Nintendo Switch OLED: 2021 Vs 2023 - What's New?

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Nintendo Switch OLED models, specifically comparing the 2021 version with the 2023 edition. If you're wondering whether it's worth upgrading or just curious about the differences, you've come to the right place. Let's break down the specs, features, and everything else you need to know to make an informed decision. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's get started!

Display Differences: OLED Screen Evolution

When we talk about the Nintendo Switch OLED, the most significant upgrade is, of course, the OLED screen. But how has this screen evolved from the 2021 model to the 2023 version? Let's get into the nitty-gritty details. The original 2021 OLED model was a game-changer, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and an overall more immersive experience compared to the standard LCD screen of the original Switch. The 2021 model boasts a 7-inch OLED panel, which is larger than the original Switch's 6.2-inch LCD. This increase in screen size provides a more engaging visual experience, making games feel more expansive and detailed. The OLED technology itself allows for per-pixel lighting, meaning each pixel can turn completely off, resulting in true blacks and incredible contrast ratios. This makes games like Metroid Dread and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild look absolutely stunning, with richer colors and more dynamic scenes.

Now, let's fast forward to the 2023 model. While the core OLED technology remains the same, Nintendo has been continuously refining its manufacturing processes and display calibration. One of the key improvements in the 2023 model is the enhanced color accuracy. The 2023 OLED screen is calibrated to provide even more accurate and lifelike colors, ensuring that games look exactly as the developers intended. This means you'll see subtle color nuances and gradients that might have been less noticeable on the 2021 model. Additionally, Nintendo has worked on improving the screen's uniformity. This refers to the consistency of color and brightness across the entire display. In some early 2021 models, there were reports of slight variations in color temperature or brightness in different areas of the screen. The 2023 model aims to address these issues, providing a more consistent and uniform viewing experience. Another subtle but important improvement is the reduction in screen glare. While the OLED screen is inherently better at handling reflections compared to LCD screens, Nintendo has implemented additional anti-glare coatings and treatments to minimize distractions caused by ambient light. This makes the 2023 model more enjoyable to use in brightly lit environments or outdoors.

Internal Specs: Performance Parity

Delving into the internal specs of the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 versus the 2023 model, one thing remains consistent: the core performance. Both models are equipped with the same NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor. This means that when it comes to raw processing power and graphical capabilities, you won't see any difference between the two. Games will run at the same frame rates and resolutions on both devices. The decision to stick with the same processor makes sense from a development standpoint. It ensures that games are optimized for a consistent hardware platform, preventing fragmentation and compatibility issues. Developers can focus on creating the best possible experience for the existing hardware, rather than having to develop separate versions for different Switch models. The NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor is a system-on-a-chip (SoC) that combines the CPU, GPU, and memory into a single integrated unit. It's specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch, providing a balance of performance and power efficiency. While it may not be the most powerful mobile processor on the market, it's perfectly capable of delivering smooth and enjoyable gameplay for the vast majority of Switch games.

However, there's more to internal specs than just the processor. Let's talk about storage. Both the 2021 and 2023 OLED models come with 64GB of internal storage, which is double the 32GB found in the original Nintendo Switch. This extra storage is a welcome addition, as it allows you to download more games directly to the console without having to rely on microSD cards. While 64GB is still relatively limited compared to other modern consoles, it's a significant improvement that can make a real difference in your gaming experience. It's also worth noting that the Nintendo Switch uses eMMC (embedded MultiMediaCard) storage, which is a type of flash memory that offers decent read and write speeds. While it's not as fast as the NVMe SSDs found in high-end gaming PCs, it's more than adequate for loading games and transferring data on the Switch. One area where there might be very subtle differences is in the memory chips used in the 2021 and 2023 models. While the total amount of RAM remains the same (4GB), Nintendo may have sourced different memory chips from different manufacturers over time. However, these differences are unlikely to have any noticeable impact on performance, as the memory is still operating within the same specifications. Ultimately, the internal specs of the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 and 2023 models are virtually identical when it comes to performance. You can expect the same smooth and enjoyable gaming experience on both devices.

Design and Build: Minor Tweaks

Regarding design and build, the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 and 2023 models share a very similar aesthetic, but there are a few minor tweaks worth noting. The overall dimensions and weight are nearly identical, so you won't notice a significant difference in how the console feels in your hands. However, Nintendo has made some subtle changes to the design that enhance the overall user experience. One of the most noticeable improvements is the wider, adjustable stand. The original Nintendo Switch had a flimsy kickstand that was prone to breaking and offered limited viewing angles. The OLED model features a much sturdier and more versatile stand that spans the entire width of the console. This provides a more stable base for tabletop mode, allowing you to prop up the Switch on a variety of surfaces without worrying about it tipping over. The adjustable design also lets you fine-tune the viewing angle to your preference, making it easier to play games with friends or watch videos comfortably.

Another minor tweak is the redesigned speaker grills. The OLED model features slightly larger and more prominent speaker grills that are designed to improve audio output. While the difference in sound quality is not dramatic, the new speakers do offer a slightly richer and more immersive audio experience. This can be particularly noticeable in games with detailed soundscapes or when watching videos with surround sound. The Joy-Cons included with the OLED model are the same as those found on the original Nintendo Switch, but Nintendo has made some subtle improvements to their durability and responsiveness over time. The analog sticks are less prone to drifting, and the buttons feel more tactile and satisfying to press. However, these improvements are not exclusive to the OLED model, as Nintendo has also updated the Joy-Cons sold separately. The dock included with the OLED model is also slightly different from the original Switch dock. It features a built-in LAN port, allowing you to connect the console to your router via Ethernet for a more stable and reliable online connection. This is a welcome addition for gamers who prefer wired connections over Wi-Fi. Visually, the OLED dock has a sleeker and more streamlined design, with rounded edges and a glossy finish. Overall, the design and build of the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 and 2023 models are very similar, but the minor tweaks and improvements add up to a more refined and enjoyable user experience.

Connectivity: Consistent Options

Looking at connectivity, the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 and 2023 models offer consistent options, ensuring compatibility with existing accessories and peripherals. Both models feature the same ports and wireless capabilities, so you won't have to worry about any compatibility issues. The Nintendo Switch OLED includes a USB-C port for charging and docking, a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired audio, and a microSD card slot for expanding storage. These ports are located in the same positions as on the original Nintendo Switch, so you can use the same cables and accessories without any problems. The USB-C port supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), allowing you to charge the console quickly using compatible chargers. It also supports video output, so you can connect the Switch to a TV or monitor using a USB-C to HDMI adapter. The 3.5mm headphone jack provides a convenient way to connect headphones or earbuds for private listening. It supports both stereo and mono audio, so you can use a variety of different audio devices. The microSD card slot allows you to expand the internal storage of the Switch, which is essential if you plan on downloading a lot of games. The Switch supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, with a maximum capacity of 2TB. In terms of wireless connectivity, the Nintendo Switch OLED supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 4.1. Wi-Fi 5 provides fast and reliable wireless internet access, allowing you to download games, stream videos, and play online multiplayer games. Bluetooth 4.1 allows you to connect wireless headphones, controllers, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices to the Switch. The OLED model also includes a built-in NFC (Near Field Communication) reader/writer, which is used for scanning amiibo figures. Amiibo figures can unlock special content in compatible games, such as costumes, items, and challenges. The NFC reader/writer is located in the right Joy-Con controller. One notable difference between the OLED model and the original Nintendo Switch is the inclusion of a LAN port on the dock. The LAN port allows you to connect the Switch to your router via Ethernet for a more stable and reliable online connection. This is a welcome addition for gamers who prefer wired connections over Wi-Fi. Overall, the connectivity options on the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 and 2023 models are consistent and comprehensive, providing everything you need to connect to the internet, charge the console, and connect accessories.

Battery Life: No Significant Change

Analyzing the battery life, there's no significant change between the Nintendo Switch OLED 2021 and 2023 models. Both versions offer roughly the same battery performance as the updated standard Nintendo Switch model released in 2019. This means you can expect anywhere from 4.5 to 9 hours of playtime on a single charge, depending on the game you're playing and the brightness settings you're using. Games that are graphically intensive or require a lot of processing power will typically drain the battery faster than simpler games. The Nintendo Switch OLED uses a 4310mAh battery, which is the same capacity as the battery in the updated standard Switch model. While the OLED screen is more power-efficient than the LCD screen in the original Switch, this power saving is offset by the larger screen size and other factors. In real-world usage, you're unlikely to notice any significant difference in battery life between the OLED model and the updated standard Switch. To maximize battery life on your Nintendo Switch OLED, there are a few things you can do. First, reduce the screen brightness to the lowest comfortable level. The brighter the screen, the more power it consumes. Second, turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when you're not using them. These wireless features can drain the battery even when they're not actively in use. Third, put the console into sleep mode when you're not playing it. Sleep mode consumes very little power, allowing you to quickly resume your game later. Fourth, close any unnecessary applications or games that are running in the background. These can consume power even when they're not actively being used.

Conclusion: Is the 2023 Model Worth It?

So, is the 2023 model worth it? The answer depends on your situation. If you already own the 2021 OLED model, the upgrades are incremental and probably not worth the cost of a new console. However, if you're coming from an older Nintendo Switch or are new to the Switch family, the OLED model is a fantastic choice. The improved screen, enhanced audio, and refined design make it a premium gaming experience. Ultimately, the Nintendo Switch OLED is a fantastic console that offers a premium gaming experience. Whether you choose the 2021 or 2023 model, you're sure to have a blast playing your favorite Nintendo games on the go or on the big screen.