The Nintendo Switch OLED model, released in 2021, represents a mid-generation refresh of the wildly successful Nintendo Switch console. While maintaining the core functionality and hybrid nature of its predecessor, the OLED model focuses on enhancing the user experience through a superior display and improved features. The most significant upgrade is the vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, which offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher contrast compared to the original Switch's LCD. This results in a more immersive and visually appealing gaming experience, particularly in handheld mode.
Beyond the screen, the Switch OLED boasts enhanced audio through improved speakers, a wider adjustable stand for tabletop mode, and 64GB of internal storage, double that of the original model. While the internal processor and RAM remain unchanged, ensuring compatibility with the existing Switch game library, the improvements contribute to a more premium feel and address some of the criticisms leveled at the original Switch. The console's success is a testament to Nintendo's continued innovation and focus on delivering unique gaming experiences, solidifying the Switch's position as a major player in the gaming market. The dock also got a minor upgrade, adding a built-in ethernet port.
2021
NINTENDO
SWITCH OLED
📜 History & Legacy
⚙️ Specifications
- ❖ CPU: Custom NVIDIA Tegra processor
- ❖ GPU: Custom NVIDIA Tegra processor
- ❖ RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4
- ❖ Storage: 64 GB internal storage (expandable via microSD card)
- ❖ Display: 7-inch OLED screen, 1280 x 720 resolution
- ❖ Video Output: Up to 1080p via HDMI in TV mode, up to 720p on the built-in screen
- ❖ Audio: Stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack
- ❖ Wireless: Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 4.1
- ❖ Ports: USB-C, 3.5mm audio jack, microSD card slot, Ethernet port (on dock)
- ❖ Battery Life: Approximately 4.5 to 9 hours (depending on the game)
🎮 Top 10 Games
- ★ The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- ★ Super Mario Odyssey
- ★ Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- ★ Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- ★ Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- ★ Metroid Dread
- ★ Pokémon Sword and Shield
- ★ Splatoon 2
- ★ The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- ★ Super Mario Bros. Wonder
💡 Curiosities
- ? Did you know the OLED screen is manufactured by Samsung Display?
- ? The wider adjustable stand was designed to offer more stability in tabletop mode.
- ? The improved speakers provide a noticeable upgrade in audio quality compared to the original Switch.
- ? Despite the improved screen, the resolution remains the same as the original Switch.
- ? The Switch OLED is slightly heavier than the original model due to the larger screen and improved components.
- ? The Joy-Con controllers are compatible with both the original Switch and the OLED model.
- ? The internal storage upgrade to 64GB significantly reduces the need for immediate microSD card purchases.
- ? The dock included with the OLED model has a built-in LAN port for more stable online play.
- ? The **Nintendo Switch OLED** was released during the COVID-19 pandemic, impacting initial availability and pricing.
- ? The **Nintendo Switch OLED** did not receive an upgrade to processing power as many fans had hoped.