Is the Nintendo Switch OLED Worth the Extra $50? A Deep Dive

Absolutely, without a doubt, the Nintendo Switch OLED is worth the extra $50, especially if you’re a new Switch owner or primarily play in handheld mode. While existing Switch owners might find the upgrade less compelling, the enhanced visual experience, improved battery life, and superior build quality of the OLED model make it a fantastic investment.

The question isn’t just about the price tag; it’s about the value you receive for that price. Let’s break down why the OLED model shines and explore whether it’s the right choice for you.

Unpacking the OLED Advantage: What Makes it Special?

The defining feature, of course, is the OLED screen. It’s a game-changer, plain and simple. Unlike the LCD screen of the original Switch, OLED technology allows for true blacks and vibrant, accurate colors. This leads to a significantly more immersive and visually appealing gaming experience. Think of it as upgrading from a standard definition TV to a high-definition OLED – the difference is striking, and you’ll see the difference immediately.

Beyond the screen, several other improvements enhance the overall Switch experience:

• Improved Battery Life: While battery life varies depending on the game, the OLED model generally offers a noticeable improvement over the original Switch, making those long commutes or travel sessions more enjoyable.
• Enhanced Audio: The upgraded speakers deliver richer, more immersive sound, further enhancing the gaming experience, especially in handheld mode.
• Wider, Sturdier Kickstand: The original Switch’s flimsy kickstand was a common complaint. The OLED model features a much wider and more stable kickstand, making tabletop play significantly more enjoyable.
• Increased Internal Storage: The OLED model boasts 64GB of internal storage, double that of the original Switch. While you’ll still likely need a microSD card for larger game libraries, the extra storage is a welcome addition.

These upgrades, combined with the superior visual quality, make the OLED model the definitive Switch experience. For new buyers, it’s a no-brainer.

Is it Worth Upgrading? The Existing Switch Owner’s Dilemma

If you already own a Switch, the decision becomes more nuanced. The $50 price increase translates to an upgrade that is focused on the portable experience.

• Consider Your Usage: Do you primarily play in docked mode connected to your TV? If so, the OLED screen and improved kickstand won’t offer much benefit. The original Switch will serve you just fine.
• Handheld Enthusiasts, Rejoice: If you frequently play in handheld mode, the OLED screen alone might be worth the upgrade. The improved visuals elevate the experience significantly.
• Battery Life Matters: If you find yourself constantly tethered to a charger with your original Switch, the improved battery life of the OLED model can be a lifesaver.
• Trade-In Options: Explore trade-in programs to offset the cost of the upgrade. Many retailers offer competitive trade-in values for the original Switch.

Ultimately, the decision to upgrade depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re heavily invested in the Switch ecosystem and primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED model is a worthwhile upgrade. If you’re content with your current Switch and primarily play on your TV, you can likely skip this generation.

Nintendo Switch and Learning

The Nintendo Switch and its games provide multiple learning opportunities. From enhancing problem-solving skills to fostering creativity, video games can be powerful learning tools. Learn more about the benefits of gaming and education at the Games Learning Society: GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision about the Nintendo Switch OLED:

Is the OLED screen really that much better?

Yes, the OLED screen offers a noticeable improvement over the original Switch’s LCD screen. Colors are more vibrant, blacks are deeper, and the overall picture quality is significantly enhanced. It is a noticeable upgrade.

Does the OLED Switch fix the Joy-Con drift issue?

No, the OLED Switch uses the same Joy-Con controllers as the original Switch, meaning it is still susceptible to Joy-Con drift.

Is the OLED Switch more powerful than the original Switch?

No, the OLED Switch has the same processor and RAM as the original Switch, so performance is virtually identical.

Can I use my old Joy-Cons on the OLED Switch?

Yes, the OLED Switch is compatible with all existing Joy-Con controllers and accessories.

Does the OLED Switch come with a dock?

Yes, the OLED Switch comes with a dock, but it is slightly different from the original Switch dock, featuring a built-in LAN port for a more stable online connection when docked.

How much storage does the OLED Switch have?

The OLED Switch has 64GB of internal storage, double that of the original Switch.

Does the OLED Switch have better battery life?

Yes, the OLED Switch generally offers better battery life than the original Switch, but the exact duration varies depending on the game.

Is the Zelda OLED Switch worth it for Zelda fans?

Yes, the Zelda OLED Switch is worth it if you’re a Zelda fan looking to upgrade, especially if you owned a launch day Switch.

Is burn-in a problem with the OLED Switch?

Burn-in is possible with OLED, but not likely with normal use.

Is the OLED Switch better for my eyes?

Since the OLED is clearer on a slightly bigger screen, I’ve had no eye strain at all even after long sessions. The OG LCD model gave me eye strain within a couple hours.

Can I trade in my original Switch for an OLED?

Yes, you can trade in your old Nintendo Switch and put that money towards a new one.

How much should I pay for Nintendo Switch?

A normal Nintendo Switch costs $299.99.

Is Switch worth it in 2024?

Yes, it’s 2024, and the Nintendo Switch is still a top-performing gaming console on the market.

Is OLED worth the extra cost?

If you have the money to spend and your priority is getting the best possible screen quality from your TV, smartphone or gadget, we’d say that OLED is absolutely worth the money.

Why is OLED so much more expensive?

A major reason why OLED TVs are pricier than their QLED counterparts is that OLED TV production, which uses a process called vacuum thermal evaporation, is both expensive and labor-intensive.