The quickest way to tell which Switch you have is to look at the model number on the back of the console. HAC-001 is the original Switch, HDH-001 is the Switch Lite, HEG-001 is the OLED and BEE-001 is the Switch 2. To tell the original 2017 Switch from the 2019 revision, which share a model code, check the first two letters of the serial number.
Where to find the model number and serial
Turn the console over. The model number is printed on the back. The serial number is on a sticker, usually near the bottom edge, and starts with two letters. On the original Switch and the OLED, it helps to slide the Joy-Cons off so you can see the whole back panel.
The model codes
- Original Switch (2017): model HAC-001, serial starting XA.
- Revised Switch (2019, better battery life): model HAC-001(-01), serial starting XK.
- Switch Lite: model HDH-001, serial starting XJ.
- Switch OLED: model HEG-001, serial starting XT.
- Switch 2: model BEE-001.
If you see "HAC-001(-01)" on the back, you've got the 2019 revision, sometimes called the V2. Plain "HAC-001" with an XA serial is the original.
Visual tells
Switch Lite
- The controls are built in. The Joy-Cons don't come off.
- It's the smallest model, with a 5.5-inch screen.
- It has no kickstand and can't connect to a TV.
Original Switch (2017 and 2019)
- Detachable Joy-Cons that slide off on rails.
- A 6.2-inch LCD screen.
- A narrow kickstand on the back.
- The two versions look almost identical from the outside, so use the model number and serial to tell them apart.
Switch OLED
- A 7-inch OLED screen, noticeably larger than the original's, in a body of similar size.
- A wide adjustable stand that runs most of the width of the back.
- The dock that comes with it has a wired LAN port.
Switch 2
- Bigger overall, with a 7.9-inch LCD screen.
- Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and come off with a release button, rather than sliding on rails.
Why it matters for repairs
The same fault can cost quite different amounts depending on the model, because the parts and the construction differ.
Screens
- Switch Lite: £75.
- Original Switch (either version): £85.
- Switch OLED: £129. The OLED panel costs more than the LCD in the other two.
- Switch 2: £135.
Stick drift
- Original-style Joy-Con (Switch, 2019 revision and OLED): Hall effect upgrade, £35 one or £59 both.
- Switch Lite: the sticks are built in, so the whole console is posted. £49 one stick, £59 both.
- Joy-Con 2: TMR stick upgrade, £45 one or £79 both.
Game card reader and headphone jack
On the original Switch, OLED and Lite, the game card reader is a replaceable part (£55). On the original and the Lite it's one assembly with the headphone jack. On the Switch 2 the reader is soldered to the board, so it's £85.
Nintendo's caps
Nintendo's out-of-warranty caps are model-specific too: up to £120 for a Switch, £108 for a Lite and £190.50 for an OLED.
Book the right service
Once you know your model, you'll find everything for the original, OLED and Lite on the Nintendo Switch repairs page, and the newer console on the Switch 2 repairs page. For a side-by-side run through prices, see my Switch repair cost guide or the Switch 2 repair cost guide.
If you're still not sure after checking the back, get in touch with a photo of the model number and I'll confirm it before you book. Every repair is no fix, no fee, with a 12-month warranty.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell a 2017 Switch from the 2019 version?
Check the back. The 2019 revision has the model number HAC-001(-01) and a serial starting XK, while the original has HAC-001 and a serial starting XA.
Does the Switch model change the repair price?
Yes, for several repairs. Screens and stick drift repairs are priced by model, and the Switch 2 costs more for some jobs because parts such as the game card reader are soldered to the board.
Can I tell the model from the Joy-Cons?
Partly. Joy-Con 2 attach magnetically and belong to the Switch 2, while original Joy-Con slide onto rails and fit the original Switch and OLED. The Lite has no detachable Joy-Cons at all.
