Opinion: There are early rumors about an OLED refresh of the Switch 2, but I’m eagerly awaiting a Lite version.
When I first looked at the Nintendo Switch 2’s screen, I had mixed feelings. On the one hand, I liked the larger form factor, which makes games feel more immersive on a handheld; on the other hand, it represented a downgrade in terms of image quality compared to the older Switch OLED.
We can guess the reason why: Just like with the first Switch, a refresh with an OLED screen is expected to be released in the future. Nintendo hasn’t confirmed this specifically, but it stands to reason.
Now there are actuallyfirst rumorsabout a Switch 2 OLED, with development reportedly set to begin as early as late 2026—a welcome addition to the base model. Still, like many other fans, I’m hoping for a completely different version: a Nintendo Switch 2 Lite.
Lite Instead of Pro, Please
Fan communities are currently buzzing with heated discussions about the latest rumors surrounding the Switch 2 OLED, and one term keeps popping up: Switch 2 Lite.
Just like with the first Nintendo Switch Lite, I’d like to see similar features:
No detachable controllers:Detachable controllers are a great feature for anyone who wants to use them. But if, like me, you play exclusively in handheld mode, they’re simply not necessary. Built-in controllers save money and make the console more durable.
Smaller form factor:The Nintendo Switch Lite reminded me very much of the PSP’s form factor—a truly compact handheld that even fits in some pants pockets. Today’s handhelds are all very large, and there are two good reasons for this:
- Unlike in the days of the Nintendo DS and PSP, there’s no longer a distinction between handheld games and titles released for PC and home consoles. What you play on the Nintendo Switch 2 or a Steam Deck was often developed first for large screens.
- A larger chassis offers more space for powerful hardware, cooling components, and large batteries—all of which are especially important in a handheld.
Despite the limited hardware options, I’m hoping for a version of the Nintendo Switch 2 that’s as compact as possible. The drawback of shorter battery life could at least be mitigated by faster charging and the addition of replaceable batteries.
Aside from retro handhelds, there are very few small handhelds available today, but their form factor makes them perfect for on-the-go use.
A scaled-down screen:A Switch 2 Lite should go in the exact opposite direction of a Switch 2 OLED. Like the first console, the screen could be slightly smaller and still use an LCD panel. I’d even be willing to accept a lower screen refresh rate of 60 Hz.
However, I’d like to see thinner bezels so that the screen size can grow to at least 6 inches. The Switch Lite’s 5.5-inch screen was already pushing the limits of practicality for some games, especially those with small text.
Dock or no dock?From a purely technical standpoint, there shouldn’t be any problem making a Switch 2 Lite compatible with USB-C docks and HDMI output. However, I think it’s likely that Nintendo won’t offer this feature on a Lite model in order to create an even clearer distinction from the base Switch 2 or the rumored OLED model.
Lower price:Let’s not kid ourselves—for many, myself included, this is the most important reason to get a Lite version. We live in an era where gaming hardware doesn’t get cheaper over the years—it just keeps getting more expensive; unfortunately, the Switch 2 is no exception.
A new version of the Switch 2 with scaled-back hardware and a lower price tag would make it easier for many people to get started or switch from the original Switch.
A Switch 2 Lite Makes So Much Sense, Especially Now
Not everyone always needs the best of the best; many of us just want to play. “Good enough” is “good enough” for many of us.
Consoles are currently becoming luxury items—or have long since become them—and an affordable Nintendo Switch 2 Lite would be the perfect counterargument for today’s market.
An OLED version will delight many, but it will certainly be quite a bit more expensive than the current Nintendo Switch 2, which is already set to see a price increase.
And one last request, Nintendo: If a Lite version of the Switch 2 is released, please don’t make it completely digital.
What do you think of a Nintendo Switch 2 Lite? Would you buy a handheld like this, are you waiting for an OLED version, or are you happy with your Switch 2? Feel free to let us know in the comments!
