We can probably all agree that the Nintendo Switch turned out to be a pretty big deal. Once again, Nintendo has managed to create a console that does not compete with anyone but itself.
The Switch may only be slightly more powerful than the PS3 and Xbox 360, but by squeezing that power into a portable form factor and showering us with quality exclusives and ports, it is a game changer.
The original Nintendo Switch was a breath of fresh air, but it does have some small details. First, it’s a huge handheld console. Moving from the 3DS and Vita, the Switch is nowhere near as portable.
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
It is only available to people who wear raincoats all year round. Unless you’re the Paddington Bear or Neo from The Matrix, this can be a major hurdle for many portable players.
Now we finally have the new Nintendo Switch Lite, a handheld device aimed at 3DS fans looking for a worthy successor to the latest generation of fantastic folding console. If you’ve been on the brink between the original Switch and this new “lightweight” model, it’s time to compare them in the most important ways.
Nintendo Switch Lite: Smaller than it looks
The first thing you should know about the Nintendo Switch Lite is that it is probably smaller than you think! In the image above, the Switch Lite (center) sits next to several other PDAs. Directly below is the original Switch console.
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
Left – Sony PS Vita and PSP Street. Above is the new 3DS XL, and on the right is the Samsung Note 10+ smartphone.
Marketing materials released before the console launch can be a bit misleading. On paper, the Switch’s 6.2-inch screen doesn’t seem much larger than the Lite’s 5.5-inch screen, but it’s actually tiny . It’s closer to the Sony Playstation Vita in overall size than the original Switch. Our Vita is an OLED starter model and feels heavier and thicker compared to the Switch Lite
Nintendo has managed to squeeze most of the original Nintendo Switch hardware into an incredibly tiny space, and the Lite is actually pocket-sized, though not as handy as the New 3DS XL. It can be worn in trousers without a protective case thanks to the clamshell design.
If you really want to use your Lite in the same way as you would with the 3DS, we highly recommend a screen protector and possibly a silicone wrap or snap-on hard case. After all, you won’t find Gorilla Glass here.
It’s all about handling
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
Lite’s radically smaller size has a huge impact on ergonomics. It is much less tiring to hold in your hands for a long time. The original Switch requires a clamp for many users with small hands, which can lead to cramping. Lite is small enough to fit easily in the palm of your hand. You don’t need to actively squeeze it to play.
The buttons have also been redesigned from the traditional Joycon. The buttons on the front are softer and not as stiff and clicky as before. We now also have a full D-Pad, and it looks really cool.
The plastic texture of the body and analog sticks is generally improved compared to the original model. Since the Lite is so much less heavy, it might seem flimsy at first, but it’s actually a very solid console with no noticeable flex during normal play.
Mixed Screen
The 5.5-inch display of the Nintendo Switch Lite is bright and crisp, with vibrant colors. Since it has the same 720p resolution as the original switch, but in a smaller size, the pixel density is better. It’s definitely side-by-side, and games look fantastic on a small console.
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
However, some players may end up bringing this screen a little closer to their faces. Games with text and UI elements optimized for a 6.2-inch screen can sometimes cause slight squinting. Many Switch games tweak their UI between dock mode and handheld mode, it would be nice to see a third mode for Lite that increases text size a little when needed.
The only real sacrifice here is size, and compared to our original Switch, the Lite’s screen is a nice overall improvement. Don’t throw your old Switch in the trash, though.
If you really want to amaze you, put your Nintendo Switch Lite next to New Nintendo 3DS XL. The screen of the previous generation Nintendo handheld literally pales in comparison. We uploaded Pokemon X to 3DS and compared it to Pokemon Let’s Go Eevee on Switch Lite Detail, brightness and color are found in completely different universes.
More Than Just Fat Trim
Of course, not everything you can get from Switch is in Switch Lite Rumble HD is an unfortunate omission. However, you can plug in an existing set of wireless JoyCons and use them as usual.
However, due to the small screen size, this is not a practical solution. This way, you can cross off any games that Joycon needs from the list. However, if you are a masochist, you can always use the charging stand
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
This switch is not a switch either. This should be obvious, but in case anyone is interested, there is no way to connect this to a TV. It is intended for portable devices only.
The battery is smaller, but it runs on a newer, much more efficient chipset. The Pokémon marathon usually gave us about five hours of play at moderate brightness, which is 30-60 minutes more than the original Switch.
However, keep in mind that there is a revision of the large switch that uses the same efficient chip and large battery. It is easy to beat the other two options. If you are a powerbank warrior, this is a moot point.
Who Should Buy the Nintendo Switch Lite?
Is Switch Lite a good console? In terms of hardware, this is probably the best laptop on the market today. It’s also the cheapest way to access Switch’s incredible library of games.
However, this is not for everyone. Here’s who we think Switch is best for:
- Someone who doesn’t own a Switch and only wants to play handheld.
- Second Switch for spouse or child.
- Players with small hands or who have problems with the size and weight of the original switch.
Nintendo Switch Lite and Nintendo Switch“/>
The only use case for Switch Lite that doesn’t really fit is a second Switch to the one you already have. It is tempting to buy it as a travel model. However, online cloud services and Nintendo’s game licensing are designed in such a way that this whole idea is impractical.
Unless you’re only buying physical Switch games and can’t put up with the awkward method of transferring game saves, the Nintendo Switch Lite simply won’t be a companion to its larger sibling. In all other respects, this is the true successor to the portable gaming crown.
–