Nintendo Switch 2 vs. Nintendo Switch OLED: Which Should You Buy?

Current vs. Next-Gen: Choosing Your Nintendo Switch

Considering a new Nintendo Switch? With the vibrant OLED model readily available and rumors of the “Switch 2” swirling, deciding which console is right for you can be challenging. This guide dissects the current OLED model and analyzes credible rumors surrounding its successor to help you make an informed decision.

Display: OLED’s Vivid Hues vs. Switch 2’s Potential Size

The Nintendo Switch OLED boasts a stunning 7-inch OLED display, delivering rich colors, deep blacks, and impressive contrast. This makes handheld gaming a visual treat. However, rumors suggest the Switch 2 may sport a larger, possibly 8-inch LCD screen. While larger doesn’t always mean better, some may prefer increased screen real estate over the OLED’s superior color reproduction. Which is more important to you: vibrant visuals or a larger display?

Performance: Current Gen vs. Next-Gen Power

The Switch OLED utilizes the same custom NVIDIA Tegra processor as the original Switch, providing adequate performance for existing games. The rumored Switch 2, however, is expected to feature a significantly more powerful processor, potentially supporting technologies like DLSS and Ray Reconstruction and allowing for smoother gameplay, higher resolutions, and richer visuals. While exciting, these remain rumors. Do you prioritize current performance or the potential for a substantial leap forward?

Storage and Other Features: Key Considerations

The Switch OLED offers 64GB of internal storage, often requiring a microSD card for extensive digital game libraries. Speculation suggests the Switch 2 may boast a much larger 512GB capacity. Rumors also hint at redesigned Joy-Cons with improved ergonomics and magnetic connections, potentially addressing the “Joy-Con drift” issue. A more powerful dock is also a possibility. How important is ample storage and the potential for improved peripherals to your gaming experience?

Price and Availability: Investing Wisely

The Nintendo Switch OLED retails for around $350. The Switch 2’s price remains unknown, but it’s likely to be higher. Availability is another factor. The OLED model is readily available, whereas the Switch 2’s release date is uncertain, possibly late 2024 or later. Are you willing to wait for a potentially more expensive console, or would you prefer the certainty and immediate gratification of the OLED?

Feature	Nintendo Switch OLED	Nintendo Switch 2 (Rumored)
Display	7-inch OLED	8-inch LCD (Possibly OLED)
Processor	Custom NVIDIA Tegra	Upgraded NVIDIA Tegra/New Processor
Graphics	Current-gen	Potentially DLSS/Ray Reconstruction support
Storage	64GB	Possibly 512GB
Controllers	Current Joy-Cons	Redesigned Joy-Cons (Rumored)
Dock	Current Dock	Potentially upgraded Dock
Price	~$350	Unknown
Availability	Available Now	Unknown, potentially late 2024 or later

Should You Upgrade? Making the Call

The decision hinges on your individual gaming preferences and priorities. The OLED offers a stunning visual upgrade for handheld play and is available now. The Switch 2, while shrouded in speculation, promises a significant performance boost, potentially better visuals, increased storage, and improved peripherals but requires patience and a likely higher investment.

Consider the OLED if:

• You primarily play in handheld mode.
• Vibrant visuals are paramount.
• You want a console now.

Consider waiting for the Switch 2 if:

• Docked play is your primary focus.
• You prioritize performance and graphical fidelity.
• Ample storage is essential.
• You’re comfortable waiting for an unknown release date and price.

Disclaimer: Information regarding the Switch 2 is based on rumors and speculation and may not be accurate. Stay tuned for official announcements from Nintendo for confirmed details. This guide will be updated as new information emerges.