Nintendo Switch Lite: All you need to know

Recently Nintendo announced the addition of a new console to their gaming family, the little brother of the acclaimed Switch, aptly named the Switch Lite. But unlike the DS Lite (if you can remember back to ye olde days of 2006) which was essentially an updated version of its predecessor, the DS, this latest model is not so much an upgraded replacement as a more accessible alternative. So what are the main differences?

Affordability

The Switch Lite, set to hit shelves in September this year, will be priced at £199, a considerable drop from that of the original console, priced at £299. This is due to the fact that the new model has shed some of the supported features, compromising on screen size, video output and its attachable Joy-Con element (though the accessories can still be wirelessly connected when necessary).

Portability

In fact, this new model functions solely as a handheld device, and unlike its older sibling, will not offer the same interactive, multiplayer party experience for which Nintendo consoles are known. However, for those looking for a slimline, mobile piece of tech that they can take on their commute or on their travels this could be the perfect answer. It’s 2019’s long-awaited answer to the lightweight DS series.

Battery life

Of course, there have to be some sacrifices to reduce both the scale and cost of the console, and as a result, the battery on the new device is smaller. However, there is less hardware to run in this model, meaning that the Switch Lite is able to save power for a prolonged battery life (dependant on the requirements of the game). 

Games

The Switch Lite will be able to run any Switch games which support handheld mode, though some may have restrictions. This means favourites such as titles from the Super Mario Bros, Super Smash Bros and Zelda franchises will still be playable. Nintendo will have all the information on their website and will be printing guides on the back of the game cases, so check out the specs before you buy.

Design

The new console will be available in three colours: yellow, turquoise and grey. In terms of dimensions, the Switch Lite measures 91.1mm x 208mm x 13.9mm (as opposed to the Switch’s 102mm x 239mm x 13.9mm) and comes in lighter at 275g (a reduction from 297g).  It features a 5.5 inch LCD touch screen with the same resolution as the Switch’s 6.2-inch display. 

The editorial unit