The Best Nintendo Switch Console for Every Kind of Gamer

The most recent addition to the Switch lineup, the Switch OLED was released in late 2021, and features small but significant upgrades to the screen and design of the Switch system. While the changes aren’t extravagant, the Switch OLED is the closest thing to a “Switch Pro” out there, and as such, is a good fit for serious gamers.

The biggest difference between the Switch OLED and other Switch models is the screen: a large, vibrant OLED panel that outclasses the LCD panels featured in the other Switch models. With smaller bezels and richer colors, gaming on the go with the Switch OLED is very enjoyable.

Outside of the screen upgrades, the OLED makes a few small but noticeable improvements to the Switch design, albeit with a higher price tag. The internal storage has doubled to 64GB, although we still recommend pairing any Switch system with a microSD card. Also, the docking tray features a LAN internet port for better connectivity while playing competitive online games, like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Splatoon 3. Lastly, the kickstand is upgraded, with a full-console-length design.

Overall, the Switch OLED is best suited for big fans of Nintendo games who don't mind paying more for a better gaming experience.

The original Switch combines a ton of Nintendo design sensibilities into one amazing product. Nintendo’s previous home console, the Wii U, was a sales flop, but had a lot of unique ideas, namely a portable tablet controller. Nintendo iterated on the best of those ideas and created the Nintendo Switch, an awesome console that offers an equally enjoyable gaming experience playing at home or on the go.

Perhaps as a result, the baseline Nintendo Switch model is the most versatile of them all, and is best for families or households with multiple gamers. The small, portable console form-factor is great for adults and kids alike, and the dual-detachable Joy-Con controllers allow for a quick round of two-player gaming anywhere.

Monitoring playtime and online purchases with its built-in user account settings and parental controls is easy, and so is creating multiple players. All of that, combined with an incredible selection of games, are the biggest pros of the baseline Nintendo Switch. The main drawback is that with only 32GB of storage, you won't be able to download the latest games.

The original Switch received a significant, if covert, battery upgrade in 2019. The new 2019 model sports red packaging, and features a “HAC-001(-01)” model number. When shopping for a new regular Switch system, be sure to grab one of these newer (-01) models.

Released two years after the launch of the original Switch, the Switch Lite is a simplified and budget-friendly spin on the original console. It also features a smaller form factor, which makes the Switch Lite is a perfect console for frequent travelers who are less interested in multiplayer or at-home playtime. For households looking to add a second Switch console to their gaming arsenal, the Switch Lite also makes a great choice, albeit with a few caveats.

The most important difference between the Switch and the Switch Lite is that the Lite is mobile-only. The system does not connect to TVs or monitors, does not come with a docking station, and does not support HD rumble or motion camera controls. The Switch Lite also has built-in, non-detachable Joy-Cons, so it's sleeker but less versatile.

Still, the slightly pared-down feature set, combined with a seriously slashed price tag, makes the Switch Lite a clear winner for casual gamers.

If you already have a Nintendo Switch console and plan to add Switch Lite to the mix, it's important to note that Nintendo is particular about account management and downloadable content. Be sure to read up on the differences in permissions between a “primary” and “non-primary” Switch console before buying.