Nintendo released a new Switch model in 2019 but you can still buy the original too. Here is how to tell the difference between them.
Table of contents
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Key Takeaways
- New Nintendo Switch model has better battery life, but no performance improvements.
- Differentiating between new and old Switch models is challenging for consumers.
- Look for a bright red box, XKW serial number, or HAD model code to identify the new standard Switch.
There are a couple of iterations of the Nintendo Switch, including the base 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 the inevitable 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 as big a next-gen leap, I compared all the details on these two Switch models so you can make sure you're not missing out on a little extra juice when you pick up your console.
Old Nintendo Switch vs new Switch
What's improved?
Nintendo Switch
$300 at Best Buy$299 at Amazon$299 at Walmart
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 letters XKW. 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 with HAD:
- HADSKABAA for the model with the blue and red Joy-Con controllers
- HADSKAAAA for the model with grey Joy-Con controllers
Note: Original Nintendo Switch models start with the letters HAC.
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.
