Should You Trade Your Old Switch for an OLED? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can trade in your original Nintendo Switch to help offset the cost of a shiny new Nintendo Switch OLED! If you’ve been eyeing that vibrant screen and improved kickstand, trading in your current console is a smart move to make the upgrade more affordable. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about trading in your Switch, the value you can expect, and whether the upgrade is truly worth it for you.
The Allure of the OLED Upgrade
The Nintendo Switch OLED model boasts several attractive enhancements over the original Switch. The most significant upgrade is, of course, the 7-inch OLED screen. This display offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher contrast, making your games look more vibrant and immersive, especially when playing in handheld mode. The OLED also features a more robust and adjustable kickstand, making tabletop mode more stable and convenient. Additionally, it comes with 64GB of internal storage compared to the original Switch’s 32GB, and a new dock with a built-in LAN port for more stable online play.
Trade-In Options: Where to Get the Best Value
Several options exist for trading in your old Switch. Here’s a breakdown of popular choices:
Retailers:
Many major retailers, like GameStop, Best Buy, and Target, offer trade-in programs. While these are convenient, keep in mind that their trade-in values may not always be the highest. They usually provide store credit rather than cash.
Online Marketplaces:
Platforms such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Swappa provide a direct avenue to sell to other consumers. This can often net you a higher price than retail trade-ins. However, you’ll need to manage the selling process yourself, including creating a listing, communicating with buyers, and shipping the console. Swappa is often highlighted as a preferred choice because you often get paid what your console is actually worth.
Pawn Shops:
While pawn shops will accept game consoles, they’re usually the least profitable option. Expect to receive significantly less than the actual market value. It’s typically best to explore other options before resorting to a pawn shop.
Understanding Trade-In Values
Trade-in values vary considerably depending on the condition of your console, model (original, Lite, or OLED), and where you choose to sell or trade. For an original Switch in good condition, you can expect anywhere from $139 to $215. The Switch OLED can fetch even higher prices on the secondary market. Be prepared to receive less if the console shows wear and tear.
Key Factors Influencing Trade-In Value:
- Condition: A console in excellent condition with all original accessories will fetch a higher price.
- Model: The OLED model is worth more than the original Switch or Switch Lite.
- Market Demand: Prices fluctuate based on current demand and market saturation.
- Accessories: Including all original accessories and packaging will increase the value.
Is the Switch OLED Worth the Upgrade?
This is a crucial question. If you’re primarily a handheld player, the OLED screen is a game changer. The vibrant colors and deeper blacks significantly enhance the gaming experience. The improved kickstand is also a welcome addition. If you mostly play docked, the benefits are less noticeable as the performance on a television is the same.
The OLED Switch offers no performance improvements. Both the standard Switch and the Switch OLED use the same Nvidia “System-on-a-chip” (SoC) processor, with the same RAM and graphical capabilities. The 1080p output remains the same on both the original and OLED models when docked.
Making the Right Choice:
- Handheld Players: The OLED screen and improved stand make this a worthwhile upgrade.
- Docked Players: The benefits are minimal for those who primarily play on a TV.
- New Buyers: If you’re new to the Switch, the OLED is the model to choose due to its superior screen.
- Budget Conscious: The original Switch is still a great console at a lower price point.
Transferring Your Data: A Smooth Transition
Transitioning to a new Switch doesn’t mean losing your game progress. Nintendo makes the process relatively straightforward. You can transfer all your save data and user profiles from your old Switch to your new OLED Switch. This requires having both consoles present during the transfer process. The process is foolproof provided that both your initial Switch and the new OLED are available.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you further understand the process:
1. Can I trade in my original Switch for the OLED and get a good deal?
Yes, you can trade in your original Switch and use the money towards the purchase of an OLED. The value will depend on your Switch’s condition and the retailer you choose.
2. How do I transfer my data to my new Switch OLED?
From the HOME Menu on your original Switch, select System Settings, then Users, and then Transfer Your User Data. Follow the on-screen prompts on both consoles to complete the transfer.
3. Can I use my old Switch dock with the new OLED model?
Yes, the OLED dock is backward compatible with the original Switch model. You can use either dock with either console, however, the OLED dock has a LAN port.
4. Will my games look better on the Switch OLED?
While games won’t be sharper or more detailed, the OLED screen offers significantly better color quality and contrast, enhancing the visual experience, especially in handheld mode.
5. Is the Switch OLED more powerful than the original Switch?
No, the performance is identical between the original Switch and the OLED model. They have the same processor, RAM, and graphical capabilities.
6. Does the Switch OLED have 4K output?
No, the Switch OLED does not output in 4K. It still outputs at 1080p when docked, the same as the original Switch.
7. Can I use my old Switch SD card in my new OLED?
You can, but the new Switch will format the SD card, erasing all the data on it. Only screenshots and videos can be transferred between SD cards without formatting.
8. Can I have two switches on the same Nintendo account?
Yes, you can link multiple consoles to one account. However, only one console can be designated as your primary console. On a non-primary console, you’ll need to be connected to the internet to play your digital games.
9. Is the OLED Switch worth it if I only play docked?
If you primarily play docked, the OLED offers limited benefits since the TV output is the same as the original Switch. The new LAN port may be a plus for online gamers.
10. Why is the OLED Switch more expensive?
The OLED model has a more advanced OLED display and more built in storage, contributing to the higher price.
11. Does the OLED screen improve battery life?
No, battery life is largely similar between the original Switch and the OLED model. It can vary slightly depending on the game and settings.
12. When will the Switch 2 be released?
Nintendo has confirmed no new hardware releases before March 2024, so a “Switch 2” release is expected sometime after that date.
13. Can I watch Netflix on my Nintendo Switch?
There is no native Netflix app on the Switch. However, you can watch Netflix by downloading it onto another device and transferring it to youtube.
14. What does OLED actually mean?
OLED stands for organic light-emitting diode, a display technology where each pixel emits its own light, resulting in deeper blacks and richer colors.
15. Will I lose my game progress if I get a new Switch?
No, you will not lose your progress. By transferring your user and save data from your old Switch to your new console, you can seamlessly continue your game progress.
Final Thoughts
Trading in your original Switch for an OLED model is a personal decision. If you primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED screen and upgraded kickstand offer a notable improvement. By exploring your trade-in options, you can make this upgrade more affordable. However, if you mostly play docked, the benefits of the OLED model are minimal. Weigh your priorities and make the choice that best fits your gaming habits and budget. Happy gaming!