Choosing between the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite depends on what gamers value most in their gaming experience. The Nintendo Switch offers flexibility, enabling players to use it as a handheld device or connect it to a TV for a traditional console gaming experience. It comes with detachable Joy-Con controllers that allow for varied play styles and multiplayer gaming right out of the box. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch Lite is a solely handheld device, which makes it lighter and more portable, but it does not offer connectivity to a TV or detachable controllers.
The decision may also come down to cost and the types of games one intends to play. The Switch Lite, being a more budget-friendly option, lacks some of the features of its larger counterpart, like HD Rumble and IR Motion Camera. For those who prioritize portable gaming and are looking for a more affordable entry point into the Nintendo ecosystem, the Switch Lite is an attractive option. However, for players looking for a more versatile gaming device with the ability to play in multiple modes or with multiple people on one device, the original Nintendo Switch is the more suitable choice.
Nintendo Switch vs Nintendo Switch Lite: Comparison Guide
Nintendo offers two main handheld consoles: the Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch Lite. While they share the same game library, they differ in design, features, and price.
1. Key Differences
- Nintendo Switch: A hybrid console — can be used handheld, in tabletop mode, or docked to a TV.
- Nintendo Switch Lite: A smaller, lighter, handheld-only system — no TV output.
2. Comparison Table
| Feature | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo Switch Lite |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | March 2017 | September 2019 |
| Price (USD) | ~$299.99 | ~$199.99 |
| Play Modes | Handheld, Tabletop, TV mode | Handheld only |
| Screen Size | 6.2-inch LCD | 5.5-inch LCD |
| Resolution | 1280 × 720 | 1280 × 720 |
| Detachable Joy-Con Controllers | Yes | No (built-in controls) |
| HD Rumble | Yes | No |
| IR Motion Camera | Yes | No |
| TV Dock Included | Yes | No |
| Battery Life | 4.5 – 9 hours (revised model) | 3 – 7 hours |
| Weight | ~0.88 lbs (398g) | ~0.61 lbs (277g) |
| Game Compatibility | All Switch games | All handheld-compatible Switch games |
| Local Multiplayer | Yes (using detached Joy-Cons) | Yes (requires extra controllers) |
3. Which Should You Choose?
Choose Nintendo Switch if:
- You want to play on your TV.
- You value detachable Joy-Cons for local multiplayer.
- You want the most versatile play modes.
Choose Nintendo Switch Lite if:
- You only play handheld.
- You want a lighter, more portable console.
- You want to save around $100.
4. Final Verdict
- Nintendo Switch = Best for versatility and multiplayer.
- Nintendo Switch Lite = Best for budget-friendly, portable gaming.
Key Takeaways
- The Nintendo Switch offers versatile play modes, including TV connectivity, while the Switch Lite is exclusively handheld.
- Cost and gaming preferences play a significant role in choosing between the two devices.
- The original Switch supports multiplayer on one device; the Switch Lite is designed for solo portable play.
Comparing Consoles
Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite cater to different gaming needs and budgets. They differ in portability, display, performance, and features. This section breaks down these differences.
Design and Portability
The Nintendo Switch is larger and allows gamers to detach Joy-Con controllers for versatile play styles. In contrast, the Switch Lite is smaller and built for handheld play with integrated controls.
Display and Resolution
Nintendo Switch features a 6.2-inch LCD screen while the OLED model has a 7-inch OLED display, both with 720p resolution in handheld mode. The Switch Lite has a more compact 5.5-inch LCD.
Hardware and Performance
Both consoles house a custom NVIDIA Tegra processor. The regular Switch has a better battery life, and it supports TV and tabletop modes. Switch Lite is dedicated purely to handheld use.
Gaming Experience
The Switch offers a hybrid gaming experience switching between handheld, tabletop, and TV modes. Switch Lite is designed solely for handheld gaming. Most Switch games work on both, but games that require detachable Joy-Cons won’t suit Switch Lite.
Features and Functionality
Switch has a dock for TV connection, a kickstand for tabletop gaming, and HD Rumble. Switch Lite lacks these but is more portable. Both have WiFi, but only the regular Switch supports a wired Ethernet connection.
Compatibility and Connectivity
All Switch models support wireless Joy-Cons and Pro controllers. However, the Switch Lite doesn’t have a dock or HDMI output. They all accept microSDHC or microSDXC cards to expand storage.
