Switch OLED Vs. Switch 2019: Which Should You Buy?

Hey gamers! Are you trying to decide between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the original Nintendo Switch (2019 model)? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you figure out which console is the perfect fit for your gaming needs. It's a tough call, guys, because both are awesome, but they have key differences that could sway your decision. Get ready to explore everything from the screen and design to performance and price. Let's get started, shall we?

Understanding the Contenders: A Quick Overview

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's get a handle on the basics. The Nintendo Switch launched in 2017, revolutionizing how we play games by offering both handheld and TV modes. The Nintendo Switch 2019 is essentially a refreshed version of the original, with improved battery life. Then, in 2021, the Nintendo Switch OLED hit the scene, boasting a gorgeous new screen and some other cool upgrades. Both consoles let you play amazing games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The main question is: which one should snag your hard-earned cash? This guide aims to clear the air, ensuring you make the best choice for your gaming setup. We'll explore the design and build quality, delve into the visual experience, assess performance and features, and, of course, weigh the price. This way, you'll be well-equipped to choose the console that aligns with your gaming style and budget. So, let’s get into it, shall we?

Nintendo Switch (2019 Model) – The OG (But Refreshed)

The original Switch, or rather, the 2019 refresh, is still a fantastic console. It brought the groundbreaking hybrid concept to the gaming world. You can play on the go or dock it to your TV for a big-screen experience. The 2019 refresh primarily focused on improving the battery life, which was a welcome change. It's a reliable console that plays all the same games as the OLED model. The Switch 2019 offers a solid entry point into the Nintendo ecosystem, perfect for anyone new to the world of Nintendo or gamers on a budget. The build is sturdy, if a bit simple compared to the OLED. The display is decent, though not as vibrant as the OLED. It's a workhorse of a console that is still loved and enjoyed by millions worldwide. But how does this compare to the new and improved Nintendo Switch OLED?

Nintendo Switch OLED – The New Kid on the Block

The Nintendo Switch OLED is the premium version of the Switch. The most obvious upgrade is the stunning 7-inch OLED screen, which provides vibrant colors and deep blacks. It also includes a wider adjustable stand, improved audio, and more internal storage. The OLED model is designed to deliver a more immersive gaming experience. It is the perfect choice for gamers who prioritize visuals and want the best possible handheld experience. The Switch OLED also has a redesigned dock with a built-in LAN port for more stable online gaming. This is a great choice, guys, especially if you're upgrading from the original Switch. The OLED brings a touch of luxury to your gaming sessions. Which one is for you? Read on to find out!

Design and Build Quality: What’s the Vibe?

Let's get this show on the road. We’re talking about the feel and look of these consoles. The Nintendo Switch 2019 has a familiar design: a tablet-like screen with detachable Joy-Con controllers on each side. It's made of plastic and feels solid, though it lacks the premium feel of the OLED. The kickstand on the original Switch is notoriously flimsy. It's okay for propping up the console, but it's not the most stable solution. The Nintendo Switch OLED, on the other hand, sports a slightly wider body and a significantly improved build. The most notable change is the larger, more robust kickstand that spans the entire width of the console. This is a game-changer, especially when playing in tabletop mode. You can adjust the stand to find the perfect viewing angle, a feature the original model sorely missed. The OLED also has a sleek, modern aesthetic with a glossy finish on the screen and Joy-Con rails. The dock has a more rounded design with a built-in LAN port for wired internet, which is a big plus for online gamers. This small addition makes all the difference, guys. It’s like, a must-have.

Ergonomics and Portability

Both consoles are designed for portability, but the OLED's slightly larger size and weight make a noticeable difference. It’s still comfortable to hold for extended periods, but the original Switch might be slightly better if you have smaller hands. The weight difference is pretty minimal. The design of the Joy-Cons is the same for both consoles. They attach and detach the same way. The OLED has slightly better speakers, which enhance the audio experience when playing in handheld mode. Both consoles are easy to throw in a bag and take on the go. The size difference isn’t significant enough to affect portability substantially. They both excel at being handheld and docked consoles.

Durability and Materials

Regarding durability, both consoles are well-built, but the OLED's improved stand and slightly more premium materials give it an edge. The original Switch's plastic build is tough, but the OLED's build feels more refined. The improved stand on the OLED provides more stability when playing in tabletop mode. Both consoles are likely to withstand the normal wear and tear of everyday use. No major complaints on durability for either console. They're both pretty solid in terms of handling and build.

Display and Visuals: See the Difference

Now, let's talk about the most significant difference between these two consoles: the screen. The Nintendo Switch OLED features a 7-inch OLED display, a massive upgrade from the original Switch's 6.2-inch LCD screen. OLED technology provides vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast ratios. Games look absolutely stunning on the OLED, with colors popping and images appearing much more vivid. The original Nintendo Switch has a standard LCD screen. While it's still good, the colors aren't as vibrant, and the blacks aren't as deep. The difference is immediately noticeable, especially in games with dark environments or rich color palettes. This improvement alone is a compelling reason for many gamers to upgrade. This is huge, guys! The OLED screen enhances the gaming experience. The contrast ratio is excellent, and the image clarity is simply amazing. It makes gaming feel more immersive and enjoyable. The difference is particularly noticeable in handheld mode. The OLED screen is significantly brighter and more colorful, making it easier to play in various lighting conditions. While both consoles output at 1080p when docked, the OLED's improved visuals shine during handheld play.

Screen Size and Resolution

The OLED's slightly larger screen provides a more immersive gaming experience, but the resolution remains the same in both handheld and docked modes (720p handheld, 1080p docked). The OLED screen’s larger size makes a visual difference even though the resolution isn't higher. The images appear more detailed because of the better panel technology. This screen is truly a pleasure to game on. The difference in screen size isn't massive. The 0.8-inch difference is noticeable, but it won't be a deal-breaker for everyone. The OLED screen's superior display technology significantly improves the visual experience. The richer colors and deeper blacks are visually stunning. It makes a huge difference.

Visual Performance in Different Lighting Conditions

One of the benefits of the OLED screen is its ability to perform well in various lighting conditions. The screen is much brighter than the original Switch's LCD screen. It handles sunlight and other bright environments much better. This means you can play outdoors or in well-lit rooms without struggling to see the screen. This is a significant advantage over the original Switch, which can be difficult to view in bright light. The original Switch's screen is perfectly acceptable, but it can struggle with glare and reflections. The OLED's screen is much more effective at reducing glare and providing a clear image. This makes the OLED a better choice if you frequently play on the go or in environments with bright lighting. The OLED’s screen is simply better overall. It's brighter, more colorful, and offers improved viewing angles. It's a game-changer.

Performance and Features: What's Under the Hood?

Both consoles share similar technical specifications. They are both powered by a custom NVIDIA Tegra processor. They can play the same games, and the game performance is generally identical in both versions when docked. The key differences lie in storage, audio, and the dock’s features. The Nintendo Switch OLED comes with 64GB of internal storage, double the 32GB of the original Switch. This extra storage is a welcome addition, as games can take up a lot of space. The original Switch can be expanded with a microSD card, but the OLED's extra storage is convenient. The OLED model also includes a built-in LAN port on the dock. This is a fantastic feature for gamers who want a more stable and reliable internet connection for online play. The original Switch dock lacks this feature. The OLED's improved speakers offer better audio quality, particularly in handheld mode. The sound is clearer and more balanced. The original Switch's speakers are decent, but they don't match the OLED's audio performance.

Battery Life

The 2019 revision of the original Switch improved battery life. Both consoles offer similar battery life, typically lasting between 4.5 and 9 hours, depending on the game and usage. The OLED model has a slightly more power-efficient screen, but the difference in battery life is negligible. Battery life shouldn’t be a major factor in your decision. It's a solid level of battery life, guys. You can get a good amount of playtime on either console. Both consoles provide a solid gaming experience with good battery life for on-the-go play. You can easily get through a long flight or a train ride.

Audio Quality and Speakers

As mentioned earlier, the OLED has superior audio quality. The improved speakers provide clearer, more balanced sound. This is especially noticeable in handheld mode. The original Switch's speakers are okay, but they lack the richness of the OLED's audio. If audio quality is essential to you, the OLED is the better choice. Sound is crucial when gaming. It enhances immersion and enjoyment. The enhanced audio on the OLED makes a big difference. It is more immersive. The improved sound provides a better experience. You will definitely notice the difference, guys.

Storage and Expandability

The OLED's 64GB internal storage is a big plus. It gives you more room to download and store games. The original Switch comes with 32GB of storage. This can fill up quickly, especially with digital game downloads. Both consoles support microSD cards. You can easily expand the storage of either console. The OLED’s extra storage is a nice bonus. It is very convenient.

Price and Value: The Bottom Line

Price is always a major factor when purchasing a new console. The Nintendo Switch OLED has a higher price tag than the original Nintendo Switch (2019 model). The OLED is priced at a premium. The original Switch is more budget-friendly. This means the original Switch is a better value if you're on a tight budget. The Nintendo Switch OLED offers more features and better performance, but it comes at a higher price. The OLED model is a great value if you are willing to pay the extra cost for the enhanced features. Let's look at the value proposition, guys. You’ll make a more informed decision this way.

Budget Considerations

If you're looking for the most affordable option, the original Switch is the clear winner. It's a great console at a lower price point. It provides access to the same library of games. It's an excellent entry point into the Nintendo ecosystem. The OLED model is a good value if you prioritize the improved screen, audio, and extra storage. The extra features come with a higher price. The choice depends on your budget. It also depends on how important those features are to you. The original Switch is still a fantastic value. You are still getting a great gaming experience at a more accessible price. The OLED offers a premium experience, but it comes with a premium price.

Long-Term Investment and Resale Value

Both consoles hold their value well, but the OLED may have a slight edge in terms of resale value due to its newer features and improved performance. However, this is just a guess. The original Switch still has good resale value. Both consoles retain their value well in the used market. Both consoles are good long-term investments. They offer plenty of value for the price. The OLED is the better long-term investment. This is due to its premium features and extended shelf life.

Which Nintendo Switch Should You Buy?

So, which console should you choose? It really depends on your needs and budget! The Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear winner if you want the best possible handheld experience. The stunning OLED screen, improved audio, and extra storage make it the premium choice. However, if you're on a budget or don't prioritize these features, the original Nintendo Switch (2019 model) is still an excellent choice. It offers the same gaming library and a great gaming experience. Let's summarize and give you the final word.

Reasons to Buy the Nintendo Switch OLED

• Superior Visuals: The OLED screen is a game-changer, providing vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The visual experience is much better than the original Switch. You’ll be blown away! This is awesome.
• Improved Audio: The upgraded speakers offer better sound quality. The audio is clearer and more balanced. It enhances the overall gaming experience, especially in handheld mode. This is a game-changer, guys. The sound is perfect.
• More Storage: The 64GB internal storage is double the 32GB of the original Switch. This means more room for games and downloads. You’ll never have to worry about running out of space.
• Enhanced Features: The improved kickstand and built-in LAN port on the dock add to the overall premium experience. These are the details that matter.

Reasons to Buy the Original Nintendo Switch (2019 Model)

• Budget-Friendly: The original Switch is more affordable. It's a great option for those on a tight budget. It's a deal, guys.
• Solid Performance: You can still play all the same games. The performance is identical when docked. You are still getting a great gaming experience. It is perfect!
• Excellent Portability: Both consoles are designed for portability. The original Switch is still easy to take on the go. You are still good to go.
• Reliable and Proven: The original Switch has a proven track record of reliability. You know what you're getting.

Final Verdict

For the best handheld experience, the Nintendo Switch OLED is the clear choice. For budget-conscious gamers, the original Nintendo Switch (2019 model) still provides great value. Choose the one that best suits your needs and enjoy the world of Nintendo gaming! Happy gaming, friends!