Nintendo released a new Switch model in August, but still sells the original.
The latest one, still called Nintendo Switch, is available in stores for the same price as the original. It comes with a better battery life, and that’s just about the only noticeable difference, to be honest.
However, as many stores have original stock, how can you tell the difference?
- Best handheld games consoles of all time
- The Nintendo Switch has been updated, but it’s not the Switch 2
Old Nintendo Switch vs new Switch
Last summer, Nintendo quietly announced a new Nintendo Switch. But it’s a refresh of the old model, rather than a full-blown Nintendo Switch 2.
The new model is said to have a 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
If you want to find the latest Nintendo Switch, which began hitting retail stores in mid-August 2019, here’s how:
Packaging
Look at the box containing the Switch:
The packaging for the new Nintendo Switch (2019) has a bright red background.
The packaging for the old Nintendo Switch has a grey background with a hand.
Serial Number
Next, confirm 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.
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 number 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.
