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Nintendo’s Switch OLED may not be the newest console on the market anymore, but even in its renewed form, it’s still worth a serious look—especially if you’re balancing cost against performance.
With the Switch 2 now available, many are wondering whether a refurbished OLED model is still a smart buy.
Here’s why the answer might still be yes, depending on what kind of gamer you are.
The OLED Upgrade Still Matters
Though the internal hardware hasn’t changed, the OLED screen gives the system a very different feel—especially in handheld mode.
- Vibrancy and contrast: The 7-inch OLED panel delivers deeper blacks and richer colors than the LCD on the standard Switch. This has a noticeable impact on visually rich or dark-toned games.
- Wider viewing angles: Great for multiplayer on the go or tabletop use.
- Audio boost: Improved speakers give cleaner sound and higher volume without distortion.
The screen and audio changes don’t boost raw performance, but they do elevate the sensory experience in a way that casual and handheld-first players will immediately notice.
Storage, Dock, and Build Improvements Are Subtle but Effective
While the OLED model doesn’t change the processor or RAM, it introduces small tweaks that fix persistent frustrations from the original design.
- 64GB internal storage (vs. 32GB on base model) helps reduce reliance on microSD cards, at least early on.
- Upgraded dock with LAN port means more stable online play—no extra dongle required.
- Wider, adjustable kickstand transforms tabletop mode into something actually usable.
None of these features alone justify an upgrade, but together they significantly improve quality of life for everyday use.
The Risks of Buying Renewed: What Doesn’t Change
Here’s where the value proposition requires a closer look.
- Joy-Con drift remains a problem. Refurbishment doesn’t eliminate this hardware flaw, and replacements are costly if you’re out of warranty.
- Battery health varies. While Amazon tests battery performance, the actual cycle count per unit isn’t disclosed. Some variability is inevitable.
- Cosmetic blemishes are allowed. Most look near-new, but don’t expect factory-fresh.
- Warranty drops from 12 months (new) to 90 days (renewed). This shorter window can be mitigated with a third-party protection plan—but it’s not ideal for risk-averse buyers.
So while performance is equivalent to a new OLED model, the support structure is leaner. That $62 savings (vs. $349.99 new) comes with real trade-offs.
Who This Model Still Makes Sense For
The renewed OLED version is no longer the bleeding edge, but it still holds strong appeal depending on how you play and what matters most.
- Handheld-first gamers get the most benefit. The OLED display and audio upgrades shine here.
- Families adding a second system can save without sacrificing functionality or compatibility.
- Budget-conscious players can start gaming with premium hardware and use the savings to buy games.
That said, if you’re:
- Planning to upgrade to the Switch 2 soon,
- Playing docked 90% of the time, or
- Concerned about warranty or cosmetic condition,
then a new OLED or the Switch 2 may better fit your needs.
It’s Still a Good Deal—But Only for the Right Player
The renewed Nintendo Switch OLED in Neon Red & Blue doesn’t try to be something it’s not.
It’s a premium handheld console that’s been gently used and professionally tested. If you’re okay with a shorter warranty and the potential for light wear, the price cut is more than fair—especially for portable-first players who want the OLED upgrade but not the full $349.99 price tag.
Available on Amazon, this model delivers the same experience as a new unit for a lot less money. Just make sure you understand what “renewed” really means—and be prepared to handle the few compromises that come with it.