Nintendo Switch 2 vs Switch OLED: Should You Upgrade or Hold Off?

With the Nintendo Switch 2 now officially launched, the big question is:
Is it worth upgrading if you already own the Switch OLED?

Or, if you’re new to the Nintendo ecosystem — which one should you buy?

Let’s break down everything you need to know about the Switch 2 vs Switch OLED, from screens and performance to battery life and comfort. We’ll help you decide which one is right for you.

Display: OLED vs LCD – Who Wins?

Let’s start with the most noticeable difference — the screen.

Switch OLED: 7-inch OLED panel, vibrant colors, deep blacks, and thinner bezels.
Switch 2: 7.9-inch LCD panel, larger but thicker bezels, supports 1080p and 120Hz refresh rate.

While many were hoping for an OLED display on the Switch 2, Nintendo went with a high-quality LCD. It’s not OLED-level, but it still looks impressive. In fact, the LCD is closer in quality to OLED than expected, especially with the bump to 1080p and higher refresh rate.

Verdict:
If color depth and contrast matter to you in handheld mode, OLED still wins. But for smoother gameplay and resolution? Switch 2 takes the lead.

Design & Comfort: Bigger, Sleeker, but Heavier

Both consoles stay true to the original Nintendo Switch design, but the Switch 2 brings subtle refinements.

Switch 2 Design Upgrades:
- All-black chassis with soft-touch coating
- Magnetic Joy-Cons (very satisfying to use)
- Slightly larger and more ergonomic
- Extra USB-C port at the top for accessories or charging

While the Switch 2 feels more premium and comfortable in the hand due to its larger frame, it’s also heavier, which may cause quicker hand fatigue during long sessions.

Verdict:
More modern and refined — but with a bit of extra weight. Switch 2 wins for feel, but Switch OLED is still better for long flights or extended handheld sessions.

Performance: Switch 2 Dominates

No contest here — the Switch 2 is a significant leap forward in performance.

Docked Mode:
- Switch OLED: 1080p max
- Switch 2: Up to 4K output, smoother gameplay, better textures
Handheld Mode:
- Noticeably better frame rates
- Faster load times
- Games like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom feel refreshingly smooth

Even older games benefit from enhanced performance on the Switch 2. You’ll get higher frame rates and better visuals across the board.

Verdict:
Switch 2 wins — by miles. If performance is your priority, this is the one to get.

Battery Life: A Step Back

As with most high-performance devices, better hardware comes at a cost — battery life.

Switch OLED: ~5 to 9 hours
Switch 2: ~2 to 6 hours

That’s a big drop, especially if you’re someone who plays while traveling or away from a dock. The upgraded screen, 4K output, and higher frame rates naturally drain more power.

Verdict:
Switch OLED wins for longevity. Switch 2 is better for power, but not for endurance.

Features & Quality-of-Life Changes

Here are a few additional improvements the Switch 2 brings:

Detachable magnetic Joy-Cons – a nice tactile upgrade
Refined color scheme – cleaner and more mature
Improved kickstand design – slimmer but still stable
Extra USB-C port – more flexibility when charging or adding accessories

All these details may seem minor, but they contribute to a more refined, next-gen feel.

Game Library: Not Quite There Yet

One of the big factors in this debate is the current game library.

As of now, there are very few Switch 2 exclusives. Many games still run well on the OLED model — and unless you’re dying to play something like Mario Kart World (a Switch 2 exclusive), there’s no urgency to upgrade.

Verdict:
If you’re already happy with your game lineup, you’re not missing much yet.

🧠 Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?

✅ Buy the Switch 2 If:

You’re upgrading from an original Switch or have no console at all
You want 4K gaming or smoother handheld performance
You care about future-proofing your gaming setup
You’re OK with a bit less battery life

🤔 Hold On to Your OLED If:

You already own a Switch OLED and are happy with it
You mostly play in handheld mode
You want to wait for more exclusive games
You’re hoping for a future OLED Switch 2 model or special edition

🎥 Want to See the Comparison in Action?

Watch the full comparison on YouTube:
Nintendo Switch 2 vs OLED – Full Video Review
Buy the Nintendo Switch 2

📝 TL;DR: Quick Pros & Cons

Feature	Switch OLED	Switch 2
Display	OLED, 720p, 60Hz	LCD, 1080p, 120Hz
Screen Size	7 inches	7.9 inches
Performance	Good	Significantly better
Battery Life	Longer (5–9 hrs)	Shorter (2–6 hrs)
Design Feel	Premium, slim bezels	Sleek, ergonomic, heavier
Game Library	Vast	Growing

Jacques Snyman