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Does the Nintendo Switch OLED Run at 60 FPS? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED is capable of running games at 60 frames per second (FPS). However, it’s crucial to understand that this isn’t a universal guarantee for all games, and there are nuances to consider. The Switch OLED’s hardware is identical to the original Switch and Switch Lite in terms of processing power, meaning it can achieve the same maximum FPS as its predecessors. The major difference lies in its improved display technology, not its raw performance output. While the OLED screen significantly enhances visual clarity and vibrancy, the target frame rate for games remains primarily capped at 60 FPS. The console aims to deliver a smooth gameplay experience, but it’s ultimately up to the developers to optimize their titles to reach that performance target.

Understanding FPS on the Switch OLED

The term FPS, or frames per second, refers to the number of individual images your screen displays every second. Higher FPS generally results in smoother motion and a more responsive feel during gameplay. For gaming, 60 FPS is often seen as the gold standard for a satisfying experience. However, some games on the Nintendo Switch, including the OLED model, opt for 30 FPS to prioritize other aspects, like higher resolution or more detailed graphics.

The Switch OLED, much like other Switch models, can achieve a maximum of 60 FPS in both handheld mode (720p resolution) and docked mode (1080p resolution). Crucially, not all games will consistently maintain this rate. Some games might fluctuate between different FPS levels depending on the complexity of the action on the screen.

The crucial point to remember is that the OLED model doesn’t inherently have better performance than the standard Switch. It has a better display. It can achieve the same maximum frame rates. This means that if a game runs at 60 FPS on the original Switch, it can theoretically do so on the Switch OLED. The improved screen of the OLED model doesn’t add extra power.

Factors Affecting FPS on the Switch OLED

Many factors contribute to whether a game runs at 60 FPS on the Switch OLED:

Game Optimization: Developers make crucial decisions about balancing resolution, visual effects, and frame rate. Games that are optimized for 60 FPS will generally perform better on all Switch models.
Handheld vs. Docked Mode: Although the Switch OLED can achieve 60 FPS in both modes, the resolution differs. In docked mode, it aims for 1080p while in handheld mode the resolution is 720p. Lowering the resolution in handheld mode can sometimes help a game maintain a higher or more consistent frame rate, but it’s not the only factor.
Game Complexity: Some games with vast open worlds or graphically intense scenes may struggle to constantly maintain 60 FPS. The Switch’s hardware limits its potential, and often it’s a choice to favor visual quality over a higher frame rate.
Power Consumption: In handheld mode, battery life is a consideration. Some developers might intentionally limit frame rates or resolution to extend playtime on a single charge. This is the choice many developers prioritize when making their games for the system.

Does the OLED Screen Itself Affect FPS?

The OLED screen on the Switch OLED does not directly affect the frame rate. The screen’s primary benefit is improved color accuracy, contrast, and overall visual quality. The response time of the pixels on the OLED screen is notably faster compared to the LCD screen in the standard Switch. However, some users report that this can make lower frame rate games appear more stuttery because the pixels have a less blurred transition which is often seen on LCDs. The hardware itself is the limiting factor, not the display technology.

Games That Support 60 FPS on Nintendo Switch

While not every game hits 60 FPS reliably, numerous Nintendo Switch titles have the capability, especially in docked mode, to target this framerate. Some of the notable games that often achieve or are very close to achieving 60 FPS include:

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Cuphead
Doom 3
Fast RMX
Quake II

It’s crucial to remember that even with these games, the frame rate might not be a constant 60 FPS. It’s often an aimed-for target and depends on several things going on in the screen at once.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Switch OLED more powerful than the standard Switch?

No, the Switch OLED has the same internal processing power as the standard Switch and Switch Lite. It primarily differs in its display technology.

2. Does the Switch OLED run all games at 60 FPS?

No, many games run at 30 FPS due to developer choices, console limitations, or optimization. While the Switch OLED can run at 60 FPS, not all games do consistently.

3. Can the Switch OLED display 120Hz refresh rate?

No, the refresh rate of the Switch OLED display is 60Hz, the same as the standard Switch. The frame rate and refresh rate are two separate things, often confused together.

4. Does the OLED screen improve the frame rate of games?

No, the OLED screen doesn’t inherently improve the frame rate. It simply displays the game with better colors and clarity.

5. Why do some games on the Switch run at 30 FPS?

Developers prioritize resolution, graphical details, or other factors instead of a higher frame rate, which sometimes limits a game to 30 FPS. Battery life is also a factor when it comes to handheld mode.

6. Is 60Hz refresh rate good for gaming on the Switch OLED?

Yes, 60Hz is generally sufficient for gaming on the Switch OLED, as most games are designed to run up to that refresh rate.

7. Does playing on an OLED make 30 FPS look worse?

Some users find that lower frame rates like 30 FPS appear more stuttery due to the fast pixel response time of the OLED screen.

8. Can the Nintendo Switch output 144Hz?

No, the Nintendo Switch can’t output anything above 60Hz refresh rate on any display.

9. Do games run smoother on the OLED Switch?

No, not due to an increase in power. The same game runs the same way on both the original switch and OLED switch. However, the games visually look better on the OLED due to the improved screen.

10. What resolution can the Switch OLED run in handheld mode at 60 FPS?

The Switch OLED can run games at 720p resolution with a target of 60 FPS in handheld mode.

11. What resolution can the Switch OLED run in docked mode at 60 FPS?

The Switch OLED can run games at 1080p resolution with a target of 60 FPS in docked mode.

12. Is the Switch OLED upgrade worth it if I already have a standard Switch?

It’s worth considering primarily if you plan on playing in handheld mode, where the improved display offers a noticeable upgrade. But if you primarily play on your TV, the performance will be the same as on your current standard Switch.

13. Will the Nintendo Switch 2 have better FPS?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to have enhanced processing power, potentially enabling it to run many games at 60 FPS or above at higher resolutions, but this has not been officially confirmed by Nintendo.

14. Can all games on the Switch run at 60 fps when docked?

No, some games will have a 30 fps limit regardless of whether the switch is docked or in handheld mode. This is down to a developer choice when creating the game.

15. Is it bad to game at 30 FPS?

Many people can play a game at 30 FPS just fine, but for some, it can be very jarring to the experience. 30 FPS is a lower frame rate than 60 FPS, and for some games that require fast response times it can be detrimental. It all depends on personal preference.

Conclusion

While the Nintendo Switch OLED is not a performance upgrade over other Switch models, it can still run games at 60 FPS. The major advantage of the OLED is that it offers a visually better experience because of its improved screen technology. It’s important to note that the frame rate a game achieves on the Switch OLED is largely dependent on the specific title and its optimization, the mode of play (handheld or docked), and what the developer chose to prioritise. Understanding these nuances can help players manage their expectations and enhance their gaming experience.

Does switch OLED run 60 FPS?