Which Nintendo Switch to Buy?

The Nintendo Switch has redefined handheld gaming, sparking a resurgence in portable play and inspiring new mobile gaming trends. With four distinct models available, choosing the right one comes down to key differences in performance, display and portability.

The Nintendo Switch 2 enhances the original hybrid concept with faster processing, a sharper screen and longer battery life. The OLED model, original Switch and Switch Lite all support the same game library in handheld mode, but each offers a unique experience that can impact how you play and enjoy your favorite titles. Keep reading as we break down these Nintendo systems to help you find the one that best fits your gaming needs.

Improved performance. The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces a next-generation processor and graphics upgrade, enabling faster load times, smoother gameplay and more detailed 4K visuals. These improvements offer a more immersive experience—especially noticeable in action-heavy or open-world games.

Crisper display. With an upgraded screen resolution and improved refresh rate, the Switch 2 enhances handheld play with sharper images and more vibrant colors. Whether you’re exploring richly animated landscapes or navigating complex menus, everything looks and feels more responsive.

Longer battery life. The Switch 2 extends gaming sessions beyond what the OLED and original models offer thanks to better power management and a more efficient chipset. If you travel frequently or prefer long handheld playtimes, this boost makes a noticeable difference.

Backward compatibility. In addition to a growing list of exclusive or enhanced Switch 2 games, the system supports most of the existing Switch games, ensuring your current library still works. This makes it easy to upgrade without losing access to your favorite titles or starting over. And, the Switch 2’s 256GB of storage allows you to keep more of your favorite games downloaded and ready to play.

Slightly larger size. To accommodate better hardware and a larger screen, the Switch 2 is bulkier than previous models. It’s still portable, but less compact than the Lite and slightly heavier than the OLED.

No OLED screen. The Switch 2 reverts back to featuring LCD screens like the original Switch and Switch Lite. That said, the 1080p resolution marks a clear upgrade in visual clarity for handheld play, delivering sharper images and more detailed graphics than any previous model.

Higher price. As the most powerful model in the lineup, the Switch 2 is also the most expensive. However, this is because it introduces premium design refinements, expanded storage capacity and advanced features that cater to gamers who want top-tier performance.

The screen and sound. The technology behind this model’s OLED screen produces a pure black color and a higher contrast white by lighting individual pixels in the screen. This introduces a sharper, more vibrant image that can make gameplay more realistic and entertaining. The Switch OLED also features enhanced sound compared to the Original Switch and Switch Lite.

More internal memory than other original models. In the original Nintendo Switch vs. Lite comparison, both come with 32GB of internal memory, but the OLED has 64GB of space. Having double the memory is useful for downloading digital games, updates and save data without needing a microSD card right away. However, none of these compare to the Switch 2’s 256GB of internal storage.

Faster internet speeds. Similar to the Switch 2, the Nintendo Switch OLED includes an ethernet port connection. This allows the system to be plugged directly into the internet’s router with an ethernet cable instead of having to rely on Wi-Fi, providing greater reliability and security. 

OLED and sound limitations. The improved OLED screen and sound are only applicable during handheld play. The Switch’s OLED technology and enhanced sound don’t translate through the screen of a TV while it is docked. Additionally, it still displays imagery at the standard 720p HD resolution in handheld mode, just like the original Switch and Switch Lite.

Other memory options. When comparing Nintendo Switch models, having double the amount of internal space isn’t necessarily a big improvement because gamers can easily just purchase microSD cards that provide extra storage for any version.

More expensive than the original Switch and Switch Lite. Because of the minor improvements, the Nintendo Switch OLED is pricier than the original Switch and Switch Lite. If you are planning on just connecting the console to your TV, the crisp OLED technology and louder sound are irrelevant. 

Balanced hybrid design. The original Nintendo Switch introduced the hybrid concept that lets you seamlessly switch between handheld and TV modes. It remains a reliable choice for gamers who value flexibility and want both portable and home console gameplay without extra frills.

Bigger handheld screen than the Lite. Although the Switch 2’s screen is the largest of the four, the base model is not far behind and is still bigger than the Lite’s screen. Since certain games can sometimes feature smaller, captioned dialogue that is difficult to read on the Lite version, the screen size can be the deciding factor when comparing Nintendo Switch Lite vs. Nintendo Switch.

Affordable middle ground. In a Switch 2 vs. Switch comparison, the original stands out as a more affordable middle ground. Positioned between the Switch 2 and OLED model and the budget-friendly Switch Lite, the original Switch offers solid performance and functionality at a more accessible price—ideal for those who want the full Switch experience without spending extra on newer upgrades.

Limited internal storage space. The original Switch only comes with 32GB of internal memory. This is fine if you are planning on only purchasing physical games that can be inserted into the console. However, downloading games is more popular than ever and only 32GB will limit your downloadable options without additional memory cards.

Better handheld options are available. Part of the allure of the Nintendo Switch is that it is both a handheld gaming device and a console that can be displayed on a TV monitor. Yet, if you are looking solely for handheld gameplay, the original model might not be the best Nintendo Switch for you. The Lite’s smaller size and cheaper price welcomes exclusive handheld gameplay.

Designed for handheld play. The Nintendo Switch Lite doesn’t have the same docking capabilities as the other two models and it doesn’t necessarily need them. The Lite was specifically designed to enjoy handheld play and the system works perfectly for it.

Low price. Since the size is smaller and it lacks docking capabilities, the Switch Lite is priced significantly lower than the other Nintendo Switch models. This is not only ideal for gamers on a budget, but can also help justify purchasing more Switch games for the console.

Portable and convenient for travel. Every Nintendo Switch model is portable, but the Lite is the most convenient to bring with you wherever you go. In the debate of a regular Nintendo Switch vs. Switch Lite, the smaller size allows the console to fit nicely in most bags and is a great way to pass the time on everyday commutes to work or school and on longer trips.

Underwhelming audio. The speakers in the classic Switch, the OLED model and Switch 2 perform much better than the speakers in the Switch Lite. The Lite’s speakers are not as loud and they are aimed downward, leaving them easily muffled without the aid of headphones.

Lower battery life. Because of its smaller size, the Switch Lite’s battery is smaller, resulting in a slightly lower battery life. This means you may need to recharge it more often during extended gaming sessions compared to other Switch models.

Lacks TV mode and tabletop mode. The other Switch models are all equipped with a foldout kickstand on the back of the unit that can be extended out to support the handheld screen, allowing gamers to play in tabletop mode. The Switch Lite doesn’t have this capability and it can’t connect to a TV.

There is no universal answer to what the best Nintendo Switch is. The best model for you depends on your personal preferences and gaming needs. In any Nintendo Switch comparison, the Lite is perfect for a gamer on a budget who prefers only playing in the handheld mode. The original Nintendo Switch is an excellent option for a gamer who plans on docking their system to a TV most of the time, but still appreciates the occasional handheld play and affordable price.

The Nintendo Switch OLED is ideal for the gamer who enjoys the detailed OLED display in handheld mode while also having the ability to play in TV mode. However, if you really want to enhance your gaming with an optimized setup, the Nintendo Switch 2 system and its various accessories offer a more powerful platform with expanded capabilities for both casual and competitive play.