Nintendo Switch OLED Vs Original Model Is Screen Quality The Only Upgrade

When Nintendo released the Switch OLED model in 2021, many fans assumed it was just a minor refresh with a better screen. While the vibrant 7-inch OLED display immediately stands out, the upgrade encompasses more than just visual improvements. For players deciding between the original Switch and its newer sibling, understanding the full scope of changes — from audio to build quality to internal storage — is essential for making an informed purchase.

The original Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, revolutionized handheld gaming by offering seamless transitions between docked TV play and portable mode. Over the years, users identified pain points: dim screens, limited storage, average speakers, and flimsy kickstands. The OLED model directly addresses several of these issues, not just through aesthetics but functional refinements that enhance everyday use.

Display: More Than Just Brighter Colors

The most advertised feature of the OLED model is, unsurprisingly, its screen. Replacing the original’s 6.2-inch LCD panel with a 7-inch OLED display brings tangible benefits:

• Deeper blacks and higher contrast: OLED pixels emit their own light, allowing true black levels and richer image depth.
• Brighter visuals: Improved brightness makes games more vivid, especially in well-lit rooms or outdoor settings.
• Larger screen size: Though only 0.8 inches larger, the increased display area enhances immersion without making the device significantly bulkier.

However, resolution remains unchanged at 720p in handheld mode. This means pixel density is slightly lower on the OLED model, though in practice, the improved color accuracy and contrast outweigh this minor trade-off for most users.

Tip: Enable HDR in docked mode via compatible TVs to maximize the OLED model’s color capabilities, even if the handheld screen doesn’t support HDR.

Beyond the Screen: Hardware Upgrades That Matter

While the display grabs headlines, other internal and design upgrades make the OLED version a more complete package.

Improved Audio Quality

The built-in speakers on the original Switch were often criticized for being thin and lacking bass. The OLED model features redesigned speakers with enhanced acoustics. In side-by-side testing, dialogue clarity and ambient sound effects are noticeably crisper, particularly during action sequences in games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Metroid Dread.

Superior Kickstand Design

One of the most frustrating aspects of the original Switch was its small, fragile kickstand. It worked poorly on uneven surfaces and often collapsed mid-game. The OLED model introduces a wide, adjustable kickstand that spans the entire back edge of the device. It supports multiple viewing angles and remains stable on tables, laps, and tray tables during travel.

“The new kickstand alone makes the OLED model worth the upgrade for families and frequent travelers.” — Marcus Tran, Gaming Lifestyle Analyst at TechPlay Weekly

Increased Internal Storage

The original Switch shipped with 32GB of internal storage, roughly 20GB of which is usable after system files. With modern games like Elden Ring or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate consuming over 15GB each, storage quickly became a bottleneck.

The OLED model doubles internal storage to 64GB, providing much-needed breathing room. While both models support microSD cards (up to 2TB), having more onboard space reduces reliance on expandable storage for casual gamers who download titles frequently.

Dock Enhancements

The OLED model includes an updated dock with a wired LAN port built directly into the unit. While the original dock required a separate USB-to-Ethernet adapter for wired internet, the new version simplifies online gameplay with plug-and-play Ethernet connectivity. This is particularly beneficial for competitive players relying on stable connections for games like Splatoon 3 or Super Mario Maker 2 multiplayer.

Portability and Build: Subtle But Meaningful Changes

Despite sharing the same core functionality, the two models differ in ergonomics and durability.

Feature	Original Switch	Switch OLED
Screen Size	6.2\" LCD	7\" OLED
Internal Storage	32GB	64GB
Kickstand	Narrow, single-position	Wide, multi-angle
Speakers	Basic stereo	Enhanced audio output
Dock	No LAN port	Integrated LAN port
Battery Life	2.5–6.5 hours	4.5–9 hours
Weight (Handheld)	297g	320g

The OLED model is slightly heavier (320g vs. 297g), due to the larger screen and reinforced chassis. However, the weight distribution feels more balanced, and the matte finish on the back resists fingerprints better than the glossy rear of the original.

Battery life has also improved. Thanks to a more efficient display and updated internals, the OLED model offers up to 9 hours of gameplay (depending on title), compared to the original’s 2.5–6.5 hour range. For long commutes or flights, this extended endurance is a significant advantage.

Performance Parity: What Hasn’t Changed

It’s important to note that the core processing power remains identical across both models. Both use the same NVIDIA Tegra X1+ chipset and deliver the same performance whether in handheld or docked mode.

• No increase in frame rates or graphical fidelity.
• No faster load times (unless paired with a high-speed microSD card).
• Same resolution: 720p handheld, 1080p docked.

This means graphically demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty (via cloud streaming) or Xenoblade Chronicles 3 perform identically on both systems. The experience is smoother on the OLED screen, but not technically superior in terms of rendering power.

Tip: If you primarily play in docked mode on a large TV, the screen upgrade may be less impactful. Consider your usage pattern before upgrading.

Real-World Example: A Parent’s Perspective

Sarah Kim, a mother of two from Portland, upgraded her family’s original Switch to the OLED model after her kids complained about the screen being hard to see in the car. “We take road trips every few months, and the old kickstand kept falling down,” she said. “Now, both kids can watch gameplay comfortably on long drives. The brighter screen helps, but honestly, the sturdy stand and longer battery have been game-changers.”

She also appreciated the extra storage. “We don’t always have Wi-Fi access, so downloading games ahead of time matters. With 64GB, I can keep three big titles ready to go without juggling SD cards.”

For households using the Switch as a shared mobile device, the OLED’s practical upgrades often outweigh pure specs.

Is the Upgrade Worth It?

Whether the OLED model is “worth it” depends on how you use your console.

Who Should Upgrade?

• Frequent travelers: Better screen visibility, longer battery, and reliable kickstand enhance on-the-go play.
• Families: Durable design and improved audio make it more suitable for shared use.
• New buyers: Given similar pricing at retail, the OLED is the logical choice unless found at a steep discount.

Who Can Stick with the Original?

• Docked-mode primary users: If you rarely play handheld, the screen upgrade offers minimal benefit.
• Budget-conscious gamers: Second-hand original models are widely available at lower prices.
• Those with existing accessories: Pro Controllers, charging docks, and carrying cases are fully compatible, but weigh added value against cost.

Checklist: Choosing Between Models

Use this checklist to guide your decision:

1. ✅ Do you play mostly in handheld or tabletop mode? → OLED recommended.
2. ✅ Is screen clarity important (e.g., reading text-heavy RPGs)? → OLED preferred.
3. ✅ Do you need stable internet for online play? → OLED’s built-in LAN is convenient.
4. ✅ Are you buying new or used? → New purchases should lean toward OLED.
5. ✅ Is budget a major constraint? → Original model offers savings.
6. ✅ Do you already own a lot of accessories? → Compatibility is full, but evaluate ROI.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the OLED model run games faster than the original?

No. Both models use the same processor and GPU. Performance, including frame rate and loading times, is identical in all games.

Are Joy-Con controllers different between the models?

No. The Joy-Con are mechanically and functionally identical. They attach the same way and support all previous features, including HD Rumble and IR camera (on right Joy-Con).

Does the OLED model support all original Switch accessories?

Yes. All docks, charging grips, carrying cases, and adapters designed for the original Switch work with the OLED model. The slight increase in width does not affect compatibility.

Final Verdict: Screen Quality Is Just the Beginning

The Nintendo Switch OLED is more than a prettier face. While the screen is the headline upgrade, the cumulative improvements — better speakers, robust kickstand, expanded storage, longer battery, and integrated LAN — address long-standing user complaints in meaningful ways. These aren’t flashy specs, but they translate into a noticeably better daily experience.

For anyone purchasing a new Switch today, the OLED model is the default recommendation. It delivers the same library and functionality with enhanced comfort and reliability. For owners of the original model, upgrading is optional unless portability, screen quality, or stability are top priorities.

In the end, the OLED upgrade proves that thoughtful refinement can be just as valuable as raw power. Nintendo didn’t reinvent the Switch — they perfected its everyday usability.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your gaming habits, consider the long-term benefits, and choose the model that fits your lifestyle. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below!