Nintendo released a «new» Switch model in 2019, but the diferente still gets sold in certain places.
The later one, still very much called the Nintendo Switch, is available in stores for the same price as the diferente. It comes with better battery life, and that’s just about the only noticeable difference, to be honest.
However, as many stores have diferente stock, how can you tell the difference?
Old Nintendo Switch vs new Switch
A good while back, Nintendo quietly released a «new» Nintendo Switch. But it was a refresh of the old model, rather than a full-blown Nintendo Switch Pro.
We’ve now got the Switch OLED as well, so to find out more about that model and the differences between it and the ordinario Switch, check out this feature:
The newer standard model has 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.
Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch remains a stunning bit of kit.
How to tell which Switch you’re buying
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:
Packaging
Look at the box containing the Switch:
New/latest Nintendo Switch
The packaging for the new Nintendo Switch (2019) has a bright red background.
The packaging for the old Nintendo Switch has a manada background with a hand.
Serial number
Next, confirm the serial number.
Pocket-lint
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.
Model codes and numbers
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.
Pocket-lint
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 manada Joy-Con controllers
Note: Innovador 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 diferente has a model number of HAC-001.