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“Classic” usually means The Witcher 3’s older 1.32 build; “Next-Gen” means the 2022 version 4.0 update. Version 4.0 brought substantial graphics and quality-of-life changes, but the comparison has a new wrinkle: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered launched on September 29, 2026. CD PROJEKT RED says existing owners can upgrade free on the same platform, so 4.0 is now best understood as the major historical step between Classic and Remastered—not the newest edition.
What’s the difference between The Witcher 3 Classic and Next-Gen?
Classic is the older 1.32 version, while Next-Gen is the version 4.0 update released in December 2022. Version 4.0 added visual features, platform-specific performance modes, new content, and quality-of-life improvements. The update was free, though its feature set varied by platform. CD PROJEKT RED’s December 12, 2022 update notes detail the changes.
Since September 29, 2026, the publisher’s newest updated edition is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered. Its launch announcement lists GOG, Steam, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2. CD PROJEKT RED says it is a free same-platform upgrade for existing owners and includes Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine for owners on the listed platforms. Check platform-specific entitlement details before making a purchase decision. See the Remastered launch announcement.
How do the graphics compare?
Classic 1.32
Classic is the baseline older build. The publisher’s cited update notes describe the additions made in version 4.0, but do not provide a measured, scene-by-scene image-quality comparison against 1.32.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Next-Gen version 4.0
Version 4.0 added ray-traced global illumination and ambient occlusion on PC and current-generation consoles. On compatible PC hardware, players could also enable ray-traced reflections and shadows. The update included 4K character textures, visual improvements inspired by mods, changes to environmental lighting and vegetation, and FSR 2.1. PC also received ULTRA+ settings affecting crowds, shadows, grass, textures, foliage visibility, terrain, water, and detail; DLSS 3 was available only on compatible hardware. These options and features were not universal across platforms. CD PROJEKT RED’s version 4.0 notes.
Remastered
The publisher’s September 29, 2026 feature list describes a new shading model; textures and models based on The Witcher 3 HD Reworked Project; improved grass and foliage lighting; updated color grading; GTAO; updated screen-space reflections and shadows; and ray-traced local shadows. For PC, it also lists image-processing and multithreading changes, path tracing, NVIDIA DLSS 4.5 with ray reconstruction, and AMD FSR 4 on Radeon RX 7000 and newer, with FSR 2 used on other cards. These are publisher-described features, not independently tested image-quality or performance results. The feature list is available in Ukrainian. Read the publisher’s Remastered feature list.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What performance modes and frame-rate targets does version 4.0 offer?
CD PROJEKT RED’s December 2022 notes state targets, not independently measured frame rates. They do not establish sustained performance in every scene, exact resolution behavior in every situation, or a measured Classic-versus-Next-Gen benchmark.
| Platform | Mode | Publisher-stated target and qualification |
|---|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X | Ray Tracing | 30 FPS target with dynamic resolution scaling |
| PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X | Performance | 60 FPS target with dynamic resolution scaling |
| Xbox Series S | Quality | 30 FPS target; this console has no ray-tracing features |
| Xbox Series S | Performance | 60 FPS target, prioritizing smoother gameplay over visual quality; no ray tracing |
Those figures are CD PROJEKT RED’s mode targets in its December 12, 2022 update notes, not test results. For a current PC comparison, note the game version and patch as well as hardware: the publisher’s October 1, 2026 PC hotfix addressed visual and performance issues affecting some players with HairWorks enabled. Read the October 1 hotfix notes.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which features and content did version 4.0 add?
Alongside graphics changes, version 4.0 brought several additions that affect how the game is played:
- Cross-progression after logging in.
- A new side quest and alternate character and armor appearances.
- Photo mode and the ability to pause cutscenes.
- An alternative camera positioned closer to the action.
- Chinese and Korean voice-over, with console availability varying by region.
- On PS5, DualSense adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and Activity Cards.
Not every feature applies to every platform or region. The publisher also notes that update scope could vary by platform. Version 4.0 feature and platform notes.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Does the update work the same way on every platform?
No. Version 4.0 arrived on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, with updates also coming to PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Features differ by hardware: for example, Xbox Series S has no ray tracing, while PC ray tracing and upscaling options depend on compatible hardware.
Later patches also did not always arrive identically or at the same time across platforms. The July 2023 version 4.04 notes document Nintendo Switch additions and fixes as well as PC and next-gen visual fixes, an HDR calibration option, and quality-of-life changes. See the version 4.04 notes.
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Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Is the Next-Gen update worth it?
If you are choosing between Classic 1.32 and version 4.0 on a platform that supports the update, 4.0 offers newer graphics options and meaningful quality-of-life additions, with some features dependent on platform, region, or PC hardware. If you already own the game, the version 4.0 update was free. For a new or returning player in October 2026, however, the more relevant question is whether you have access to Remastered on your platform: the publisher says existing owners receive a free same-platform upgrade. Confirm the entitlement for your storefront or console before paying for another copy.
Can I still play The Witcher 3 Classic?
On PC, yes: CD PROJEKT RED’s October 1, 2026 hotfix says it fixed an issue that prevented launching the Classic (1.32) version. That note confirms PC launchability after the fix; it does not establish that Classic can be launched on every platform. Check the hotfix notes for the patch context.
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