Last week Nintendo announced a new Nintendo Switch model with a larger OLED screen and other hardware upgrades. Preorders for the new model are now live at various retailers (Best Buy and GameStop, for starters) for $349.99 MSRP. The system launches on October 8.
Though not quite the “Switch Pro” many fans were hoping for, the OLED model is still an upgrade to its predecessor. The 7-inch screen outputs vibrant colors and better contrast for handheld gaming, and the enhanced audio will let everyone around you know exactly what game you’re playing (for those who don’t believe in headphones). The stand is also now wider and adjustable, and the built-in Ethernet port for docked play might help prevent rage-quitting during online Super Smash Bros. Ultimate battles. System storage is receiving an upgrade as well, with the OLED model boasting 64 GB of internal storage (up from the original and Switch Lite’s 32 GB).
Nintendo’s website also confirms that the OLED model will use the same Joy-Cons as its predecessors, prompting many to assume the notorious “Joy-Con drift” issue will persist despite the other upgrades. Even so, it does at least ensure compatibility with Joy-Cons fans have already purchased, negating the need to buy more for the new model. The slightly larger dock is also compatible with the older-model Switch (not the Switch Lite, for obvious reasons).
