Nintendo Switch OLED: Worth The Upgrade?

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Nintendo Switch OLED Model: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the Nintendo Switch OLED model and figure out if it's the right upgrade for you. If you are considering getting the Nintendo Switch OLED model, this review will help you make the right decision. We’ll cover everything from the stunning new OLED screen to the enhanced features and whether those enhancements justify the cost. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let’s get started!

What's New with the OLED Model?

The Nintendo Switch OLED model brings several key upgrades that set it apart from the original Switch. The most noticeable change is, of course, the vibrant 7-inch OLED screen. But there’s more to it than just a pretty display. Let’s break down the improvements:

OLED Screen

The star of the show is undoubtedly the 7-inch OLED screen. Unlike the LCD screen on the original Switch, OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology allows each pixel to produce its own light and color. This results in:

  • Higher Contrast Ratio: OLED screens offer infinite contrast ratios, meaning blacks are truly black, and colors pop with incredible vibrancy.
  • Improved Color Accuracy: Colors are more accurate and lifelike, making games look richer and more immersive.
  • Better Viewing Angles: Whether you're playing solo or sharing the screen with friends, the OLED screen maintains its color and clarity from almost any angle.

For gamers, this means a significant visual upgrade. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey look absolutely stunning on the OLED screen, with richer colors and deeper blacks that enhance the overall gaming experience. The difference is like night and day, especially in games with lots of dark scenes or vibrant landscapes.

Enhanced Audio

Beyond the visual upgrade, the Nintendo Switch OLED model also features enhanced audio. The speakers have been redesigned to deliver clearer and more immersive sound. While it's not a complete overhaul, the improved audio does add to the overall gaming experience. You'll notice that sound effects and music have more depth and clarity, making games more engaging, especially when playing in handheld mode.

Wider Adjustable Stand

Another welcome addition is the wider, adjustable stand. The original Switch had a flimsy kickstand that was prone to snapping off. The OLED model features a sturdy, full-width stand that provides much more stability. It also allows you to adjust the viewing angle, making it easier to find a comfortable position when playing in tabletop mode. This is a small but significant improvement that makes a big difference in usability.

64GB Internal Storage

The Nintendo Switch OLED model doubles the internal storage from 32GB to 64GB. While this may not seem like a huge upgrade, it does provide more room for downloaded games, screenshots, and video captures. Keep in mind that some games can take up a significant amount of storage space, so you may still need to invest in a microSD card to expand your storage further. However, the extra space is definitely a plus, especially for those who prefer digital downloads over physical game cartridges.

Dock with a Wired LAN Port

Finally, the Nintendo Switch OLED model comes with a redesigned dock that includes a built-in wired LAN port. This is a great addition for gamers who prefer a more stable and reliable internet connection when playing online. The wired connection eliminates the need for a USB LAN adapter, making it easier to connect to your home network. If you're a competitive gamer or someone who enjoys online multiplayer games, this feature alone may be worth the upgrade.

Is the Upgrade Worth It?

Now for the big question: Is the Nintendo Switch OLED model worth the upgrade? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. Let’s consider a few scenarios:

For Original Switch Owners

If you already own an original Nintendo Switch, the decision to upgrade is more complex. The OLED screen is a significant improvement, but it's not the only factor to consider. If you primarily play in docked mode, the benefits of the OLED screen will be less noticeable. However, if you frequently play in handheld or tabletop mode, the improved screen, enhanced audio, and adjustable stand can greatly enhance your gaming experience. The extra storage and wired LAN port are also nice additions, but they may not be enough to justify the upgrade on their own.

For Switch Lite Owners

If you own a Switch Lite and are looking for a more versatile gaming experience, the Nintendo Switch OLED model is definitely worth considering. The OLED model offers the flexibility to play in handheld, tabletop, and docked modes, which the Switch Lite does not. The larger, more vibrant screen and enhanced audio also provide a more immersive gaming experience. Plus, the ability to connect to a TV and play with friends and family makes the OLED model a great option for those who want a more social gaming experience.

For New Buyers

If you're new to the Nintendo Switch ecosystem, the Nintendo Switch OLED model is the best option to buy. The improved screen, enhanced audio, adjustable stand, extra storage, and wired LAN port make it the most feature-rich and enjoyable Switch experience available. While it is more expensive than the original Switch or the Switch Lite, the extra features and enhanced performance are well worth the investment, especially if you plan to use the Switch in a variety of different ways.

Games That Shine on the OLED Screen

To truly appreciate the Nintendo Switch OLED model, you need to play games that take full advantage of its vibrant display. Here are a few titles that look particularly stunning on the OLED screen:

  • The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: The vast, open-world environments of Hyrule come to life with richer colors and deeper blacks, making exploration even more immersive.
  • Super Mario Odyssey: The colorful and whimsical worlds of Super Mario Odyssey pop off the screen, with vibrant hues and stunning detail.
  • Metroid Dread: The dark and atmospheric environments of Metroid Dread are enhanced by the OLED screen's deep blacks and high contrast ratio, creating a more suspenseful and immersive experience.
  • Hollow Knight: Another game that benefits immensely from the OLED display is Hollow Knight. The game's brooding, gothic atmosphere is amplified by the deep blacks the OLED provides, giving the game world a greater sense of depth and foreboding.
  • Diablo III: The dark and gritty world of Diablo III looks incredible on the OLED screen, with enhanced details and richer colors that bring the game to life.

Tips and Tricks for the Nintendo Switch OLED Model

To get the most out of your Nintendo Switch OLED model, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

  • Protect Your Screen: Invest in a screen protector to prevent scratches and smudges. The OLED screen is more delicate than the LCD screen on the original Switch, so it's important to keep it protected.
  • Manage Your Storage: Take advantage of the 64GB of internal storage, but also consider investing in a microSD card to expand your storage further. This will allow you to download more games and store more screenshots and video captures.
  • Adjust Your Settings: Experiment with the display settings to find the brightness and color balance that works best for you. The OLED screen can be very bright, so you may want to lower the brightness to reduce eye strain.
  • Use the Wired LAN Port: If you plan to play online games, take advantage of the wired LAN port on the dock for a more stable and reliable internet connection.
  • Clean Your Screen Regularly: Use a microfiber cloth to clean your screen regularly. This will help remove smudges and fingerprints and keep your screen looking its best.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch OLED model is a fantastic upgrade for those who want the best possible handheld gaming experience. The vibrant OLED screen, enhanced audio, adjustable stand, extra storage, and wired LAN port make it the most feature-rich and enjoyable Switch console available. While it may not be worth the upgrade for everyone, especially those who primarily play in docked mode, it is definitely worth considering if you frequently play in handheld or tabletop mode. If you are new to the Nintendo Switch ecosystem, the OLED model is the best option to buy. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Nintendo Switch OLED model and start gaming!