Nintendo Switch Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Model for You
Nintendo debuted its first Switch in March 2017 and it quickly gained popularity due to its uniqueness. Nintendo then introduced two more variants, the Nintendo Switch Lite, and the more expensive Nintendo Switch OLED. None of these versions are inexpensive, which is why you should understand all of the distinctions and similarities before deciding which model to purchase.
Nintendo Switch Lite
Only portable
The Nintendo Switch Lite is only designed to be used as a handheld device, similar to the Nintendo DS. The Nintendo Switch Lite should be purchased primarily for its capabilities as a handheld device rather than a console, and it cannot, unfortunately, be connected to a TV.
Controllers can’t be detached
The controllers on the regular Switch can be disconnected, but not those on the Switch Light, due to differences in design. This can be interpreted negatively or positively. Some individuals like to have their controls right on the console, while others prefer a separate controller that you can share with a friend.
Design and features
Both the Lite and regular Switch have 720p screens, although the Lite has a 5.5-inch screen while the regular has a 6.2-inch screen. Even though the Switch Lite is smaller, it has a large enough screen that will not disappoint and comes in a variety of colors. You can also play in multiplayer mode, which allows you to connect with other Nintendo Switches of any variety. If you are short on cash or in a pinch, the Switch Lite is your best bet.
Nintendo Switch (regular)
Detachable controllers
With the new design of detachable controllers for the Nintendo Switch console, Nintendo prides itself on its unique and stylish features. With the Joy-Con controllers, you can detach them and use them for a wide range of different things. They are ergonomically designed and offer a wide range of functions. Joy-Con controllers can be connected to laptops and PCs, and can also turn on some TVs. Some games also require Joy-Cons since they have a motion control feature that brings out the feel of the game even better.
Portable and gaming console
The Nintendo Switch can be used as a handheld device as well as a gaming console. You can play many popular Nintendo games on any of these Switch variations, but the main distinction between the Lite and regular Switch is that the Lite cannot be connected to a TV.
The TV mode gives the real feel of a gaming console, where you can connect your switch to a TV screen and enjoy it with others by sharing a Joy-Con with them.
Nintendo Switch OLED
The Nintendo Switch OLED, a new and improved version of the Switch, was released in October 2021, four years after the ordinary Switch. The most visible difference is the screen, which is a 7-inch OLED display rather than the standard 6.2-inch LCD screen.
Better screen (OLED)
The most recent and premium Switch is the Nintendo Switch OLED, which, as the name suggests, comes with an OLED screen rather than an LCD screen. An OLED screen will result in better image quality and better contrast, with deeper blacks.
If you are someone who is huge on the graphics and visuals of the game, then you should go for the OLED version since it offers better color contrast and graphics. Popular games like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,” for example, pair very well and give amazing scenery almost all the time.
Bigger screen
The screen size on the Switch OLED is also a little bit bigger than the regular Switch, with even smaller bezels. This is going to enhance your portable gaming experience by giving you an even bigger screen and a more real experience without annoying borders that take all the fun out of it.
Improved kickstand
The Switch Lite does not have a kickstand, which is understandable since it does not have the same modes as the other Switches. The regular Switch includes a kickstand, but it is quite small and not in the center, which can make the angles worse. The Switch OLED, on the other hand, has a better kickstand that runs the length of the screen and provides better stability and alignment. The dock has also been rebuilt and updated because you will most likely have it connected to a TV. It has a LAN port, which provides considerably superior network stability.