The release of Nintendo Switch Lite finally signals an end to the long, lustrous life of Nintendo's previous portable-only console, the Nintendo 3DS. The Switch Lite is a smaller handheld-only variant of Nintendo's hybrid console that effectively replaces the 3DS family of systems (including 2DS) as the entry-level gateway into the world of Nintendo and its brilliant games. If you're hoping to grab a Nintendo Switch Lite all for yourself, you've certainly come to the right place.

You'll find all three standard colours of Switch Lite available to order from numerous UK and US retailers. You'll also find a couple of options available for the fancy Pokémon edition console (or the Switch Lite Zacian & Zamazenta Edition, to give it its full name).

We'll add to this list with any more Switch Lite deals we find going forward, so feel free to bookmark this page and check back. We've also added a Frequently Asked Questions section to clear up any queries you might have about this portable-only version of Nintendo Switch, including the differences between this and the standard model.

Where to buy Nintendo Switch Lite - USA

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Where to buy Nintendo Switch Lite - UK

Nintendo Switch Lite FAQ

What are the features of the Switch Lite?



The standard model's left-side buttons have been replaced with a traditional D-Pad, and the speakers have moved from the front of the console to the bottom. Here's a look at the Switch Lite from all angles, including all of the buttons, ports and other fancy gizmos available.

What gameplay modes does Switch Lite support?

One of the key features of the standard Switch model is its three gameplay modes: TV mode, Tabletop mode, and Handheld mode. However, the Nintendo Switch Lite can only be played in handheld; it cannot connect to the TV and does not feature a kickstand to use in a Tabletop setup.

It's also worth noting that the Nintendo Switch Lite does not feature HD Rumble or an IR Motion Camera, although the console will recognise other wireless Joy-Con.

Are all Switch games compatible with Switch Lite?

Nearly all Nintendo Switch games are compatible with Switch Lite, although you will need separate wireless Joy-Con controllers for a small selection of games which don't support Handheld mode.

The Nintendo Switch Lite can play any Switch games which support handheld mode. For games that do not support handheld mode (for example, Super Mario Party, 1-2-Switch, Labo), players can wirelessly connect compatible controllers to the Switch Lite and effectively create a makeshift tabletop setup (minus the kickstand). If you're using original Joy-Con controllers, you'll need to have a way of recharging them as they cannot be docked to the Switch Lite.

For a full list of games which a) require Joy-Con to play, or b) simply won't function as intended with Switch Lite, check out our list of the games that don't work with Switch Lite.

What comes in the box with Switch Lite?

The Nintendo Switch Lite does not include a dock, HDMI cable, or kickstand like the original model. Instead, the box will simply contain the console and an AC adaptor.

What are the Switch Lite specs?

Here are the Nintendo Switch Lite vital statistics along with a comparison to the standard model:

Dimensions: Nintendo Switch Lite: 3.6" high, 8.2" long, 0.55" deep | Nintendo Switch: 4" high, 9.4" long, 0.55" deep with Joy-Con attached

Nintendo Switch Lite: 3.6" high, 8.2" long, 0.55" deep | Nintendo Switch: 4" high, 9.4" long, 0.55" deep with Joy-Con attached Weight: Nintendo Switch Lite: .61lbs | Nintendo Switch: 0.88lbs with the Joy-Con attached

Nintendo Switch Lite: .61lbs | Nintendo Switch: 0.88lbs with the Joy-Con attached Screen: Nintendo Switch Lite: 5.5" touchscreeen, 720p | Nintendo Switch: 6.2" touchscreen, 720p

Nintendo Switch Lite: 5.5" touchscreeen, 720p | Nintendo Switch: 6.2" touchscreen, 720p Battery Life: Nintendo Switch Lite: approx. 3 - 7 hours | Nintendo Switch: approx. 2.5 - 6.5 hours

Nintendo Switch Lite: approx. 3 - 7 hours | Nintendo Switch: approx. 2.5 - 6.5 hours Storage: Nintendo Switch Lite: 32GB | Nintendo Switch: 32GB

What Switch Lite colours or styles are available?

The Nintendo Switch Lite is available in yellow, grey, or turquoise.

A special Pokémon edition is also available, which looks rather lovely:

How much does Switch Lite cost?

Missed all those order links at the top of the page? Nintendo Switch Lite's recommended retail price is $199.99 / £199.99. The Nintendo Switch's recommended retail price has been $299.99 / £299.99 since it launched in 2017, so the Lite variant saves you 100 notes if you're happy to sacrifice a few of the features detailed above.

When did Switch Lite launch?

The Nintendo Switch Lite officially released on 20th September 2019; the snazzy Zacian & Zamazenta Edition (the Pokémon one) arrived later on 8th November, just a week before the launch of Pokémon Sword and Shield.

Are you thinking of picking up one of these Switch Lite models, or will you be waiting for more colours to pop up (Spice Orange, perhaps...)? Tell us below.