Nintendo caught some fans by surprise when they abruptly announced the sleeker, cheaper, and more compact Switch Lite, which released worldwide roughly a month ago.
This more handheld-centric device has left some fans looking to purchase a Switch, and even some who have already bought the original, wondering which version they should opt for. Which model holds the greater value, and which proves to be the all-around better machine?
Ultimately, it'll depend on one's preference, and while there's no definitive answer to this question, we'll try to make sense of it all and highlight the pros and cons of each version.
10 Switch Lite: Great For Pokémon Fans
No, we're not just speaking of the Lite's portability aligning with the more potable sensibilities of the upcoming Sword/Shield, but rather, the console itself! Shortly after the announcement of the Switch Lite, Nintendo compounded that by showing an even cooler looking custom Pokémon-themed Switch lite. The console adheres to the blue and hot-pink color scheme of the two skews; specifically of the epic new legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta. This sleek console also features sketches of the two beasts on the back of the machine.
This gorgeous custom Switch Lite would certainly make a fine complement to Sword & Shield when they launch on Nov. 15th!
9 Original: More Versatile
One of the biggest appeals of the Switch is its versatility. Not only can the machine play both docked and handheld, but it also has the handy feature of removable and interchangeable Joy-Cons. This means you can swap out a variety of colors and types of controllers. Want to use that sweet Zelda-themed HORI Joy-Con with a true D-Pad? No problem!
Switch Lite is going to be quite a bit more limited in terms of what it can do. This means that you won't be able to dock the machine and play through the TV, but it also means the controllers are attached to the hardware itself.
8 Switch Lite: Better Feeling Controller With An Actual D-Pad
Still, even though you're stuck using the controller that comes with your Switch Lite (or else opt to buy separate Joy-Cons to control when propping the machine up), at least the controller that is included has an actual D-Pad!
This is particularly handy if you tend to favor playing those NES/SNES games on Nintendo's online service, or other simpler, more retro-style 2D games like Tetris 99, in addition to the slew of indie games that populate the eshop. The buttons also tend to feel a bit more solid, thanks in part to the slightly larger face buttons, and the hardware itself offers a tad more grip with its slightly rougher texture.
7 Original: More Sophisticated Controller
D-Pad aside, with the Switch's original controller, you're ultimately getting more sophisticated tech built into the device. Basically, there's a reason these suckers typically cost $80. Not only is the controller fused with the console, but they're also lacking that satisfying HD rumble feedback and the IR camera. This strips down the motion-control capabilities to a degree as it whittles down the functionality to just the gyro abilities.
Basically, you'll need separate controllers if you're looking to play a game that demands more sophisticated motion controls, such as 1- 2-Switch or the recently released Ring Fit Adventure.
6 Switch Lite: Improved Battery Life
One of the biggest criticisms the Switch has received since its early 2017 launch is its relatively weak battery life when playing in handheld mode. This is especially apparent when playing more hardware intensive games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or The Witcher 3. Obviously, smaller indie games and retro titles will allow you to play on for a few more hours.
However, the Switch lite ensures a longer baseline when it comes to battery life, ranging from 3-7 hours, while the original Switch sits in the 2.5-6.5 hour range. The New V2 Switch is stronger than both of these, but you'll also have to shell out more money.
5 Original: Greater Customization
With the original Switch's versatility comes greater customization in terms of its aesthetics. Want to use one purple Joy-Con and one neon-green? How about opting for a unique third-party option? Or throw on one of those cool custom shells for your dock and controllers? You can go hog wild! With the Switch Lite, you're basically stuck with the not-particularly-appealing trio of colors featured.
You'll have to choose between a harsh yellow, bland grey, or bizarre turquoise. And the custom shells are (at least for the time being) extremely limited in comparison.
4 Switch Lite: Smaller And More Compact
Ultimately, if you value handheld gaming over home consoles, or find yourself on the road quite a bit, the Switch Lite is probably the version you should opt for. It's a lighter, more compact machine, which makes it easier to hold for extended periods of time.
But more significantly, it comes with a smaller, sleeker build, featuring dimensions of 3.6" x 8.2" 0.55" and weighs 0.61 pounds. Compare this to the bulkier original model, which comes with dimensions of 4" x 9.4" x 0.55" and weighs 0.88 pounds.
3 Original: Larger Screen Size
Still, even those who value the handheld functionality of the Switch will find benefits of the original model. With the larger hardware comes a larger screen, which means a more optimal gaming experience on-the-go. The original design boasts a 6.2" screen size, compared to the Lite, which is 5.5". It may seem like a marginal difference, but for the more nuanced tech-savy gamers who prefer a more cinematic experience, it can become apparent.
Regardless of which version you choose though, it's still a far cry from having to deal with those tiny Game Boy screens. We've certainly come a long way...
2 Switch Lite: Significantly Higher Value
One of the most appealing, impressive aspects of the Switch Lite its relatively sophisticated horsepower packed in such a small machine. Keep in mind, the hardware is essentially the same, as both machines output 720p in handheld mode.
Disregarding a few of the Lite's stripped-down capabilities (lack of docking, IR camera, HD rumble), this is essentially still a Nintendo Switch; in a slightly smaller, and significantly cheaper package. At a mere $200 compared to $300 for the original model, we're talking a pretty big chunk of change. Switch Lite thus makes for a terrific entry-level console.
1 Original: Home Console Gaming Is Your Thing
At the end of the day, there isn't really a "better" option from an objective point of view. The Switch Lite will hold far more value to you if you prefer handheld gaming or are often on the road. Yet, those who seek the definitive, cinematic, home console experience should still opt for the original Switch.
Its ability to dock means it can be played on any HDTV and display in a vibrant, crisp 1080p, compared to only 720p on the handheld screen. There is something about kicking back on your couch as you hold separate Joy-Cons and get lost in the magic of Breath of the Wild; a feeling not quite replicated when playing in handheld mode.