For months, there had been rumors that Nintendo was working on a new version of the Nintendo Switch. As of July 11, 2019, it’s not just a rumor anymore as Nintendo has officially announced the Nintendo Switch Lite.
But what exactly is this new Switch Lite? What does it do and is it right for you? We’ll answer those questions in more in this “Everything You Should Know About The Nintendo Switch Lite”. Should new information be released prior to the Switch Lite’s launch, we’ll update this article accordingly.
https://youtu.be/jZOPC6J4fAA
What is the Nintendo Switch Lite?
The Nintendo Switch Lite is scaled down version of the Nintendo Switch, with a number of changes made to it. It loses the ability to change Joy-Cons, there’s no HD rumble, no Motion Controls, IR or Labo support. It also drops the HDMI port and features a smaller screen at 5.5″ touch screen. The positives are the slightly better battery life, less weight, a better d-pad and it costs less. For those who weren’t fans of how the Switch felt in the held hand mode, the smaller size will be a plus as well.
Switch Lite features
- Unit Size: 3.6″ high, 8.2″ long, .55″ deep
- Screen Size: 5.5″
- Weight: .61 lbs
- Detachable Joy-Cons: No
- NFC: Yes
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Motion Controls: No
- HD Rumble: No
- IR Support: No
- Labo Support: No
- Battery Life: 3-7 hours (game dependent)
The only thing that really bothers me is that this is a Switch that doesn’t actually Switch. Weird, right?
When will the Nintendo Switch Lite be available?
The regular Nintendo Switch Lite will be available as of September 20th, 2019. While the Pokemon Sword and Shield‘s limited edition will release on November 8th, 2019.
Are there any performance differences?
The Nintendo Switch Lite will use the same SOC (System on a Chip) as the Nintendo Switch. Meaning the performance will be the same, with no difference with CPU or the GPU.
How much does it cost?
The Switch Lite is priced at $199.99 and will be available in three colors; Gray, Yellow and Turquoise. In addition to those, there’s also a Pokemon Sword and Shield‘s limited edition that features both Zacian and Zamazenta on the rear of the unit This is also priced at $199.99.
As of right now, there are no pre-orders for any of Nintendo Lite editions. However, both Amazon and Best Buy have them listed on its website. So we can only assume its a matter of time before they go live. That Pokemon SnS limited edition is also likely going to sell out and fast.
Will this replace the Nintendo 3DS?
While many of us here expect this to eventually phase out the Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo says otherwise. Nintendo of America’s president, Doug Bowser went on record and stated that they will continue to support the 3DS. Whether this happens or not is completely up to Nintendo. However, with no 3DS games set to release during 2019, I wouldn’t pick up a 3DS over this.
Will the Nintendo Switch Lite play Switch games?
Yes, the Switch Lite will play existing Switch games. However, Nintendo has stated there will be some restrictions with certain titles that don’t have a handheld mode. For those games, you’ll need to use a wireless controller such as the Nintendo Switch Pro controller or using Joy-Cons. One game that comes to mind is 1-2 Switch, as it requires motion controls to play. Nintendo will indicate which games are compatible on the packaging and on the Nintendo eShop.
It will so utilize the same services as the original Switch, such as Nintendo Switch Online and other streaming services.
Why get this over the original Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo is betting on fans of the Switch who wanted a more portable system will flock to this. The original Switch as definitely a hybrid system, allowing you to play it via TV or on the go. The Switch Lite, however, changes the experience into a portable only experience with some sacrifices. That all said, if you are about portable only life, this may be for you. If you enjoy being able to use the Switch via the dock and on the go, we’d recommend sticking with the original Switch.
This also could be idea for families who already own a Switch but want to add one more at a discount. Or one for the kids, so if it gets broken it won’t hurt the bank account as much.
What do we think about the Nintendo Switch Lite?
I’m glad you asked as our resident Nintendo fans here recently broke down the system on the Nintendo Entertainment Podcast. You can check that out below and head to the conversation at the 1:15:19 mark.
https://audioboom.com/posts/7314143-episode-139-lite-on-topics
Expect our full review of the Nintendo Switch Lite when it launches later this year.
