How to Tell if You Have a Nintendo Switch OLED or the Original

The easiest way to tell if you have a Nintendo Switch OLED or the original (regular) Switch is by looking at the screen. The OLED model has a larger, more vibrant 7-inch OLED screen that almost reaches the edge of the device, whereas the original Switch has a smaller, less vibrant 6.2-inch LCD screen with thicker bezels around it. Other telltale signs include the wider adjustable stand on the back of the OLED model and the dedicated LAN port in its dock.

Key Differences Between the Nintendo Switch Models

Beyond the screen, several other differences distinguish the OLED model from the original Nintendo Switch. Recognizing these distinctions will help you quickly identify which version you own or are considering purchasing.

Screen and Display

As mentioned, the most obvious difference is the screen. The OLED model features a 7-inch OLED display, which provides richer colors, deeper blacks, and a higher contrast ratio compared to the original Switch’s 6.2-inch LCD screen. The OLED technology allows individual pixels to turn off completely, resulting in true blacks and improved power efficiency. The smaller bezels around the OLED screen also give it a more modern and immersive look.

Kickstand Design

The kickstand on the back of each console is another easy way to differentiate them. The original Switch has a thin, flimsy kickstand that only allows for a single viewing angle and is prone to breaking. The OLED model boasts a wide, adjustable stand that spans nearly the entire width of the console. This provides much greater stability and allows you to adjust the viewing angle to your preference, making it more suitable for tabletop play.

Internal Storage

The OLED model comes with 64GB of internal storage, double the 32GB found in the original Switch. This provides more space for downloaded games, screenshots, and videos. While both consoles support microSD cards for expandable storage, the increased internal storage on the OLED model is a significant advantage.

Dock Design

The dock that comes with the OLED model includes a built-in LAN port (Ethernet port) for a more stable wired internet connection. The original Switch dock does not have a LAN port, requiring you to use a USB-to-Ethernet adapter for a wired connection. This is beneficial for online gaming, as wired connections generally offer lower latency and greater reliability.

Audio Quality

While subtle, many users report that the OLED model has slightly improved audio quality thanks to enhanced speakers. The sound is generally clearer and more balanced compared to the original Switch.

Weight and Dimensions

The OLED model is slightly heavier and larger than the original Switch, but the difference is minimal. The OLED model weighs approximately 0.71 pounds (320 grams) without Joy-Cons attached, while the original Switch weighs about 0.66 pounds (299 grams). The increased size is primarily due to the larger screen.

Identifying by Model Number

The model number can be found on the back of the console, near the bottom. The original Nintendo Switch (launch model) is HAC-001. A revised version of the original Switch with improved battery life also exists, which can be identified by its model number HAC-001(-01). The Nintendo Switch OLED model has the model number HEG-001.

Visual Inspection Guide

Here’s a quick checklist to help you visually identify your Nintendo Switch model:

• Screen Size: Is it a 7-inch OLED screen with narrow bezels (OLED) or a 6.2-inch LCD screen with thicker bezels (Original)?
• Kickstand: Does it have a wide, adjustable kickstand (OLED) or a thin, single-angle kickstand (Original)?
• Dock LAN Port: Does the dock have a LAN port on the back (OLED) or not (Original)?
• Internal Storage: Does it have 64GB of internal storage (OLED) or 32GB (Original)? (Check system settings)
• Model Number: Check the model number on the back of the console.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I upgrade my original Switch to an OLED screen?

No, you cannot upgrade the screen on your original Switch to an OLED screen. The OLED model is a completely different hardware revision with a different display technology and internal components.

2. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have better performance than the original Switch?

The OLED model does not offer significantly better performance in terms of processing power or frame rates. Both consoles use the same Tegra processor. The OLED model’s primary advantages are its improved screen, storage, and kickstand.

3. Is the Nintendo Switch OLED worth the upgrade if I already have an original Switch?

Whether the OLED model is worth the upgrade depends on your priorities. If you primarily play in handheld mode, the larger, more vibrant screen and improved kickstand are significant upgrades. If you mostly play docked, the LAN port on the dock might be appealing. However, if you are content with your original Switch and don’t feel limited by its screen or features, the upgrade might not be necessary.

4. Can I use my original Switch Joy-Cons with the OLED model?

Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED is fully compatible with the original Switch Joy-Cons and other accessories.

5. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have longer battery life than the original Switch?

The OLED model’s battery life is comparable to the revised version of the original Switch (model HAC-001(-01)). It offers a slight improvement over the original launch model (HAC-001) due to the OLED screen’s increased power efficiency.

6. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED come with a screen protector pre-installed?

No, the Nintendo Switch OLED does not come with a screen protector pre-installed. It’s recommended to purchase and apply a screen protector to protect the OLED screen from scratches.

7. Will my existing Nintendo Switch games work on the OLED model?

Yes, all Nintendo Switch games are compatible with both the original Switch and the OLED model.

8. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED have a different resolution than the original Switch?

Both consoles have the same resolution: 720p in handheld mode and 1080p when docked. The main difference is the display technology (OLED vs. LCD) and screen size.

9. Is the Nintendo Switch OLED more durable than the original Switch?

The OLED model is generally considered to be just as durable as the original Switch. The wider kickstand on the OLED model is more robust than the original’s flimsy kickstand.

10. How much more expensive is the Nintendo Switch OLED compared to the original Switch?

The OLED model typically retails for a higher price than the original Switch. The exact price difference can vary depending on retailers and promotions.

11. Where can I find the serial number on my Nintendo Switch?

The serial number is located on the bottom of the console, near the charging port. It is also printed on the original packaging.

12. Can the Nintendo Switch OLED be hacked or modified like the original Switch?

The possibility of hacking or modifying the Nintendo Switch OLED depends on its firmware version. Similar to the original Switch, older firmware versions may be vulnerable to exploits.

13. Is the Nintendo Switch OLED dock compatible with the original Switch?

Yes, the OLED model dock is compatible with the original Nintendo Switch, and vice versa. You can use either dock with either console.

14. Does the Nintendo Switch OLED get as hot as the original Switch?

The OLED model generally runs at a similar temperature to the revised version of the original Switch (HAC-001(-01)). The OLED screen is more power-efficient, which can contribute to slightly lower temperatures.

15. Are there different color options for the Nintendo Switch OLED?

The Nintendo Switch OLED is available in different color options, including the standard white Joy-Cons and a neon red/neon blue set. Limited edition versions with special designs are also occasionally released.