Nintendo Switch OLED: The Ultimate 2021 Review

Hey everyone! Are you guys ready to dive deep into the Nintendo Switch OLED? This isn't just any review; we're talking about the creme de la creme of handheld gaming experiences, released in 2021. If you're pondering whether to upgrade or take the plunge into the world of Switch, you're in the right place. We'll break down everything from the stunning display to the subtle but significant improvements that make the OLED model a winner. Get ready to explore the vibrant world of the Nintendo Switch OLED, and let's see if it lives up to the hype!

Unboxing and First Impressions: What's in the Box?

So, you've got your hands on the shiny new Nintendo Switch OLED – awesome! Let's get down to business and check out what's inside the box. When you crack it open, you're greeted with a sleek console, of course. But it's not just the console; Nintendo always packs a few goodies. You'll find the Joy-Con controllers, the Joy-Con grip, and a dock. The dock is a big deal this time around, offering some notable upgrades that we'll touch on later. You'll also spot the AC adapter, HDMI cable, and various manuals. The first impression is always crucial, and the Switch OLED nails it. It feels premium, and the upgraded packaging suggests that Nintendo is serious about elevating the gaming experience. The initial setup is straightforward. You'll quickly be ready to dive into your favorite games. The design is familiar, but the quality is instantly noticeable. It's a fantastic first impression that sets the stage for a great gaming experience.

Let’s be honest, unboxing is exciting. As you pull out the Switch OLED console itself, the first thing that hits you is the screen. Even before you power it on, you'll see the difference. The bezels are thinner, and the screen seems to pop more. The Joy-Cons are the same design, but that's a good thing. They feel great in hand, and they're as intuitive as ever. The included grip is a nice touch, and it's perfect if you prefer playing with a more traditional controller feel. The dock itself is an upgrade. It has a sleeker design, and it includes a built-in Ethernet port. This is a massive win for anyone who loves online gaming. No more unstable Wi-Fi connections when you're trying to crush it in Mario Kart. It's a complete package that tells you Nintendo put a lot of thought into what players want.

Now, about the extras. The AC adapter is pretty standard, but the HDMI cable is always good to have. The manuals, as usual, are there to guide you through the initial setup, which is super easy. Overall, the unboxing experience is top-notch. It's a well-designed package that gets you excited about what’s to come.

Display and Visuals: The Star of the Show

Alright, let’s talk about the heart and soul of the Nintendo Switch OLED: the display. This is where things get really interesting. The original Switch had a decent LCD screen, but the OLED panel is a game-changer. What makes the Nintendo Switch OLED's screen so special? Well, it's all about the technology. OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode. Unlike LCDs, which use a backlight, OLED screens have individual pixels that emit their own light. This means the contrast is off the charts. You get deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a stunning visual experience.

Think about it: when a scene goes dark, the screen actually goes dark. It's like looking at a real-life image, with colors that pop right off the screen. Playing games like Metroid Dread or The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the OLED is an absolute treat. The details are sharper, and the colors are richer. Even simple games look amazing. It's not just about the quality; it's about the immersion. You're drawn into the game in a way that just wasn't possible on the original Switch. The difference is immediately noticeable. When you put the two consoles side by side, the OLED model is in a league of its own. It's not just a subtle upgrade; it's a completely transformed visual experience.

Beyond the screen, the Switch OLED has other improvements. The bezel around the screen is thinner. This gives you more screen real estate in the same form factor. It makes the console feel sleeker and more modern. The viewing angles are also fantastic. You can play with a friend, and both of you will get a great view of the action. The OLED screen is a big deal, and it's something that has to be seen to be believed. It's one of the primary reasons to upgrade if you're a Switch owner. If you’re deciding between the two consoles, the OLED screen is a definite win.

Performance and Gaming Experience: Does It Play Better?

So, does the Nintendo Switch OLED actually make your games play better? The short answer is: yes, in a big way! The performance of the OLED model is essentially the same as the original Switch. Both consoles use the same processor and graphics chip. You won’t see an increase in frame rates or faster loading times due to the updated hardware. However, where the OLED shines is in the enhanced visual experience. The richer colors and deeper blacks of the OLED screen make games look more vibrant and engaging. It’s like getting a visual upgrade without any performance trade-offs.

Let’s say you’re playing a game like Hades. The fast-paced action and the detailed environments will look even more stunning on the OLED screen. The colors pop, and the darkness of the underworld is immersive. Even games that aren’t specifically designed to take advantage of the OLED screen look fantastic. The visual upgrade is especially noticeable in games with bright colors or contrasting environments. Also, the improved audio of the Switch OLED adds to the gaming experience. The built-in speakers provide a clearer and fuller sound than the original Switch. Whether you're playing in handheld mode or using the tabletop stand, the improved audio adds another layer of immersion. While the core performance remains the same, the gaming experience feels significantly elevated because of the visual and audio enhancements. It's the same games, but they look and sound better.

Another significant enhancement is the kickstand. The original Switch had a flimsy kickstand that was prone to toppling over. The OLED model has a wider, more robust kickstand that runs the entire length of the console. This makes it much more stable when playing in tabletop mode. It's a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in the overall experience. You can now play comfortably on any surface without worrying about the console falling over. This is a well-designed, practical upgrade that enhances the overall playability of the console.

Design and Build Quality: What’s Changed Physically?

Let’s talk about the physical stuff. The design of the Nintendo Switch OLED feels more premium than the original. Although the overall form factor is similar, the OLED model has several notable design and build quality improvements. One of the first things you'll notice is the screen. The bezels are thinner, giving you a slightly larger display in the same size. This immediately makes the console feel sleeker and more modern. Nintendo has also upgraded the materials, giving the console a more solid feel in your hands.

One of the most significant physical changes is the kickstand. The original Switch's kickstand was a weak, flimsy piece of plastic that was prone to breaking or collapsing. The OLED model has a much wider, more robust kickstand that runs the entire length of the console. This makes the console much more stable when playing in tabletop mode. It is a huge improvement, making the tabletop experience much more enjoyable. The dock has undergone a redesign, with a sleeker appearance and rounded edges. The dock also includes an Ethernet port, which is a major win for anyone who prefers a wired internet connection. The new dock provides a more stable and reliable online gaming experience. Another great change is the color scheme. The OLED model is available in two color options: the standard neon red and blue Joy-Cons, and a new white color scheme. The white model looks incredibly clean and modern. The overall build quality feels higher, with a premium feel that justifies the price. The small tweaks and improvements make a big difference, resulting in a more refined and enjoyable gaming experience.

The Dock and Connectivity: Beyond the Screen

Alright, let’s dig into the dock and connectivity of the Nintendo Switch OLED. While the screen might be the star, the dock has some worthy upgrades. The dock on the OLED model is not just a pretty face; it’s a functional upgrade that enhances your gaming experience. First off, it has a sleeker design, with rounded edges that look great. The main upgrade is the inclusion of a built-in Ethernet port. This is HUGE for anyone who plays online games. No more spotty Wi-Fi connections that can mess up your gameplay. You can now plug directly into your router for a stable, lag-free online experience.

This is especially useful for games like Splatoon 3 and Fortnite, where a stable connection is critical. The addition of the Ethernet port is a big deal, and it’s a welcome change for gamers. Aside from the Ethernet port, the dock provides the same functionality as the original Switch. You can connect to your TV via HDMI, charge the console, and use the USB ports for accessories. The dock also has three USB ports, which is perfect for connecting controllers, charging cables, and other devices. The placement of the ports is well-thought-out, providing easy access without cluttering the setup. The new dock provides a much more stable and reliable online gaming experience. The dock is a significant upgrade that enhances your overall Switch experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore player, the Ethernet port makes a real difference in online gaming.

Battery Life: How Long Can You Play?

One of the questions on everyone's mind: how’s the battery life on the Nintendo Switch OLED? Good news, guys: the battery life is pretty much the same as the revised original Switch model. You’re looking at about 4.5 to 9 hours of gameplay, depending on the game and screen brightness. So, if you're already familiar with the battery life of the original Switch, you can expect a similar performance with the OLED version. The OLED model does not have a larger battery. Therefore, it delivers the same battery life as the original Switch. Games with more demanding graphics, like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, will tend to drain the battery faster. On the other hand, less graphically intensive games will give you more playtime.

Nintendo has done a great job optimizing the Switch to make the battery last as long as possible. The OLED screen is more power-efficient. You can expect about the same amount of playtime as the original Switch. Also, the OLED model supports fast charging. You can quickly top up the battery when you’re on the go. Battery life is a crucial factor for a handheld console. The Nintendo Switch OLED offers a solid battery life, providing ample playtime for most gamers. You’ll be able to enjoy extended gaming sessions without being glued to a power outlet. The balance between performance and battery life makes it a great choice for both on-the-go and at-home gaming.

Audio Quality: Does it Sound Better?

Does the Nintendo Switch OLED's audio quality deliver a better experience? Yes, it does! Nintendo has upgraded the built-in speakers, and the improvement is noticeable. The new speakers offer clearer and more immersive audio. The sound is fuller and richer compared to the original Switch. This makes a noticeable difference. Whether you're playing in handheld mode or using the tabletop stand, the improved audio adds another layer of immersion. The audio enhancements are particularly noticeable when you're playing games with dynamic soundtracks, like Metroid Dread or Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

You can hear the nuances in the music and the sound effects that were previously missed. Even if you're not a massive audiophile, you'll still appreciate the better sound quality. The improved speakers are a nice touch, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The audio upgrades contribute to a more immersive and enjoyable experience. The audio enhancements are a welcome addition that makes the OLED model a better overall package. The improvement in audio quality makes your games sound better, too.

Joy-Con Issues and Compatibility: Are They Still a Problem?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Joy-Con issues. The good news is that the Joy-Con controllers that come with the Nintendo Switch OLED are the same design as the original. This means that they’re fully compatible with all Switch consoles, including the OLED model. The Joy-Con drift issue, where the analog sticks register movement even when you’re not touching them, unfortunately, is still a possibility. Nintendo has implemented some improvements over the years, but the problem hasn't been completely eliminated. If you're unlucky enough to experience Joy-Con drift, you can contact Nintendo support for repairs or replacements.

However, it's worth noting that not everyone experiences these issues. Many players have enjoyed their Joy-Cons without any problems. The compatibility is excellent. If you already own Joy-Cons, they’ll work perfectly fine with the OLED model. If you’re upgrading from a previous model, you can still use your existing controllers. Nintendo’s approach has been consistent in that regard. Compatibility is a strength for the Switch, and the OLED model doesn't change that. Regardless of the issue, the Joy-Cons are a fundamental part of the Switch experience. Despite the potential for issues, the Joy-Cons offer a unique and versatile way to play your games.

Price and Value: Is the OLED Worth the Cost?

Let's talk money: Is the Nintendo Switch OLED worth the price? The OLED model costs a bit more than the original Switch. You're paying a premium for the upgraded features, especially the gorgeous OLED screen. Whether it's worth it depends on your priorities and what you're looking for in a gaming console. If you're primarily a handheld gamer, the OLED screen is a game-changer. The improved visuals make games look incredible, and the enhanced audio provides a more immersive experience. The richer colors and deeper blacks are visually stunning. If you enjoy playing your Switch primarily on the go, the OLED model is a great upgrade.

If you mainly play on the TV, the benefits of the OLED screen are less apparent. In this case, you might be better off sticking with the original Switch. Consider what kind of upgrades are available to you. The kickstand is a practical improvement that makes playing in tabletop mode much more enjoyable. The updated dock with the Ethernet port is a massive advantage for online gaming. The OLED model offers better value for the money. The enhanced features, combined with the new look and feel, make it an attractive option for both new and existing Switch owners. Decide what is best for your use case. It is a worthwhile investment.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Nintendo Switch OLED?

So, the big question: Should you buy the Nintendo Switch OLED? Let’s recap. The OLED model delivers a fantastic gaming experience. The main highlight is undoubtedly the OLED screen, which provides vibrant colors and deep blacks. The upgraded audio and the improved kickstand add to the overall enjoyment. The inclusion of the Ethernet port in the dock is a win for online gamers. Overall, the Nintendo Switch OLED is a great console.

Who should buy it? If you are primarily a handheld gamer, the OLED is a must-have upgrade. The visual enhancements transform your gaming experience. Existing Switch owners may find the upgrade worthwhile if you want a better handheld experience. For new Switch buyers, the OLED is a great option. If you mainly play on the TV and have no need for a better handheld experience, the original Switch might suffice. However, if you are looking for the best possible handheld experience, you won't be disappointed with the OLED model. The enhanced screen, improved audio, and refined design make it the best version of the Switch. The Nintendo Switch OLED is a top-tier console that elevates the gaming experience. It's a worthy investment for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Nintendo's portable gaming offerings. The enhanced features and quality improvements make it the ultimate choice for both newcomers and veteran Switch users alike!