Nintendo Switch Oled Vs Original Which Version Still Makes Sense To Buy Now

As the Nintendo Switch enters its eighth year on the market, consumers face a growing dilemma: should they invest in the newer OLED model or stick with the original console that launched in 2017? With both versions readily available and often sold at discounted prices, especially during holiday seasons, the decision isn't just about specs—it's about value, use case, and future-proofing. While the OLED model brought meaningful upgrades, the original Switch remains a capable device for many players. Understanding the differences—and what actually matters today—can help you make a smarter purchase.

Design and Display: The Most Obvious Upgrade

The most noticeable difference between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original lies in the hardware design and screen quality. The OLED model features a 7-inch OLED display compared to the original’s 6.2-inch LCD panel. This change results in deeper blacks, richer colors, and better contrast, particularly when playing games in handheld mode. For titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Octopath Traveler, where visual atmosphere plays a key role, the OLED screen enhances immersion significantly.

Beyond the screen, the build improvements are subtle but meaningful. The OLED model includes a wider adjustable kickstand, which is far more stable than the flimsy plastic hinge on the original. It also has slightly redesigned analog sticks with improved durability and reduced drift risk—a known issue across all early Switch models. The speakers have been upgraded as well, delivering clearer audio output during portable gameplay.

Tip: If you primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED’s superior screen and kickstand alone justify the upgrade.

Performance and Hardware: Is There a Real Difference?

Despite the visual upgrades, one crucial point often misunderstood is that there is no performance difference between the original Switch and the OLED model. Both use the same NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor and deliver identical frame rates and resolution—whether docked (up to 1080p) or in handheld mode (720p). Games do not run faster, smoother, or with higher graphical fidelity on the OLED simply because it has a better screen.

This means that if your primary use case is TV mode, the OLED’s advantages are minimal. The experience when docked is nearly indistinguishable from the original model. However, the OLED does come with double the internal storage: 64GB versus 32GB. While this may seem significant, most users rely on microSD cards anyway due to the large file sizes of modern games. Still, having more onboard space reduces the immediate need for an SD card right out of the box.

“From a technical standpoint, the OLED model is a refinement, not a revolution. It improves the handheld experience without altering core performance.” — David Chen, Console Hardware Analyst at GameTech Weekly

Price and Value Comparison

Pricing is where the decision becomes nuanced. As of 2024, the original Nintendo Switch can often be found for $200–$250 during sales, while the OLED model typically retails for $350, even with occasional discounts. That $100 difference represents a 40–50% price premium for the OLED, which raises the question: does the upgrade offer proportional value?

To assess this, consider how you plan to use the console:

• Handheld-focused gamers will benefit most from the OLED’s screen, kickstand, and audio improvements.
• Docked-mode users who primarily play on a TV gain little from the OLED upgrades.
• Budget-conscious buyers or those purchasing for younger children may find the original Switch offers sufficient functionality at a lower cost.

Additionally, the original model has been on the market longer, meaning more units in circulation, including refurbished and second-hand options. These can further reduce the effective cost, though buyers should be cautious about wear, battery health, and potential Joy-Con drift issues.

Switch Model Comparison Table

Feature	Original Switch	Switch OLED
Screen Size & Type	6.2\" LCD	7\" OLED
Internal Storage	32GB	64GB
Kickstand	Fixed, narrow	Adjustable, wide
Speakers	Basic stereo	Enhanced clarity
Wi-Fi & LAN Port	Wi-Fi only (no wired port)	Wi-Fi + LAN port on dock
Battery Life	2.5–6.5 hours	4.5–9 hours
Typical Retail Price (2024)	$250–$299	$349–$369

Note that the OLED model’s dock includes a built-in Ethernet port, enabling a wired internet connection without adapters—a small but valuable feature for online multiplayer stability, especially in areas with spotty Wi-Fi.

Real-World Example: Two Households, Two Choices

Consider two families making different decisions based on their needs:

Case Study 1: The Martinez family bought the original Switch for their 10-year-old son. They use it mostly at home, docked to the living room TV. He plays Super Mario Bros. Wonder and LEGO Star Wars with friends on weekends. Since they rarely use handheld mode, the original model’s LCD screen and lack of a strong kickstand are non-issues. They saved $100 by choosing the older version and used the savings to buy an extra Joy-Con controller.

Case Study 2: Sarah, a college student, purchased the OLED model specifically for dorm life. She plays during breaks, on buses, and in bed. The brighter, more vibrant screen makes gameplay enjoyable in various lighting conditions. The adjustable stand lets her prop it up on a cluttered desk, and she appreciates the longer battery life during long gaming sessions. For her, the OLED was worth every dollar.

These examples highlight that the “best” choice depends entirely on usage patterns, not objective superiority.

Long-Term Considerations and Future-Proofing

With rumors of a next-generation Switch circulating since 2022, many wonder whether buying any current model is wise. Nintendo has confirmed that new first-party titles—including Metroid Prime 4 and a new Zelda game—are still in development for the existing platform. Given the company’s history of long console lifecycles, the Switch is likely to receive software support into 2026 or beyond.

That said, the OLED model may hold its resale value better over time due to its newer components and stronger build. If you anticipate upgrading later, starting with the OLED could mean a higher trade-in return. Additionally, the improved battery and reduced risk of early analog stick failure add to its longevity.

Tip: Always check the manufacturing date when buying used. Models produced after 2019 generally have improved battery and stick durability.

Checklist: How to Decide Which Switch to Buy

Use this checklist to guide your decision:

1. ✅ Do you play mostly in handheld or tabletop mode? → OLED preferred
2. ✅ Will the Switch be used primarily docked to a TV? → Original may suffice
3. ✅ Is budget a major concern? → Original offers better value
4. ✅ Are you buying for a child or casual user? → Original reduces financial risk
5. ✅ Do you want the best possible screen and audio in portable mode? → Go OLED
6. ✅ Do you need a wired internet connection for online play? → OLED’s dock supports Ethernet
7. ✅ Are you planning to resell or upgrade later? → OLED holds value better

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use OLED accessories with the original Switch?

Yes. The OLED model uses the same Joy-Con controllers and accessories as the original. All games and peripherals are fully compatible across models.

Does the OLED model have less Joy-Con drift?

Nintendo made minor internal improvements to the analog sticks in the OLED version, and user reports suggest a lower incidence of drift. However, drift can still occur over time, so using protective caps and avoiding excessive force helps extend stick life on any model.

Is the original Switch being discontinued?

While Nintendo has reduced production of the original model in favor of the OLED, it has not officially discontinued it. Retailers continue to stock it, especially during promotions. However, availability may decrease over time.

Final Recommendation: Who Should Buy Which Model?

If you're a **mobile gamer** who values screen quality, comfort, and durability, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear choice. Its upgrades directly enhance the handheld experience, and the added features like the LAN port and better speakers provide tangible benefits. For students, commuters, or anyone who travels with their console, the OLED justifies its price.

On the other hand, if you’re setting up a **family gaming station**, buying a **first console for a child**, or working within a tight budget, the original Switch remains a smart, functional option. It runs the same games, supports the same accessories, and delivers the full Switch experience when connected to a TV. At a lower price point, it offers excellent entry-level value.

Ultimately, neither model is obsolete. The original Switch is proven, widely supported, and increasingly affordable. The OLED model refines the portable experience without reinventing the wheel. Your ideal choice depends not on which is “better,” but on how you plan to play.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Assess your play style, set your budget, and choose the Switch that fits your life—not just the one with the fanciest specs. Whether you go OLED or original, the games await.