Nintendo Switch OLED Vs Original: Which Is Best?
So, you're thinking about diving into the world of Nintendo Switch, or maybe you're already a fan looking to upgrade. The big question on everyone's mind is: Nintendo Switch OLED versus the original Switch – which one should you choose? Let's break it down in a way that's easy to understand, comparing the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each so you can make the best decision for your gaming needs.
Display and Visual Experience
The most obvious difference between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Switch is, of course, the display. The OLED model boasts a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, while the original Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen. What does this mean for your gaming experience?
OLED Advantage: OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology offers superior picture quality compared to LCDs. Each pixel in an OLED screen emits its own light, resulting in deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors. This makes games look richer and more immersive, especially in titles with a lot of dark or colorful scenes. Imagine exploring the dark caves of Hyrule in Breath of the Wild or racing through the vibrant tracks of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – the OLED screen truly enhances the visual experience. Furthermore, the increased screen size, though seemingly small, provides a more engaging field of view, drawing you further into the game.
Original Switch: The original Switch's LCD screen is still quite good, providing a decent picture quality and brightness. However, it lacks the depth and vibrancy of the OLED screen. Colors may appear slightly washed out, and blacks might look grayish in comparison. If you're primarily playing in well-lit environments, the difference might not be as noticeable. The LCD screen also has a backlight that illuminates all the pixels simultaneously, which can lead to less precise color reproduction. The original Switch still offers a portable and enjoyable gaming experience, particularly for those who prioritize gameplay over visual fidelity. The screen is bright enough for most indoor settings and provides a clear image, ensuring that you can still enjoy your favorite games on the go. It's a reliable and functional display that gets the job done, even if it doesn't offer the same visual flair as the OLED.
Which is better? If you prioritize visual quality and want the best possible gaming experience, the OLED model is the clear winner. The vibrant colors, deep blacks, and increased screen size make a noticeable difference. However, if you're on a budget or don't mind a slightly less impressive display, the original Switch is still a perfectly capable option.
Design and Build Quality
Beyond the screen, there are subtle but significant differences in the design and build quality of the two consoles. The OLED model features a sleeker, more refined design with a few key improvements.
OLED Enhancements: The OLED Switch has a wider, more adjustable kickstand that spans the entire back of the console. This provides a much more stable and versatile tabletop gaming experience. The original Switch's flimsy kickstand was often criticized for being too narrow and prone to collapsing. The upgraded kickstand on the OLED model allows you to position the console at various angles, making it easier to find a comfortable viewing position. The OLED model also has a slightly more premium feel, with a matte finish and more streamlined design. The build quality feels more robust, giving the impression that it can better withstand the rigors of daily use. Furthermore, the OLED model has a redesigned speaker system that delivers improved audio quality compared to the original Switch. The speakers are louder and clearer, providing a more immersive sound experience that complements the enhanced visuals. This is especially noticeable in games with rich soundtracks or detailed sound effects.
Original Switch: The original Switch has a more basic design with a glossy finish and a smaller, less adjustable kickstand. While it's still a functional and portable console, it lacks the premium feel and enhanced features of the OLED model. The smaller kickstand can be frustrating to use, especially on uneven surfaces. The glossy finish is also more prone to fingerprints and scratches, requiring more frequent cleaning. Despite these drawbacks, the original Switch is still a well-built console that can withstand everyday use. It's a reliable and functional device that gets the job done, even if it doesn't offer the same level of refinement as the OLED model. The original Switch's design is more focused on practicality and affordability, making it a great option for those who prioritize function over aesthetics.
Which is better? The OLED model has a clear edge in terms of design and build quality. The wider kickstand, premium finish, and improved speakers make it a more enjoyable and refined console to use. However, the original Switch is still a solid and functional option, especially if you don't mind the smaller kickstand and glossy finish.
Storage Capacity
Another important factor to consider is storage capacity. Both consoles have limited internal storage, but the OLED model offers twice as much as the original Switch.
OLED Advantage: The OLED Switch comes with 64GB of internal storage, compared to the original Switch's 32GB. This is a significant advantage, especially if you plan on downloading a lot of games from the Nintendo eShop. Modern games can be quite large, and 32GB can fill up quickly. The extra storage on the OLED model allows you to store more games, demos, and other content without having to rely on external storage. This is particularly useful if you frequently switch between multiple games or if you don't want to carry around extra SD cards. Furthermore, the larger storage capacity can also improve game performance, as the console has more space to store temporary files and data. This can result in faster loading times and smoother gameplay.
Original Switch: The original Switch's 32GB of internal storage can feel quite limiting, especially if you plan on downloading a lot of games. You'll likely need to invest in a microSD card to expand the storage capacity. While microSD cards are relatively inexpensive, they're an additional cost to consider. The original Switch's limited storage can also be a hassle if you frequently switch between multiple games, as you'll need to manage your storage space carefully. This can involve deleting games to make room for new ones, which can be time-consuming and frustrating. Despite these drawbacks, 32GB is still enough storage for a few games, especially if you primarily play physical cartridges. The original Switch's storage capacity is sufficient for those who prefer to buy physical copies of their games and don't download a lot of content from the eShop.
Which is better? The OLED model's 64GB of storage is a significant advantage, especially for digital game enthusiasts. It provides more flexibility and convenience, allowing you to store more games without having to rely on external storage. However, if you primarily play physical games or don't mind using a microSD card, the original Switch's 32GB of storage may be sufficient.
Docking and TV Mode
Both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Switch can be docked and played on a TV. However, there are a few differences to consider.
OLED Docking: The OLED model comes with a redesigned dock that includes a built-in LAN port. This allows for a more stable and reliable internet connection when playing in TV mode. The original Switch's dock does not have a LAN port, so you'll need to rely on Wi-Fi or purchase a separate USB LAN adapter. The LAN port on the OLED dock is a significant advantage for those who play a lot of online games, as it can reduce lag and improve connection stability. The redesigned dock also has a more streamlined design and a slightly more premium feel. It's a subtle but noticeable upgrade that complements the overall design of the OLED console. The OLED dock is also backwards compatible with the original Switch, so you can use it with both consoles.
Original Switch: The original Switch's dock is a simple and functional device that allows you to connect the console to a TV. However, it lacks a LAN port, which can be a drawback for online gamers. Wi-Fi connections can be unreliable and prone to lag, especially during peak hours. The original Switch's dock is also more basic in terms of design and build quality. It's a functional device that gets the job done, but it doesn't offer the same level of refinement as the OLED dock. Despite these drawbacks, the original Switch's dock is still a reliable and functional device that allows you to enjoy your games on a big screen.
Which is better? The OLED model's dock with a LAN port is a clear advantage for online gamers. It provides a more stable and reliable internet connection, which can significantly improve the online gaming experience. However, if you primarily play offline games or don't mind using Wi-Fi, the original Switch's dock is perfectly adequate.
Price and Value
Finally, let's talk about price and value. The Nintendo Switch OLED is typically more expensive than the original Switch.
OLED Price: The higher price of the OLED model reflects its enhanced features and improved components. The OLED screen, larger storage capacity, and redesigned dock all contribute to the higher cost. However, many gamers feel that the extra cost is worth it for the improved gaming experience. The OLED model offers a more immersive and enjoyable experience, especially for those who prioritize visual quality and online gaming. The OLED model is a premium console that offers a premium experience, justifying its higher price tag.
Original Switch: The original Switch is a more budget-friendly option that still offers a great gaming experience. It's a great choice for those who are new to the Nintendo Switch ecosystem or who are looking for a more affordable option. The original Switch is a reliable and functional console that can provide hours of entertainment. While it lacks the enhanced features of the OLED model, it's still a great value for the price. The original Switch is a great entry point into the world of Nintendo gaming.
Which is better? The best value depends on your individual needs and budget. If you're willing to spend more for the best possible gaming experience, the OLED model is the way to go. However, if you're on a budget or don't mind a slightly less impressive display, the original Switch is still a great option. Consider what features are most important to you and choose the console that best fits your needs and budget.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, guys! A detailed comparison of the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Switch. Both consoles offer a fantastic gaming experience, but the OLED model boasts several key advantages, including a vibrant OLED screen, larger storage capacity, and a redesigned dock with a LAN port. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize visual quality and online gaming, the OLED model is the clear winner. However, if you're on a budget or don't mind a slightly less impressive display, the original Switch is still a great option. Happy gaming!