With the Nintendo Switch, the Japanese company has landed a real hit. The popular game console is now available in three versions – the first switch, a smaller Lite version and a larger version with an OLED display. But how do the three models differ in detail and which target group are they aimed at?
The Nintendo Switch has sold millions since its release in March 2017. In fact, it was so successful that Nintendo not only launched a more compact version, the Switch Lite, in September 2019. In the summer of 2021, the largest model to date followed with the Switch OLED. Probably the biggest difference between the consoles: While the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED can also be connected to the television thanks to the docks supplied, the Switch Lite is primarily intended for mobile use. TECHBOOK has listed which details still differ between the consoles in a comparison of the Nintendo Switch, Switch OLED and Switch Lite.
Optical comparison of the Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch Lite is significantly more compact than the normal version. This is also reflected in the size of the screen. While the small console has a 5.5-inch LC multi-touch screen, the conventional switch model has a 6.2-inch display. However, this is different with the Switch OLED, which has a display diagonal of 7 inches and thus offers the most space for gaming. Thanks to OLED technology, the display here is also more colorful and richer in contrast than with the normal Switch and the Switch Lite. Despite the size differences, the resolution of all three models is 1280 x 720 pixels.
The two models with a docking station differ only slightly in terms of the pure case size. That’s because the Nintendo Switch OLED has significantly narrower display bezels compared to the regular model. There are, however, significant differences. For example, the Switch OLED has a wider base that can be tilted and is therefore more stable on the table. The docking station has more rounded edges and has a LAN port that allows the console to be connected to the Internet via cable. Also new to the Switch OLED is the all-white version, which is offered alongside the neon red and neon blue versions.
Differences in controls
The key difference when comparing the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED to the Switch Lite is in the controls. Because while the Switch (OLED) comes with the well-known Joy-Cons on the sides, which can be removed if necessary, the Switch Lite has other controls. The button areas are not removable and are permanently installed in the console housing. The typical functions of the Joy-Cons – such as HD vibration or the IR motion camera – are therefore not integrated.
However, there is a modified version of the motion control. Even on the conventional switch and the switch OLED, you can aim using the gyroscope function instead of the controllers by holding the consoles in the desired direction. This also works on the Switch Lite. The key assignment is otherwise the same for both models, but Nintendo has given the Lite a real control pad instead of the individual arrow keys. This evokes retro nostalgia, because we’ve known this design aspect since the first Game Boy.
Since the Joy-Cons on the Switch Lite cannot be removed compared to the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED and the smaller console also has no stand, it cannot be used in table mode without additional accessories. However, players can upgrade – for example with a separately available stand and controller. The storage space can also be retrofitted on both consoles. A specially designed cover for the microSD card slot is attached to the back of the Switch Lite. On the Switch, it hides behind the fold-out stand.
Also read: Find the right memory card for the Nintendo Switch
Differences in hardware and features
The Switch Lite is a pure handheld console compared to the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED. Some games such as Super Mario Party, 1-2 Switch, Just Dance, Ring Fit Adventure, Nintendo Labo, and Fitness Boxing are not compatible. You need the detachable Joy-Cons. Nintendo has also dispensed with the docking station and TV mode with the Switch Lite. For this reason, it cannot be connected to the television. Contrary to its name, your gaming operations cannot be “switched”.
The other two models, on the other hand, offer all of these things. After all, additional Joy-Cons can be connected to the Switch Lite, although playing with multiple people on the small screen is less comfortable.
The larger display and the additional technology inside the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED result in a higher power requirement. The first version of the large Switch achieved a battery life of 2.5 to 6 hours. That wasn’t much and quickly caused complaints from the players. Nintendo then released an improved version of the switch with Nvidia Tegra X1, which has a runtime of 4.5 to 9 hours. The improved version can be recognized on the one hand by the packaging (old version with hand, new version without hand on the box) and on the other hand by the model number HAC-001(-01). Serial numbers starting with “XK” also indicate a Nintendo Switch console with improved battery life.
In terms of runtime, the Switch Lite is right in between the old and new versions of the regular Switch. On average, players can gamble for 3 to 7 hours with one battery charge. Specifically, Nintendo has installed a 3570 mAh battery here. Compared to the Switch Lite, the Nintendo Switch comes with a 4310 mAh battery – both the old and the new version. Nintendo achieves better runtime here with an adapted version of Nvidia’s Tegra X1 chip, which is also used in the Switch Lite.
The Switch OLED has the model number HEG-001 and has 64 GB instead of 32 GB of internal memory and improved speakers. According to the manufacturer, it has the same runtime as the regular switch – i.e. around 4.5 to 9 hours. The identical battery life is not surprising, since Nintendo uses the same processor and the same battery capacity of 4310 mAh in both consoles. The higher power consumption of the larger display in the new version is offset by the more energy-efficient OLED technology.
Nintendo Switch, OLED and Lite prices compared
Due to the aforementioned drawbacks, the Switch Lite is also cheaper compared to the large Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED. The console is available in yellow, grey, turquoise and coral and has an RRP of 219 euros. In the meantime, however, the console is also available for prices around 200 euros. The larger Switch is more expensive, not least because of the included Joy-Cons and the docking station. It is available in a gray version and with neon red and neon blue Joy-Cons. The RRP is 329 euros. The Switch OLED is the most expensive of the three models with an RRP of 349.99 euros.
Nintendo has also released various bundles with games from three consoles, which are then somewhat more expensive. In the case of the standard switch, the bundle versions often also come with a special color of the console.
Which console is right for me?
With its flexible application, the Nintendo Switch has now become the console favorite. Whether alone or in pairs, in table or TV mode, you can use them in many places and always have fun with you – even with friends. The Switch can also function as a family console, as up to eight individual Joy-Cons can be connected.
The Switch OLED essentially offers the features of the regular Switch, with the special feature here being the larger OLED display. It also brings twice the memory, a more stable stand, LAN and better speakers. From a purely technical point of view, however, it is not an upgrade, since Nintendo uses the same components as the switch.
If you don’t have a switch yet and don’t necessarily want to play on TV, the Lite version should appear more attractive. After all, with the Switch Lite, Nintendo delivers a cheaper console for those who prefer an even more compact design. The larger battery is indicative of a device that relies heavily on the portability of the Switch and is best suited for people who like to play on the go. You don’t need detachable Joy-Cons, just a lightweight handheld console.