Nintendo Switch (Original LCD Model) Review & Specs
Nintendo · 2017-03-01
The original Nintendo Switch, launched in March 2017, is a hybrid handheld/home console powered by a custom Nvidia Tegra X1 processor. It features a 6.2-inch 720p IPS touchscreen, detachable Joy-Con controllers with HD rumble, and up to 9 hours of battery life. This model is known as the 'first-gen' or 'LCD' Switch.
Overview
The Nintendo Switch is a groundbreaking hybrid console that seamlessly transitions between handheld and docked TV gaming. Launched in March 2017, the original model (often called 'Switch V1' or 'LCD Switch') features a 6.2-inch 1280×720 IPS multi-touch display, detachable Joy-Con controllers with motion controls and HD rumble, and a custom Nvidia Tegra X1 processor. It supports both physical game cards and digital downloads, with 32GB internal storage expandable via microSD. The console runs Nintendo's own system software and offers access to the full Switch game library, plus retro games through Nintendo Switch Online.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Nvidia Tegra X1/X1+ (8-core Cortex-A57/A53 CPU + GM20B GPU)
- Display: 6.2-inch IPS LCD, 1280×720 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, 236.87 PPI
- RAM: 4GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 32GB eMMC + microSD card slot
- Battery: 4310 mAh (15.95 Wh), up to ~9 hours (varies by game)
- Weight: 297g (tablet only), 398g (with Joy-Con attached)
- Dimensions: 173×102×14 mm (tablet), 238×102×14-28.5 mm (with Joy-Con)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC, USB-C (charging and video out)
- Audio: Stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Launch Price: $299.99 USD / ¥29,980 JPY / £279.99 GBP / €329.99 EUR
Who It Is For
The original Nintendo Switch is ideal for gamers who want the flexibility of playing on a TV or on the go. It's perfect for fans of Nintendo's first-party titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. The detachable Joy-Cons enable local multiplayer anywhere, and the extensive library includes indie games, third-party ports, and retro classics via Nintendo Switch Online. However, this model has a shorter battery life than the 2019 revision and lacks the OLED screen of the later model.
Buying Notes
As of 2025, the original Switch is discontinued but widely available used or refurbished. If buying new, consider the Switch OLED or Switch Lite instead. Check for screen scratches, Joy-Con drift issues, and battery health when purchasing second-hand. The console is region-free for games, but DLC and eShop credit may be region-locked. The included dock supports 1080p output to TV. For the best handheld experience, the OLED model offers a superior screen and longer battery life.
| CPU | Cortex-A57 / Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Nvidia GM20B |
| 内存 | 4 GB LPDDR4 |
| 别名 | Switch first-gen, Switch LCD model, Switch launch model |
| 名称 | Switch |
| 品牌 | Nintendo |
| 存储 | 32 GB eMMC internal & microSD external |
| 振动 | Yes (HD Rumble, controller-dependent) |
| 散热 | Active cooling fan |
| 电池 | 4310 mAh (15.95 Wh) |
| 重量 | 297 g, 398 g (with Joy-Con attached) |
| CPU主频 | 1.02 GHz - 1.785 GHz |
| 处理器 | Nvidia Tegra X1 / X1+ |
| 屏幕PPI | 236.87 |
| 扬声器 | Dual stereo |
| 连接性 | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC |
| 发布时间 | 2017 / 03 |
| 外壳材质 | Plastic |
| 外观尺寸 | 173 mm x 102 mm x 14 mm / 238 mm x 102 mm x 14 - 28.5 mm (with Joy-Con attached) |
| 屏幕尺寸 | 6.2 inches |
| 屏幕比例 | 16:9 |
| 屏幕类型 | IPS touchscreen |
| 握持类型 | Horizontal |
| 操作系统 | Nintendo Switch System Software |
| 机身颜色 | Black, Gray, Blue, Red, other limited colors |
| 视频输出 | USB-C video output (via dock or adapter) |
| 起售价格 | US$299.99; ¥29,980; £279.99; €329.99 |
| 音频输出 | 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| GPU核心频率 | 307.2 - 768 MHz |
| 其他传感器 | Dual IR cameras, ambient light sensor, dual accelerometers, dual gyroscopes |
| 屏幕分辨率 | 1280 × 720 |
| 屏幕刷新率 | 60Hz |
| CPU核心和线程数 | 8 cores, 8 threads |
| 模拟器游戏支持 | Switch games; GBA games with Nintendo Switch Online membership |