Is the Switch a Good Tablet?

The Nintendo Switch has proven itself to be a very capable platform for gaming. However, the relatively small form factor, nice looking screen, and capacitive touchscreen is enough to wonder if the Switch is able to compete with Android tablets or even the iPad.

The short and annoying answer is not really. The Switch has wonderful games, most of which aren't available on Android and iOS, but the application department is where the Switch falls short of its potential.

Entertainment Apps:

As of writing this, there's no YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Video, music player, or internet browser available for the Switch. The only two apps made for streaming video is Hulu and, in Japan, Niconico.

The Hulu app is a great example of why Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Video should have Switch apps. Watching shows in bed is great, especially when your other option is an iPhone SE with a "massive" 4 inch screen. But many claim that "everyone has several devices to watch Netflix and YouTube on, so the Switch doesn't need them." And of course people have devices they can use to watch Netflix. But some people don't have massive phones or tablets. The Switch also allows you to continue watching shows even if you leave the TV. That feature would be incredibly nice for me with YouTube.

Bluetooth:

But let's talk about some other shortcomings when it comes to the Switch as a tablet. Bluetooth headphones don't work. Some may scoff that bluetooth headphones are the work of the devil, but as someone with a decent pair of bluetooth headphones, it's a shame that I can't use them on the Switch, a system that already has bluetooth onboard for the sake of the controllers. Fellow cutters of the cord can get an adapter, but it's still an annoyance.

Pesky Controllers:

Speaking of the controllers, it's impossible to use the Switch without a controller connected. You don't have to use the controller, but you can't just detach the Joy-Cons and put them aside. You need some type of controller to be connected to the Switch, or it will do nothing but pester you for a controller.

Conclusion:

The Switch is a gaming platform. It's made for you to play games. Anything extra is nice, but don't expect anything more than a gaming system. Hulu works great, and Niconico is passable if you're japanese or can read japanese. If you're looking for a good tablet, the Switch isn't what you want. If you're looking for a gaming device that looks like a tablet, welcome to the Nintendo Switch.