After many months and years of speculation, analyzing leaks, and sifting through rumors, we finally have a new Switch announced. It isn’t the pro edition or next generation many were wanting, but it does offer several enhanced features over the current model for just $50 US more.
While the overall size of the system is just .1 inches deep than the existing Switch, the weight will be .05 lbs heavier and feature a larger 7.0 inch OLED touch screen (compared to the 6.2 inch LCD touch screen on the current model). The slightly increased thickness is most likely due to the enhanced kickstand, which now fills the entire back of the console and is adjustable. The speakers have also been enhanced to provide more built-in sound when using in handheld or table-top modes.
The on-board storage is also getting a bump, doubling in size from 32 GB to 64 GB. All the while, the battery should still last the same as that in the recent version of the Switch from 2019, which clocks in at 4.5 – 9 hours (Nintendo states that Breath of the Wild will last for approximately 5.5. hours).
The OLED Model will feature an updated dock with a built-in wired LAN port rather than the USB port, so if you want to plug directly into the internet, you do not have to use a USB adapter anymore.
“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.”
You can purchase the Switch in a “traditional” black with red/blue Joy-Con controllers, or you can opt for the white version with a white dock and Joy-Con. Both will be available on October 8, 2021, for an MSRP of $349.99 US.
[Source: Press Release from Nintendo of America]
Steve is the Senior Editor of NintendoFuse and co-host of the NintendoFuse Podcast. He’s been a Nintendo gamer since age 6 and has been on staff with NintendoFuse since 2008.