Nintendo Switch OLED vs Standard Which One Should You Buy in the UK

The Nintendo Switch remains one of the best-selling gaming consoles in the world, but with multiple versions available, UK gamers often ask: Should I buy the Nintendo Switch OLED or stick with the Standard model? Both models offer an amazing gaming experience, but they cater to different types of players.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll compare Nintendo Switch OLED vs. Standard, focusing on design, display, performance, battery life, and price to help you make the right decision. We’ll also cover UK-specific deals, best places to buy, and FAQs to give you a complete buying guide.

Let’s dive in!

Quick Comparison Table: Switch OLED vs. Standard Switch

If you play mostly in handheld mode, the OLED is worth the extra £50 for the better display and sound. If you mainly use TV mode, the Standard model is still a solid choice.

Design & Build Quality

Nintendo Switch OLED: A Premium Upgrade

The Switch OLED’s design is a noticeable improvement over the Standard model:

• Slimmer bezels give it a modern and premium look.

• Sturdier build and improved kickstand (wide, adjustable, more stable).

• New white color option (alongside classic Neon Red/Blue Joy-Cons).

Standard Switch: Durable but Outdated Look

• Thicker bezels make it look older.

• Kickstand is flimsy and lacks adjustability.

• Same design since 2017, but still sturdy and reliable.

Verdict: If you want a sleeker, more premium handheld gaming experience, the Switch OLED wins.

Display & Graphics: OLED vs. LCD

Nintendo Switch OLED: A Visual Upgrade

• OLED screen provides deeper blacks & vibrant colors.

• 7-inchdisplay(vs. 6.2-inch on Standard model).

• Much better contrast (Ideal for games like Metroid Dread and Breath of the Wild).

Standard Switch: Decent, but Lacks Punch

• 6.2-inch LCD screen with thicker bezels.

• Good brightness but weaker contrast.

• Colors look slightly washed out compared to OLED.

For handheld gaming, the OLED model offers a dramatically better display. But if you mainly play on TV, the difference is minimal.

Performance & Battery Life

Same Processor, Same Performance

Both models use the same Nvidia Tegra X1 chip, meaning:

• No difference in FPS or graphics quality.

• Same loading times and performance.

• Both support all Nintendo Switch games.

Battery Life Comparison

• Both models last between 4.5 - 9 hours, depending on the game.

• OLED model’s display is more power-efficient, but it doesn’t significantly increase battery life.

No performance boost in the OLED model, but it runs slightly cooler and more efficiently.

Price & Best Deals in the UK

Which One Should You Buy?

Buy the OLED Model If…

You play handheld mode frequently.
You want better colors, contrast, and sound.
You need extra storage (64GB vs. 32GB).

Buy the Standard Switch If…

You mostly play in TV mode.
You want to save £50+.
You don’t care about screen quality improvements.

FAQs 

1. Is the Nintendo Switch OLED worth it in 2024?

Yes! If you prefer handheld gaming, the OLED model is a significant upgrade. But if you only play docked, the differences are minor.

2. Does the OLED version have better performance?

No, both use the same Nvidia Tegra X1 processor, meaning no FPS or performance boost.

3. Will there be a Nintendo Switch Pro soon?

There are rumors of a new Switch in 2025, but no official announcements.

4. Where can I find the best Switch OLED deals in the UK?

Check Amazon UK, Currys, GAME, and Argos for the best prices.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Get?

If you mainly play handheld, go for the Nintendo Switch OLED. The display, audio, and build quality make it worth the extra £50.

If you play mostly on TV and want to save money, the Standard Switch is still a great choice.

Looking for the best deal? Check UK retailers like GAME, Argos, Amazon UK, and Currys!