Comparison
Switch vs Switch OLED vs Switch Lite vs Switch 2: Which to Buy
Switch 2 for the newest games. Switch OLED for the best value. Switch Lite for kids and handheld-only play.
Get the Switch 2 if you want new games and 4K TV play. Get the Switch OLED for the best value on the huge Switch library. Get the Switch Lite for younger kids or handheld-only play. Skip the original Switch unless the price is great.
Quick verdict
- Best overall: Switch 2. Bigger, sharper, faster, plays most Switch 1 games.
- Best value: Switch OLED. Gorgeous screen, plays on the TV.
- Best for kids and travel: Switch Lite. Small, tough, cheapest.
Spec comparison
| Switch Lite | Switch | Switch OLED | Switch 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | 5.5" LCD | 6.2" LCD | 7" OLED | 7.9" LCD, 1080p, 120Hz, HDR |
| Plays on TV | No | Yes | Yes | Yes, up to 4K |
| Detachable controllers | No | Yes | Yes | Yes (Joy-Con 2, magnetic) |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB | 64GB | 256GB |
| Battery (approx.) | 3–7 hrs | 4.5–9 hrs* | 4.5–9 hrs | 2–6.5 hrs |
| Plays Switch 2 games | No | No | No | Yes |
| Refurbished price | From $76.99 | From $115.99 | From $169.99 | From $304.99 |
*For the updated 2019 model. The original 2017 Switch lasts 2.5–6.5 hours.
Switch 2: for new games
The Switch 2 has a much bigger, sharper screen, a lot more power, and 256GB of storage. New Nintendo games like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are Switch 2 only. It plays most original Switch games too, and many run better. The trade-off is shorter battery life and a higher price.
Switch OLED: best value
The OLED screen is the best thing about it: deep blacks, bright colours, and it's bigger than the original. It has a better kickstand, double the storage, and a dock with a wired internet port. For the thousands of games already out on Switch, this is the sweet spot.
Switch Lite: for kids and handheld play
Smaller, lighter and cheapest. Controllers are built in, so there's nothing to lose. The catches: it can't connect to a TV, and some games that need detachable Joy-Cons are awkward or need extra controllers. Perfect for kids and travel.
Original Switch: only at the right price
It does everything the OLED does with a smaller, duller LCD. If you buy one, make sure it's the 2019 model (model number HAC-001(-01) on the back) with the much better battery.
Who should buy which
Switch 2 if…
- You want the newest Nintendo games
- You play on a big 4K TV
- You want one console for years
Switch OLED if…
- You want the best value
- You play handheld and on TV
- You're happy with the current library
Switch Lite if…
- It's for a younger kid
- You only play handheld
- You want the lowest price
Something else if…
- You want PC games: Steam Deck OLED
- You want big-screen blockbusters: PS5 or Xbox
Buying refurbished
Every console we sell is tested, cleaned and covered by a 1-year warranty, including Joy-Con drift checks. Browse all refurbished consoles.
FAQ
Can the Switch 2 play original Switch games?
Yes, most original Switch games work on Switch 2, physical and digital. A small number have compatibility issues, so check Nintendo's list for a specific game.
Can the Switch Lite connect to a TV?
No. The Switch Lite is handheld only.
Is the Switch OLED worth it over the regular Switch?
Yes for most people. The bigger, brighter OLED screen, better kickstand and double storage make a real difference.
Skip the new-phone price
Get the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-owned from $304.99, tested by real technicians with a 1-year warranty and 30-day returns.