Should You Get the Regular Nintendo Switch or the OLED?

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The Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED are Nintendo's latest video game consoles. They both offer the same exceptional hybrid experience, with support for multiple gaming modes: TV mode, tabletop mode, and handheld mode. This versatility has made the Switch a massive success, with Nintendo selling nearly 140 million units since the launch nearly seven years ago.

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While the regular Switch and Switch OLED look nearly identical, there are key differences. The original model introduced the revolutionary concept of hybrid gaming, allowing players to play at home and on the go—and while the Switch OLED supports the same hybrid features, it boasts a larger OLED display, a wide adjustable stand, 64GB of internal storage, and enhanced audio. Take note: Nintendo offers a third option, the Nintendo Switch Lite, but we'll get into that later. (It's handheld-only and usually the clear choice if you're not interested in TV or tabletop mode.)

First, we're focusing on comparing the regular Nintendo Switch and the Switch OLED, since they're the most similar models between which gamers are typically deciding. When choosing which Nintendo Switch to buy, the decision comes down to your budget, screen preference, and portability. Let's get into it.

Switch

Switch OLED

Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch OLED: What Are the Main Differences?

The regular Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED offer many of the same features, including access to a well-established library of games. However, several key differences make one the clear winner.

Cost

Nintendo Switch: starts at $299

Nintendo Switch OLED: starts at $349

The Nintendo Switch, starting at $299, is an appealing option for beginners and casual gamers. It was introduced in 2017, so it's on the older side, but its innovative design and versatile gameplay options continue to make it a popular choice among gamers of all ages and skill levels. Meanwhile, the Switch OLED retails for a starting price of $349 and offers several upgrades, including a 7-inch display with slimmer bezels. The upgraded version was released in 2021, making it a relatively new option in Nintendo's lineup.

Display

The original Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen (and a slightly higher PPI of 236—a difference so negligible, it's almost not worth mentioning), and while it looks great, it can't match the vibrancy and contrast offered by the OLED display.

The Nintendo Switch OLED features a 7-inch display with richer colors, deeper blacks, and wider viewing angles. Games like Super Mario Odyssey and Metroid Dread are excellent showcases for the display, making colors pop with life and dark corners feel even more atmospheric. The larger display also makes seeing finer details and reading text easier while reducing eye strain, especially during longer gaming sessions.

Both models share the same 720p resolution, whether docked or handheld—so the Switch OLED model doesn't technically boast enhanced graphics—but the improved contrast on the newer model might make some games appear slightly sharper.

Storage

The Switch OLED boasts 64GB of built-in storage, while the original model features 32GB. Both can be expanded with a microSD card.

Design

Beyond the difference in screen technology and physical dimensions, both Switch models look virtually identical. They feature detachable Joy-Con controllers with the same button layout, support for microSD expandable storage, a headphone jack, and a USB-C charging port.

With that said, the Switch OLED's slimmer bezels create a sleeker, more modern look. The OLED model also features a wider kickstand, addressing a significant pain point of the original Switch. The Switch OLED's dock features a slightly more refined look with rounded corners on the top—and it also includes a LAN port for a more stable internet connection, which can benefit online gaming.

As for color options, the original model only comes in neon blue/neon red, while the OLED model comes in neon blue/neon red, Mario red, or white.

Size

While the Switch OLED has a larger display than the Switch, the difference in size is relatively small. At 4 x 9.5 x 0.55 inches with Joy-Con controllers attached, the OLED model is slightly larger than the original model, which measures 4 x 9.4 x 0.55 inches. Nintendo managed to expand the Switch OLED's display while trimming back the bezels, so they're virtually the same size.

Consequently, most carrying cases and accessories designed for the original Switch will also fit the OLED model. However, it's worth checking compatibility for protective cases or grips, as their design might not accommodate the slight size difference. (We have a Switch carrying case that fits the OLED version perfectly.)

128GB microSDXC-Card

Tempered Glass Screen Protector

Switch Pro Controller

Grips Compatible with Nintendo Switch

Carry Case Compatible with Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED

*Be sure to double check that the accessory you choose is compatible with your model.

Lastly, the difference in weight is negligible, with the OLED model weighing approximately 0.93 pounds, as opposed to the original model's 0.88 (both with Joy-Con controllers attached).

Audio

While the two consoles share the same processors and memory, Nintendo says the Switch OLED offers improved audio for handheld and tabletop play. Reviews of the regular Switch noted that the speakers would distort slightly at full volume—and in our comparison playing both consoles side by side, the Switch OLED's speakers didn't exhibit this distortion. The improvement in audio quality is slight, but it's still a positive change for gamers who enjoy playing without headphones.

Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch OLED: What's the Same?

While there are some differences between the two consoles, they also have a lot in common.

Performance

The regular Switch and Switch OLED share the same processor, the Nvidia Tegra X1 chip, providing identical overall performance. They offer the same frame rates and graphical capabilities, whether running in handheld or docked mode. Additionally, Nintendo says they have the same battery life of 4.5 to nine hours of gameplay in handheld mode, depending on what you're playing and the display brightness. For instance, the battery will last roughly 5.5 hours when playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, according to Nintendo.

Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online, or NSO, is a subscription service accessible on the Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite. One of the main benefits of NSO is the ability to play compatible Switch games online with friends, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Splatoon 3. Membership also includes a curated catalog of retro games from several iconic consoles, including NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64, and SEGA Genesis. Additionally, the service provides automatic cloud backup for saving files and access to a voucher system that allows you to save when purchasing games.

What Is the Nintendo Switch Lite?

The Nintendo Switch Lite is a purely handheld console built for on-the-go gaming. It has a lightweight, compact design and long-lasting battery life. Unlike the original Switch and Switch OLED, it doesn't connect to TVs or support tabletop mode. Its dedication to portability translates to a more affordable price of $199.

The Switch Lite features a 5.5-inch LCD screen (with the same 720p resolution) available in various colors like coral, turquoise, and yellow. The smaller handheld also features integrated controls and a traditional D-pad. While the lack of detachable Joy-Con gives the Switch Lite a more streamlined design, there are drawbacks. The biggest drawback is games requiring motion controls or separate controllers won't function out of the box. You'll need to pick up a separate set of Joy-Con. Nintendo says games compatible with the Lite will feature a "handheld mode" icon.

Despite its compact size, the Switch Lite delivers smooth performance that is on par with the original Switch. It is perfect for enjoying popular Nintendo titles like Super Mario Bros. Wonder and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. The sturdy design, familiar controls, and vibrant colors make the Switch Lite an excellent choice for casual and younger gamers.

Is a Nintendo Switch 2 Coming Soon?

The Nintendo Switch has been on the market since 2017, and reports suggest Nintendo is planning the launch of a Switch 2 in early 2025. What does that mean for the current lineup? Nintendo recently said that the existing Switch models will be its "main business" in 2024, with new releases like Princess Peach: Showtime! coming out this year. In other words, the current Switch models will continue to be supported with new updates and games over the coming months.

The decision to get a Nintendo Switch now or wait for a potential sequel depends on your preferences. There's yet to be official confirmation that the Switch 2 exists, so it's unclear when it may be released, despite persistent rumors. Nintendo's existing Switch lineup offers a diverse and extensive library of games, so if you want to game now, there's no reason to wait to purchase one.

The Bottom Line: Should You Buy the Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch OLED?

The regular Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED share many similarities, playing the same games at the same performance level. However, the OLED model offers key upgrades, especially for those who prefer handheld gaming. Its larger screen delivers richer colors, while the wider kickstand and improved speakers enhance comfort and immersion during gameplay. And with 64GB of internal storage, there's more space for downloads and other content. These upgrades justify the—some may argue, slight—price difference between the two models. And while the regular Nintendo Switch works well for budget-conscious players, or those who primarily play docked, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear winner for avid gamers.

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