#GameTechie

Nintendo finally reveals its smaller, more affordable Nintendo Switch Lite

I need that turquoise version in my life.

by
Josiah Motley
July 10, 2019

Image: Nintendo

While most of us had a pretty strong feeling that this was coming thanks to multiple rumors, it is now official, there’s a new smaller, more affordable Nintendo Switch on the horizon.

Announced today by Nintendo, the Switch Lite console will come in three colors at launch, have always-attached Joy-Con-style controllers, and slightly better battery life.

What to know about the new Nintendo Switch Lite

The new Switch Lite is more of what you love from Nintendo, but does have a few features to differentiate itself from the main Switch.

A quick rundown of the new Switch Lite:

Will be priced at $199 and launches on September 20
Controllers are attached
Similar to Joy-Cons, but no rumble or IR sensors
Comes in three colors – yellow, turquoise, and grey (Pokémon Sword and Shield version release in November)
Better battery life
5.5″ display (compared to the 6.2″ display on the regular Switch)
No docked mode
Certain games will not be compatible due to motion controls

This last point is something worth discussing – due to the smaller, cheaper design of the Switch Lite, the console (handheld?) will not feature rumble or IR sensors. This means some games and features will not work with the more portable version and will require you to purchase a separate pair of Joy-Cons that you can connect to the Lite.

And considering the Lite does not connect to the TV, nor does it look to feature a kickstand, it sounds like it would be basically worthless to buy an extra set just so you can throw some Poké Balls in Pokémon: Let’s Go.

Nintendo will be including labels on physical cases and in the eShop as to which games will be compatible with the Switch Lite, as well as a warning if you try to purchase a non-compatible game.

What do you think? Interested in the new Nintendo Switch Lite? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.