Nintendo Switch Models Released In 2021: A Complete Guide

The year 2021 was a significant one for Nintendo Switch fans. While the original Nintendo Switch continued to thrive, Nintendo introduced a new model that brought exciting enhancements to the hybrid gaming experience. If you're wondering what Nintendo Switch models came out in 2021, you're in the right place. Let's dive into the details of the Nintendo Switch models released in 2021 and explore their features, differences, and impact on the gaming world.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model: A Visual Upgrade

The highlight of Nintendo's 2021 releases was undoubtedly the Nintendo Switch OLED model. Announced in July 2021 and released on October 8, 2021, this model brought a significant upgrade to the console's display. The original Nintendo Switch featured a 6.2-inch LCD screen, while the OLED model boasts a larger 7-inch OLED screen. This upgrade results in more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and an overall more immersive viewing experience. The OLED technology allows each pixel to produce its own light, leading to superior contrast and image quality compared to traditional LCD screens. Gamers immediately noticed the difference, praising the enhanced visuals that made their favorite games look even better.

Beyond the screen, the Nintendo Switch OLED model also includes several other notable improvements. The internal storage has been doubled from 32GB to 64GB, providing more space for downloaded games, screenshots, and videos. While 64GB might still feel limited to some, it's a welcome upgrade that reduces the need for frequent microSD card management. The OLED model also features enhanced audio, with improved speakers that deliver clearer and more immersive sound. Whether you're playing in handheld mode or docked on your TV, the enhanced audio adds another layer of enjoyment to your gaming experience. Another significant upgrade is the wider, adjustable stand. The original Nintendo Switch had a flimsy kickstand that was prone to collapsing, making it difficult to prop up the console on a table. The OLED model's stand spans the entire width of the console and can be adjusted to various angles, providing a much more stable and versatile tabletop gaming experience.

The dock included with the Nintendo Switch OLED model also received a minor but useful upgrade. It now includes a built-in LAN port, allowing for a more stable and reliable internet connection when playing in docked mode. This is particularly beneficial for online multiplayer games, where a wired connection can reduce lag and improve performance. While the original dock could be used with a separate USB LAN adapter, the integrated port on the OLED model's dock offers a cleaner and more convenient solution. Despite these enhancements, the Nintendo Switch OLED model retains the same processor and RAM as the original Nintendo Switch. This means that performance in games is largely the same between the two models. The OLED model's improvements are primarily focused on the visual and audio experience, as well as the overall build quality and features.

Key Features of the Nintendo Switch OLED Model:

• 7-inch OLED screen: Offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and superior contrast.
• 64GB internal storage: Doubles the storage capacity compared to the original Nintendo Switch.
• Enhanced audio: Improved speakers deliver clearer and more immersive sound.
• Wide, adjustable stand: Provides a stable and versatile tabletop gaming experience.
• Dock with LAN port: Allows for a stable and reliable wired internet connection.

Nintendo Switch (Original Model): Still a Great Choice

While the Nintendo Switch OLED model garnered much attention in 2021, the original Nintendo Switch remained a popular and viable option. Released in March 2017, the original Nintendo Switch established the hybrid gaming concept, allowing players to seamlessly switch between playing on a TV and gaming on the go. Its versatility and unique design made it a massive success, and it continued to be a strong seller in 2021. The original Nintendo Switch features a 6.2-inch LCD screen, detachable Joy-Con controllers, and a wide range of games to suit all tastes.

One of the key advantages of the original Nintendo Switch is its affordability. Compared to the OLED model, the original Switch is typically priced lower, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers. Despite lacking the OLED screen and other enhancements of the newer model, the original Switch still delivers a great gaming experience. Its LCD screen is bright and colorful, and its performance in games is virtually identical to the OLED model. The original Nintendo Switch also benefits from a vast library of games, including both first-party Nintendo titles and a wide variety of indie games and third-party releases. Whether you're a fan of action-adventure games, RPGs, platformers, or puzzle games, you'll find plenty to enjoy on the Nintendo Switch.

Another advantage of the original Nintendo Switch is its compatibility with all existing Nintendo Switch accessories and games. If you already own Joy-Con controllers, Pro Controllers, or other accessories, you can use them with the original Switch without any issues. This can save you money and allow you to continue using your favorite accessories. The original Nintendo Switch also has a vibrant modding community that creates unofficial software and hardware modifications for the console. While modding can void your warranty and potentially damage your device, it can also unlock new features and customization options.

Key Features of the Original Nintendo Switch:

• 6.2-inch LCD screen: Offers a bright and colorful display.
• Detachable Joy-Con controllers: Allow for versatile gaming options.
• Wide range of games: Includes both first-party Nintendo titles and third-party releases.
• Affordable price: Typically priced lower than the OLED model.
• Compatibility with existing accessories: Works with all existing Nintendo Switch accessories and games.

Comparing the Nintendo Switch Models of 2021

To help you decide which Nintendo Switch model is right for you, let's compare the key features and differences between the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED model:

As you can see, the Nintendo Switch OLED model offers several notable upgrades over the original Nintendo Switch, including a larger and more vibrant screen, more internal storage, enhanced audio, a better stand, and a dock with a LAN port. However, the original Nintendo Switch is more affordable and still delivers a great gaming experience.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Nintendo Switch for You

In 2021, Nintendo offered two main Nintendo Switch models: the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED model. The OLED model provides a premium gaming experience with its enhanced display, audio, and features, while the original Switch remains a solid and affordable option. When deciding which model to buy, consider your budget, your priorities, and your gaming habits. If you value the best possible visual and audio experience and don't mind paying a premium, the OLED model is the way to go. If you're on a budget or don't need the latest and greatest features, the original Switch is still a great choice.

No matter which Nintendo Switch model you choose, you're sure to have a great time playing your favorite games on this versatile and innovative console. The Nintendo Switch has revolutionized the gaming world with its hybrid design and vast library of games, and it continues to be a popular choice for gamers of all ages.

So, whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or new to the world of Switch, there's a model out there for you. Happy gaming, guys! Remember to consider what Nintendo Switch models came out in 2021, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the one that best fits your gaming needs and preferences. Have fun exploring the wonderful world of Nintendo Switch!