Nintendo Switch Oled Vs Original Switch Is It Time To Upgrade

For millions of gamers, the Nintendo Switch has been a revolutionary device—bridging the gap between home console and handheld play. Since its 2017 launch, the original model redefined portable gaming. But in 2021, Nintendo released the Switch OLED, promising an upgraded experience with a better screen, improved speakers, and enhanced storage. The question now isn’t whether the Switch is worth owning—it’s whether upgrading from the original to the OLED model is actually worthwhile.

This article breaks down every key difference between the two models, evaluates real-world usability, and helps you determine if the upgrade makes sense for your gaming lifestyle.

Display Quality: A Clear Step Forward

The most noticeable improvement in the Switch OLED is, unsurprisingly, the screen. While both models offer a 720p resolution in handheld mode, the OLED panel delivers deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and significantly better contrast than the original’s LCD display.

OLED technology works by illuminating individual pixels, meaning black pixels are truly off, resulting in infinite contrast ratios. This makes games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Hollow Knight: Silksong visually richer, especially in dimly lit environments. Sunsets feel warmer, shadows appear more natural, and UI elements pop with greater clarity.

Tip: If you primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED screen alone may justify the upgrade—especially in varied lighting conditions.

The screen size has also increased from 6.2 inches to 7.0 inches, giving a slightly more immersive feel without making the device unwieldy. Though the bezels are thinner on the sides, the overall footprint remains manageable, fitting comfortably in most hands during extended sessions.

Audio and Build Improvements

Beyond the display, the Switch OLED features upgraded stereo speakers. While still not audiophile-grade, the new speakers deliver fuller sound with better separation and less distortion at higher volumes. Playing fast-paced titles like Super Mario Odyssey or rhythm-heavy games such as Crypt of the NecroDancer reveals clearer instrumentals and crisper sound effects.

The build quality also sees subtle but meaningful changes. The kickstand is now wider and adjustable, eliminating the flimsy single-position hinge of the original. This makes tabletop mode far more stable and usable on uneven surfaces—ideal for quick multiplayer sessions or travel.

The dock included with the OLED model adds a wired LAN port, allowing for a more stable internet connection when playing online games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. While the original dock required a separate adapter for Ethernet, the OLED version integrates it seamlessly, reducing cable clutter.

Storage and Battery Life: Practical Upgrades

One of the most practical improvements is internal storage. The original Switch launched with just 32GB (later revised to include slightly better battery life), which fills up quickly with modern game sizes. The Switch OLED doubles that to 64GB, providing more breathing room before needing a microSD card.

Games like Red Dead Redemption 2 require over 100GB, so even 64GB isn’t future-proof—but it does reduce the urgency of buying additional storage right out of the box.

Battery life remains consistent with the later versions of the original Switch (model HAC-001-01), lasting between 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game. It’s important to note that early original Switch units had shorter battery life (2.5–6.5 hours), so if you own one of those, the OLED offers a dual benefit: longer runtime and better hardware.

“While the core specs are identical, the cumulative effect of screen, audio, and build refinements makes the OLED feel like a true iteration—not just a minor refresh.” — Jordan Lee, Gaming Hardware Analyst at TechPlay Weekly

Detailed Comparison Table

Feature	Nintendo Switch OLED	Original Nintendo Switch
Screen Type	7.0\" OLED	6.2\" LCD
Resolution (Handheld)	720p	720p
Internal Storage	64GB	32GB
Battery Life	4.5–9 hours	2.5–6.5 hrs (early), 4.5–9 hrs (late)
Speakers	Enhanced stereo	Standard stereo
Kickstand	Wide, adjustable	Narrow, fixed position
Dock Features	Integrated LAN port	No LAN; requires adapter
Price (MSRP)	$349.99	$299.99 (discontinued)

When the Upgrade Makes Sense

Not every Switch owner needs the OLED model. However, certain user profiles will benefit significantly from the enhancements.

• Travelers and commuters: The superior screen and stronger speakers enhance the handheld experience in transit.
• Tabletop gamers: The adjustable kickstand opens up new possibilities for local multiplayer without needing third-party accessories.
• New buyers: If you're purchasing your first Switch, the OLED is the logical choice—it's the current standard.
• Owners of early Switch models: If your device has short battery life and a weaker screen, the upgrade delivers tangible benefits.

Tip: Check your original Switch’s model number (HAC-001). If it doesn’t end in “-01”, it likely has the older, shorter battery life.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Commute Upgrade

Sarah, a graphic designer in Chicago, bought her original Switch in 2018. She used it daily on her train commute, playing Stardew Valley, Octopath Traveler, and indie puzzle games. Over time, she found the screen hard to see in sunlight and often missed dialogue due to weak speaker output.

In 2023, after her original unit suffered hinge wear, she upgraded to the OLED model. The difference was immediate: games were easier to enjoy during bright morning rides, and the wider kickstand allowed her to prop the system on her tray table during lunch breaks. “It feels like the same console, but finally polished,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much the old screen was holding me back.”

When to Hold Off on Upgrading

Despite the improvements, the Switch OLED does not offer any increase in processing power or graphical capabilities. Games run identically in both docked and handheld modes. If you already own a late-model original Switch (with updated battery) and play primarily on a TV, the upgrade offers minimal return.

Additionally, if budget is a concern, spending $350 on a new console solely for aesthetic and ergonomic upgrades may not be justifiable—especially with rumors of a next-gen Switch on the horizon.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

1. Do you play mostly in handheld or tabletop mode? → Yes = Stronger case for OLED
2. Is your current Switch an early model with poor battery life? → Yes = Upgrade beneficial
3. Do you value screen quality and audio fidelity? → Yes = OLED excels here
4. Do you primarily play docked to a TV? → Yes = Few advantages in OLED
5. Are you waiting for a next-gen Switch with HD rumble or better performance? → Yes = Consider delaying

What About the Future? Timing the Upgrade

Rumors about a \"Switch 2\" or successor have circulated since 2022, with analysts predicting a potential 2025 release. If Nintendo follows its typical console cycle, the current Switch family may be nearing its end-of-life.

However, even if a new model arrives soon, the OLED remains the best way to experience existing Switch games. Backward compatibility is expected, so your game library won’t become obsolete. The decision ultimately hinges on how much you value current improvements versus waiting for future innovation.

As Patrick Lee from GameOn Report puts it: “The OLED isn’t a leap forward in power, but it’s the definitive version of the Switch experience. Think of it like buying the ‘director’s cut’ of a console—you get the same story, but with better presentation.”

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. All Joy-Con controllers, grips, charging docks, and cases are fully compatible with the OLED model. The design is nearly identical, with only minor dimensional tweaks around the screen bezel.

Does the OLED model support HDR when docked?

No. Neither the original nor the OLED Switch supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) output when connected to a TV. This limitation applies across all models, regardless of firmware updates.

Is the OLED screen more prone to burn-in?

Potentially, yes—though risk is low under normal use. OLED panels can suffer from image retention if static UI elements (like health bars or HUDs) remain on-screen for hundreds of hours. To minimize risk, avoid leaving the system idle on menu screens and use sleep mode when not actively playing.

Final Verdict: Is It Time to Upgrade?

The answer depends on your usage and expectations. For casual players who mainly use their Switch docked to a TV, the differences are negligible. You’re not missing out on performance, load times, or exclusive features.

But for handheld enthusiasts, frequent travelers, or anyone who values visual clarity and audio quality, the Switch OLED is a meaningful upgrade. The larger, richer screen, improved speakers, expanded storage, and robust kickstand collectively elevate the day-to-day experience in ways that add up over time.

If you’re still using an early Switch model with subpar battery life, the upgrade is even more compelling. And for those buying their first Switch, the OLED is now the default recommendation—there’s no reason to seek out the older model unless found at a steep discount.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? If you’ve been on the fence, now may be the perfect time to experience Nintendo’s best handheld yet. Evaluate your play style, check your current model, and take the step if it enhances your gaming joy. After all, games are meant to be enjoyed—and the OLED helps them shine just a little brighter.