Does the Switch OLED Run Better Than the Original Switch? Let’s Break It Down!
The short answer is no, the Switch OLED doesn’t inherently run games “better” than the original Switch in terms of raw performance. Both consoles boast the same Nvidia “System-on-a-chip” (SoC), the same amount of RAM (4GB), and largely the same internal components responsible for processing power. The magic of the OLED model lies in its stunning display and some quality-of-life improvements, not a beefed-up engine under the hood. Let’s dive deeper into why this is the case and explore what the OLED model does offer.
Core Performance: Identical Twins Underneath the Surface
When it comes to frame rates, loading times, and general responsiveness, the Switch OLED mirrors the original Switch. This is because both consoles use the same core processing unit. This means you won’t experience smoother gameplay or reduced lag on the OLED model compared to the standard Switch. The improvements are all visual and convenience-based.
The Power of the Nvidia SoC
The Nvidia SoC is the brain of the Switch, handling everything from rendering graphics to processing game logic. Since both models share this crucial component, their computational abilities are virtually identical. Games are designed to run on this specific hardware, so developers optimize their titles accordingly, ensuring similar performance across both platforms.
RAM: The Same Memory Pool
The 4GB of RAM plays a vital role in allowing the Switch to run multiple applications simultaneously and store game data for quick access. Since the memory allocation remains the same, there is no advantage to be gained in the Switch OLED.
Where the OLED Shines: Visual and QoL Enhancements
While performance remains consistent, the Switch OLED offers several key advantages that significantly enhance the overall gaming experience:
- OLED Display: The vibrant 7-inch OLED screen is the star of the show. Colors pop, blacks are deeper, and the contrast is dramatically improved, making games look more immersive and visually appealing, especially in handheld mode.
- Increased Internal Storage: The OLED model boasts 64GB of internal storage, double the original Switch’s 32GB. While still limited, it provides more space for digital games and save data.
- Improved Audio: Enhanced speakers deliver richer and more immersive sound, adding another layer to the gaming experience.
- Wider Adjustable Stand: The sturdier and more adjustable kickstand makes tabletop gaming more comfortable and convenient.
- New Dock with LAN Port: The included dock features a built-in LAN port, providing a more stable and reliable internet connection for online multiplayer.
Visual Fidelity: A Feast for the Eyes
The OLED display is the biggest selling point. The self-emissive pixels allow for true blacks and vibrant colors. This creates a significant improvement in image quality, especially in games with darker environments or vibrant color palettes. Games appear more detailed and visually engaging, breathing new life into existing titles.
Storage Matters: More Room for Digital Delights
While the 64GB of internal storage is a welcome upgrade, it’s still recommended to invest in a microSD card, especially if you plan on downloading numerous digital games. However, the extra storage space is a significant advantage.
Does the New Dock Make a Difference?
The OLED Switch’s dock features an HDMI 2.0 port compared to the original dock’s HDMI 1.4. However, in practice, this doesn’t translate to any noticeable improvement in image quality or performance when playing on a TV. The Switch’s maximum output resolution remains at 1080p, which HDMI 1.4 can easily handle. The HDMI 2.0 port is more about future-proofing than delivering immediate benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the OLED Switch have better output?
There shouldn’t be any difference because the systems themselves are outputting the same signal. However, there is perhaps some small chance the new dock might make some difference somehow because it has an HDMI 2.0 (or better) port whereas the original dock is using an HDMI 1.4 port.
2. Does the OLED Switch last longer?
For Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, the battery life is approximately 4.5 to 9 hours, compared to the Nintendo Switch Lite, model number: HDH-001, where the battery life is approximately 3 to 7 hours.
3. Does the OLED Switch perform better on TV?
No. Even though it has twice the internal storage of other Switch consoles at 64GB, it’s got the same processor and display resolution as previous models, meaning you won’t see games perform better or look sharper on a TV on the OLED version.
4. Does the Switch OLED run faster?
Performance and power both remain the same on both the standard Switch and the OLED Switch; neither RAM, battery life, or processor were improved from one model to the next.
5. How do I get better graphics on my Nintendo Switch OLED?
You can change the TV Resolution in the TV Settings on the System Settings Menu. Available resolutions are: Automatic, 480p, 720p, and 1080p. Also, change the RGB Range.
6. Why is my Switch OLED battery dying so fast?
Occasionally a game will get a memory leak and the only fix is a system restart as the leak will persist even after you’ve closed the game and switched to a different game. If the battery is still draining that fast after all that then contact Nintendo as you probably need a battery replacement.
7. How long does a Nintendo Switch last?
The lifespan of your Nintendo Switch is 6–10 years if you take good care of it. You shouldn’t have any wear and tear or issues with internal components before then.
8. Is it worth buying Switch OLED?
If you’re a Casual Gamer that just likes to take your system wherever you go, the better screen on the OLED is going to be reason enough to upgrade because the colors are so much better the screen is larger.
9. Is Switch OLED better docked or handheld?
There is absolutely no upgrade when in docked mode, but a pretty nice upgrade in handheld mode. Neither mode will see a boost to display quality or performance.
10. Does the OLED Switch have 4K?
Almost all of the console’s new benefits disappear once the Nintendo Switch OLED is in its dock. The console still outputs at 1080p, which can look noticeably soft on 4K displays, and there’s no HDR, VRR, or auto low-latency mode support.
11. Is it okay to leave Nintendo Switch OLED charging overnight?
Leaving the console on the dock or plugged in directly with the AC adapter overnight, or past the point where the battery is fully charged will not cause harm to the battery.
12. How many games can a Switch OLED hold?
This depends on whether you own physical or digital copies. If you have nothing but physical games, the switch can fit hundreds of save data. If you have digital games, this will purely depend on the storage your switch has and what games you have downloaded or are trying to download and their file sizes.
13. How long does it take for an OLED Switch to burn in?
According to one test, it might take 3,600 hours of constant play on a static screen to even begin to see the first signs of that dreaded screen malady.
14. How do you avoid OLED burn on Switch?
Utilize features included in the Nintendo Switch systems by default, such as auto-brightness function to prevent the screen from getting too bright, and the auto-sleep function to go into ‘auto sleep’ mode after short periods of time.
15. Do games run better on the OLED?
The only thing different about the OLED model compared to the original is that the games look better and are a little more vibrant on the screen, but only during while playing handheld.
The Verdict: A Visual Upgrade, Not a Performance Boost
In conclusion, while the Nintendo Switch OLED doesn’t offer any performance advantages over the original Switch, its stunning OLED display, increased storage, improved audio, and enhanced features provide a significantly more immersive and enjoyable gaming experience. If you primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED model is a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you mostly play docked, the benefits are less pronounced.
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