Are you looking for a console that will distract you on your travels? The Nintendo Switch Lite is the answer. This console places a top priority on portable gameplay, so it can be your best ally whenever you’re away from home. Although, considering that the original model and an OLED version exist, is this portable console really worth it?
That’s what we’re going to decipher next. In the following lines, I will explain in detail this Switch model’s specifications, its strengths, where I think it falters a little, and where you can find it at the best price.
Keep reading, as this will be a busy analysis, but it will surely alleviate your doubts.
Nintendo Switch Lite: Technical specifications
The first thing, as usual, is to thoroughly understand the hardware that gives life to the console. To do this, here I share all the technical specifications of the Lite model.
- 5.5-inch LCD touch screen with 1280 x 720 pixel resolution.
- Dimensions of 91.1 mm x 208 mm x 13.9 mm and weight of 275 grams.
- 3570 mAh battery.
- NVIDIA Tegra processor.
- 32 GB internal storage.
- Game cartridge slot, Micro SD slot, USB-C port, and 3.5mm stereo audio port.
- Wireless LAN and Bluetooth 4.1 support
Good points of the Nintendo Switch Lite: why do I like it so much?
Nintendo’s Lite console is very well-optimized for portable gaming. What do I mean by this? Well, everything in this device is designed to make playing while you are away from home a most rewarding experience.
For example, battery consumption is much better than in the original model. Of course, it depends on how demanding the game is. Although I already tell you that for the most part, the autonomy is quite decent. The device also offers better WiFi signal reception, so playing somewhere with a spotty connection becomes more bearable.
So, I think, this portable console may be for you if you plan to take advantage of its portable gaming mode. If you are a person who travels a lot or spends little time at home and needs something to distract you, the Nintendo Switch Lite can be a great purchase option. It is also an excellent purchasing decision when choosing a portable console for children.
What didn’t I like about the Nintendo Switch Lite?
If you’ve already played with a standard Switch, perhaps the Lite model will leave you with a slightly strange feeling. After all, those characteristics that one offers over the other are noticeable, although it is something really subjective and will depend on each person.
I believe that, if you have already experienced the advantages that the original console offers, perhaps it is not necessary for you to get the Switch Lite. You miss out on quite a bit as the gaming experience is quite similar. In any case, you can consider purchasing the OLED model or one of the best portable consoles of 2023.
Lite model game catalog: what can you play?
The Nintendo Switch Lite game catalog is the same for both the standard version and the OLED model. That is, it can run games like Super Mario Bros. Wonder or even The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Where is the exception?
Well, it turns out that the Lite version is not compatible with games that require connecting to the television or that require a detached Joy-Con controller. This is where titles like Just Dance or Super Mario Party come in.
However, most games support the Switch Lite’s handheld mode. You just have to make sure of this by checking the box or the information section in the Nintendo online store. Later in the FAQ section, I explain where to look.
Switch Lite vs Logitech G Cloud vs GPD XP Plus vs Razer Edge
Nintendo consoles are not for everyone. So, if you are not interested in this Lite model, here I recommend other similar products that you can review. Although first, I leave you its respective table of technical specifications.
Logitech G Cloud
Although it is above the price range, the Logitech G Cloud Android portable console is a very good option to consider if you are looking for a different proposal. What makes you different from the rest? Well, it focuses mainly on using cloud services.
Through its 7-inch IPS panel and with the help of its Snapdragon 720G processor, it can offer you a pretty decent gaming experience. It is modest hardware, but it is well complemented by the customization options of Android 11. It offers a good visual experience and autonomy is profitable.
GPD XP Plus
Although it is not among the cheapest portable consoles, the GPD XP Plus is one of the best of 2023 and its design is very reminiscent of the standard version of the Switch. It is a device designed to connect to televisions, but that does not neglect portable playability. Like the Logitech G Cloud, this console is also capable of running games from the cloud seamlessly.
Likewise, you can enjoy classic emulation titles while you’re on the road. The good thing about this console, I think, is that it accepts SIM cards. Therefore, you can use mobile networks whenever you need to. And the best? Its great autonomy guarantees many hours of uninterrupted play.
Razer Edge
The Razer Edge console is another much more complete option than the Nintendo Switch Lite and can also offer an optimal portable gaming experience. It has a Snapdragon G3x processor and a 6.8-inch screen to give you high performance, along with top-level visual quality.
It enjoys good autonomy and has removable controls. In addition, you can access the catalog of Xbox Live games, emulation games, and also Google Play games. Therefore, you will always have something different to try when you are traveling to distract yourself.
The Switch Lite is a functional and interesting portable device, but if you need a much more complete option, any of these products can do the trick. Of course, they are considerably more expensive than this version of the Switch, but those extra euros can make a difference. So don’t lose sight of them.
My personal opinion: What do I think about the Nintendo Switch Lite?
I firmly believe that it is a console that, in general terms, offers me the same as the standard version, but focuses more on the portable gaming mode. Don’t get me wrong though. Honestly, I consider it to be a very good console.
This is a device that feels quite comfortable to hold. The gameplay is fluid, almost as fluid as the original model. It is compact, ideal for transporting from one place to another and its game catalog is well-equipped. It is not a console for everyone, of course. After all, it gives up certain features of the standard model and integrates new ones.
Therefore, it seems to me that this console would be very good in the hands of someone who gets a lot of use out of portable mode. It is the ideal model to enjoy your favorite games while you are traveling, on the bus, in a waiting room, or while visiting those relatives you don’t know much about.
In any case, although it is not a perfect console, I think it is excellent in terms of usability and design. Making these adjustments to shape a console that could target another segment of users was a very smart move on Nintendo’s part. So don’t hesitate to give it a try if it catches your attention.
Nintendo Switch Lite: Frequently Asked Questions
With so many console models, it is normal to have doubts. Don’t worry, here I answer all the most frequently asked questions about the Lite model of the Switch.
What can a Nintendo Switch Lite do?
The Nintendo Switch Lite is the smallest and most economical console of the brand’s new generation. Its main focus is on portable playability, so it does not have ports to connect to external monitors or televisions. Still, this device can:
– Run all games compatible with the Switch’s portable mode.
– Connect external controllers to play.
– Use online and local multiplayer.
How long does the Nintendo Switch Lite have left?
The Switch Lite was launched on the market in September 2019. Almost two years after the launch of the original. Although it is estimated that its life cycle could be 6 to 7 years, company spokespersons have stated that they want to extend this cycle as much as possible, since its purpose is to create fun software for customers.
The Switch Lite was launched on the market in September 2019. Almost two years after the launch of the original. Although it is estimated that its life cycle could be 6 to 7 years, company spokespersons have stated that they want to extend this cycle as much as possible, since its purpose is to create fun software for customers.
What comes in the Switch Lite box?
The Nintendo Switch Lite box comes with an instruction manual with its safety and warranty precautions, a power adapter to recharge the console through its USB-C port, and the console itself.
Can you imagine traveling to Ibiza while playing Zelda on your Nintendo Switch Lite? Leave me in the comments which would be the first place you would visit with your trusty portable console in your luggage. Also, if you know more people who want a similar device, then share this entry on your social networks and let the magic of the big N visit them.
What games can be downloaded on Nintendo Switch Lite?
The Big N Lite console can run any game that is compatible with its hardware and in portable mode. Games that require the use of TV mode or require the use of the Joy-Con separately are incompatible with the Lite model. Some examples are:
- Super Mario Party
- Just Dance titles
- 1, 2, Switch.
Before purchasing or downloading a game, it is important that you confirm in the information sheet whether the game in question is compatible with portable mode. In the case of physical games, you will know if the drawing of the Switch Lite console appears with a number 1 below. If the number is 0, it means you have compatibility.
How do you buy Nintendo Switch Lite games?
All Nintendo Switch consoles have the same options for purchasing games:
- Physical format: boxes with cartridges that you can insert into the console. You can buy them through the Nintendo eShop, on Amazon Spain, or in physical stores.
- Digital format: games that you can download from the Nintendo virtual store. To do this, you need to have an account linked to your console and, if you want to play online, you must also have a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.
Other portable consoles for you
In the world of portable consoles, there is a little bit of everything. Have you not been convinced by the Switch Lite? Well, let me tell you that there are cheaper consoles that can make you relive your childhood like the Anbernic RG35XX or others like the Logitech G Cloud with a large catalog of games.
