Despite missing its rumoured debut during E3 2021, Nintendo has finally pulled the wraps off its new console – the Nintendo Switch (OLED model) .
While not quite the “Switch 2” or “Switch Pro” that fans were likely hoping for, this updated Switch brings a visual upgrade to the table first and foremost, with a larger 7in OLED panel; replacing the 6.2in LCD on the original Nintendo Switch . Find out all the differences between consoles in our Switch vs OLED model comparison .
Nintendo has enlarged the screen whilst also slimming down the bezels, meaning this new model sports near-identical proportions to the standard Switch (albeit measuring 0.1in wider, which means it may not fit some Nintendo Labo kits and select third-party accessories) and will work with existing accessories like the current Joy-Cons.
Beyond the display, the Switch OLED sports a new kickstand design, which spans the length of the console’s back and features a variable hinge, allowing you to position it at any angle through its full range of motion; making for a more versatile and stable viewing experience, particularly when using the console in tabletop mode.
Nintendo also promises superior stereo sound from the built-in speakers and the base internal storage has been doubled to 64GB, arguably one of the original Switch’s biggest limitations; still no mention of integrated Bluetooth audio support, though.
As for the dock, as well as sharing in a somewhat PlayStation 5 -inspired white-on-black colour scheme (a neon red/neon blue option, similar to the original Switch is also on its way), there’s now an integrated LAN port behind the back panel, allowing for a wired ethernet connection when the console is docked; intended for lower latency online gaming.
So far, only US pricing has been announced, with the Nintendo Switch (OLED model) clocking in at US$349.99 . That’s a $50 increase on the original Nintendo Switch’s asking price and a hike that we expect will translate across to international pricing too.
If this ends up being the case, in the UK the Switch OLED could cost closer to £329 (up from the original model’s price tag of £279), while in Europe, €349 seems likely, as the regular Switch matches the US numerically at €299.
「Nintendo Switchキャリングケース」も同日の10月8日（金）発売。「Nintendo Switch（有機ELモデル）」用と「Nintendo Switch」用の2枚の画面保護シートがセットになっています。 #NintendoSwitch https://t.co/zPh3RTZcJ5 pic.twitter.com/FFmUL49JM9 — 任天堂株式会社 (@Nintendo) July 6, 2021
Launching alongside the Switch OLED is an official carry case + screen protector combo pack, with a colour-matched black/white design. It’s currently only listed on Nintendo Japan’s website and comes priced at JPY¥2,178 (approximately £14.50/€16.50/$20).
Nintendo has slated the Switch OLED’s launch for 8 October , coinciding with the arrival of the recently-teased Metroid Dread.
