The holidays are almost here, and with all of the incredible deals that come with them, it’s the perfect time to buy a new console. Whether you plan to get it for yourself or as a gift for family or friends, the Nintendo Switch is a great choice. The Switch has been soaring through the market since its initial launch in 2017, and now, with the introduction of the Switch Lite in September, Nintendo’s consoles are more popular - and portable - than ever before. Not to mention the wide range of games available on the Switch, from Pokémon Sword & Shield to Link's Awakening to Alien: Isolation and even The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.
Websites are already coming out with suggestions for the best gifts for the holidays. Walmart Canada's latest holiday gift guide for gamers offers a wide selection of ideas, including everything from pro headphones to controllers for the Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, as well as games. And, of course, it also mentions the original Switch and Lite consoles, as they're likely on every gamer's list.
However, it can be a bit hard to distinguish between the original Switch and Lite, as the two systems both offer the same library of games and their specs are nearly identical. The two consoles have some pretty distinct differences, though. Depending on what you're shopping for, either system can be a great investment. Thankfully, we're here to help you decipher which Switch is best for you.
Original Nintendo Switch
Nothing beats a good ol' classic. As far as the original Nintendo Switch goes, it is a solid investment that has proven itself since its initial launch. The handheld hybrid offers gamers the chance to either play on the go or on the big screen.
Though the original Switch provides players with a 6.2" touch screen, many gamers prefer to see their games on the big screen and play on TV. The Switch can also be shared, as the Joy-Cons allow multiple players to join in on the fun. If you're looking for a console that gives players the option to play multiplayer games, then the Switch is a great choice. Up to two gamers can play with one Joy-Con each right out of the box, and more Joy-Cons can be added and paired to the device so everyone in the family can join in on the fun.
The Switch is available for $299.99 USD and is a bit clunkier than its Lite successor, coming in at 4 inches tall, 9.4 inches long, and weighing .66 lbs. However, the Switch is definitely the perfect choice for gamers who want the option to either play at home or on the go.
Nintendo Switch Lite
Though the Switch Lite was initially off to a poor start, it has since proved itself, selling nearly two million units in its first month. Many who initially viewed the device as a failure are now going back on their word, as the handheld has since built the same momentum as the original and has become a solid choice for gamers on the go.
At $199.99 USD, the Switch Lite is a bit smaller than the original, coming in at 3.6 inches tall and 8.2 inches long and weighing just over .60 lbs with a touch screen that is 5.5". Compared to the Nintendo Switch, the Lite is a great choice for gamers who prefer smaller handheld devices and don't always have access to a TV.
A Zacian and Zamazenta Edition Switch Lite is also available, which is a great gift for any Pokémon fan. Instead of the standard grey, yellow, or turquoise, this version is off-white with blue and red buttons and has depictions of Pokémon Sword & Shield's legendaries on its back. Whether paired with one of the newest Pokémon games or given on its own, the Zacian and Zamazenta Edition is a great holiday gift for dedicated Pokémon and Nintendo fans.
Which One Should You Get?
Both the original Switch and Lite have basically the same stats, giving players 32GB of storage and a touch screen. Though the Switch can be played both on the go and on bigger TV screens, the Lite is perfect for gamers who are used to handheld devices and are always moving around, whether that be commuting to school or work in the morning or gaming on vacation.
Overall, it really depends on who you're buying the console for and what their needs are. If you're willing to shell out an extra hundred dollars for a more versatile device, then the original Switch is a good go-to. However, if you're on a budget and know that whoever will be using the console prefers to play on the move, then the Lite is a perfect choice. Regardless of what you're looking for, Nintendo's two Switches offer something for every gamer.
The Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite are currently available for $299.99 and $199.99 USD, respectively.
Source: Nintendo