Switch OLED Vs. Switch 2019: Which Nintendo Reigns?

Hey guys! So, you're looking to dive into the wonderful world of the Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome choice! But wait, there's a tiny wrinkle: which one should you snag? The original Nintendo Switch 2019 or the shiny new Nintendo Switch OLED? Don't sweat it, because we're about to break down everything you need to know. We'll be comparing these two consoles to help you make the perfect decision for your gaming needs. This article is your ultimate guide, covering everything from the displays and performance to the battery life and extra features. Get ready to level up your knowledge and choose the perfect Switch for you!

Understanding the Nintendo Switch Landscape

Alright, before we get our hands dirty comparing these consoles, let's get the basics down. The Nintendo Switch 2019 is, well, the original. It was the first iteration of the hybrid console that took the gaming world by storm. It's the Switch that started it all, allowing you to play games on the go or docked to your TV. The Nintendo Switch OLED, on the other hand, is the updated version. While it retains the core functionality of the original, it boasts some significant upgrades, most notably the stunning OLED screen. Both consoles share the same library of incredible games, from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to Super Mario Odyssey, meaning you won't miss out on any of the epic adventures. Knowing this, we can now dig into the specifics and really see what each console has to offer. Understanding the history and the core idea of the consoles is important before going into the specifications. Now, let's explore these consoles in greater detail to find out which is the best choice for you. Let's delve deep into the specifications of each of these consoles and the advantages and disadvantages. Let's start with the most obvious difference: the display!

Display Showdown: OLED vs. LCD

Okay, guys, let's talk about the big difference, the one that's right there in the name: the display. This is the most significant upgrade on the Nintendo Switch OLED. The original Switch uses a standard 6.2-inch LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen. It's perfectly fine, but the Nintendo Switch OLED ups the ante with a 7-inch OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) screen. What does this mean for you? Well, OLED screens are known for their superior picture quality. They offer deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and a higher contrast ratio. Essentially, the games look amazing on the OLED screen. When you're playing in handheld mode, the games really pop. Colors are more vivid, and the blacks are truly black, making everything more immersive. You'll notice a significant improvement in visual fidelity, making your games look better than ever before. While the original Switch's LCD screen is adequate, the OLED screen provides a far more premium experience. Especially in darker scenes and environments, the OLED really shines, making details clearer and more defined. So, if you're a big fan of handheld gaming, the OLED screen is a huge selling point. It's the key to the enhanced experience. The bigger screen is great, too, providing more real estate to enjoy your favorite titles. If the display quality is a major factor, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear winner, no doubt about it!

Performance and Processing Power

Now, let's talk about the heart of these consoles: the performance. This is where things get a bit interesting. Both the Nintendo Switch 2019 and the Nintendo Switch OLED use the same custom NVIDIA Tegra processor. That means, in terms of raw processing power, they're identical. You can expect the same frame rates and the same level of performance in your games on both consoles. Games will look and play the same on both consoles when they are docked. This is great news because it means you won't be sacrificing performance if you choose the original Switch. However, while the performance is the same, there are some subtle differences that impact your gaming experience. The Nintendo Switch OLED has a slightly wider kickstand, which is more stable. The original Switch's kickstand was a bit flimsy, and could be prone to tipping. Additionally, the Nintendo Switch OLED has more internal storage, 64GB compared to the original's 32GB. This gives you more space to store your games and save data without the need for an SD card, although both consoles do support expandable storage via microSD cards. If the performance specifications are the same, there is no need to worry about the game graphics and frame rate. Regardless, the user experience will be enhanced thanks to a better screen and more storage.

Battery Life: How Long Can You Play?

Battery life is a super important factor, especially if you're a fan of playing on the go. The Nintendo Switch 2019 had a somewhat inconsistent battery life, depending on the game you were playing and when it was manufactured. The updated model boasts a noticeably better battery life than the original launch model, offering up to 9 hours of playtime, depending on the game. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, for example, can last around 5.5 hours. However, the Nintendo Switch OLED also has the same improved battery life, which means the playing time remains roughly the same as the improved Nintendo Switch 2019 model. Therefore, the battery life performance of the Nintendo Switch OLED and Nintendo Switch 2019 is pretty much the same. So, if battery life is a huge deal for you, you don't necessarily need to base your decision on that factor. Both consoles offer a significant improvement over the original Switch launch model. Ultimately, the actual battery life will vary depending on the game and screen brightness, so keep that in mind when you're gaming. Don't worry too much about it, though; both consoles will give you a solid amount of playtime before needing a charge.

Extra Features and Design Tweaks

Beyond the screen and battery life, there are a few other differences to consider. The Nintendo Switch OLED comes with a redesigned kickstand, which is much wider and more stable than the original's flimsy design. This is a small but welcome improvement, making it easier to prop up your console on a table or desk for tabletop mode. The OLED model also includes an enhanced audio system. While both consoles have built-in speakers, the OLED's speakers are improved, providing a clearer and more immersive audio experience. It's a subtle change, but it's a nice upgrade for those who frequently play without headphones. Additionally, the Nintendo Switch OLED has a slightly wider game cartridge slot, which might seem insignificant, but it can make it easier to insert and remove game cartridges. The dock is another area where the OLED model shines. It has a built-in Ethernet port for a more stable and reliable internet connection when you're playing online. The dock also has a slightly rounded design, which some people find more aesthetically pleasing. The Nintendo Switch 2019 does not have an Ethernet port, meaning you'll need to rely on Wi-Fi for online gaming. Overall, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers a few thoughtful design improvements and extra features that enhance the gaming experience. These subtle changes really elevate the gaming experience. Considering the slight design changes, the Nintendo Switch OLED clearly wins in this round.

Price and Value: What's the Cost?

Alright, let's talk about the money, guys. The Nintendo Switch OLED typically retails for a slightly higher price than the original Nintendo Switch 2019. The price difference is justified by the upgraded features, especially the OLED screen. However, you might find the original Switch at a lower price point, especially if you're looking for a used or refurbished model. When deciding which console is right for you, consider your budget. If you're looking for the most affordable option, the original Switch is a great value. You'll still get access to the entire Switch game library and the same performance as the OLED model. However, if you're willing to spend a bit more, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers a more premium experience, with its stunning screen, enhanced audio, and improved features. It's all about finding the right balance between price and features. Consider which features are most important to you and whether the price difference is worth it. For gamers on a budget, the Nintendo Switch 2019 is still a phenomenal gaming console. For others, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers a great value.

Which Nintendo Switch Should You Buy?

So, which Switch should you choose? It really depends on your needs and priorities. Here's a quick recap to help you decide:

• Choose the Nintendo Switch OLED if: You value a superior display and want the best possible visual experience in handheld mode. You want enhanced audio and a more stable kickstand. You want more internal storage and a dock with an Ethernet port. Your budget allows for the slightly higher price tag. Overall, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers the best and enhanced user experience.
• Choose the Nintendo Switch 2019 if: You are on a budget and want to save some money. The LCD screen is perfectly adequate for your needs. You don't mind the original kickstand and the lack of an Ethernet port. You prioritize the cost-effectiveness and you just want to play awesome games. Despite not having the fancy screen, the original Nintendo Switch 2019 is still a phenomenal console. It is still a great choice for many people.

Ultimately, both consoles are fantastic and offer access to the same amazing library of games. Think about what matters most to you in a gaming experience and make your decision based on that. No matter which one you choose, you're in for a treat with the Nintendo Switch! Happy gaming!