The original Nintendo Switch lineup offers different ways to enjoy your favorite games, whether you prefer playing on a TV or gaming on the go.
This Nintendo Switch buying guide compares the standard Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch – OLED Model based on their features, play modes, and specifications to help you choose the right console for your needs.
Nintendo Switch
The standard Nintendo Switch lets you play games on your TV or directly on the console. It has a 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen and comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers that you can attach to the console, use separately, or share with another player in compatible games.
You can play on your TV using the dock, place the console on a flat surface for tabletop gaming, or carry it with you for handheld play. It also supports local wireless multiplayer with up to eight nearby consoles in compatible games.
Best for: Players who want to switch between TV gaming and playing on the go.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 102 × 239 × 13.9mm (with Joy-Con)
- Weight: Approx. 398g (with Joy-Con)
- Display: 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen; 1280 × 720 resolution
- Controllers: Includes a pair of Joy-Con controllers
- Play Modes: TV, Tabletop, Handheld
- Internal Storage: 32GB
- Battery Life: Approx. 4.5–9 hours (revised model) | Approx. 2.5–6.5 hours (original model), (varies by game)
- Video Output: Up to 1920 × 1080 at 60 fps in TV mode
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1
Nintendo Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a smaller, lighter console made specifically for handheld gaming. Its 5.5-inch LCD touchscreen and built-in controls make it easy to carry and play anywhere.
It supports physical and digital Nintendo Switch games that work in Handheld mode. You can also play with others through local wireless multiplayer in compatible games. However, it cannot connect to a TV, and its controls are built into the console rather than detachable.
Best for: Players who mainly game on the go and prefer a more compact, budget-friendly console.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 91.1 × 208 × 13.9mm
- Weight: Approx. 275g
- Display: 5.5-inch LCD touchscreen; 1280 × 720 resolution
- Controllers: Built-in controls; Joy-Con controllers sold separately
- Play Modes: Handheld
- Internal Storage: 32GB
- Battery Life: Approx. 3–7 hours (varies by game)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC
Nintendo Switch – OLED Model
The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model offers the same play modes as the standard Switch, but with a larger 7-inch OLED touchscreen. The display produces more vivid colors and deeper blacks, making it a good option for players who often play on the console itself.
It also has enhanced onboard speakers, a wider adjustable stand for tabletop gaming, and 64GB of internal storage. Its dock includes a wired LAN port for a wired internet connection when playing on a TV.
Best for: Players who want a larger, more vibrant screen for handheld and tabletop gaming while keeping the option to play on a TV.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 102 × 242 × 13.9mm (H × W × D, with Joy-Con attached)
- Weight: Approx. 420g (with Joy-Con)
- Display: 7-inch OLED touchscreen; 1280 × 720 resolution
- Play Modes: TV, Tabletop, Handheld
- Controllers: Includes a pair of Joy-Con controllers
- Internal Storage: 64GB
- Battery Life: Approx. 4.5–9 hours (varies by game)
- Video Output: Up to 1920 × 1080 at 60 fps in TV mode
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1; dock with built-in wired LAN port
- Audio: Stereo speakers; 5.1-channel linear PCM audio output via HDMI in TV mode
- Stand: Wide, adjustable stand
Nintendo Switch Main Models Comparison
Not sure which Nintendo Switch to buy? Compare the three models below to see how their features differ.
| Specifications | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch – OLED Model | Nintendo Switch Lite |
| Best For | Players who want both TV and portable gaming | Players who want a larger OLED display and flexible play options | Players who prefer handheld gaming |
| Display | 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen | 7-inch OLED touchscreen | 5.5-inch LCD touchscreen |
| Ways to Play | TV, Tabletop, Handheld | TV, Tabletop, Handheld | Handheld only |
| Controllers | Detachable Joy-Con included | Detachable Joy-Con included | Built-in controls |
| Battery Life | Approx. 4.5–9 hours | Approx. 4.5–9 hours | Approx. 3–7 hours |
| Storage | 32GB | 64GB | 32GB |
| Stand | Supports Tabletop mode | Wide, adjustable stand | — |
| Extra Features | Three play modes | Enhanced onboard audio, dock with wired LAN port | Compact, lightweight design and built-in +Control Pad |
| Game Support | Nintendo Switch software | Nintendo Switch software | Compatible games that support Handheld mode |
When choosing a Nintendo Switch, consider how you plan to play and which features matter most to you. If you want to enjoy games on both a TV and in handheld mode, the standard Switch is a versatile choice. If you prefer handheld or tabletop gaming with a larger, more vibrant display, the OLED Model is worth considering. Meanwhile, the Switch Lite is a practical option if portability is your priority and you don’t need TV play.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Nintendo Switch is the best?
The best Nintendo Switch depends on how you prefer to play. The standard Switch is a versatile choice for TV and handheld gaming. The OLED Model is ideal for players who want a larger, more vibrant screen, while the Switch Lite suits those who prefer handheld gaming.
What is the difference between the Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED?
The main differences are the display, storage, and select hardware features. The standard Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen and 32GB of storage, while the OLED Model has a 7-inch OLED screen, 64GB of storage, enhanced onboard speakers, and a wider adjustable stand.
Can you play Nintendo Switch games on all three models?
The standard Nintendo Switch and OLED Model support the Nintendo Switch game library, while the Switch Lite is designed for games that support Handheld mode. Some games that don’t support Handheld mode may still be playable on the Switch Lite with separately purchased compatible controllers, such as Joy-Con controllers. However, the Switch Lite cannot connect to a TV, and certain games or features may remain unavailable.
How long does the Nintendo Switch battery last?
Battery life depends on the model and the game being played. The revised standard Nintendo Switch and OLED Model offer approximately 4.5–9 hours of battery life, while the Switch Lite offers approximately 3–7 hours. The original Switch model offers approximately 2.5–6.5 hours. Actual battery life varies depending on usage and the game.
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