When the Nintendo Switch Lite was released in 2019, it marked a new chapter in handheld gaming. Designed as a more portable, streamlined, and affordable version of the popular Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite became a great option for gamers on the go or those who prefer handheld gaming. But, like any piece of technology, the Switch Lite has its pros and cons that should be carefully weighed before making a purchase.
The Switch Lite is significantly different from its predecessor, lacking the detachable Joy-Cons and docking capabilities that made the original Nintendo Switch such a versatile gaming console. However, it retains much of the same library and gaming experience, albeit with some trade-offs. Whether you’re a longtime Nintendo fan or new to gaming, understanding the pros and cons of the Switch Lite will help you decide if it’s the right console for you.
In this article, we will explore 10 pros and 10 cons of the Switch Lite, covering aspects such as portability, game compatibility, battery life, and multiplayer functionality. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of whether the Switch Lite fits your gaming preferences and lifestyle.
Pros Of The Switch Lite
1. Affordable Price Point
One of the biggest selling points of the Switch Lite is its affordability. Priced significantly lower than the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite makes it more accessible for gamers on a budget. This lower price does not come with a drastic reduction in performance, which makes it a great value for casual and dedicated gamers alike.
2. Enhanced Portability
Designed specifically as a handheld console, the Switch Lite is smaller and lighter than the original Switch. It’s easy to carry around, making it ideal for commuting, traveling, or just playing in bed. Its compact design is perfect for those who want a gaming device that can fit easily into a backpack or large pocket.
3. Comfortable Ergonomics For Handheld Play
The Switch Lite is designed for extended handheld play, and its comfortable design reflects that. Its smaller size, lighter weight, and integrated controls make it more ergonomic for long gaming sessions compared to the standard Switch in handheld mode, which can feel bulky and awkward after extended use.
4. Same Access To Switch Game Library
Despite the differences in hardware, the Switch Lite gives players access to the vast Nintendo Switch game library. This includes major titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Mario Odyssey. For most games, the Switch Lite can run them just as smoothly as the standard Switch, ensuring a similar gaming experience.
5. Great Battery Life For Handheld Use
Compared to the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite often has a better battery life when used purely as a handheld device. This improvement in battery performance makes it even more appealing for gamers who want to play on the go without constantly worrying about charging the device.
6. Multiple Color Options
The Switch Lite comes in a variety of colors, including turquoise, coral, yellow, and gray, allowing users to choose a design that fits their personal style. This level of customization is a fun feature for those who like to express themselves through their tech, making it more than just a functional device.
7. Durable And Sturdy Design
Since the Switch Lite is an all-in-one handheld system without detachable parts like the Joy-Cons, it feels more sturdy and durable. The lack of moving parts and a compact design make it less prone to wear and tear, which is important for a portable device that will likely be handled frequently and carried around in different environments.
8. Easy To Use
The Switch Lite’s simple, streamlined design makes it user-friendly, especially for those who prefer gaming without the complexity of docking or swapping Joy-Cons. Its intuitive controls and easy setup make it a great option for younger players or those who are new to gaming consoles.
9. Ideal For Single-Player Gaming
For gamers who primarily enjoy single-player experiences, the Switch Lite is an excellent choice. Many of the top titles for the Nintendo Switch, including Zelda, Fire Emblem: Three Houses, and Octopath Traveler, are heavily focused on solo gameplay, and the Switch Lite handles these games perfectly without the need for extra features like detachable Joy-Cons.
10. No Dock Needed
While the lack of docking capabilities may be a downside for some, it’s actually a benefit for those who prefer an all-in-one device without needing additional accessories. Since the Switch Lite is designed exclusively for handheld use, it eliminates the need for a separate dock, saving space and reducing clutter.
Cons Of The Switch Lite
1. No TV Mode
One of the most significant drawbacks of the Switch Lite is its inability to connect to a TV. The original Switch’s hybrid design allowed players to dock the console and play on a larger screen, but the Switch Lite is strictly a handheld device. For gamers who enjoy the flexibility of switching between handheld and TV mode, this limitation can be a dealbreaker.
2. Lacks Detachable Joy-Cons
The Switch Lite does not feature detachable Joy-Cons, which means it lacks the motion controls and rumble functionality of the original Switch. Games that rely heavily on these features, such as 1-2-Switch or Super Mario Party, either won’t work or require the purchase of separate Joy-Cons, making the Lite less versatile for multiplayer gaming.
3. Limited Multiplayer Options
While online multiplayer is still possible, the Switch Lite’s lack of TV mode and detachable Joy-Cons make local multiplayer gaming more difficult. For games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the absence of detachable controllers can limit the fun of playing with friends, as additional controllers need to be purchased.
4. Smaller Screen Size
At 5.5 inches, the Switch Lite’s screen is smaller than the standard Switch’s 6.2-inch display. While this reduction in size makes it more portable, it can be a drawback for those who prefer a larger screen, especially when playing games with detailed graphics or text-heavy gameplay, such as RPGs or strategy games.
5. Compatibility Issues With Some Games
Not all Nintendo Switch games are compatible with the Switch Lite due to the absence of detachable Joy-Cons and motion controls. Games that require these features may not work at all or require additional accessories. This can limit your game library unless you’re willing to invest in extra controllers, which somewhat negates the affordability of the Lite.
6. No Built-In Kickstand
The Switch Lite lacks the built-in kickstand that is featured on the original Switch, making it harder to play in tabletop mode. While you can buy a third-party stand, the lack of an integrated solution is an inconvenience, particularly when you want to set the console down for multiplayer gaming on the go.
7. Lack Of HD Rumble
HD Rumble, the feature that adds immersive vibrations and tactile feedback to gameplay, is missing from the Switch Lite. While not essential for every game, the absence of this feature can reduce the overall gaming experience, especially in titles where rumble plays a key role in immersion, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
8. No Infrared Camera
The Switch Lite also omits the infrared camera found in the Joy-Cons of the original Switch. This camera was used in a handful of games for unique gameplay mechanics, such as motion control in Nintendo Labo. The absence of this feature may limit your ability to play certain creative or interactive games that rely on motion-sensing technology.
9. Less Versatile For Gaming Families
For families who share a console, the Switch Lite’s lack of docking and multiplayer features can be limiting. The original Switch’s versatility made it ideal for family gaming sessions on the TV, while the Lite is better suited for solo play. This makes the Lite less appealing for households that enjoy frequent multiplayer gaming.
10. Not Future-Proof For Newer Games
As game developers continue to innovate and release new titles, there is a possibility that more games in the future will rely on features that are not supported by the Switch Lite, such as Joy-Con motion controls or multiplayer functionality. This could make the Switch Lite less compatible with future games, limiting its long-term viability compared to the standard Switch.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch Lite offers a highly portable, budget-friendly option for gamers who prioritize handheld play and prefer a streamlined gaming experience. Its lower price point, improved battery life, and compact design make it an attractive choice for those who enjoy gaming on the go. However, the lack of TV mode, detachable Joy-Cons, and certain features like HD Rumble may be dealbreakers for players who seek versatility and multiplayer gaming.
Ultimately, the decision to choose a Switch Lite depends on your personal gaming preferences. If you prioritize solo handheld gaming and don’t mind missing out on TV mode or multiplayer functionality, the Switch Lite is an excellent and affordable console.
However, if you want a more versatile system that can transition between handheld and TV modes or supports local multiplayer gaming out of the box, you might want to consider the standard Nintendo Switch. Weighing the 10 pros and 10 cons of the Switch Lite will help you determine whether this handheld console is the right fit for your gaming needs.