Nintendo Switch consoles: OLED, Lite and bundles

Which Nintendo Switch model to buy

Nintendo has released several versions of its hybrid console over the years, and although they share the same catalogue, they're designed for different profiles. Choosing well mostly comes down to one question: where will you play most of the time?

Nintendo Switch OLED

This is the most complete version of the generation. Its 7-inch OLED screen delivers true blacks and much more vivid colours than the original LCD panel, which is especially noticeable in games with colourful palettes. It keeps the detachable Joy-Con, the TV dock, and adds a wider, much more stable rear stand for tabletop mode. It's the recommended option if you play a lot on the go but also want to connect it to the TV.

Nintendo Switch Lite

Designed exclusively for handheld mode. It's smaller, lighter and noticeably more affordable, but it doesn't connect to the TV and doesn't have detachable Joy-Con (the controls are built into the body). It's the logical choice if you'll mostly play away from home, on transport or in bed, and tabletop mode isn't a priority. It's available in several colours.

Nintendo Switch standard

The original hybrid model, with detachable Joy-Con and a dock included. It covers all three play modes –TV, tabletop and handheld– and remains a solid entry point into the Nintendo ecosystem at a moderate price.

Console bundles with a game included

Besides standalone consoles, you'll find bundles that combine the console with a game. They're often a good way to get started without having to buy everything separately, especially if the console is a gift and you want it to be usable right away.

How to choose your Nintendo Switch

1. Think about where you'll play. If the TV is your main scenario, rule out the Lite. If you'll only play on the go, the Lite saves you money and weight.
2. Consider the screen. If you play many hours on the go, the OLED panel makes a noticeable difference over the LCD.
3. Local multiplayer? The detachable Joy-Con on the standard and OLED models let two people play with a single console. The Lite doesn't allow this without extra controllers.
4. Think about generation. If you want maximum power and the newest exclusives, consider making the jump to the Nintendo Switch 2.

Once you've chosen your console, complete your setup with Nintendo Switch games and Nintendo Switch accessories.

Frequently asked questions about Nintendo Switch consoles

What's the difference between the Nintendo Switch OLED and the regular Switch?

The main difference is the screen: the OLED has a 7-inch panel with true blacks and more vivid colour, versus the 6.2-inch LCD of the standard model. The OLED also improves the rear stand, the audio, and doubles the internal storage (64 GB versus 32 GB). The internal power is the same on both.

Can the Nintendo Switch Lite be connected to a TV?

No. The Switch Lite is handheld only: it doesn't include a dock or video output, and it can't be connected to a TV. If you need to play on a big screen, you should go for the standard or OLED model.

Is it worth buying an original Switch now that the Switch 2 exists?

Yes, depending on the case. The original Switch has a huge, well-established catalogue at lower prices, and your games will keep working if you make the jump to the Switch 2 later thanks to backward compatibility. If you want new-generation exclusives and maximum graphical performance, then it's worth going straight to the Switch 2.

How much storage does the Nintendo Switch have?

The standard model and the Lite come with 32 GB of internal storage, while the OLED goes up to 64 GB. In all cases it can be expanded with a microSDXC card, which is highly recommended if you buy digital games.

Does the Nintendo Switch come with a game included?

Standalone consoles don't include a game. There are specific bundles that combine console and title, and you'll find the available ones in this category.