Nintendo Switch OLED: Black Joy-Cons Unboxing & Review
Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Nintendo Switch OLED model, specifically focusing on the sleek and stylish black Joy-Cons. If you're thinking about upgrading or just curious about this particular version, you've come to the right place. We'll unbox it, explore its features, compare it to the original Switch, and ultimately help you decide if it's worth the investment. So, grab your favorite snack, get comfortable, and let's get started!
Unboxing the Nintendo Switch OLED with Black Joy-Cons
Okay, let's kick things off with the unboxing experience. The packaging is pretty standard Nintendo fare: clean, informative, and showcasing the star of the show – the Nintendo Switch OLED. As you open the box, the first thing you'll see is the console itself, nestled securely in place. Lifting that out, you'll find the black Joy-Cons neatly tucked on either side of the screen. Seriously, these black Joy-Cons look so good! They give the whole console a more sophisticated and premium feel compared to the neon red and blue ones. Underneath the console and Joy-Cons, you'll find the usual suspects: the Nintendo Switch dock (also in black to match the Joy-Cons!), the AC adapter, and an HDMI cable. Of course, there's also the obligatory safety guide and instruction manuals, which, let's be honest, most of us probably won't read unless we run into trouble. But hey, they're there if you need them!
The initial impression is fantastic. Everything is well-packaged and feels premium. The black Joy-Cons immediately stand out and give the console a more mature and sleek aesthetic. This unboxing experience definitely gets you hyped to start playing.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
Now that we've got everything out of the box, let's take a closer look at the design and build quality of the Nintendo Switch OLED with the black Joy-Cons. The first thing you'll notice is that vibrant OLED screen. Colors pop, blacks are deep and inky, and the overall image quality is a significant upgrade from the original Switch's LCD screen. Whether you're exploring the lush landscapes of Hyrule in Breath of the Wild or battling it out in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, everything just looks better on this screen. The black Joy-Cons complement the screen perfectly, creating a seamless and immersive gaming experience. The matte finish on the Joy-Cons feels great in your hands, providing a comfortable and secure grip, even during intense gaming sessions. The buttons are responsive and clicky, and the analog sticks feel precise and accurate.
Compared to the original Switch, the OLED model also features a slightly larger screen (7 inches versus 6.2 inches), but the overall size of the console remains virtually the same thanks to the reduced bezels. This means you get more screen real estate without sacrificing portability. Another welcome addition is the wider, adjustable kickstand on the back of the console. It's much sturdier than the flimsy kickstand on the original Switch and allows you to prop up the console at various angles for comfortable tabletop play. Plus, it just feels more premium and less likely to snap off. The build quality of the console and Joy-Cons feels solid and durable. Everything is well-assembled, and there are no creaks or rattles. This is definitely a console that feels like it can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Performance and Features
Let's talk performance. Under the hood, the Nintendo Switch OLED has the same Nvidia Tegra processor as the original Switch, so you won't see a significant boost in raw power. However, the improved screen and other enhancements make a noticeable difference in the overall gaming experience. Games look sharper, more vibrant, and more immersive on the OLED screen. The deeper blacks and higher contrast ratio also make it easier to see details in dark scenes. One area where the OLED model does offer a tangible improvement is in storage. It comes with 64GB of internal storage, which is double the amount of the original Switch. This is a welcome upgrade, especially if you plan on downloading a lot of games from the Nintendo eShop. Of course, you can still expand the storage further with a microSD card. Another notable feature of the OLED model is the enhanced audio. The built-in speakers have been redesigned and deliver richer, more immersive sound. Whether you're listening to the soundtrack of your favorite game or watching videos, the audio quality is noticeably better than on the original Switch.
The black Joy-Cons themselves don't offer any unique performance features compared to the standard Joy-Cons. They have the same buttons, analog sticks, and motion controls. However, their sleek black color and comfortable matte finish make them a stylish and enjoyable way to play. They just feel good in your hands and look great when attached to the console.
Comparing the Black Joy-Con OLED to the Original Switch
So, how does the Nintendo Switch OLED with the black Joy-Cons stack up against the original Switch? Here's a quick rundown of the key differences:
- Screen: The OLED model has a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, while the original Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen. The OLED screen offers superior image quality with deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors.
 - Storage: The OLED model has 64GB of internal storage, while the original Switch has 32GB.
 - Kickstand: The OLED model has a wider, adjustable kickstand, while the original Switch has a flimsy, single-position kickstand.
 - Audio: The OLED model has enhanced built-in speakers that deliver richer, more immersive sound.
 - Design: The OLED model has slimmer bezels and a more premium overall design. The black Joy-Cons add to the sleek and stylish aesthetic.
 - Price: The OLED model is more expensive than the original Switch.
 
The OLED screen is the biggest and most noticeable upgrade. It truly transforms the gaming experience and makes everything look better. The increased storage, improved kickstand, and enhanced audio are also welcome additions. However, if you're primarily playing in docked mode, the OLED screen might not be as big of a deal for you. In that case, the original Switch might still be a viable option.
Who is the Black Joy-Con OLED For?
So, who should buy the Nintendo Switch OLED with the black Joy-Cons? Here's my take:
- Existing Switch owners looking for an upgrade: If you already own a Switch and primarily play in handheld mode, the OLED model is a worthwhile upgrade. The improved screen, increased storage, and enhanced audio make a significant difference in the overall gaming experience.
 - Newcomers to the Switch family: If you're new to the Switch family and looking to buy your first console, the OLED model is the way to go. It's the best version of the Switch currently available and offers the most immersive gaming experience.
 - Those who value portability and tabletop play: The OLED model's improved kickstand makes it ideal for tabletop play. If you frequently play games with friends or family on the go, the OLED model is a great choice.
 - Gamers who appreciate a premium design: The black Joy-Cons and overall sleek design of the OLED model make it a stylish and premium-looking console. If you care about aesthetics, the OLED model is definitely the more attractive option.
 
However, if you primarily play in docked mode or are on a tight budget, the original Switch might still be a better option for you. It offers the same core gaming experience at a lower price.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, here's a quick list of the pros and cons of the Nintendo Switch OLED with the black Joy-Cons:
Pros:
- Vibrant 7-inch OLED screen
 - Sleek and stylish black Joy-Cons
 - 64GB of internal storage
 - Wider, adjustable kickstand
 - Enhanced audio
 - Premium design
 
Cons:
- More expensive than the original Switch
 - Same processor as the original Switch
 - Battery life is similar to the original Switch
 
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
So, the big question: is the Nintendo Switch OLED with the black Joy-Cons worth it? In my opinion, yes, it is, especially if you primarily play in handheld mode or are new to the Switch family. The OLED screen is a game-changer, and the other enhancements make for a more enjoyable and immersive gaming experience. The black Joy-Cons add a touch of sophistication and style to the console. However, if you primarily play in docked mode or are on a tight budget, the original Switch might still be a viable option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities.
Where to Buy
You can find the Nintendo Switch OLED with the black Joy-Cons at most major retailers, both online and in-store. Be sure to check for deals and discounts before you buy. Also, keep an eye out for bundles that include games or accessories. This can be a great way to save money and get everything you need to start playing right away.
Happy gaming, everyone!