Nintendo Switch Console Comparison

The Nintendo Switch has been on the market for the past 7 years and compared to the PlayStation and Xbox which have been around since the 90’s, the Switch can still be considered new. There are plenty of new Switch consoles constantly releasing. With a new one on the way in 2024 and a possible updated Switch 2 in 2025, it can be difficult to understand the differences between all the choices.

In this blog, we follow the mainline Nintendo switch console and compare them to help you understand which console you should be buying that’s best for you.

Related blog: Hidden Features On Nintendo Switch

 

Compared consoles:

• Nintendo Switch – 2017
• Nintendo Switch Lite - 2019
• Switch OLED – 2021
• Nintendo Switch Lite Hyrule Edition – 2024
• Switch 2 – RUMOURED 2025

 

Nintendo Switch 2017:

To begin with, we have the classic Nintendo Switch which started it all back in 2017. It had been 5 years since the previous console, the Wii U, was released in 2012. The Wii U was less successful than anticipated and had a disappointing run overall. After its fail, the Nintendo Switch was released, a console that you could use on the go but could also be plugged into the TV to play as a console. The controllers are attached to either side of the screen which could also be unclipped and used separately rather than part of the screen. It quickly became one of Nintendo’s best-selling consoles of all time, whilst also being the 3rd best-selling console of all time. With a touchscreen and LDC display, viewers were able to get excellent performance and stunning graphics.

Great for:

• If you want the classic console.

 

Nintendo Switch Lite 2019:

A couple of years after the success of the original Switch, Nintendo released a budget version of their console, the Lite. It is a lighter, smaller version that isn’t supported by the TV and is a completely dedicated handheld console. Unlike the original, the Lite controllers are built into the console and cannot be removed, as well as this it is available in more colours like yellow, pink, blue and turquoise. Focussing on the inside of the console, it has less storage and lower battery life in general however still maintains the original Switch’s touchscreen feature. The Lite is the cheapest of all the models and worth it is you are trying to game on a budget.

Great for:

• Those on a budget
• Those who travel often.
• Those who have less room to store a console.

 

Nintendo Switch OLED 2021:

Again, a couple of years later, Nintendo released yet another Switch console and it seemed like they were on a roll with these new releases. The Nintendo OLED switch was very similar to the original console, with detachable controllers and features, only difference is it had an improved screen. As you can probably guess, it had an OLED screen instead of an LCD. The Switch OLED has enhanced contrast quality, improved viewing angles, is better for the eyes and emits lower blue light amongst many other benefits. It is important to consider that the OLED is pricier than its original model, however it does have improved features. Check out the OLED Switch now in its iconic white colour option whilst also being available in green and blue.

Great for:

• Gamers who prefer improved graphics and screen quality.
• Gamers who prefer picture quality over price.

 

Nintendo Switch Lite Hyrule Edition 2024:

When fans noticed that we were getting a Switch Console release every 2 years, it came as a shock to see we didn’t get any mainstream console release in 2023. Many assumed this was because we may be getting a big console (like the Switch 2) but instead, it was revealed by Nintendo that a new themed edition Lite console was going to be coming out, much to many people's disappointment. A Zelda-themed Hyrule Edition console will be available in gold in September 2024 and is a lite edition console therefore will have the same features as the 2019 device and is set at just over £200 currently.

Great for:

• Zelda fans
• Those who game on the go.

 

Nintendo Switch 2 2025:

And finally, the alleged second Switch is set to release at the start of 2025. It has been 7 years since the original console was released, so an ultimate sequel to the original is expected soon. Currently, the Switch 2 is a complete rumour, but we will have more information released on it when there are Nintendo Switch 2 leaks.  

Related blog: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Updates

 

All themed controllers within the Switch series:

• Pokemon Zacian & Zamazenta Edition Lite Console – 2019
• Pokémon Diagla & Palkia Edition Lite Console – 2021
• Pokémon Scarlet and Violet Edition OLED Console - 2022
• Splatoon 3 Edition OLED Console - 2022
• Super Smash Bros. Ultimate OLED Console - 2023
• Mario Red Edition OLED Console - 2023
• The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom Edition OLED Console - 2023
• Animal Crossing Edition Lite Console – 2023

 

	Nintendo Switch	Nintendo Lite	Nintendo OLED
Cheapest
Best Screen
Most Popular
Newest
Most Themed Editions
Oldest

 

Related blog: How To Charge Joy-Con Nintendo Controllers

Conclusion:

And remember, you don’t have to stick with the classic Switch console colour options. At Custom Controllers we have plenty of customisable Switch joycon waiting for you. Choose between a selection of colours, designs and patterns that we know you will love!