Blacks appeared grayish, and outdoor use was challenging under direct sunlight.

In contrast, the Switch OLED features a 7-inch OLED display with the same 720p resolution. Despite no increase in pixel count, OLED technology brings fundamental advantages:

• True blacks and infinite contrast: Each pixel emits its own light and can turn off completely, resulting in deeper blacks and richer image depth.
• Better color vibrancy: Colors appear more saturated and natural, particularly noticeable in lush game worlds like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
• Improved viewing angles: The OLED panel maintains clarity even when viewed from sharp side angles—ideal for multiplayer or couch co-op.
• Enhanced sunlight readability: Though not as bright as some modern smartphones, the anti-reflective coating and higher contrast improve legibility outdoors.

“OLED doesn’t just make games look better—it makes them feel more immersive. There’s a tangible difference in visual comfort during long play sessions.” — David Lin, Console Experience Analyst at GameTech Insights

Tip: If you frequently play in handheld mode, especially on commutes or outdoors, the OLED screen’s contrast and clarity offer a meaningful improvement over the original.

Comparative Analysis: Key Upgrades Beyond the Screen

While the display is the headline feature, the OLED model includes several supporting enhancements that collectively elevate the user experience. These are not revolutionary, but they address known pain points of the original model.

Feature	Original Switch	Switch OLED
Screen Size & Type	6.2\" IPS LCD	7\" OLED
Resolution	1280x720	1280x720
Storage	32GB	64GB
Audio Quality	Average speakers	Larger, enhanced speakers
Stand	Small kickstand (fragile)	Wide, adjustable kickstand
Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)	Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
Battery Life	2.5–6.5 hours	4–9 hours
Dock Features	No LAN port	LAN port on dock for stable online play

The increased internal storage (doubled to 64GB) is a practical benefit, especially considering large game downloads like Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. While both models support microSD cards, having more onboard space reduces dependency on expandable memory.

The new wide-angle kickstand is a small but impactful change. Unlike the narrow, easily broken stand on the original, the OLED’s hinge spans the full back edge, allowing stable tabletop play on uneven surfaces. It supports multiple tilt angles, making it usable on laps or airplane trays.

Real-World Impact: A Traveler’s Perspective

To understand the true value of the OLED upgrade, consider a real-world scenario:

Sarah, a university student, plays her Switch during train rides between campuses. She primarily uses handheld mode, averaging two hours of gameplay per day. With her original Switch, she often struggled with screen glare through windows and found herself adjusting brightness constantly. During long sessions, the speakers felt tinny, and the weak kickstand made multiplayer games with friends awkward.

After upgrading to the Switch OLED, Sarah noticed immediate differences. The screen was easier to see in mixed lighting, colors in Stardew Valley popped more vividly, and the built-in speakers delivered clearer sound without headphones. The new kickstand allowed her to prop the console securely on her tray table, enabling smooth co-op play with a friend via local wireless.

While battery life varied by game—just like the original—the average duration aligned with Nintendo’s updated estimates (up to 9 hours for less demanding titles). This meant fewer midday charges and greater flexibility.

This case illustrates that while the OLED doesn’t deliver new gaming capabilities, it enhances everyday usability in ways that accumulate over time.

Performance Parity: No Internal Hardware Upgrade

One critical point often misunderstood: the Switch OLED does not include a faster processor, GPU, or RAM upgrade. It runs the same NVIDIA Tegra X1 chip as the original (revised v2 model post-2019), meaning identical frame rates, loading times, and graphical performance in both docked and handheld modes.

Games do not run at higher resolutions or with improved textures simply because of the OLED screen. Any visual enhancement comes purely from the display’s ability to render existing pixels more effectively—not from additional detail or processing power.

This means if your primary use case is docked TV play, the benefits are minimal. When connected to a high-quality 1080p or 4K TV, the difference between the original and OLED models disappears entirely. The TV handles the visuals, so the handheld screen becomes irrelevant.

Tip: If you almost exclusively play docked, keep your original Switch. The OLED upgrade offers little return on investment in this setup.

Step-by-Step: Should You Upgrade?

Deciding whether to move from the original Switch to the OLED model depends on your usage patterns. Follow this decision framework:

1. Evaluate your primary play mode: Do you mostly play handheld, tabletop, or docked? Handheld users gain the most from the OLED screen and speakers.
2. Assess screen importance: Are you sensitive to color quality, contrast, or outdoor visibility? If yes, OLED delivers a noticeable leap.
3. Check storage needs: Are you constantly managing space with microSD swaps? The extra 32GB helps, but isn’t a standalone reason to upgrade.
4. Consider durability: The new kickstand and slightly sturdier build reduce wear risks during travel.
5. Calculate cost vs. benefit: At a $50 premium (MSRP $349 vs $299), ask whether the cumulative improvements justify the price for your habits.

If you’re buying your first Switch, the OLED is the clear recommendation. But for existing owners, the upgrade must be weighed against diminishing returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you notice the OLED difference in everyday games?

Yes, especially in darker scenes or games with rich color palettes. The contrast makes shadows deeper and highlights more dynamic. In titles like Metroid Dread or Hollow Knight: Silksong, atmosphere is significantly enhanced.

Does the OLED model have better battery life?

Yes, similar to the revised original Switch (post-2019), the OLED offers 4–9 hours depending on the game. It’s not due to a larger battery alone, but optimized power management. Demanding games like The Witcher 3 still cap around 3–4 hours.

Is the OLED screen more scratch-resistant?

It has a similar surface coating to the original. Neither model includes gorilla glass or robust scratch protection. Using a screen protector is highly recommended for both versions.

Actionable Checklist: Maximizing Your Switch Experience

Whether you stick with the original or upgrade to OLED, follow these best practices:

• ✅ Use a tempered glass screen protector to prevent scratches
• ✅ Invest in a carrying case with padding and card slots
• ✅ Enable Auto-Sleep mode to preserve battery during breaks
• ✅ Regularly clean the screen with a microfiber cloth (no liquids directly applied)
• ✅ Keep system software updated for stability and security
• ✅ Pair Bluetooth headphones for private, high-quality audio
• ✅ Label your Joy-Cons if sharing with another Switch to avoid mix-ups

Conclusion: A Refined Experience Worth Considering

The Nintendo Switch OLED doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it. The screen upgrade is significant—not because it adds new functionality, but because it improves the core experience of playing in handheld mode. For those who value visual fidelity, comfort, and durability during mobile play, the OLED model delivers tangible benefits.

However, for primarily docked users or those satisfied with their current setup, the upgrade may feel unnecessary. The heart of the system—the games, compatibility, and hybrid concept—remains unchanged. What evolves is the quality of interaction: sharper visuals, better sound, smarter ergonomics.

If you're purchasing your first Switch, go for the OLED. It's the definitive version of the hardware today. If you already own the original, only upgrade if you prioritize handheld play and notice screen limitations in your current use. The difference is real, but context-dependent.

💬 Have you made the switch to the OLED model? Share your experience—what changed for you? Join the conversation and help others decide what’s best for their gaming lifestyle.