The Nintendo Switch launched in 2017, and since then, the wildly popular hybrid console has seen a few different models for potential buyers to choose from.
If you're wondering which one out of the Nintendo Switch OLED, Lite, and original versions to consider – or maybe you're buying a second Switch – that's what this article is for.
We at Digital Spy have spent countless hours with each of the three options on sale now, so we feel we can provide some insight on the strengths of each model and which one might be best suited for your needs.
You may also be interested in our round-up of the best Nintendo Switch deals here.
For those wanting to get the most out of the console, we have articles on the best Nintendo Switch games, Nintendo Switch Online membership code deals, and the full list of Nintendo Switch Online games.
Below, we break down the OLED, Lite, and original models of the Nintendo Switch...
What to Read Next
Should I buy the Nintendo Switch OLED?
Pros
- Has by far the best screen – larger size is impactful and OLED display makes colours more vibrant
- Upgraded speakers produce crisper audio
- 64GB internal storage, instead of 32GB
- A more solid kickstand for tabletop mode
Cons
- The most expensive Switch model
- Switch Lite is more comfortable to hold for longer durations
Nintendo Switch's OLED Model is the priciest of the three, so it's not surprising that it has the most impressive set of features. The question becomes whether or not it is worth the higher price.
In our view, the answer is a yes if you will get regular use out of playing in handheld or tabletop mode.
This model has by far and away the best screen. The OLED display makes the colours really stand out, and the 7-inch screen (compared to the standard 6.2 inches) further adds to the immersion. Nintendo's games look stunning on the device.
The enhanced speakers are also a significant upgrade, providing clearer and crisper audio and complementing the display nicely.
There are other benefits. The tabletop experience benefits from the OLED Model's improved kickstand, and you get double the standard internal storage at 64GB.
Having said that, there are no real improvements to TV mode compared to using the standard Switch, so you won't enjoy the big selling points of the OLED Model if you plan on keeping your Switch permanently docked.
In addition, if you're going to play exclusively in handheld mode, the slightly more portable and comfier-to-hold Lite is worth considering.
For us, the OLED screen and speakers outweigh the Lite's perks, but it's not a clear-cut decision, especially with the Lite retailing at £110 cheaper.
Should I buy the Nintendo Switch Lite?
Pros
- More comfortable to hold compared to OLED Model
- Smallest form factor means it's the most portable
- Best D-pad out of the three
- Comes in some lovely colours (like the coral)
- The cheapest Switch model
Cons
- No TV mode
- Screen and speakers don't compare to OLED Model's
If you plan on using the Nintendo Switch purely as a handheld console, then the Lite is a very appealing option.
The OLED Model has the better display and audio, so it will provide a more immersive experience overall.
However, the Lite has a number of advantages. The Lite doesn't have to be designed with TV mode or detachable Joy-cons in mind, meaning it can focus entirely on handheld comfort.
The result is a handheld device that is more comfortable to play games on for longer durations, and it comes with a more natural D-pad as well.
The smaller form factor and lighter weight make the Lite more portable, and there's an appealing range of colours to choose from, including coral, yellow, and turquoise.
For handheld use, we give the edge to the OLED due to its wonderful screen. But you can't go wrong with the Lite, especially with its considerably cheaper price.
Should I buy the original Nintendo Switch?
Pros
- The cheapest model for TV mode
- No drawbacks with the TV mode experience compared to using the OLED Model
Cons
- The weakest as a handheld – OLED has superior display and audio, Lite is more comfortable to hold
- Good deals on the OLED Model can reduce price difference
The standard Nintendo Switch console is suited for those who would primarily play games on their TV.
There is very little difference between the standard and the OLED Model when it comes to TV mode, and the standard Switch is a fair bit cheaper.
However, it provides the weakest handheld experience of the three models. The OLED Model has all the benefits of the standard Switch but also comes with a larger and superior screen and upgraded speakers.
The Switch Lite is more portable, more comfortable to hold, and has the better D-pad, all at a much cheaper price – though obviously it has no TV mode.
That said, playing games in handheld mode on the standard Switch is still more than fine. So if being able to play on your TV is a must and the price is a factor, then this may very well be the best option for you.
