Roundup: Here are our first ‘hands-on’ impressions of the Nintendo Switch OLED

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Nintendo surprised everyone earlier this week when it announced an all-new system — its main selling point was its new 7-inch OLED display. While no CPU or RAM upgrades are emphasized, what it includes is a wider and improved audio kickstand, a stylish new docking station and a wired LAN port.

A number of outlets have already had a chance to “hands-on” the system, so we’ve rounded up some highlights from each of these early impressions.

IGN loved the screen and the semi-vivid When the Game Boy Advance was updated, GameSpot said that the new OLED screen wouldn’t necessarily impress you if you’ve already got a “hard” TV and The Verge noted that manual mode now feels like less of a compromise.

IGN – Tom Marks, Deputy Commentary Editor:

The power of the new screen is (unsurprisingly) even more noticeable when turned on, instantly shining bright and clear from any viewing angle you tried. Honestly, it’s no exaggeration to liken its vibrancy when the Game Boy Advance SP got an updated model with a brighter screen, making the original Switch look noticeably dull when compared directly. Its colors are richer too, and I’m not kidding when I say that the grass fields of Breath of the Wild look almost cartoonish green looking at them side by side.

The next most exciting feature of the OLED model (somewhat surprisingly) is actually its improved kickstand. It’s no secret that the base model’s offset predicate is flimsy and unreliable, but I wasn’t expecting this version to provide a resounding response to the issues of its predecessor. Not only does it extend along the back of the switch, but its hinges offer a satisfying amount of resistance so you can easily tilt it at almost any angle and be confident it will stay that way. It’s incredibly sturdy, with the same matte finish as the back of the Switch Lite. If it weren’t for the charging port that remains closed while standing still, I’d say the need for a third party holder is now dead.

GameSpot – Alessandro Villari, Editor and Producer:

While people who regularly play in dock modes with solid TVs won’t be impressed with OLED model pictures, this still makes manual mode look better than ever. It honestly got me interested in seeing what my other favorite games would look like, like Bayonetta 2 or Smash Bros. Ultimate, on the new screen.

… The main areas where Switch OLED sees improvements focus on the handheld experience. While the portable mode is convenient, it also provides less-than-ideal conditions for experiencing certain games as compared to playing them in docked mode. While I often prefer playing Switch games in manual mode, there are times when I play games in TV mode, which allows me to get a better sense of the game’s visuals and performance. Unfortunately, the notable improvement here being an OLED screen means that the main benefit of the new model will be lost when playing in docked mode.

The Verge – Dieter Bohn, Executive Editor:

So the Nintendo Switch OLED model justifies its existence, but does it justify the upgrade? For most people, the responsible answer is no. The improvements here won’t unlock new game experiences or abilities, but rather make existing experiences a little nicer.

I don’t think I’d be responsible, though. I knew it was “just” a switch with a bigger, brighter screen. I know after turning it on that manual mode feels like a much less compromise than it does today.

So here you go, some early impressions – of course, you can read all of them on the respective websites. What are your own thoughts on Switch OLED at this point? Speaking to most people, do you feel the need to upgrade? Think it might be a great place to start a new fan of Nintendo? As always, leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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