Nintendo DSi XL Review: Bigger Screen, Classic Handheld Gaming
Nintendo · 2010-03-01
The Nintendo DSi XL is an enlarged version of the DSi, featuring 4.2-inch IPS LCD screens, a clamshell design, and backward compatibility with DS games. Ideal for gamers seeking a more comfortable viewing experience.
Overview
The Nintendo DSi XL (also known as NDSi XL) is a larger iteration of the popular DSi handheld, released in March 2010. It retains the clamshell design and dual-screen setup but increases screen size to 4.2 inches per display, offering a more comfortable experience for extended play sessions. Powered by a custom SoC with ARM946E-S and ARM7TDMI processors, it supports a vast library of Nintendo DS games and some emulated classics.
Key Specs Highlights
- CPU: ARM946E-S @ 133 MHz, ARM7TDMI @ 33.514 MHz
- Memory: 16 MB PSRAM
- Storage: 256 MB internal NAND flash, expandable via SD/SDHC card slot
- Screens: Dual 4.2-inch IPS LCD (top) and IPS LCD touchscreen (bottom), 256×192 resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio, 60 Hz refresh rate
- Battery: 1050 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Weight: 314 grams
- Dimensions: 161 mm × 91.4 mm × 21.2 mm
Who It Is For
The DSi XL is perfect for Nintendo DS fans who want a larger screen for easier viewing, especially for text-heavy games or those with small details. It also appeals to collectors and retro gamers interested in the DSi library and some emulated titles (Genesis, GBA, SNES).
Buying Notes
As a discontinued product, the DSi XL is available only on the secondhand market. Prices vary based on condition and color (available in wine red, copper, white, midnight blue, green, yellow, red). Ensure the unit includes the stylus and charger. The original US launch price was $189.99.
| CPU | ARM946E-S, ARM7TDMI |
|---|---|
| GPU | 2D Graphics Engine, 3D Graphics Engine |
| Name | DSi XL |
| Alias | NDSi XL |
| Brand | Nintendo |
| Memory | 16 MB PSRAM |
| Weight | 314 grams |
| Battery | 1050 mAh |
| Speaker | Mono speaker |
| Storage | Built-in 256 MB NAND flash memory, external SD/SDHC card slot |
| Grip Type | Clamshell / Foldable |
| Processor | Custom SoC |
| Body Color | Wine red, copper, pure white, midnight blue, green, yellow, red |
| Dimensions | 161 mm x 91.4 mm x 21.2 mm |
| Screen PPI | 76.2 |
| Screen Size | 4.2 inches x2 |
| Screen Type | IPS LCD (top) IPS LCD touchscreen (bottom) |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi |
| Launch Price | US$189.99 |
| Release Date | 2010 / 03 |
| CPU Frequency | 133 MHz (ARM946E-S) 33.514 MHz (ARM7TDMI) |
| Other Sensors | Microphone, stylus |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Nintendo DSi System Software |
| Screen Resolution | 256 × 192 |
| Screen Aspect Ratio | 4:3 |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 1 core 1 thread |
| Emulator Game Support | Can emulate some Genesis/GBA/SNES |