Nintendo Switch OLED: 2021 Vs 2023 - What's New?
Hey everyone! Let's dive into the Nintendo Switch OLED, comparing the 2021 and 2023 models. Are there significant differences? Is it worth upgrading? Let's find out!
Display and Design
The most significant difference between the original Nintendo Switch and the OLED model is, unsurprisingly, the display. The 2021 Nintendo Switch OLED features a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, a notable upgrade from the standard Switch's 6.2-inch LCD. Colors are more vivid, blacks are deeper, and the overall viewing experience is significantly enhanced. This makes games more immersive and enjoyable, whether you're playing in handheld mode or tabletop mode.
The OLED screen isn't just about looking pretty; it also offers improved energy efficiency. OLED panels only illuminate the pixels that are needed, which can lead to better battery life compared to LCD screens, especially when displaying dark scenes. This is a huge plus for gamers who spend a lot of time on the go. The 2023 model retains this fantastic display, so you're not missing out on any visual improvements if you stick with the original OLED version.
Beyond the screen, the design of the OLED model also received some tweaks. The bezel around the display is thinner, giving the console a more modern and sleek appearance. The kickstand is also much improved. Instead of the flimsy little kickstand on the original Switch, the OLED model has a wide, adjustable stand that spans the entire back of the console. This provides a much more stable base for tabletop mode, allowing you to play games comfortably on various surfaces without worrying about the console tipping over. The sturdier kickstand is a welcome change, making tabletop mode a more viable option for multiplayer gaming sessions.
In terms of dimensions, the OLED model is slightly larger and heavier than the original Switch, but the difference is hardly noticeable during gameplay. The build quality feels more premium, adding to the overall sense of value. The 2023 edition maintains the same design enhancements, ensuring that new buyers get the same premium experience as those who purchased the 2021 model. The improved design elements contribute to a more enjoyable and comfortable gaming experience, especially for those who frequently use the handheld and tabletop modes.
Internal Specs and Performance
When it comes to internal specifications, both the 2021 and 2023 Nintendo Switch OLED models are identical. They both use the same NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor, have 4GB of RAM, and come with 64GB of internal storage. This means that there is no performance difference between the two models. Games will run exactly the same on both versions, with the same frame rates and loading times. If you already own the 2021 OLED model, there's no need to upgrade to the 2023 version for performance gains.
The NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor is well-optimized for the Switch's games, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. While it's not the most powerful chip on the market, it's more than capable of running the vast majority of Switch titles at a playable frame rate. The 4GB of RAM is sufficient for handling most games, although some more demanding titles may experience occasional slowdowns. The 64GB of internal storage is a welcome upgrade from the original Switch's 32GB, but it's still recommended to invest in a microSD card to expand storage if you plan on downloading a lot of games. Both models support microSD cards up to 2TB, providing ample space for your growing game library.
Since the internal specs are the same, the gaming experience remains consistent across both models. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons will perform identically on the 2021 and 2023 OLED models. This ensures that all players have access to the same level of performance, regardless of which version they own. The focus remains on the enhanced visual experience provided by the OLED screen, rather than any internal upgrades.
Battery Life
The Nintendo Switch OLED models, including both the 2021 and 2023 versions, offer similar battery life. You can expect around 4.5 to 9 hours of gameplay, depending on the game you're playing and the screen brightness. Games that are more graphically intensive will drain the battery faster, while less demanding titles will allow for longer play sessions. The OLED screen is more energy-efficient than the LCD screen on the original Switch, which helps to extend battery life, especially when displaying darker images.
To maximize battery life, you can lower the screen brightness, turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use, and enable airplane mode. It's also a good idea to close any games or applications that are running in the background. Keeping the console updated with the latest firmware can also help to improve battery performance, as Nintendo often includes optimizations in their software updates. Investing in a portable power bank can also be a great way to extend your gaming sessions while on the go.
Real-world usage varies, but on average, you can expect to get around 5.5 hours of gameplay from a single charge. This is sufficient for most commutes or short trips, but if you're planning a longer journey, you'll want to bring a charger or power bank with you. The USB-C charging port makes it easy to charge the console using a variety of power sources, including wall chargers, car chargers, and portable batteries. The consistent battery performance across both the 2021 and 2023 models ensures a reliable gaming experience for all users.
Dock and Ports
The dock included with the Nintendo Switch OLED is slightly different from the one that comes with the original Switch. The OLED dock features a built-in LAN port, allowing for a more stable and reliable internet connection when playing in docked mode. This is a great addition for gamers who prefer to play online multiplayer games, as it reduces the risk of lag and disconnections. The 2023 model retains this enhanced dock, so you're not missing out on any connectivity features if you opt for the newer version.
Aside from the LAN port, the dock also includes an HDMI port for connecting to your TV and a USB port for charging accessories. The dock itself is also slightly more rounded and aesthetically pleasing than the original Switch dock. The internal components are the same, so there is no difference in performance or functionality other than the added LAN port. The inclusion of the LAN port is a significant upgrade for those who frequently play online games, as it provides a more stable and reliable connection than Wi-Fi.
The ports on the console itself remain the same across both the 2021 and 2023 models. You'll find a USB-C port for charging, a headphone jack for connecting headphones or headsets, and a microSD card slot for expanding storage. The placement of these ports is also identical, so you won't have to adjust to any changes if you're upgrading from the original Switch or the 2021 OLED model. The consistent port configuration ensures compatibility with existing accessories and peripherals.
Audio
Both the 2021 and 2023 Nintendo Switch OLED models feature enhanced audio compared to the original Switch. The OLED models have improved speakers that deliver clearer and more immersive sound. The audio is richer and more detailed, making games and videos more enjoyable. Whether you're playing in handheld mode or docked mode, the enhanced audio adds to the overall gaming experience. The improved speakers provide a noticeable difference in sound quality, especially when compared to the original Switch. The sound is fuller and more dynamic, making games more immersive.
For those who prefer to use headphones, the headphone jack provides a clean and clear audio signal. The Switch also supports Bluetooth audio, allowing you to connect wireless headphones or speakers. This is a convenient option for those who want to play games without disturbing others, or for those who prefer the freedom of wireless audio. The Bluetooth connectivity is reliable and easy to set up, making it a great option for both casual and hardcore gamers.
The audio enhancements on the OLED models are a welcome addition, as sound is an important part of the gaming experience. The improved speakers and Bluetooth support provide a more immersive and enjoyable audio experience, whether you're playing at home or on the go. The consistent audio quality across both the 2021 and 2023 models ensures that all users can enjoy the enhanced sound.
Games
One of the best things about the Nintendo Switch OLED is that it plays all the same games as the original Switch. There are no exclusive games for the OLED model, so you can enjoy your entire Switch library on the enhanced screen. This means that you don't have to worry about missing out on any new releases or having to repurchase your favorite games. The extensive library of Switch games includes everything from AAA titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Odyssey to indie gems like Hollow Knight and Stardew Valley.
The enhanced visuals of the OLED screen make games look even better. Colors are more vibrant, blacks are deeper, and the overall image is sharper. This can make a big difference in games that have a lot of visual detail, such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Xenoblade Chronicles. The improved contrast ratio also makes it easier to see details in dark scenes, which can be a big advantage in games that rely on stealth or exploration.
Whether you're a fan of action games, RPGs, puzzle games, or platformers, there's something for everyone on the Switch. The console has a wide variety of games to choose from, and new games are released regularly. The ability to play all of these games on the enhanced OLED screen is a major selling point for the OLED model. The consistent game compatibility across both the 2021 and 2023 models ensures that all users can enjoy the full Switch library.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Nintendo Switch OLED models from 2021 and 2023 are virtually identical in terms of performance, battery life, and game compatibility. The main differences lie in the enhanced OLED screen, the improved kickstand, and the dock with a LAN port. If you already own the 2021 OLED model, there's no need to upgrade to the 2023 version. However, if you're looking to buy a new Switch, the OLED model is a great choice, offering a superior visual experience compared to the original Switch. The vibrant colors, deep blacks, and improved contrast ratio make games look stunning, and the enhanced audio adds to the overall immersion. The sturdy kickstand and LAN port are also welcome additions, making the OLED model a worthwhile upgrade for those who frequently use the handheld and tabletop modes.