Switch Oled Vs Regular Switch Which Handheld Upgrade Is Worth It

The Nintendo Switch has redefined portable gaming since its 2017 debut, blending home console performance with handheld flexibility. In 2021, Nintendo introduced the Switch OLED model—a refined version promising better visuals, improved audio, and a more comfortable design. But for owners of the original or 2019 revised Switch, the question remains: is upgrading to the OLED model truly worthwhile? This guide breaks down every key difference, evaluates real-world performance, and helps you decide if the upgrade justifies the cost.

Design and Build: A Step Forward in Comfort

The most noticeable change in the Switch OLED is its physical design. While both models share the same core functionality—detachable Joy-Con controllers, dock compatibility, and hybrid play—the OLED model introduces several ergonomic improvements.

The base screen size increases from 6.2 inches on the original to 7 inches on the OLED, offering a larger viewing area without significantly increasing the device’s footprint. The bezels are thinner, giving the screen a more modern, immersive look. The body itself is slightly heavier at 420g (vs. 398g for the revised model), but this adds to perceived sturdiness rather than detracting from portability.

One major upgrade is the adjustable kickstand. Unlike the flimsy, fixed-angle stand on earlier models, the OLED features a wide, smooth hinge that can be set at nearly any angle. This makes tabletop mode far more practical, especially on uneven surfaces or during multiplayer sessions.

Tip: Use the OLED’s adjustable stand when playing co-op games on a coffee table—it stays put and offers a clear view from multiple angles.

Display Quality: Where the OLED Shines

The most significant upgrade—and the one reflected in the name—is the OLED display. Organic Light-Emitting Diode technology delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and more vibrant colors compared to the LCD panel used in previous models.

In practical terms, games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Celeste benefit from richer atmospheric depth. Dark scenes no longer appear washed out, and color gradients look smoother. Sunsets over Hyrule Field or shadowy caves in Spur feel more dynamic and visually engaging.

However, brightness levels are comparable to the original model, meaning outdoor visibility in direct sunlight hasn’t dramatically improved. While the OLED screen looks stunning indoors or under shade, users who frequently play outside may still struggle with glare.

“OLED brings a cinematic quality to handheld gaming. It’s not just about resolution—it’s about immersion.” — David Chen, Gaming Hardware Analyst at TechPlay Insights

Audio and Sound Performance

Nintendo quietly upgraded the speakers on the OLED model. The new stereo speakers deliver clearer highs and more defined mids, making dialogue and environmental sounds easier to distinguish. In games like Metroid Dread, where audio cues signal enemy movement, the improvement enhances gameplay awareness.

This may seem minor, but for players who rely on built-in speakers during commutes or quick gaming breaks, the enhanced fidelity makes a tangible difference. When paired with headphones, both models perform similarly, so audiophiles won’t find a major gap in output quality.

Internal Upgrades and Storage

Beyond the screen and speakers, internal changes are modest. The OLED model includes 64GB of internal storage—double the 32GB found on older versions. For gamers who download titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (around 14GB) or Red Dead Redemption 2 (over 12GB), this extra space reduces reliance on microSD cards.

That said, even 64GB fills up quickly. Most serious players will still need a 128GB or 256GB card, especially if they maintain a digital library. The lack of increased processing power or battery optimization beyond what was introduced in the 2019 revision means game performance remains identical across models.

All three versions—original, revised (2019), and OLED—run games at the same frame rates and resolutions in handheld mode. There is no boost in GPU performance or texture loading speeds. The Tegra X1+ chip handles tasks identically, so loading times in Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Fire Emblem: Three Houses are indistinguishable.

Comparative Overview: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Original Switch (2017)	Revised Switch (2019)	Switch OLED (2021)
Screen Size	6.2 inches (LCD)	6.2 inches (LCD)	7.0 inches (OLED)
Internal Storage	32GB	32GB	64GB
Battery Life	2.5–6.5 hours	4.5–9 hours	4.5–9 hours
Kickstand	No (on launch units)	Rigid, limited angle	Full-width, adjustable
Speakers	Basic stereo	Improved clarity	Enhanced range and depth
Dock Features	No LAN port	Limited to HDMI output	Wired LAN port included
Price (MSRP at Launch)	$299	$299	$349

Note: Battery life improvements were first introduced in the 2019 revised model due to a more efficient chipset. The OLED retains these gains but does not exceed them.

Real-World Example: Is the Upgrade Noticeable?

Consider Sarah, a college student who plays her Switch daily during breaks between classes. She owns the original 2017 model and often experiences discomfort using the weak kickstand in her dorm room. After borrowing a friend’s OLED unit, she noticed immediate differences: the screen felt brighter and more engaging, the stand held steady on her cluttered desk, and music in Octopath Traveler sounded fuller through the speakers.

She debated the $50 price increase but ultimately purchased the OLED after realizing how much she valued comfort and visual quality during long gaming sessions. For her, the upgrade wasn’t about raw power—it was about an improved daily experience.

Conversely, Mark, a parent who primarily uses his Switch docked to a TV, saw little reason to upgrade. Since he rarely plays in handheld mode, the superior screen and stand offered minimal benefit. His existing setup worked flawlessly, and the additional storage didn’t justify the expense.

This contrast illustrates a key point: the value of the OLED depends heavily on how you use your Switch.

When the OLED Upgrade Makes Sense

Purchasing the Switch OLED is most beneficial under specific conditions. Consider the following checklist before making the switch:

• You play primarily in handheld or tabletop mode
• Visual fidelity matters to you—especially contrast and color accuracy
• You frequently play in shared spaces where speaker quality impacts others
• You want a more durable, flexible kickstand for travel or group play
• You prefer downloading games over using cartridges
• You don’t already own a Switch and are buying new

Tip: If you're buying your first Switch, the OLED is the best starting point unless budget is tight.

When to Stick With Your Current Model

Upgrading isn’t always necessary. Many users get years of enjoyment from their original hardware. Here are scenarios where holding off is the smarter choice:

1. You mainly play docked: On a TV, all Switch models output identical image quality (max 1080p). The OLED screen offers no advantage here.
2. You’re satisfied with current performance: No game runs faster or looks better on OLED when connected to a television.
3. You’re on a tight budget: The $50 premium could buy two full-priced games or a high-capacity SD card.
4. You already modded or customized your device: Transferring data, skins, or accessories may not be worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my games and save data to a new OLED model?

Yes. Nintendo allows full system transfers via local wireless connection or online account syncing. Save files tied to your Nintendo Account (like those in Animal Crossing) will sync automatically once logged in. Physical games work on any model.

Does the OLED model have better battery life than the original?

It matches the 2019 revised model with 4.5 to 9 hours depending on the game, which is better than the original’s 2.5–6.5 hour range. However, there’s no improvement over the updated non-OLED version released in 2019.

Is the OLED screen prone to burn-in?

OLED panels can suffer from image retention or burn-in with prolonged static images. However, Nintendo implemented protective measures such as automatic brightness adjustments and screen dimming during idle periods. Normal usage—including playing varied games and using sleep mode—makes permanent burn-in highly unlikely.

Expert Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?

According to industry analyst Lena Park, “The Switch OLED isn’t a generational leap—it’s a refinement. It targets users who prioritize handheld experience over raw specs. If you hold your Switch more than you dock it, the upgrade pays off in comfort and clarity.”

Her assessment aligns with user feedback: casual players upgrading from the 2017 model often report high satisfaction, while those with the 2019 revision notice subtler gains. The OLED excels as a lifestyle improvement rather than a technical overhaul.

Final Recommendation and Next Steps

The Switch OLED delivers meaningful enhancements for handheld-first gamers. Its superior screen, expanded storage, robust kickstand, and better audio create a noticeably more enjoyable experience for those who play on the go. However, for players invested in docked gameplay or already owning the 2019 model, the benefits are marginal.

If you’re purchasing your first Switch, the OLED is the default recommendation. It future-proofs your investment with the latest build quality and features. But if you already own a working Switch—especially the revised 2019 version—only upgrade if screen quality, sound, or portability are top priorities.

Ultimately, the decision hinges not on specs alone, but on how you play. Evaluate your habits, environment, and expectations. The best console is the one that fits seamlessly into your life—not just the one with the newest label.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Assess your current setup, test an OLED unit if possible, and invest only when the upgrade aligns with your playstyle. Share your thoughts below—do you think the OLED was worth it for you?