[Update of 10/12/2023] This article discusses the differences between the 1st Nintendo Switch console, released on March 3, 2017, and its improved version released in 2019, leading to the name Nintendo Switch V2 (or Nintendo Switch 2019), and bringing many improvements to the console that we detail in the article below. And in 2021, a new Nintendo Switch was born: it is the Nintendo Switch OLED, which we could consider as the Nintendo Switch V3 or 3rd version. The article below discusses the differences between the Switch 1st version (launched in 2017) and the improved version (launched in 2019).
Note that today in 2023, in commerce, you will only find the Switch V2 version and the Switch OLED version (the Switch V1, that is to say, the model launched in 2017, is no longer for sale but you can find it on second-hand and used sites).
| Nintendo Model |  Amazon |
| Switch OLED V3 (latest model released) | → See prices |
| Switch V2 (second last model released) | → See prices |
Here are the main differences between Switch OLED (or Switch V3) and the Switch V2:
- The screen: OLED technology with 7 inches and larger than the Switch V2 which is 6.2 inches (OLED also offers more intense colors and higher contrasts);
- Connectivity: the OLED offers an Ethernet port directly integrated into the dock which does not exist on the V2, to connect your console via network cable (in addition to Wifi);
- An updated design for the dock with a wide and adjustable stand to improve the comfort of using the Switch OLED on the go;
- A color that was not available: white (and still neon red and blue);
- A base storage space of 64 GB (compared to 32 GB on the Nintendo Switch V2)
- Improved audio with better quality
Our advice: below a 50 € difference, favor the OLED model… and if the budget is not an issue, favor the OLED model. This will allow you to have a recent gaming console in terms of components and technology.
Are there real reasons to buy a Switch V2 (2019 model rather than the V1 (2017 model)?
After the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo continues to change your way of playing video games with the Nintendo Switch v2. Thanks to its new powerful battery, this one will allow you to play whenever you want and from anywhere. With an ARM Cortex-A57 processor and a Tegra X1 graphics chipset, the switch will make your gaming experience even more dynamic and totally interactive. Moreover, unlike the first version, this second version has a much greater autonomy as well as a brighter and more contrasted screen.
However, in terms of storage option, both Nintendo Switches are equipped with the same micro SD port to increase your memory capacity: besides, if you want to invest in an ultra-useful accessory for your Nintendo Switch: the official Nintendo SD card. You will see that the memory card will be your best ally to store your games, videos, and console screenshots.
How to recognize that a Nintendo Switch is indeed a V2?
Physically, it is almost impossible to differentiate a Nintendo Switch V1 from the 2nd version. Rest assured, if you buy a Nintendo Switch today, whether in-store (Auchan, Carrefour, Intermarché…) or on the Internet, it is very likely that it is a version 2.
But if you buy a second-hand Switch, there is a simple trick to ensure that the console you have in hand is indeed a V2:
- the model number of the V1 is “HAC-001” while the V2 is numbered “HAC-001(-01)” (it is displayed on the back of the console)
- the serial number of the V1 starts with “XA” while the V2 starts with “XK” (it is displayed on the bottom of the console under a barcode)
What are the improvements of the Switch V2?
New battery with up to 9 hours of autonomy
Nintendo’s website indicates that the original battery lasts about 2.5 to 6.5 hours while the new battery lasts about 4.5 to 9 hours on a charge.
Nintendo further specifies that while playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (one of the most battery-draining games on the switch), the original switch’s battery lasts about three hours, while the new switch lasts about five and a half hours.
Never again a problem with joy-con connectivity
The joy-con connectivity was not very efficient in the original version while with the relocation of the antennas in the joy-cons, the connectivity is more stable now.
Similar audio system
In terms of audio, there has been no change to the audio hardware used in the new Nintendo Switch. Likewise, there is no change to how you can connect headphones to the switch.
As a reminder, the USB type A ports present on the console’s dock will allow you to connect a transmitter/receiver dongle to establish a wireless connection with a Switch headset. On the console itself, there is also a 3.5mm Jack input, as well as a USB-C port that can be used to connect an audio device. Therefore, if you want to enjoy a headset or earphones using the Switch in portable mode, you will need to connect the device via wire with a 3.5mm Jack, or have a model that uses a dongle that plugs into USB-C. This is rare, but it exists.
A brighter screen
The new Nintendo Switch has a different screen from the original model. The new screen is slightly brighter and warmer (more red, less blue). The change in colors makes the colors more accurate.
| Nintendo Model | Amazon |
| All Switch OLED packs (2021) | → See prices |
| All Switch V2 packs (2019) | → See prices |
Discover the best offers & promos of Nintendo Switch V2:
The Nintendo Switch 2019 does not cost more than the original version. Its price has not dropped at all since it is offered at 299 euros at most distributors. During sales, there are also promotional packs, so it can be a good deal.
The best-selling model in Nintendo Switch V2 is the model with the pair of Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con. There is also a V2 model with gray joycons, more sober, ideal for giving a gift to adults for example. As well as many thematic packs, such as the Nintendo Switch special Fortnite, the Switch Mario edition (red & blue), the Switch Monster Hunter Rise pack, the Nintendo Switch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the Ring Fit Adventure pack, the Nintendo Switch Super Mario Odyssey pack, the Switch Pikachu & Eevee Edition pack…
Is the exchange necessary?
Apart from the model number, there are not many differences between the original and the new Switch model. However, some of the internal components have been changed like the Soc card, Nand Memory, and CPU.
The Joy-Cons have been slightly modified, which should theoretically cause fewer connectivity issues and prevent the Joy-Cons from detaching from the console.
An exchange is not really necessary unless autonomy is really an extremely important point for you, these hardware changes are not accompanied by any aesthetic changes, and the original Nintendo Switch has not really lost its performance compared to the new one.
However, it is clear that between the Nintendo Switch V2 and the Nintendo Switch OLED, there is a real change with this high-quality brighter screen, which can justify selling your old Switch to afford the 2021 model. See if the price difference seems justified to you, as the gap between the old model and the new one is only 50 to 70 euros.
Prices and good deals on accessories for the Nintendo Switch V2
Game controller, carrying case… whether you own a Switch V1 or V2, there are different accessories that are essential for transporting and making the most of your Nintendo console.
Here are the essential accessories to enjoy your Nintendo Switch in the best conditions:
- the protective case to carry your console on a trip;
- the tempered glass screen protector to protect the Switch’s touch screen;
- the Bluetooth adapter to connect a PS3 or Xbox controller;
- the micro SD memory card to store your games (128 GB or even 256 GB recommended);
- the additional Nintendo Switch Pro controller for more comfortable play;
- the audio headset for immersive online play;
In any case, if you are looking for a good deal to buy your Nintendo Switch, we invite you to check the current offers:
| Nintendo Model | Amazon |
| Switch OLED (2021 edition) | → See prices |
| Switch V2 (2019 edition) | → See prices |
Article written by: Aravindan RADJENDIRANE