Don't Feel Bad After The Nintendo Switch OLED Announcement

Nintendo out of nowhere surprised the world with the announcement of the new Nintendo Switch OLED, a new version of their flagship console that features a 7-inch OLED display, bigger internal memory, stronger speakers, and an ethernet port to secure a better online experience. But don’t feel bad if you picked up a Switch recently as it won’t greatly enhance your enjoyment of the games in the system.

The Nintendo Switch OLED version does feel like it’s the premium version of the system with the added features but does not offer an increase in performance within its internal components as the GPU and CPU are just like the other versions. You just have a few added perks for spending a bit more as it will cost $349 (local cost TBA) when it launches on October 8, 2021.

Here’s a quick rundown of specs for the new Nintendo Switch OLED.

Size: 9.5 x 0.55 x 4 inches (w x d x h)
Weight: Approximately 0.71 lbs / 0.93 lbs with Joy-Con controllers attached
Screen: Multi-touch capacitive touch screen / 7-inch OLED screen
Resolution: 1280 x 720 (720p)
CPU/GPU: Nvidia Custom Tegra processor
Storage: 64GB (can be expanded using microSDHC or microSDXC cards up to 2TB)
Wireless: WI-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant)
Video output: Up to 1080p via HDMI in TV mode, 720p in handheld mode
Audio output: 5.1 Linear PCM
Speakers: Stereo
USB connector: USB Type-C for charging
3.5mm headphone jack
Battery life: approximately 4.5-9 hours
Charging time: approximately 3 hours

The increase in display size (from 6.2-inch to 7) and the use of an OLED screen is it’s biggest feature as OLED is still considered one of the top display technologies available. By design, you should quickly see a boost in color and contrast when playing the new Switch. This new display will make colors pop but don’t expect an increase in resolution when playing the Switch OLED as it will still display a 720 resolution when playing it undocked, just like the other Switches before it.

Another noticeable change is the more adjustable kickstand that can stretch farther than the original stand found in the original Switch, which sometimes feels like it’s not enough to hold the system in place. This new stand seems more sturdy and can provide more angles if you’re planning to play outside but planted on a surface.

It’s also good to note that this version comes with a larger internal storage as the OLED version has 64GB of space, which is double the 32 GB available on the original Switch and the Switch Lite. Nintendo also claims an enhanced audio in the OLED version, but we’ll see what that means when it comes out in October.

This announcement shouldn’t be treated as a regret for buying a new Switch this year as the Nintendo Switch OLED is simply another option that could cater to what a Switch player prefers in their system, similar to why the Nintendo Lite exists as it’s a budget version that’s best for those looking to play games on the go more than at home. Those who want a bigger screen or a more secured connection for online play with the new redesigned dock can look towards the OLED version. With this new version priced at $349, the original at $299, and the Lite at $199, it boils down to what you need to get the most out of your Switch.

The disappointment probably landed for some

But I get people’s disappointment as the rumors swirling all throughout the year was a stronger Switch similar to how Sony and Microsoft launched the PS4 Pro or Xbox One X respectively. The Nintendo Switch OLED version isn’t the upgrade Switch players were looking for as the changes were more on design than performance.

When I saw the trailer for the OLED version I didn’t see the need to upgrade as I wasn’t missing much, just another version to consider for those looking to finally get the Switch for the first time, or those looking to replace their old one. Nintendo is simply refreshing their console for the Holiday season, slapping an additional $50 to justify the added features. What it does give is a big question mark as to whether a stronger version of the Switch is even in the horizon. This marks the second version of the Switch since it launched in 2017, will Nintendo invest in more versions in the years to come?

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