Nintendo Announced a New Handheld-Only Nintendo Switch Lite
Smaller, lighter, and less features than the original.
After much speculation, Nintendo has announced its new $200 USD Nintendo Switch Lite, a more compact, handheld-only version of the original console that costs about $100 USD less, but with a few missing hardware features. The Lite comes in at 8.2 by 3.6-inches, about 1.2 by 0.4-inches smaller than the original Switch, and 0.21 pounds lighter.
It also has a slightly better battery, bringing it from a maximum of 6.5 hours to 7. But it’s worth noting this is most likely because the Lite doesn’t have a Brightness Sensor like the original, meaning brightness can only be adjusted manually. Speaking of, because of the updated design, things like detachable JoyCons, HD rumble, TV Dock compatibility, and IR sensors for motion controls have been removed from the console.
Certain titles for the console are predicated on some of these features in order to work. For instance, Super Mario Party cannot be played in Handheld Mode, leaving the only option to play the game on the Lite is in tabletop mode. Even then, since controllers can’t be detached, you’ll need standard JoyCons in order to play it.
The Nintendo Switch Lite is launching September 20 for $199.99 USD in three colors alongside the release of Link’s Awakening. The Pokémon Special Edition will release November 8.
In other gaming news, Microsoft recently obtained a patent for Nintendo Switch-Like Xbox controllers.
#NintendoSwitchLite Zacian and Zamazenta Edition will also be available beginning 11/8, while supplies last. This special edition is just in time for the holidays and the release of #PokemonSwordShield on 11/15. pic.twitter.com/IG0skYmQB9
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) July 10, 2019
A new addition of the #NintendoSwitch family will arrive on 9/20. With #NintendoSwitchLite, it’s compact and lightweight making it easy to take on the go! https://t.co/L70LlgxBrD
— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) July 10, 2019
