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The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model is a Nintendo Switch-family hybrid console, model HEG-001, that plays in handheld, tabletop, and TV modes. Its main distinction is a 7-inch OLED touchscreen; it also has 64 GB of internal storage, a wider adjustable stand, enhanced onboard audio, and a dock with a built-in wired LAN port. It plays the Nintendo Switch game library rather than using a separate set of games.
What is the Nintendo Switch OLED?
The OLED Model is one version of Nintendo’s Switch console. Like other Switch systems, it can be used as a portable handheld, set on a surface for tabletop play, or placed in its dock to play on a TV. The Joy-Con controllers detach for supported multiplayer experiences.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo Switch – OLED Model w/White Joy-Con | $388.44 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo Switch OLED Model w/ White Joy-Con (Renewed) | $256.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo Switch – OLED Model w/Neon Red & Neon Blue Joy-Con | $384.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) - Neon Blue/Neon Red (Renewed) | $259.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Nintendo identifies the system as model HEG-001. Its defining feature is the built-in 7.0-inch OLED capacitive touchscreen. OLED pixels emit their own light, so the display does not need the backlight used by an LCD screen; Nintendo says this enables vivid colors, deeper blacks, and crisp contrast.
What are its display and storage specifications?
- Built-in screen: 7.0-inch OLED touchscreen with 1280 × 720 resolution in handheld and tabletop modes.
- TV output: Up to 1920 × 1080 at 60 fps over HDMI when docked.
- Internal storage: 64 GB, with a portion reserved for system use. Compatible microSD cards can expand available storage.
The larger OLED screen does not raise the handheld or tabletop resolution above 1280 × 720. The higher 1920 × 1080 figure applies to video output in TV mode, not to the built-in screen. Nintendo lists these specifications on its OLED Model overview and FAQ.
#1 Best Overall
- Vivid 7” OLED screen
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- 64 GB internal storage (a portion of which is reserved for use by the system)
- Enhanced audio in handheld and tabletop modes
- Wide adjustable stand
How does it differ from the standard Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo’s US support comparison identifies the standard Switch as HAC-001(-01) and the OLED Model as HEG-001. The comparison below is between those two models; it does not describe the Switch Lite.
| Feature | Switch OLED (HEG-001) | Standard Switch (HAC-001(-01)) |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in screen | 7.0-inch OLED touchscreen, 1280 × 720 | 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen, 1280 × 720 |
| Internal storage | 64 GB; some space reserved for system use | 32 GB; Nintendo’s comparison does not specify the amount reserved for system use |
| Rear stand | Wide, adjustable stand | Smaller stand |
| Onboard audio | Enhanced audio in handheld and tabletop modes | Nintendo’s comparison does not describe it as enhanced |
| Dock networking | Dock includes a wired LAN port | Nintendo’s comparison lists no built-in LAN port on the dock |
| Approximate battery life | 4.5–9 hours | 4.5–9 hours |
The battery-life figures are Nintendo’s approximate ratings for the two models in its comparison, not a claim that they will last equally long in every game or use condition. Nintendo does not present the OLED Model as a new game platform: it says the full Nintendo Switch game library is playable on it.
Rank #2
- Vivid 7” OLED screen
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- 64 GB internal storage (a portion of which is reserved for use by the system)
- Enhanced audio in handheld and tabletop modes
- Wide adjustable stand
What comes with the OLED Model?
Nintendo’s listed standard bundle includes the console, a dock with a LAN port, left and right Joy-Con controllers, two Joy-Con wrist straps, a Joy-Con Grip, an AC adapter, and an HDMI cable. The Ethernet/LAN cable is sold separately. Bundle contents can depend on the listing and region, so check the seller’s package details if buying a particular unit. Nintendo’s OLED Model product page describes its features.
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What should you check for compatibility?
- Games and controllers: The system supports the full Switch game library and controllers compatible with Nintendo Switch systems. Nintendo notes that some experiences may differ because the OLED Model is larger.
- Nintendo Labo: Nintendo cautions that the console may not fit cleanly in all Nintendo Labo Toy-Con.
- Screen protectors: A protector made for the standard Switch or Switch Lite may not fit correctly. Confirm that a protector is specifically intended for the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model before buying.
- Storage cards: Compatible microSD cards can expand storage; confirm compatibility before purchasing a card.
- Wired internet: The dock has a LAN port, but using it requires a separately sold LAN cable.
When did it come out, and what did it cost at launch?
Nintendo lists October 8, 2021 as the release date. Nintendo of America announced a suggested retail price of $349.99 in the United States at launch in 2021; that is historical launch pricing, not a current price. See Nintendo’s July 6, 2021 launch announcement for the original US price and release details.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
Rank #3
- Vivid 7” OLED screen
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- 64 GB internal storage (a portion of which is reserved for use by the system)
- Enhanced audio in handheld and tabletop modes
- Wide adjustable stand
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
