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Nintendo lists three systems in the Nintendo Switch family: Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch Lite. The count can mean something different if you mean hardware revisions: the standard Nintendo Switch has an original and a revised model. Nintendo Switch 2 is a separate platform, not a fourth system in this Switch-family count.
What are the three Nintendo Switch models?
Nintendo’s official comparison distinguishes the models by screen, storage, play modes, and controls:
| Model | Screen and storage | Play modes and controls | Key difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch – OLED Model (HEG-001) | 7.0-inch OLED touch screen; 64 GB | TV, tabletop, and handheld; detachable Joy-Con | Wide adjustable stand, enhanced audio for handheld and tabletop play, and a dock with built-in wired LAN |
| Nintendo Switch (HAC-001(-01) in Nintendo’s current comparison) | 6.2-inch LCD touch screen; 32 GB | TV, tabletop, and handheld; detachable Joy-Con | Standard all-round model; its dock does not include a wired LAN port |
| Nintendo Switch Lite (HDH-001) | 5.5-inch LCD touch screen; 32 GB | Handheld only; controls built in | Compact dedicated handheld that does not support TV mode |
The OLED is a hardware feature upgrade, not a separate software generation. Nintendo describes its larger OLED screen, stand, storage, handheld/tabletop audio, and LAN-equipped dock in its OLED Model overview and FAQ.
Are there more than three versions?
There are two standard Switch hardware revisions, but they are not two additional family systems. Nintendo Support identifies the original standard model as HAC-001 (serial prefix XAW) and the revised model as HAC-001(-01) (serial prefix XKW). This distinction is especially useful when identifying a used console because their published battery-life estimates differ.
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
Nintendo Switch 2 is listed separately from the Switch family. Nintendo’s UK product security and update table names Switch 2 as its own product and model entry.
Which models can connect to a TV?
The OLED and standard Nintendo Switch support TV, tabletop, and handheld play. Switch Lite is handheld-only and cannot output to a TV. Its controls are built into the system, while the other two models use detachable Joy-Con.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
Do all three models play the same games?
The OLED and standard models support the Nintendo Switch game library. Switch Lite plays games that support handheld mode. For a game without handheld-mode support, Nintendo says compatible controllers sold separately may be required; separate Joy-Con also need a way to charge, such as a Joy-Con charging grip. Check the game’s packaging or listing for its play-mode icons before choosing Lite. Nintendo’s Switch Lite product page covers the handheld design and compatibility.
How does battery life differ?
Nintendo’s published figures are approximate ranges, not guarantees. Actual duration varies by model, software, and the functions in use. The estimates below come from Nintendo Support’s battery-life guidance; the publication date is not stated on that page.
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- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
| Model number | Nintendo’s approximate battery-life estimate |
|---|---|
| Original standard Switch (HAC-001) | 2.5–6.5 hours |
| Revised standard Switch (HAC-001(-01)) | 4.5–9 hours |
| Switch Lite (HDH-001) | 3–7 hours |
| Switch – OLED Model (HEG-001) | 4.5–9 hours |
Nintendo also says battery capacity decreases with age; after about 800 charge cycles, it may be around 80% of a new battery’s capacity. A used system’s actual runtime therefore depends on its condition as well as its model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to choose between the three
- Choose OLED if you want the largest screen, OLED display, more built-in storage than the standard model, and TV/tabletop/handheld flexibility.
- Choose standard Switch if you want the same three play modes and detachable Joy-Con, and an LCD screen is sufficient.
- Choose Lite if you want a compact handheld and do not need TV mode. Confirm that the games you care about support handheld play.
- When buying used, check the standard console’s model number: HAC-001 is the original revision, while HAC-001(-01) is the revised one.
Nintendo’s Switch family overview and comparison page provide the current official model details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
