There are a couple of iterations of the Nintendo Switch, including thebase model, Lite, and OLED, with clear distinctions between them all. However, that isn’t the whole story. The base model of the Nintendo Switch actually has two different models even though they appear almost identical. This newer model has one slight improvement over the original that may not be enough to buy a brand-new system for, but you will certainly want to pick it up over the old one if you’re in the market for a Switch before theinevitable Switch 2.
Since Nintendo doesn’t seem to want to make a big deal out of this new model’s improvements, it has made it hard for the average consumer to even tell if the Switch they’re looking at on the shelf or on Amazon is new or old. While it isn’t asbig a next-gen leap, I compared all the details on these two Switch models so you can verify you’re not missing out on a little extra juice when you pick up your console.
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What’s improved?
Nintendo Switch
Nintendo’s flagship two-in-one hybrid game console, the Switch features a massive catalog of first-party, third-party, and indie game titles, all in a convenient and novel form factor.
The differences in Switch models won’t make your games run or look better, so don’t expect anything on that level. The only difference here is that the newer standard model has a slightly better battery life - around two hours extra. It also has a new processor, although that is more to improve energy consumption rather than enhance performance.
How to tell which Switch you’re buying
Three ways to tell
If you want to find the latest version of the standard Nintendo Switch, which began hitting retail stores in mid-August 2019, here’s how:
1.The box:
The packaging for the new Nintendo Switch (2019) has a bright red background, while the packaging for the old Nintendo Switch has a grey background with a hand.
2. The Serial Number:
The new Switch should have a serial number - located on the bottom of the console - that starts with the lettersXKW. Some online retailers, such as Amazon, may even designate the serial number in their product listings so you can check before purchasing it.
3. Model number:
Unfortunately, many online retailers don’t show the serial number and may even show packaging for the old Switch, so to be extra sure when shopping online, you will also need to check the model number on the listing.
The new Nintendo Switch has a model code that starts withHAD:
Note: Original Nintendo Switch models start with the lettersHAC.
Additionally, when holding the new Nintendo Switch in your hands, check the model number on the back. The new Nintendo Switch has a number that should read HAC-001 (-01), while the original has a model number of HAC-001.
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