Can I Watch Movies on My Nintendo Switch OLED?
The short answer is yes, you can watch some movies and streaming video on the Nintendo Switch OLED. However, it has limitations for video streaming compared to other tablets and media devices. Read on for a detailed look at your options.
Native Video Apps: Limited Selection
Out of the box, the Switch OLED allows you to download just a handful of streaming apps directly from the eShop store:
- YouTube – Access full YouTube but max resolution 720p
- Hulu – Large on-demand catalog with subscription
- Crunchyroll – Leading anime platform
You‘ll get the best performance using the touchscreen, as the Joy-Cons lack precision scrubbing. And make sure you have a stable internet connection.
Here‘s how the native app‘s content and quality compare:
| App | Content Library | Video Quality | Works Offline? |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube | Huge | 720p max | No |
| Hulu | Large | 1080p | Some content |
| Crunchyroll | Anime-focused | 1080p | No |
Sadly, no Netflix, Disney+, or other mainstream movie/TV apps are available in the Switch eShop at this time.
Install Android for More Apps
An advanced option is to install an Android OS like Lineage onto your Switch, allowing you to then download from the full scope of Android streaming apps.
The process involves Switch firmware modding and OS installation. Performance can suffer depending on app optimization, with higher risk of lag, crashing, or battery drain. Top supported apps include:
- Netflix
- Disney+
- Prime Video
- HBO Max
- Peacock
- Paramount+
If willing to tinker, installing Android unlocks vastly more streaming options. Just prep for potential stability tradeoffs.
Mirror Display from Other Devices
Using an HDMI cable or wireless adapter, you can mirror phones, tablets, or computers onto the crisp OLED display. This lets you view media apps on the external device while controlling playback on the Switch.
Wired mirroring reduces latency but requires staying tethered by a cable. Wireless options like Chromecast offer more freedom but can suffer lag, sync issues. Performance also depends heavily on specs of the external streaming device.
Stream Video via Hidden Browser
Your Switch actually has a basic onboard web browser accessible through the system settings. Streaming video sites may technically be playable if you can get past the clunky controls and limited functionality.
Don‘t expect a great experience, but in a bind, enabling the hidden browser can let you stream some browser-based movie/TV content on your Switch. Buffering and video plugin support will be iffy.
Download Movies to microSD Card
If streaming isn‘t vital, you can load movie files onto a microSD card and watch downloaded content offline through the Switch‘s album media viewer. A 512GB card offers ample room for building a sizeable downloaded library.
The experience proves smoother than streaming, unimpeded by internet issues. But you lose access to online libraries and have to load your own media.
The Verdict? Streaming Works but Gameplay Still Reigns
Analyzing the various options makes clear you can stream and watch movies on the Nintendo Switch OLED. However, while handy in a pinch, video streaming still plays second fiddle to gaming on the device.
The Switch‘s mobile processor and interface simply aren‘t optimized for smooth, robust movie watching and app multitasking compared to dedicated streamers like the Fire Stick. Plus battery life takes a severe hit from streaming video.
So by all means take advantage of Hulu or YouTube apps natively or explore creative integrations. Just temper expectations relative to the Switch‘s brilliant but focused functionality as an on-the-go gaming system first and foremost. When choosing a streaming box, a device designed expressly for video will provide markedly better performance and flexibility.
