In the first side-by-side comparison video to surface online, the new Nintendo Switch OLED screen is a clear upgrade from its predecessor's. Originally having launched in 2017, the Nintendo Switch is the hybrid handheld console that can be docked for gaming on a big screen. Since its initial release, owners and potential customers have been asking for a significant hardware revision, and the Nintendo Switch OLED's October launch will mark the console's first major hardware refresh.
2021 has seen plenty of discussion surrounding the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model). It was first announced in July on the heels of Nintendo Switch Pro rumors, and it has since been closely compared to not only the standard Switch and Switch Lite models, but also to its competitors. There have been mixed reactions so far, as many were disappointed to learn the Switch OLED won't be fixing Joy-Con drift and isn't capable of playing games in 4K.
In a video from YouTube channel Nintendo Prime, a close-up comparison between the standard Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED can be seen in action. The Switch OLED screen looks comparatively clearer and display more vibrant colors as advertised. However, the biggest, easiest to detect change is the new 7" screen, which makes the original's 6.2" screen bezel look massive. Since the Switch OLED isn't set to release until early October, Nintendo Prime claims the footage was obtained from an anonymous source. To their knowledge, this seems to be the first English source with early access to the console, as the only other released unboxing was from a source in Japan and the Switch OLED has otherwise only gone on display in Japan so far.
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The video also covers comparisons of the speakers, air intake, dock, and memory, though Nintendo Prime notes its findings are not an "ultimate comparison" yet, as it do not have access to the new system. However, the channel implies it's planning a teardown video when it gets a hold of a Switch OLED unit itself. Despite its initial reveal disappointment, some excitement has begun to gather for the new system, but the decision to adopt early will likely come down to the new $350 price for on-the-fence customers. Overall, Nintendo Prime's video gives a substantial look at how much brighter, larger, and clears the OLED screen looks, which may somewhat soften the blow of the Switch OLED not having more powerful hardware.
The Nintendo Switch OLED is slated to release Friday, October 8, and it's likely some questions will be left unanswered until then. For now, some confidence in the new screen has likely been inspired by the fresh footage, but further comparisons and conclusions can't be drawn until the console is in critics' and players' hands.
Source: Nintendo Prime/YouTube