While I was in New York City, I had the opportunity to grab the new Nintendo Switch model. Thanks to the Nintendo Store, it was a moment I decided to capitalize on. With some help, I managed to secure the white Switch model which looks incredibly sleek. The new Switch model features a brand new OLED screen and some other minor improvements. The most important question for Switch owners if however, is it worth upgrading? Let’s talk about that.
The Console Itself
The greatest update the OLED model has to offer is the upgraded screen. Size-wise, Nintendo tried to fill in as much as they could it seems. It has been bumped up to 7 inches, from the 6.2 of the original design. Upon turning on my OLED, it was immediately apparent how crisper everything looks on it. Side by side, I was even surprised by how better the menus even looked. Side by side, my old Switch just looked blurrier in comparison.
I’ve since played a few games on my OLED, with the first game being Metroid Dread. Dread looks quite gorgeous on the new version of Nintendo’s handheld console. There are all these subtle little details in the game that are enhanced by the new screen. Like the dark rooms where the only sources of light come from Samus’ armor for example. It’s those moments that bring out the colors only the OLED screen can provide. Other games on it I’ve played on it are Monster Hunter: Rise and Monster Hunter: Stories 2. Both of which receive a significant boost in visuals as well thanks to the new screen.
There are a few other subtle little changes to the console as well. For instance, the speakers are no longer at the bottom of the screen. Instead, they’re now located under the screen at the bottom of the console itself. I’m terrible at applying a screen protector so I appreciate this move. Not to mention that the speakers also sound noticeably better too. The kickstand has also received a much-needed upgrade. Gone are the days of relying on that small, thin piece of plastic to prop your Switch up. It is now the length of the console itself. Testing it at the airport, it felt much more reliable than the old stand ever was. The last change I noticed and my least favorite, is the volume buttons. They’ve also been changed into something a bit sleeker. However, I frequently find myself mashing at them as they don’t feel as solid as their predecessor. I don’t feel like I’ve quite pressed it correctly.
The Dock
Where the dock is concerned, there isn’t much to talk about. Much is the same with the new model but now it includes something that should have been there from the start. The new dock for the OLED model includes an Ethernet port. Which, if you haven’t docked your Nintendo Switch and played a game online using a wired connection, you really should. I can’t tell you how much better playing a game like Monster Hunter: Rise is with a wired connection. Before buying the adapter for my other Switch, I was constantly being dropped from hunts. When I wired my Switch to the internet though, I actually noticed how much worse everyone else’s internet speeds were.
Another fun thing about the Switch dock is that the back panel is now completely removable. The new curved design and opening that’s tucked into the corner of the dock make wire management a little easier as well. In my humble opinion, being able to remove the back panel entirely and clip it back in when you’re done wiring the dock up is a nice change that I appreciate a lot.
It’s a Luxury Purchase at Best
While it might not be the 4K model we keep trying to wish into existence via social media, it is a nice upgrade. The OLED screen improves the visuals of its games and the addition of the Ethernet port is wonderful. However, it doesn’t feel like it’s enough to justify the $350 price tag. If you play the Switch a lot online, then you can just buy the Ethernet adapter for $25 and save yourself a pretty penny. It’s definitely a route I recommend.
Ultimately though, I do enjoy the Switch OLED model but if you asked me if it is a must-buy, I’d have to say no. Unless you’re a Switch light owner and want to up your Switch gaming or your Switch has met a disastrous fate, it’s just not a necessity. It is a luxury buy at best. If you have the cash and want a crisper, cleaner, and more colorful experience, then go for it. Otherwise, you’re fine with what you got. Maybe consider buying an Ethernet adapter.
