Nintendo Switch OLED Aesthetic Customization
The Switch OLED doesn't offer much built-in customization. The console itself comes in two colorways — White and Neon Red/Blue — and beyond that you're dealing with accessories, themes, and some software tweaks. Here's what actually works and what people waste time on. I've compiled a practical reference for what's actually changeable and what isn't. The main areas to focus on are the physical hardware colors, system themes, and the dock situation. Nintendo sells the base console in two default configurations and then individual Joy-Con pairings separately. The White model pairs with White Joy-Cons out of the box, but you can buy Neon Blue or Neon Red Joy-Cons for it, and vice versa for the Gray model. There's also the Splatoon, Pokemon, and Animal Crossing editions which have custom printed shells.
For the physical aesthetic, your main lever is buying different Joy-Con straps. Third-party manufacturers like PDP, Hori, and PowerA make silicone covers and detachable strap sets. These snap on over the existing grips and come in solid colors, patterns, and gradient finishes. They typically run $10 to $25 per pair. The quality varies wildly — cheaper ones feel plasticky and the attachment mechanism loosens after a few weeks. Hori's products are the most consistent but also the most expensive option in that range. The dock is another area. The standard dock comes in White and Gray to match the console. Third-party docks exist but they don't really change the look unless you're going for something completely different like a wooden or acrylic display dock, which serves more as a stand than a functional charging solution.
System Theme Customization
This is where most people actually spend time. The Switch OLED's screen makes themes look noticeably better than on the original model due to the improved contrast and color saturation. You can change the home menu theme through System Settings > Icons and Themes > Theme Settings. Nintendo provides several free themes that rotate periodically. You can also purchase additional themes from the eShop for around $3 to $5 each. The paid ones tend to have more detailed animations and better color palettes. Some of the seasonal themes are worth grabbing if you're into the aesthetic — the winter one has a subtle snow particle effect and the autumn theme uses warm orange tones that look good on the OLED screen. There's no way to install custom themes without modifying the console. Modding opens up that possibility but it voids your warranty and bans you from online play, so that's a separate conversation entirely.
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Aesthetic-Adjacent Tweaks
The screen protector matters more than you'd think. The OLED panel is glossy and picks up fingerprints aggressively. A matte screen protector reduces reflections and smudges but softens the image slightly. A glossy one preserves the screen's intended clarity. I went with a glossy Tempered Glass protector from Spigen and it made virtually no difference to image quality while protecting against scratches. The matte protectors from amFilm are decent if you play in bright environments where reflections are a real issue. The kickstand tension on the OLED model is weaker than the original Switch. This is a known issue and it affects how the console sits when you're in handheld mode. I resolved this by placing a small rubber foot or a piece of gaffer tape on the back of the stand itself, which gave it more grip on smooth surfaces. Not a permanent fix but it stops the console from slowly sliding open on its own.
Common Mistakes
People often buy matching accessories that don't actually match. Nintendo's color names are loose guidelines. The "Neon Red" Joy-Cons on one console will look slightly different from the "Neon Red" on another due to manufacturing variance. If you're mixing and matching from different sources, check the actual colors in person before committing. I learned this the hard way when I bought replacement Joy-Con straps online and they were a noticeably different shade of red than my console. Another thing — don't overlook the carry case. The official Nintendo Switch Travel Case is well-made but limited in color. Third-party hardshell cases come in many more options and provide better protection, but they add bulk. The soft neoprene sleeves from brands like PacaCase are a middle ground if you want something slim with more aesthetic variety.
Summary of What Actually Changes the Look
Physical color changes require purchasing separate Joy-Con sets or third-party accessories. Theme customization is software-only within the constraints Nintendo allows. Screen protectors affect perceived quality more than color. Everything else is peripheral and mostly aesthetic preference rather than functional improvement.
