New 3ds vs 3ds Xl: Which Nintendo Handheld Reigns?
Choosing a Nintendo 3DS can feel like navigating a maze of options, especially when you’re caught between the allure of a newer model and the established reputation of a classic. The debate often boils down to two titans: the New Nintendo 3DS and the 3DS XL.
Both handheld consoles offer access to a vast library of games, but their differences are more than skin deep. From screen size to processing power, each device caters to a slightly different audience. This comparison will help you decide which 3DS is the perfect fit for your gaming needs.
We’ll delve into the key features, performance, and overall user experience of both the New 3DS and the 3DS XL. Get ready to explore the strengths and weaknesses of each, ensuring you make an informed decision and embark on your next gaming adventure with confidence.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | new 3DS | 3DS XL |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size (Top) | 3.88 inches | 4.88 inches |
| Screen Size (Bottom) | 3.33 inches | 4.18 inches |
| Weight | 0.51 lbs | 0.73 lbs |
| Dimensions | 5.6″ x 3.0″ x 0.8″ | 6.6″ x 3.7″ x 0.9″ |
| Processor | Upgraded CPU | Original CPU |
| 3D Display | Yes, with head-tracking | Yes |
| Built-in Stylus | Yes | Yes |
| C-Stick | Yes | No |
| Additional Shoulder Buttons | Yes (ZL/ZR) | No |
| Game Cartridge Slot | Yes | Yes |
| MicroSD Card Slot | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life (Estimated) | 3.5 – 6 hours | 3.5 – 6.5 hours |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Size
- New 3ds: Features smaller screens, both top and bottom. This makes the device more compact and portable, but the smaller display can make visuals feel cramped, especially for games with detailed graphics.
- 3ds Xl: Boasts significantly larger screens, offering a more immersive gaming experience. This is great for visuals, but increases the overall size of the device, making it less pocketable.
- Winner: 3DS XL
Processing Power
- New 3ds: Has an upgraded CPU compared to the original 3DS, resulting in faster loading times and smoother gameplay in some games. This also enables exclusive titles and improved performance.
- 3ds Xl: Uses the original 3DS processor, which can result in slightly slower loading times and occasional performance hiccups in some newer games.
- Winner: new 3DS
3D Stability
- New 3ds: Includes head-tracking 3D, which adjusts the 3D effect based on the player’s viewing angle, providing a more stable and comfortable 3D experience.
- 3ds Xl: Utilizes the original 3D slider, which requires the player to hold the device in a specific position to maintain the 3D effect. This can be less stable and more difficult to use.
- Winner: new 3DS
C-Stick and ZL/ZR Buttons
- New 3ds: Includes a C-stick (nub) and ZL/ZR shoulder buttons, providing additional control options for games. This enhances gameplay, especially in titles designed to utilize these features.
- 3ds Xl: Lacks the C-stick and ZL/ZR buttons, limiting control options in certain games. The lack of these features may necessitate the use of the touchscreen for some functions.
- Winner: new 3DS
Battery Life
- New 3ds: Offers a decent battery life, generally lasting several hours depending on usage and game.
- 3ds Xl: Typically has a longer battery life compared to the new 3DS, allowing for extended gaming sessions without needing to recharge as frequently.
- Winner: 3DS XL
Portability
- New 3ds: Its smaller form factor makes it more pocket-friendly and easier to carry around. This is a significant advantage for gamers who prioritize portability.
- 3ds Xl: Its larger size makes it less portable and more difficult to slip into a pocket. The bulkier design is less ideal for on-the-go gaming.
- Winner: new 3DS
Design and Build Quality
- New 3ds: Offers interchangeable faceplates for customization, allowing for a personalized look. The build quality is generally good, but the smaller size can feel less substantial.
- 3ds Xl: Features a more robust build quality and a more premium feel, but lacks the faceplate customization options.
- Winner: 3DS XL
Price
- New 3ds: Typically available at a slightly lower price point than the XL when considering the used market.
- 3ds Xl: Often priced higher due to its larger screen and sometimes, slightly better battery life.
- Winner: new 3DS
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Portability | new 3DS |
| Screen Size | 3DS XL |
| Processing Power | new 3DS |
| Features | new 3DS |
| Comfort | 3DS XL |
What They Have in Common:
- Game Library: Both consoles share the same extensive library of Nintendo 3DS games, allowing players to enjoy a vast selection of titles.
- Backwards Compatibility: Both consoles are backwards compatible with the original Nintendo DS games, expanding the available game selection.
- Dual Screens: Both the New 3DS and 3DS XL feature dual screens, a defining feature of the Nintendo 3DS family. The top screen displays 3D visuals, while the bottom screen is a touchscreen.
- Online Capabilities: Both consoles offer online multiplayer gaming, allowing players to connect with friends and other players around the world.
- Streetpass and Spotpass: Both consoles support StreetPass and SpotPass, enabling players to exchange game data and receive updates.
New 3DS Vs 3DS XL Buying Guide
Portability and Design
The New 3DS excels in portability due to its smaller size and lighter weight. This makes it ideal for gamers who are always on the go and prefer a more compact handheld experience. It easily slips into a pocket or small bag. The 3DS XL, while still portable, is significantly larger and heavier. This provides a more comfortable grip for longer gaming sessions, but it sacrifices some of the convenience of carrying it around. Consider how important portability is to your gaming habits when making your choice.
The design of the New 3DS allows for interchangeable faceplates, offering customization options. The 3DS XL has a more streamlined design without this feature. The choice here depends on your preference for a sleek look or the ability to personalize your device.
Screen Size and Display Quality
The 3DS XL boasts a larger screen, which enhances the visual experience, especially for games with intricate details or text-heavy interfaces. This larger screen is beneficial for extended gaming sessions. However, the New 3DS offers improved viewing angles and a slightly sharper display, thanks to its improved screen technology. The difference isn’t always noticeable, but those who are sensitive to viewing angles may appreciate the New 3DS.
The screen resolution is the same on both models. However, the larger screen on the 3DS XL can make the pixels feel slightly more spread out. The New 3DS’s smaller screen makes the same resolution look a little bit sharper.
Processing Power and Performance
The New 3DS has a more powerful processor than the 3DS XL. This upgrade results in faster loading times and improved performance in graphically demanding games. Some games are even exclusive to the New 3DS, taking advantage of its enhanced capabilities. This is an important consideration for gamers wanting the best possible experience and access to the latest titles.
The 3DS XL can still play all 3DS games, but it may experience slightly longer loading times and occasional performance hiccups compared to the New 3DS. The difference might not be immediately obvious, but it can become apparent in certain situations.
3D Capability and Viewing Experience
The New 3DS features head-tracking 3D, which dynamically adjusts the 3D effect based on the player’s viewing angle. This provides a more stable and comfortable 3D experience, reducing the “sweet spot” limitations of the 3DS XL. This is a big plus for gamers who enjoy playing with the 3D feature enabled. You can move around and still see the 3D effect.
The 3DS XL relies on a static 3D effect, meaning the player needs to maintain a specific viewing angle to experience the 3D properly. This can be less comfortable for some players and is more prone to the 3D effect looking distorted. Consider how important the 3D feature is to you and how much you plan to use it.
Controls and Features
The New 3DS adds a second analog stick (the C-stick) and additional shoulder buttons (ZR and ZL). These additions provide a more comprehensive and versatile control scheme, especially for games that require dual-stick control, such as many action games. These controls are not available on the 3DS XL. This can give the New 3DS a significant advantage in certain titles.
Both models feature the standard 3DS controls, including a D-pad, face buttons, and shoulder buttons. However, the 3DS XL lacks the extra controls found on the New 3DS. The New 3DS is also compatible with amiibo figures, allowing you to unlock additional content in compatible games. The 3DS XL does not have this feature built-in.
Battery Life and Price
The battery life of both consoles varies depending on usage, but the 3DS XL generally offers slightly longer battery life than the New 3DS. This can be a crucial factor for gamers who frequently play on the go and don’t want to worry about charging. However, the difference isn’t huge.
Price is another factor to consider. The New 3DS may be more expensive due to its advanced features and newer technology. The 3DS XL is often available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option. Consider your budget and whether the extra features of the New 3DS justify the higher cost.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy new 3DS If…
- You prefer a more compact and portable design.
- You want the improved processing power and features like the C-stick and ZL/ZR buttons.
- You value the head-tracking 3D feature for a more stable 3D experience.
- You like the customizable faceplates.
Buy 3ds xl If…
- You prefer a larger screen for a more immersive gaming experience.
- You want a more comfortable grip for longer gaming sessions.
- You prioritize a slightly longer battery life.
- You want a more affordable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the New 3DS and the 3DS XL?
The New 3DS has a more powerful processor, a second analog stick, head-tracking 3D, and interchangeable faceplates. The 3DS XL features a larger screen and a more streamlined design. The New 3DS is more powerful and has more features, while the 3DS XL prioritizes screen size and a simpler design.
Which console has a better screen?
The 3DS XL has a larger screen, which is great for visual immersion. The New 3DS has a slightly sharper display due to the smaller screen. The New 3DS also features head-tracking 3D, which enhances the 3D viewing experience.
Does the New 3DS play all 3DS games?
Yes, the New 3DS is fully compatible with all 3DS games. However, some games are optimized for the New 3DS and may not perform as well on the 3DS XL. The New 3DS also has access to exclusive titles that cannot be played on the 3DS XL.
What are the benefits of the C-stick and additional shoulder buttons on the New 3DS?
The C-stick and additional shoulder buttons provide more versatile controls for games, especially those that require dual-stick control. This allows for more precise aiming, camera control, and more complex gameplay mechanics. The 3DS XL lacks these advanced controls.
Which console has better battery life?
The 3DS XL generally offers slightly longer battery life than the New 3DS. The actual battery life depends on usage, but the 3DS XL can often provide a few more hours of gameplay on a single charge. This can be a key factor for those who play on the go a lot.
Is the New 3DS worth the extra cost?
That depends on your priorities. If you value the added features, improved performance, and access to exclusive titles, the New 3DS is worth the extra cost. If you prioritize a larger screen and a more budget-friendly option, the 3DS XL is a good choice. Consider what you are looking for.
Can I use amiibo with the 3DS XL?
No, the 3DS XL does not have built-in amiibo support. You would need to purchase an external amiibo reader to use amiibo with the 3DS XL. The New 3DS has built-in amiibo support, making it easier to use amiibo.
Final Verdict
The New 3DS offers a superior gaming experience with its enhanced processing power, improved controls, head-tracking 3D, and access to exclusive titles. While the 3DS XL boasts a larger screen and a more streamlined design, the New 3DS provides a more versatile and future-proof experience. The improved performance and added features make it the better overall choice for most gamers, even with the slightly higher price point.
Winner: New 3DS