The Nintendo Switch 2 doesn’t need an OLED screen at launch – here’s why

I’m indifferent about whether the Nintendo Switch 2 comes with an OLED screen at its initial release. Frankly, I’d prefer if it didn’t. Here’s my reasoning…

On January 16th, when the trailer for the Switch 2 was unveiled, it became clear that the console’s screen would be growing significantly, expanding to a impressive size of eight inches.

But is that an LCD screen or an OLED screen?

As of now, Nintendo hasn’t given a definitive response regarding the screen type. However, there are widespread speculations across the internet suggesting it could be an LCD display.

It’s undeniable that OLED screens offer a brighter, crisper, and more vibrant picture compared to standard ones – just compare the original Switch with the OLED model, and it becomes evident.

To be frank, the main factor that dissuades me from wanting the Switch 2 to debut with an OLED screen is cost considerations.

But why is money so important?

In 2017, when the first version of the Nintendo Switch was launched, it featured an LCD display, priced at approximately £279.99 in the United Kingdom.

In 2021, Nintendo released an upgraded version of their Switch console, called the Switch OLED model, featuring an enhanced OLED screen. The improved display led to a higher price tag of approximately £309.99 due to increased production costs. This newer model now sits at around three-hundred-and-something pounds, which is significantly more expensive compared to its original launch price of two-hundred-and-something pounds.

Indeed, it’s merely a £30 rise, which might not seem significant at first glance. However, during a pivotal phase in the Switch 2’s life cycle, such an amount could potentially tip the scales significantly.

In essence, whenever a new gaming console is launched, the primary aim for companies is to maximize sales by getting it into as many homes as they can.

Given current inflation, it’s essential that Nintendo considers setting a relatively low price for the Switch 2 to avoid potential hesitation among consumers when deciding to purchase a new gaming console, due to concerns about increased living expenses and other financial burdens.

If an excessive number of individuals choose to be cautious and delay their purchase, waiting for potential price reductions (that might not occur), the prospect of the Switch 2 facing significant challenges in the future becomes quite high.

As the number of consoles sold increases, so does the number of games you can expect to market, and the greater the likelihood that developers will be drawn to your appealing new platform for development.

In my enthusiasm, I’d like to share a perspective: Should my beloved new platform seem to falter, the situation could take a surprising turn. Developers might then find themselves drawn towards platforms that boast a larger user base, which are often consoles.

Developers might hesitate to create PS5 exclusives because they don’t want to abandon the large number of active users on the PS4. This is a dilemma PlayStation has faced for several years now.

What Nintendo aims to avoid is setting prices too high, which could potentially exclude its core group of casual gamers who have been instrumental to their success.

By incorporating an LCD screen at launch, Nintendo could maintain a lower cost, making it more appealing to a wider audience due to its perceived affordability, which aligns with their desire for the upgrade to seem accessible.

At a later stage, they might introduce a premium OLED model for those dedicated gamers who desire this specific option. This version could come with a slightly elevated price tag.

For an ordinary person, a screen is just a screen, and the cost at which it’s available plays a significant role in their decision to buy.

At the outset, what’s crucial for the Switch 2 is to build a substantial user base. Extra features or high-tech gadgetry can be added later on. Even dedicated enthusiasts will likely opt for the Switch 2 OLED Model in a few years if provided with the opportunity.

At this point, it would be wise for Nintendo to price the upcoming Switch 2 as competitively as feasible. If reducing costs means sacrificing the screen quality initially, I am perfectly okay with that. In fact, those who primarily use the console in docked mode likely won’t perceive any noticeable difference.

Thoughts on this – which screen would you prefer for Switch 2 at launch, an OLED or an LCD at a more affordable price? Share your opinions in the YouTube comments and don’t forget to subscribe. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

  • Nintendo Switch 2 price – how much will it cost?
  • Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders – where to buy
  • Nintendo Switch 2 vs original Switch – what are the differences?
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Experience – how to try out the new console in person
  • Do Switch 2 games work on Switch 1? – are there Switch 2 exclusives?
  • Switch 2 backwards compatibility explained – can you play OG Switch games on Switch 2?
  • Switch 2 games – confirmed and predicted games
  • Mario Kart 9 – everything we know!

Read More

2025-02-11 21:34