Nintendo on Tuesday announced a new Switch model featuring an OLED display panel. The gaming console will cost $349.99 and will go on sale from October 8th.
The new Nintendo Switch (OLED model) features a larger, vibrant 7-inch 720p OLED screen with vivid colors and crisp contrast. It also comes with an upgraded Nvidia chip that offers a TV output of 1080p image when connected to a TV.
Further, the new Switch features a wide, adjustable stand for easy viewing in tabletop mode, a built-in wired LAN port to connect online when playing in TV mode, 64GB of internal storage (which is expandable up to 2TB via microSDHC or microSD cards), and enhanced audio from the system’s onboard speakers for handheld and tabletop play.
There are no major internal changes to the CPU or memory, a Nintendo spokesperson confirmed to The Verge. “Nintendo Switch (OLED model) does not have a new CPU, or more RAM, from previous Nintendo Switch models,” the spokesperson said.
Furthermore, the new Switch is powered by an NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor. It packs a 4310mAh battery, which can deliver up to 4 to 9 hours of gaming time per charge. It measures 4-inch high, 9.5-inch long, and .55-inch deep with Joy-Con attached and weighs 0.71 pounds (0.32kg).
Nintendo Switch (OLED model) will allow players to play in all three modes, including TV mode, where the console sits in the dock and connects to your TV. It will allow players to share the detachable Joy-Con controllers for right-out-of-the-box multiplayer fun.
The second is Tabletop mode, where you can flip the stand on the back of the system for a solid and sturdy foundation. It allows players to freely tilt the system and adjust the viewing angle.
Lastly, the Handheld mode will allow players to take the system wherever they go and play local or online multiplayer with friends.
All previously released Joy-Con for Nintendo Switch are compatible with this new model. Additionally, it is also compatible with the full library of Nintendo Switch games.
“The new Nintendo Switch (OLED model) is a great option for players who want to experience the new vibrant screen when playing in handheld and tabletop mode,” said Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser.
“With the addition of this new model to the Nintendo Switch family of systems, people have an additional choice of a system that best fits the gaming experience they desire – whether it’s Nintendo Switch (OLED model), Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite.”
Nintendo Switch (OLED model) will be available in two color options such as white and neon red/neon blue.
The Nintendo Switch (OLED model) white set will come with white Joy-Con controllers, a black main unit, and a white dock, whereas the neon red/neon blue set will have neon red and neon blue Joy-Con controllers, a black main unit, and a black dock.
