Nintendo Switch Lite Review: Compact, Portable, and Affordable
Nintendo · 2019-09-01
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a dedicated handheld gaming device that offers a more portable and affordable alternative to the original Switch. It features a compact design, integrated controls, and a 5.5-inch touchscreen, but lacks detachable Joy-Cons, HD Rumble, and TV output.
Overview
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a streamlined version of the Nintendo Switch, designed exclusively for handheld play. Released in September 2019, it features a 5.5-inch IPS touchscreen with a resolution of 1280×720, a custom Nvidia Tegra X1+ processor, and 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM. The device is 208mm x 91mm x 14mm and weighs just 277 grams, making it highly portable. It comes in a variety of colors, including gray, yellow, turquoise, coral, and special editions like the Animal Crossing variant.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Nvidia Tegra X1+ (Cortex-A57/A53, 1.02-1.785 GHz)
- GPU: Nvidia GM20B (307.2-460 MHz)
- Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 32 GB eMMC (expandable via MicroSD)
- Battery: 3570 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC
- Audio: Stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Sensors: Accelerometer, gyroscope
- Cooling: Fan with vents
- Video Output: None (no TV dock support)
- Vibration: None (no HD Rumble)
Who It Is For
The Switch Lite is ideal for gamers who primarily play in handheld mode and want a lighter, more affordable device. It's perfect for children, commuters, or anyone who doesn't need TV output or detachable controllers. It plays all Nintendo Switch games that support handheld mode, but note that some games requiring Joy-Con features (like motion controls or IR) may need separate controllers.
Buying Notes
The Switch Lite is a budget-friendly option compared to the standard Switch or Switch OLED. It lacks certain features like HD Rumble, IR motion camera, and TV output, so consider your gaming habits before purchasing. The built-in battery offers 3-7 hours of playtime depending on the game. Storage is limited to 32GB, so a MicroSD card is recommended for digital downloads. Prices typically range from ¥1000 to ¥1500 (Chinese market), but international pricing may vary.
| CPU | Cortex-A57 / Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Nvidia GM20B |
| Name | Switch Lite |
| Alias | NS Lite |
| Brand | Nintendo |
| Memory | 4 GB LPDDR4 |
| Weight | 277 grams |
| Battery | 3570 mAh |
| Cooling | Fan, vents |
| Storage | 32 GB eMMC internal, MicroSD external |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Nvidia Tegra X1+ |
| Vibration | None (removed compared to other Switch models) |
| Dimensions | 208 mm x 91 mm x 14 mm |
| Screen PPI | 267.02 |
| Body Colors | Gray, Blue, Yellow, Turquoise, Coral, Animal Crossing limited edition |
| Price Range | ¥1000 - ¥1500 |
| Screen Size | 5.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.1, NFC |
| Release Date | 2019 / 09 |
| Video Output | None (removed compared to other Switch models) |
| CPU Frequency | 1.02 GHz - 1.785 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Accelerometer, gyroscope |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Custom proprietary system |
| Screen Resolution | 1280 × 720 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 307.2 - 460 MHz |
| Screen Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores, 8 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Switch games; after modding, most PSP games and some pre-PS2 games playable |