Nintendo Switch OLED Review: Worth It In 2023?

So, you're thinking about grabbing a Nintendo Switch OLED in 2023, huh? Good choice! But with new consoles and tech constantly hitting the market, it's natural to wonder if it's still a worthwhile investment. Let's dive deep into what makes the Switch OLED tick, how it stacks up against the competition, and whether it deserves a spot in your gaming setup. The Nintendo Switch OLED model launched and immediately grabbed everyone's attention, and for good reason. The original Switch was great, but the OLED version brought some serious upgrades to the table, primarily that gorgeous screen. We're talking about a vibrant, 7-inch OLED display that makes colors pop and blacks look truly black. This upgrade alone makes a massive difference, especially if you primarily play in handheld mode. Think about exploring Hyrule in Breath of the Wild or racing through Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – everything just looks better on that OLED screen. Beyond the screen, Nintendo also tweaked a few other things. The OLED model comes with 64GB of internal storage, which is double the original Switch's 32GB. That extra space is a lifesaver if you're planning on downloading a lot of games. Plus, they improved the speakers, giving you richer and more immersive audio. And let's not forget the wider, adjustable stand – perfect for tabletop mode. Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: price. The Nintendo Switch OLED is pricier than the standard Switch. So, is that stunning screen and those extra features worth the extra cash? That's what we're here to figure out. We'll break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision, so you can decide if the OLED model is the right fit for your gaming needs.

What Makes the Nintendo Switch OLED Stand Out?

The Nintendo Switch OLED's key feature is, without a doubt, its stunning display. Ditching the LCD screen of the original Switch for an OLED panel was a game-changer. OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology means each pixel emits its own light, resulting in incredible contrast, vibrant colors, and true blacks. When a pixel needs to be black, it simply turns off, creating a depth that LCD screens just can't match. This makes a huge difference in games with dark or atmospheric environments. Imagine exploring the spooky depths of Metroid Dread or navigating the shadowy corners of Hollow Knight. On the OLED screen, these games come alive with a level of detail and immersion you won't find on the standard Switch. But it's not just about the dark areas; the colors are also richer and more vibrant. Games like Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild look absolutely stunning, with their bright and colorful worlds popping off the screen. The OLED screen also offers better viewing angles, so you can comfortably play with friends in tabletop mode without anyone struggling to see the action. The larger 7-inch screen (compared to the original Switch's 6.2-inch screen) might not seem like a massive difference on paper, but it's noticeable in practice. That extra screen real estate makes games feel more immersive and easier to see, especially when playing in handheld mode. It's a more comfortable and enjoyable experience overall. Now, let's talk about the improved audio. The Nintendo Switch OLED features enhanced speakers that deliver richer and more immersive sound. While it's not going to replace a good pair of headphones, the upgraded speakers are a definite improvement over the original Switch. You'll notice a fuller sound with more bass, making explosions and other sound effects more impactful. This adds another layer of immersion to your gaming experience, whether you're playing in handheld mode or using the kickstand in tabletop mode. These improvements, while seemingly small on their own, add up to a significant upgrade that enhances the overall gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch.

Performance and Battery Life

When it comes to performance, the Nintendo Switch OLED is identical to the original Switch. It uses the same Nvidia Custom Tegra processor, so you won't see any improvements in frame rates or loading times. Games run just as well (or as poorly) as they do on the original Switch. This might be a disappointment for some, especially those hoping for a performance boost to handle more demanding games. However, it's important to remember that the Switch is primarily designed as a handheld console, and the existing hardware is generally sufficient for most games. While some games might experience occasional frame drops or slowdowns, the majority of titles run smoothly and are perfectly playable. The focus of the OLED model was clearly on the visual experience, and in that regard, it delivers in spades. As for battery life, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers similar performance to the updated version of the original Switch (the one with the red box). You can expect around 4.5 to 9 hours of playtime, depending on the game you're playing and the brightness settings. More demanding games like Breath of the Wild will drain the battery faster, while less intensive titles like Stardew Valley will allow for longer gaming sessions. While the OLED screen is more power-efficient than the LCD screen of the original Switch, the larger screen size and other factors balance out the power consumption. In other words, don't expect a significant improvement in battery life compared to the newer version of the original Switch. It's always a good idea to have a portable charger on hand if you're planning on extended gaming sessions away from a power outlet. Overall, the Nintendo Switch OLED's performance and battery life are decent, but they're not major selling points. The real draw of this console is its stunning OLED screen and other quality-of-life improvements. If you're looking for a more powerful console with longer battery life, you might want to consider other options. However, if you prioritize visual quality and a more immersive handheld gaming experience, the OLED model is definitely worth considering.

Games and Compatibility

One of the best things about the Nintendo Switch OLED is that it's fully compatible with all existing Switch games. That means you can play your entire library of physical and digital games on the new console without any issues. Whether you're a fan of Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, or any other Switch franchise, you can enjoy them all on the vibrant OLED screen. This is a huge advantage for existing Switch owners who are considering upgrading to the OLED model. You don't have to worry about rebuying games or losing progress – everything will transfer seamlessly to the new console. Simply log in with your Nintendo account, and your digital games and save data will be ready to go. For new Switch owners, the vast library of available games is a major selling point. The Switch has something for everyone, from family-friendly titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons to more mature games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. And with new games constantly being released, there's always something to look forward to. The Nintendo Switch OLED also supports all existing Switch accessories, including Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and docks. This means you can continue using your favorite controllers and accessories without having to buy new ones. You can also connect the OLED model to your TV using the included dock, allowing you to play games on the big screen with your friends and family. Overall, the Nintendo Switch OLED offers a fantastic gaming experience with a wide variety of games and accessories to choose from. Whether you're a longtime Switch fan or a newcomer to the platform, you'll find plenty to enjoy on this versatile console. The compatibility with existing games and accessories makes it an easy and worthwhile upgrade for existing Switch owners.

Is the Nintendo Switch OLED Worth Buying in 2023?

So, the big question: is the Nintendo Switch OLED worth buying in 2023? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED screen is a game-changer. The vibrant colors, incredible contrast, and larger screen size make a huge difference in the overall gaming experience. Games look more immersive and engaging, and you'll likely find yourself spending more time playing in handheld mode just to enjoy the visual quality. If you're a frequent traveler, the OLED model is also a great choice. The improved kickstand makes it easier to play in tabletop mode on trains, planes, or in hotel rooms. And the extra storage space is a bonus for those who like to download a lot of games. However, if you primarily play on your TV, the OLED model might not be as worthwhile. The visual improvements are less noticeable on a larger screen, and you might not get as much benefit from the upgraded features. In that case, you might be better off sticking with the standard Switch or waiting for a potential Switch successor with more powerful hardware. Another factor to consider is the price. The Nintendo Switch OLED is more expensive than the standard Switch, so you'll need to decide if the extra features are worth the extra cost. If you're on a tight budget, the standard Switch is still a great console with a vast library of games. But if you're willing to spend a little more, the OLED model offers a premium gaming experience that's hard to beat. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy the Nintendo Switch OLED in 2023 comes down to personal preference. If you value visual quality, portability, and a more immersive handheld gaming experience, the OLED model is definitely worth considering. But if you primarily play on your TV or are on a tight budget, the standard Switch might be a better option. No matter which console you choose, you're sure to have a great time playing the vast library of Switch games.