Switch Showdown: OLED Vs. Original

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Switch Showdown: OLED vs. Original

Hey gamers, ever found yourselves staring at the Nintendo Switch lineup and wondering, "Which one's the real MVP?" Well, you're not alone! Today, we're diving deep into the Nintendo Switch OLED vs. the Nintendo Switch 2019, unpacking the nitty-gritty to help you decide which console is the perfect fit for your gaming lifestyle. This isn't just a comparison; it's a quest to determine which Switch reigns supreme for your personal needs and preferences. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's get this showdown started!

The Contenders: A Quick Overview

Before we jump into the ring, let's get acquainted with our contenders. First up, we have the Nintendo Switch (2019), the OG, the console that started it all. This is the model that likely introduced many of you to the joy of portable and home console gaming in one sleek package. Then, we've got the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, the newer kid on the block, boasting a vibrant OLED screen and a few other upgrades. While the core functionality remains the same—play games on your TV or in handheld mode—there are some key differences that set these two apart. Understanding these differences is crucial to making an informed decision about which Switch is right for you. We'll be breaking down everything from display quality and battery life to storage capacity and overall design.

Nintendo Switch (2019): The Foundation

The Nintendo Switch (2019), often referred to as the standard model, established the core experience that made the Switch a global phenomenon. It brought the groundbreaking concept of seamless transitions between TV and handheld gaming to the masses. The original Switch features a 6.2-inch LCD screen, which, while not the flashiest, gets the job done. It supports a resolution of 720p in handheld mode and up to 1080p when docked to a TV. Battery life on this model is respectable, offering around 4.5 to 9 hours of gameplay depending on the game and settings. It comes with 32GB of internal storage, which, let's be honest, fills up pretty fast with today's game sizes, but thankfully, you can expand it with a microSD card. The Joy-Cons, while iconic, are also known for potential drifting issues, a common gripe among users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the original Switch remains a solid console and a testament to Nintendo's innovation in the gaming world. Its affordable price point has made it accessible to many gamers, making it a great entry point into the Nintendo ecosystem.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model: The Upgrade

Now, let's turn our attention to the Nintendo Switch OLED Model. This iteration takes the Switch experience to the next level, offering several enhancements that make it a compelling upgrade or a great choice for new buyers. The most significant upgrade is the 7-inch OLED screen, which delivers vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and a higher contrast ratio. This makes games look absolutely stunning, especially in handheld mode. Battery life has been slightly improved, offering similar gameplay times to the original Switch, with a potential range of 4.5 to 9 hours. The OLED model doubles the internal storage to 64GB, which is a welcome boost, though still, a microSD card is highly recommended for avid gamers. It features an enhanced kickstand that spans the entire width of the console, providing a stable base in tabletop mode, and it also comes with a redesigned dock featuring a built-in Ethernet port for a more reliable internet connection. However, the Joy-Cons are functionally identical to the previous model, so drifting remains a potential concern. The OLED model is a premium experience, offering a more immersive and visually stunning handheld gaming experience.

Display: The Visual Showdown

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what you'll be staring at for countless hours: the display. This is a crucial aspect for handheld gaming, and the difference here is quite significant.

Nintendo Switch (2019) Display: Solid but Standard

The Nintendo Switch (2019) rocks a 6.2-inch LCD screen. It's a decent screen, no doubt, and it gets the job done. Colors are accurate, and the resolution of 720p is perfectly acceptable for handheld gaming. However, LCD technology has its limitations. Blacks aren't truly black; they're more like a dark gray, and the overall contrast isn't as high. In well-lit environments, the screen can sometimes appear washed out, and the viewing angles aren't the best. But, let's be real, it still provides a solid visual experience, and you'll have no problem enjoying your favorite games. It's functional, reliable, and does what it needs to do.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Display: A Visual Feast

Now, the Nintendo Switch OLED Model steps it up big time with its 7-inch OLED screen. The difference is immediately noticeable. OLED screens are known for their incredible picture quality. The blacks are pure black, providing a much higher contrast ratio, which makes colors pop and the image appear more dynamic. The colors are vibrant and accurate, and the wider viewing angles mean the picture looks great, even if you're not looking at it straight on. This screen makes games look absolutely stunning. The OLED model offers a noticeably improved visual experience compared to the original Switch. If you primarily play in handheld mode, this upgrade alone might be worth the investment.

Battery Life: How Long Can You Game?

Battery life is a crucial factor, especially if you're a gamer on the go. Nobody wants their gaming session cut short because of a dead battery. Let's see how these two consoles stack up.

Nintendo Switch (2019) Battery Life: Reliable for Most

The Nintendo Switch (2019) offers a battery life that's perfectly acceptable for most gamers. You can expect to get around 4.5 to 9 hours of gameplay on a single charge. This can vary quite a bit depending on the game you're playing and the screen brightness settings. More graphically intensive games will drain the battery faster. Nintendo has optimized the battery life of this model to strike a balance between performance and portability, making it a reliable companion for commutes, travel, or just lounging around the house. It's not the best battery life out there, but it's enough to get you through a good chunk of gameplay.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Battery Life: A Slight Improvement

The Nintendo Switch OLED Model also offers a great battery experience. It features a slightly improved battery, offering a similar gameplay time to the original Switch, with a potential range of 4.5 to 9 hours. However, in real-world scenarios, many users find that the OLED model can last a bit longer due to the efficiency of the OLED screen. Like with the original Switch, the actual battery life will depend on the games played and the display settings. The OLED model's efficiency provides a nice boost, offering a bit more gaming time between charges. This slight improvement, combined with other enhancements, makes the OLED model a more convenient option for gamers who value extended play sessions.

Storage: More Space for Your Games

With game sizes constantly increasing, having enough storage space is essential. Let's see how these consoles handle your growing game library.

Nintendo Switch (2019) Storage: Basic but Expandable

The Nintendo Switch (2019) comes with 32GB of internal storage. While this might seem like a decent amount at first glance, it quickly fills up as you start downloading games, updates, and DLC. Fortunately, the original Switch supports microSD cards, allowing you to expand your storage significantly. This is basically a must-have for any Switch owner. You can easily get a 128GB, 256GB, or even 512GB microSD card to store all your games without worrying about running out of space. With a microSD card, the storage limitation of the original Switch is easily addressed, and you can keep a vast library of games at your fingertips.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Storage: Double the Fun

The Nintendo Switch OLED Model doubles the internal storage, offering 64GB. This is a noticeable improvement, and it means you can store more games directly on the console without needing a microSD card right away. However, given the size of modern games, 64GB can still fill up quickly, especially if you download a lot of games or large digital titles. The OLED model also supports microSD cards, so you can still expand your storage if you need even more space. The 64GB of internal storage is a welcome upgrade, but a microSD card is still highly recommended for serious gamers.

Design and Features: What Else Is Different?

Beyond the screen, battery, and storage, there are other design and feature differences to consider.

Nintendo Switch (2019) Design and Features: Familiar and Functional

The Nintendo Switch (2019) has the classic Switch design, which is still loved by many. It's sleek, portable, and the Joy-Cons detach to give you more ways to play. The kickstand on the original Switch is functional, but it's also a bit flimsy and easy to knock over. The dock is simple and gets the job done, but it lacks some of the premium touches of the OLED model's dock. Overall, the original Switch is a well-designed console that’s easy to use and fun to play.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Design and Features: Premium Enhancements

The Nintendo Switch OLED Model introduces a few design and feature upgrades that enhance the overall experience. The most noticeable is the larger 7-inch OLED screen, which provides a more immersive viewing experience. The kickstand has been completely redesigned, spanning the entire width of the console, providing a much more stable and comfortable tabletop gaming experience. The dock also gets an upgrade with a built-in Ethernet port, offering a more stable and reliable internet connection for online play. The OLED model also features a slightly wider body that adds some extra heft, which improves the overall feel in hand. These design enhancements are a step up and elevate the premium feel of the console. The OLED model offers subtle but significant enhancements, enhancing the gaming experience in a big way.

Which Switch Should You Buy?

So, after all the details, which Switch should you choose? Let's break it down.

Choose the Nintendo Switch (2019) If:

  • Budget is a major concern: The original Switch is typically more affordable. It is a great choice if you're looking for an entry-level console or want to save a few bucks.
  • You mostly play on a TV: If you mainly play your Switch docked to a TV, the benefits of the OLED screen are less important. The original Switch provides a fantastic gaming experience when connected to a TV.
  • You're on a budget: While the OLED model provides significant upgrades, it also comes with a higher price tag. The original Switch is a great option if you don't want to spend the extra money. It still delivers a fantastic gaming experience.

Choose the Nintendo Switch OLED Model If:

  • You primarily play in handheld mode: The OLED screen is a game-changer. The vibrant colors and deep blacks transform the handheld gaming experience. If you play on the go often, this is the way to go.
  • You want the best possible visual experience: The OLED screen offers superior picture quality, making your games look amazing. If you want the most visually stunning gaming experience, the OLED model is worth the investment.
  • You want a better kickstand and more storage: The improved kickstand provides a more stable tabletop gaming experience, and the increased storage is a bonus. If you value these extra features, the OLED model is a great option.
  • You plan to play online games frequently: The built-in Ethernet port in the OLED dock provides a more stable internet connection, which can be a big advantage for online multiplayer games.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch OLED vs. the Nintendo Switch 2019 depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both consoles offer incredible gaming experiences, and you can't really go wrong with either. If you prioritize budget and don't play in handheld mode often, the original Switch is still a fantastic option. If you value a premium display, enhanced features, and a superior handheld gaming experience, the OLED model is the clear winner. Consider your own gaming habits, your budget, and what's most important to you, and you'll find the perfect Switch for your gaming adventures. Happy gaming, folks! Now go out there and enjoy those amazing games! Remember, whether you go with the original or the OLED, you're in for a good time with Nintendo's unique and versatile console.