Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch Lite: Which Portable Console is the Best Fit for You?

We compare these two portable consoles from Nintendo to help you decide which model suits you best.

November 10, 2024, 14:00 ET

Christian Ruiz

While portable gaming consoles are booming, Nintendo has long been a leader in the format. Since the launch of the popular Switch, the company has continued to build on its legacy from the DS line. Today, the Nintendo Switch Lite offers a budget-friendly alternative to the original Switch. In this post, we’ll break down the features of each one to help you choose the best for your needs.

	Nintendo Switch	Nintendo Switch Lite
Size and weight	4 x 9.4 x 0.55 inches (with Joy-Con attached) 0.66 pounds (0.88 pounds with Joy-Con attached)	3.6 x 8.2x 0.55 inches (1.12 inches at the thickest part) 0.61 pounds
SCREEN	6.2-inch capacitive LCD touch screen with 1280 x 720 resolution	5.5-inch capacitive LCD touch screen with 1280 x 720 resolution
processor	Nvidia Tegra	Nvidia Tegra
Storage	32 GB	32 GB
Connectivity	Wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant), Bluetooth 4.1, and USB-C Compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC memory cards	Wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac compliant), Bluetooth 4.1, and USB-C Compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC memory cards
video and audio output	Video: Up to 1080p via HDMI in TV mode, up to 720p via built-in screen in tabletop mode and handheld mode Audio: Compatible with 5.1ch Linear PCM output, output via HDMI connector in TV mode	-
BATTERY	Lithium-ion battery, 4310 mAh Approximately 4.5 - 9 hours	Lithium ion battery, 3570 mAh Approximately 3 to 7 hours
OTHER	Detachable Joy-Con TV Mode	-
PRICE	$284.99	$179

Nintendo Switch™ with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy‑Con™

RRP on Nintendo — $299.00

* Some prices may have changed since the last update

Nintendo Switch Lite - Turquoise

Today on Amazon — $181.52

Nintendo — $199.99

* Some prices may have changed since the last update

Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch Lite: Key Features

Design

Nintendo kept the aesthetic consistent between the two models, though the Lite version is streamlined to reduce costs. Unlike the original Switch, the Switch Lite has fixed controls and lacks detachable Joy-Con controllers.

As a result, its fixed controls make it essentially a portable console. However, it reduces the possibility of two gamers playing on the same console simultaneously. They would need an extra controller. This also means the Lite is lighter—9.7 ounces compared with the original’s 14 ounces.

Screen

A key difference between the two models is screen size. The Nintendo Switch has a 6.2-inch LCD screen with a 1280 x 720 resolution, while the Switch Lite has a 5.5-inch LCD screen. Both models use the same type of LCD panel.

Performance and Battery Life

Unlike the Nintendo DS consoles, the company has chosen not to vary the processors in its new models. Both consoles use the Nvidia Tegra processor, providing the same gaming performance. In addition, each model includes 32 GB of storage.

TV Connectivity

There’s no difference in terms of connectivity. However, one major distinction is the ability to connect the console to a TV. The original Switch includes an HDMI dock for TV connection, allowing for multiplayer gaming on a larger screen. The Lite lacks this option, designed solely for handheld gaming.

Which Nintendo Switch Should You Buy?

This can be a very complicated decision for anyone considering buying a Nintendo Switch. Aside from your budget, your gaming preferences play a key role.

The original Nintendo Switch is for those who want to play anywhere and for a decent number of hours without draining the battery too quickly. But it’s also a console for playing at home with family or friends, as you can share the Joy-Con and connect it to the TV.

The Lite model is best for players who prioritize portability and solo gaming, especially if they don’t need the option to connect to a TV.