OLED Vs. Standard Switch: Which Screen Reigns Supreme?

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Nintendo Switch OLED vs. Normal Screen: Which Reigns Supreme?

So, you're thinking about diving into the world of Nintendo Switch, or maybe you're already a seasoned player pondering an upgrade. One of the biggest decisions you'll face is choosing between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the standard Nintendo Switch. And guess what? The screen is where these two consoles really show their differences. Let's break down everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch OLED vs. the normal screen, so you can make the best choice for your gaming needs.

Diving Deep into Display Differences

The most obvious difference, and the one that gives the OLED model its name, is the screen technology. The original Switch uses an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), which is a perfectly fine technology found in many TVs and monitors. However, the OLED Switch boasts an, well, OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) screen. What does this mean for you, the gamer?

OLED technology is pretty cool, guys. Instead of using a backlight to illuminate the entire screen like LCDs, OLED screens have individual pixels that light up independently. This leads to a few key advantages:

  • Superior Contrast: Because OLED pixels can turn completely off, you get true blacks. This makes colors pop more and gives the image a greater sense of depth. On an LCD screen, even when trying to display black, there's still some light bleed from the backlight, resulting in a grayish hue.
  • Vibrant Colors: OLED screens generally offer a wider color gamut than LCDs. This means they can display a broader range of colors, making games look more vibrant and visually appealing.
  • Faster Response Times: OLED screens typically have faster response times than LCDs. This can reduce motion blur, especially in fast-paced games.
  • Better Viewing Angles: Colors and contrast on an OLED screen remain consistent even when viewed from an angle, which is great for multiplayer sessions where everyone's huddled around the screen.

Beyond the technology itself, there's also a size difference. The OLED model has a 7-inch screen compared to the standard Switch's 6.2-inch display. While it might not sound like a huge difference, that extra screen real estate can make a noticeable impact, especially when playing in handheld mode. The larger screen provides a more immersive experience, drawing you deeper into the game world.

Visual Experience: OLED's Clear Advantage

Alright, enough with the technical jargon. Let's talk about what all this means for your actual gaming experience. In short, the OLED screen offers a significantly better visual experience than the standard Switch screen. The difference is immediately noticeable, even to the untrained eye.

Games on the OLED Switch look richer, more vibrant, and more detailed. The deep blacks make a huge difference in darker scenes, adding atmosphere and improving visibility. Colors are more accurate and pop off the screen. Playing games like Metroid Dread or Hollow Knight, which feature dark and atmospheric environments, is a completely different experience on the OLED model.

Even games that aren't particularly dark benefit from the OLED screen. The vibrant colors make games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild look even more stunning. The increased contrast also helps to make the image look sharper and more defined.

The larger screen size on the OLED model also contributes to a more immersive experience. It's easier to see details and read text, especially in handheld mode. This can be a huge advantage for games with lots of menus and dialogue.

However, it's important to note that the resolution is the same on both the OLED and standard Switch models: 720p in handheld mode and 1080p when docked. So, while the OLED screen looks better, it's not actually displaying more pixels. If you're primarily concerned with resolution, the OLED model might not be worth the upgrade.

Considering Other Factors: Beyond the Screen

Of course, the screen isn't the only difference between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the standard Switch. Here are a few other factors to consider:

  • Storage: The OLED model comes with 64GB of internal storage, compared to the standard Switch's 32GB. This is a welcome upgrade, as the standard Switch's storage fills up quickly, especially if you download a lot of games. However, both models have a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
  • Dock: The OLED model comes with a redesigned dock that includes a built-in LAN port. This is a nice addition for those who prefer a wired internet connection for online gaming. The standard Switch dock does not have a LAN port.
  • Speakers: The OLED model has improved speakers that offer slightly better sound quality than the standard Switch. While the difference isn't huge, it's noticeable.
  • Kickstand: The OLED model has a wider, more adjustable kickstand that's much sturdier than the flimsy kickstand on the standard Switch. This makes it easier to prop up the console on a table for tabletop mode.
  • Price: The OLED model is more expensive than the standard Switch. You'll need to decide if the upgraded screen and other features are worth the extra cost.

These differences, while not as significant as the screen, contribute to the overall user experience. The increased storage is convenient, the LAN port is great for online gamers, the improved speakers enhance audio, and the sturdier kickstand makes tabletop mode more enjoyable. However, the price is a key consideration.

Battery Life and Performance: No Change Here

It's important to note that the battery life and performance are virtually identical between the OLED and standard Switch models. Both consoles use the same processor and have similar battery capacity. You can expect to get around 4.5 to 9 hours of playtime on both models, depending on the game you're playing.

So, if you're hoping for a performance boost or significantly longer battery life with the OLED model, you'll be disappointed. The focus of the OLED model is primarily on the improved screen and other quality-of-life features.

Who is the OLED Switch For?

So, who should buy the Nintendo Switch OLED? Here's a quick rundown:

  • Gamers who primarily play in handheld mode: If you spend most of your time playing your Switch on the go, the OLED screen will make a huge difference in your gaming experience.
  • Gamers who value visual quality: If you appreciate vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a generally more immersive visual experience, the OLED screen is well worth the upgrade.
  • Gamers who want the best possible Switch experience: The OLED model offers the best overall Switch experience, with its upgraded screen, improved speakers, sturdier kickstand, and increased storage.
  • New Switch Buyers: If you're buying a switch, and can afford the extra cost, it's worth it to buy the OLED model.

Who Should Stick with the Standard Switch?

On the other hand, the standard Switch is still a great console, and it might be a better choice for some gamers:

  • Gamers on a budget: The standard Switch is significantly cheaper than the OLED model. If you're on a tight budget, the standard Switch is still a fantastic option.
  • Gamers who primarily play on their TV: If you spend most of your time playing your Switch docked to your TV, the OLED screen won't make as much of a difference. You'll still get the same 1080p resolution on your TV with the standard Switch.
  • Gamers who are happy with their current Switch: If you already own a standard Switch and are happy with the screen, there's no need to upgrade to the OLED model unless you really want the improved visual quality.

Final Verdict: Screen Supreme?

The Nintendo Switch OLED offers a superior visual experience compared to the standard Switch, thanks to its vibrant OLED screen with true blacks, rich colors, and faster response times. The larger screen, improved speakers, sturdier kickstand, and increased storage are also welcome additions. However, the OLED model is more expensive, and the battery life and performance are the same as the standard Switch.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value visual quality and primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED Switch is definitely worth the upgrade. But if you're on a budget or primarily play on your TV, the standard Switch is still a great option. No matter which model you choose, you're in for a fantastic gaming experience with the Nintendo Switch!