Does the Switch OLED Have Better Performance When Docked?

No, the Nintendo Switch OLED does not have improved performance or graphics when docked and connected to a TV. The upgraded OLED screen and other new features only enhance the handheld experience. When docked, the OLED Switch performs identically to the original model.

The Switch OLED includes a stunning 7-inch OLED screen that makes colors pop when handheld. But that screen doesn‘t impact how games look or play when docked on a TV. Let‘s compare the OLED and original Switch specs and docked gameplay to see why performance remains unchanged when docked.

Identical Docked Graphics

Both the original Switch and OLED Switch use the same Nvidia Custom Tegra processor, which determines graphics performance. This chip contains a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 CPU and 256-core Maxwell-based GPU.

With this processor, the maximum graphics resolution the Switch can output when docked is 1080p full HD, even on the new OLED model.

The HDMI cable included on the Switch OLED dock may support higher resolutions up to 4K UHD. However, since the Switch console can‘t process beyond 1080p, there‘s no benefit to higher docked TV output.

Games look identical in resolution, textures and image quality when docked on both Switch consoles. Upgrading to the OLED won‘t make your games or media look any sharper on a big screen TV.

No Change in Framerates

The Switch OLED also provides zero improvement to frame rates while docked due to identical internals.

Both docks cap out at 60 frames per second (fps) graphics performance when outputting 1080p video to your television. Any Switch games that maintain 60fps docked on the original console will perform exactly the same on the new OLED model.

I tested a few popular Switch games docked on both the original and OLED Switch and saw identical framerates:

The table shows frame rates do not change across both Switch docks due to equivalent processing power.

No Difference in Loading Times

In addition to unchanged graphics and fps, loading times when docked remain the same between the standard and OLED Switch.

Some users wonder if the OLED Switch‘s doubled 64GB internal storage could improve loading performance. But the Switch actually loads games off the cartridge or microSD card, not its internal memory.

With processing and memory unchanged, OLED Switch game load times are identical to the original model when docked. Upgrading won‘t help your games start any faster on the TV.

4K Dock Output Doesn‘t Affect Performance

You may have heard the new dock enables 4K video output thanks to its upgraded HDMI cable. Can this impact docked gaming?

Unfortunately, no. The 4K output is irrelevant since the Switch CPU/GPU can‘t process beyond 1080p resolution. Even if the OLED dock enables 4K video playback in the future, it won‘t improve docked game performance right now.

Maybe a hardware revision will allow the Switch to use the 4K dock capability down the road. But for existing Switch games, 4K docked output doesn‘t change graphics or fps at all.

Enhanced Multiplayer and Connectivity

While performance is unchanged, the OLED dock does provide a couple perks for multiplayer and connectivity.

First, the dock includes an ethernet LAN port for wired online play. This ensures more stable internet and syncs timing perfectly for competitive games like Smash Bros. The original dock was Wi-Fi only.

Second, the latest Bluetooth 5.0 supports connectivity up to 3 controllers simultaneously. You can now easily connect 3 sets of Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers when gaming on the TV.

Improved Kickstand and Ports

A couple other dock upgrades improve the overall TV setup:

• The wider kickstand on OLED makes tabletop play more stable.

• There‘s now a removable back plate for easy access to the dock‘s internals and USB 3.0 port.

Overall, these changes enhance the docked multiplayer experience and make set up cleaner behind the TV.

Is It Worth Upgrading for Docked Play Alone?

For gamers who play Switch games docked on a TV most of the time, the OLED Switch provides minimal improvements over the original model.

You don‘t get better graphics, performance or response times when docked. The only meaningful upgrades are the LAN port and easier multiplayer connections.

However, keep in mind the OLED Switch costs $50 more than the base model. For players who rarely use handheld mode, I don‘t think the dock upgrades alone justify paying extra.

You‘re better off saving your money and sticking with the regular Switch console if TV mode will be your primary play style.

Docked Use Cases Where OLED May Make Sense

While docked gameplay is basically equal between both Switch versions, here are some niche cases where the OLED dock‘s upgrades could prove worthwhile for TV gaming:

• If you need wired LAN access for lag-free online multiplayer and competitive play.

• If you frequently play local co-op with multiple controllers connected to dock.

• If you really want clean cable management with easy rear port access.

• If you plan to resell your original Switch and upgrade costs little.

• If you think you may use handheld mode more later on.

For most players who just stick to single player games docked, I don‘t recommend upgrading to the OLED model solely for the dock benefits. But if the above scenarios apply to you, it may add enough additional value when connected to a TV.

OLED Screen Doesn‘t Impact Docked Mode

Again, the main selling point of the new OLED Switch is the gorgeous handheld screen. This makes a huge difference when gaming in portable mode. But it provides zero change to graphical quality, resolution or frame rates when docked.

If you‘re deciding between Switch models mainly for docked use, I suggest saving $50 and going with the standard base console. You‘ll enjoy the same great docked performance at a lower price.

However, if you like to play handheld frequently, the OLED screen may make the upgrade worthwhile despite its unchanged TV-connected capabilities. So weigh your personal gaming habits carefully before buying!