Nintendo Switch OLED: Specs, Preorders, FAQ, Release Date, and More - IGN (2024)

Update October 5, 2021: The Nintendo Switch OLED is still sold out everywhere in spite of the fact it releases at the end of this week. We're monitoring retailers closely to see if there's another Switch OLED preorder drop ahead of its October 8 release. Info and links to retailers are below, in case they do come back online.

The new Nintendo Switch model is almost here, sporting a larger, OLED touchscreen and a new dock, as well as a new color scheme for the classic Joy-con controllers and dock. It will release on October 8 for $349.99.

For up-to-the-moment updates on where to find Nintendo Switch OLED in stock, make sure you're following @IGNDeals (or @IGNUKDeals) on Twitter.

Where to Preorder Nintendo Switch OLED Model

Here's the grand list of links for where to find listings for the Switch OLED at all the major retailers selling the thing.

Nintendo Switch OLED Preorders in the UK

Nintendo Switch OLED Colors

The new OLED model comes in two variants. The first is the neon red-and-blue color combination of the original Switch, including the black dock. The second, however, is an all-new color, with white Joy-Con controllers and a matching white dock. The new docks included with the console are mostly unchanged, aside from the LAN port and a more rounded edge.

What is the Nintendo Switch OLED Model?

Nintendo Switch (OLED) is a new model in the Nintendo Switch family. The upgraded console, previously dubbed as the 'Switch Pro' before the announcement, will feature a larger 7-inch OLED screen, a wider adjustable base stand, enhanced audio, 64GB of internal storage, and a wired LAN port in the dock. The overall size of the console is seemingly unchanged from the base Switch model.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Release Date

Nintendo Switch Pro release date is currently set to release on October 8, 2021. Preorders aren't live yet, but we're expecting them soon.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Preorder Date

Preorders for the Nintendo Switch OLED initially went live July 15 at 12pm PT / 3pm ET.

Make sure you're following @IGNDeals for instant preorder stock updates.

How Much Does the Nintendo Switch OLED Cost?

Nintendo Switch OLED Model will cost $349.99 / £309.99.

Nintendo Switch OLED Screen Size and Specs

• Battery Life: 4.5-9 hours
• Screen Size: OLED 7-Inch Screen / 1280x720
• Storage: 64 GB
• TV Output: Up to 1080p via HDMI in TV mode
• USB Connector: USB-C
• CPU/GPU: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor

What is OLED?

OLEDs are the most effective at displaying contrast, color accuracy, and black levels on a screen. Put simply, OLED displays bring you improved image quality, such as blacker blacks, and brighter whites. This is alongside reduced power consumption, and faster response times, something that is particularly important for the best gaming experiences. OLED vs LCD does matter, and will make a significant difference when playing the console undocked.

What's the Switch OLED Model Number?

Aside from coming in a totally new box, with a slightly redesigned dock and a larger screen, at a glance you might not be able to tell the difference between the regular Switch and the Switch OLED Model. They do have completely different model numbers, with the current Nintendo Switch model number of HAC-001(01) and the Switch OLED Model having the model number HEG-001, so there's that.

The Switch Lite, in case you're curious, has the model number HDH-001

Is the Switch OLED 4K?

Nope. Nintendo Switch OLED Model does not have a 4K screen, and will not output in 4K either. The screen has the same resolution as the LCD version: 1280x720. When docked, it outputs at 1080p. The improvements come from the screen size and the quality of OLED over LCD in contrast and colors.

Will it be Difficult to Preorder the Switch OLED Model?

Yes, it's very likely that Switch OLED preorders are going to be just as hard to acquire as the PS5 and Xbox Series X at the moment. Even though the console isn't a spec upgrade like some expected, it is still a new Nintendo Switch so we're expecting a high level of demand.

If you're serious about getting the console, there's no room for hesitation. Not only are preorders going to be hard to come by, even after launch we're expecting stock levels to not meet the demand, at least for now. We'd recommend you following our Deals team @IGNDeals (or @IGNUKDeals) on Twitter for instant preorder news.

Can All Switch Games be Played on the Switch OLED Model?

Nintendo Switch (OLED model) is compatible with the full library of Nintendo Switch games.

Can the Nintendo Switch Dock be used with the Switch OLED Model?

Yes, this is possible, but a system update will likely be required.

Will Joy-Con controllers work with OLED Switch?

Yes, Joy-Con controllers included with Nintendo Switch (OLED model) are the same as the current controllers available.

Switch OLED and Metroid Dread Bundle

The new Switch has been timed to release on the same day as Metroid Dread, but no bundle has yet been announced.

What Happened to the Nintendo Switch Pro?

Nintendo has previously said it was focusing on existing Switch models. It also said it wouldn't announce a new model 'anytime soon', despite reports continuously emerging about a new model of the hybrid console.

We'd previously heard that the upgraded model would come with a larger screen and 4K output, and that it would offer improved graphics, support Nvidia DLSS, and would come in at a higher price point. It is still not clear whether another new model is on the way.

Robert Anderson is a Commerce Editor and deals expert for IGN. Follow him @robertliam21 on Twitter.