Switch OLED Vs. Switch 2019: Battle Of The Titans

Hey everyone, are you trying to figure out which Nintendo Switch is the best fit for you? The Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Nintendo Switch (2019) are both fantastic consoles, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Choosing between them can be tough! Fear not, because we're going to dive deep into a head-to-head comparison, breaking down the key differences to help you make an informed decision. We'll explore the displays, performance, design, and overall value, so you can confidently pick the Switch that's right for you. Get ready for a showdown! Let's get started, shall we?

Display: The OLED Advantage

Alright, let's kick things off by talking about the displays, because this is where the Nintendo Switch OLED truly shines. The most significant upgrade the OLED model brings to the table is, of course, its vibrant 7-inch OLED screen. The original Switch (2019) rocks a 6.2-inch LCD screen. This might not sound like a huge difference on paper, but trust me, in practice, it's a game-changer. OLED technology offers deeper blacks, richer colors, and a much higher contrast ratio compared to LCD. What does this mean for you, the gamer? Simply put, games look absolutely gorgeous on the OLED screen. Colors pop, details are more defined, and the overall viewing experience is just more immersive. Whether you're battling Bowser in Super Mario Odyssey or exploring the vast landscapes of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the OLED screen enhances the visual fidelity in a noticeable way. For those who primarily play in handheld mode, this upgrade alone might be worth the price of admission. The Switch OLED truly elevates the portable gaming experience. And let's not forget the slightly larger screen size. The extra real estate is appreciated, providing a more comfortable viewing experience, especially during longer gaming sessions. The original Switch's LCD screen is still perfectly serviceable, of course. It's bright and gets the job done. However, when you put it side-by-side with the OLED, the difference is undeniable. The colors appear somewhat muted in comparison, and the blacks aren't as deep. So, if visual fidelity is a high priority for you, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear winner in the display department. It provides a more immersive and visually stunning gaming experience, making your games look better than ever. The OLED screen is undoubtedly one of the biggest selling points of the newer model, making your games look much more appealing.

Screen Comparison: OLED vs. LCD

Performance: Similar Power, Different Experiences

When it comes to raw performance, both the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Nintendo Switch (2019) are identical. They both have the same custom NVIDIA Tegra processor, so you can expect the same frame rates and resolutions in games. However, there are some subtle differences in the overall experience that are worth noting. The Nintendo Switch OLED has a slightly improved kickstand. The original Switch's kickstand was notoriously flimsy, but the OLED model features a wide, adjustable kickstand that spans the entire width of the console. This provides much more stability, making it far better for tabletop mode gaming. It's a small change, but it makes a big difference in terms of usability and stability. The Switch OLED also boasts an enhanced audio system. While both consoles have built-in speakers, the OLED model delivers clearer and louder audio. This enhances the overall gaming experience, especially if you enjoy playing without headphones. So, while the processing power is the same, the Switch OLED offers some thoughtful refinements that improve the overall gaming experience in certain aspects. The improved kickstand, for example, makes tabletop mode much more practical and enjoyable. The enhanced audio system provides a more immersive experience, making the games even more enjoyable to listen to.

Design and Build Quality: Minor Tweaks, Big Improvements

Let's talk about the design and build quality of these two consoles, because there are a few notable differences. The Nintendo Switch OLED retains the same overall form factor as the original Switch, so the core design philosophy remains the same. You'll still recognize the familiar tablet-like shape with detachable Joy-Cons. However, Nintendo made some subtle tweaks to enhance the overall build quality and user experience. As mentioned earlier, the most significant change is the kickstand. The original Switch's kickstand was a major pain point for many users, as it was prone to collapsing and didn't provide much stability. The Switch OLED addresses this issue with a wider, more robust kickstand that spans the entire length of the console. This makes tabletop mode a much more enjoyable experience. The Switch OLED also has a slightly refined design. The bezels around the screen are a bit thinner, giving the console a sleeker look. The overall build quality feels premium, with a solid and well-constructed feel. The Switch OLED also includes a wider dock with a built-in Ethernet port. This allows for a more stable and faster internet connection when playing online, which is a great addition for serious gamers. The dock's design also features rounded edges, which are more aesthetically pleasing. While the original Switch's design is still functional, the Switch OLED offers some refinements that enhance the overall experience. The improved kickstand, enhanced build quality, and redesigned dock make the Switch OLED feel like a premium product. However, it's also worth noting that the original Switch (2019) is still a well-designed and reliable console. The design is timeless, and the detachable Joy-Cons provide a unique and versatile gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your priorities. If you value a more premium build quality, a better kickstand, and a more aesthetically pleasing design, the Switch OLED is the clear winner. If you're primarily concerned with price and want to save some money, the original Switch is still a great option.

Docking Station: Ethernet and Aesthetics

Let's not forget about the docking stations. The Nintendo Switch OLED comes with an upgraded dock that has a couple of key advantages over the original Switch's dock. Firstly, the OLED dock includes a built-in Ethernet port. This is a game-changer for online gaming. A wired connection provides a more stable and faster internet connection compared to Wi-Fi, which can result in a smoother and more reliable online experience. If you are serious about online gaming, this is a significant advantage. The original Switch dock requires you to purchase a separate USB Ethernet adapter, which adds extra cost and clutter. Secondly, the Switch OLED dock has a slightly redesigned aesthetic. The edges are rounded, and the overall look is more streamlined. While this is a matter of personal preference, the OLED dock looks more modern and visually appealing. The Switch OLED dock is also a little heavier and sturdier, which is a welcome improvement. There is also a small internal change. The internal components in the OLED dock have been upgraded to provide better heat dissipation. It's a small but significant improvement that contributes to the console's overall performance and longevity. However, the original Switch dock still functions perfectly well. It provides a simple and effective way to connect your console to your TV. The main difference is the lack of a built-in Ethernet port. Therefore, the Switch OLED's upgraded dock offers a few key advantages. The built-in Ethernet port enhances the online gaming experience, and the redesigned aesthetics provide a more modern look. If you are serious about online gaming or appreciate a more aesthetically pleasing design, the Switch OLED's dock is a better choice.

Value Proposition: Balancing Price and Features

Okay, let's talk about the most crucial factor for many of you: the value proposition. The Nintendo Switch OLED comes with a higher price tag than the original Switch (2019). The question is, is the OLED model worth the extra cost? The answer depends on your priorities and how you plan to use the console. If you primarily play in handheld mode, the Switch OLED is a no-brainer. The stunning OLED screen alone is worth the price difference, providing a much more immersive and visually appealing gaming experience. The improved kickstand and enhanced audio system further enhance the handheld experience. If you play in tabletop mode frequently, the Switch OLED is also a better choice. The improved kickstand makes tabletop mode much more practical and enjoyable. If you are serious about online gaming, the built-in Ethernet port in the OLED dock provides a significant advantage. However, if you're on a budget and the cost is a major concern, the original Switch (2019) is still a fantastic console. It offers the same gaming experience, albeit with a less vibrant screen and a less robust kickstand. The original Switch is also a great option if you primarily play docked. The lack of an OLED screen won't be as noticeable when you're playing on your TV. Ultimately, the value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize visual fidelity, handheld gaming, and tabletop mode, the Switch OLED offers excellent value. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the original Switch (2019) is still a great choice.

Which Switch Should You Buy?

So, which Switch should you buy? Here's a quick summary to help you make your decision:

• Choose the Nintendo Switch OLED if:

  • You primarily play in handheld mode and value a stunning display.
  • You play in tabletop mode frequently and want a more stable kickstand.
  • You're a serious online gamer and want a wired Ethernet connection.
  • You appreciate a premium build quality and enhanced audio.

• Choose the Nintendo Switch (2019) if:

  • You're on a budget and want to save some money.
  • You primarily play docked and the screen quality isn't as important.
  • You're not concerned about the improved kickstand or Ethernet port.

Ultimately, both consoles offer a fantastic gaming experience. The Nintendo Switch OLED provides a more premium experience with its stunning display, improved kickstand, and enhanced features. The original Nintendo Switch (2019) remains a great value and a perfect choice for those looking for an affordable and versatile console. Hopefully, this comparison has helped you make the right choice! Happy gaming!