Home > Budget Model Nintendo Switch Lite Revealed for $199
Originally published on Nintendo Castle.
A few months ago, a few rumors started to emerge about upcoming Switch models. At least one of the two rumored revisions has come to fruition: the Nintendo Switch Lite. As the name suggests, this will be a budget model targeted towards a younger audience and handheld players. In fact, this model doesn't feature detachable joy-cons or docking with a television, so handheld mode is the only way to play.
Other changes in hardware include a smaller screen size: 5.5 inches compared to the Switch's 6.2 inches. The device itself is a little smaller and lighter as well, coming in at 3.6" x 8.2" x .55". The original Switch has dimensions of 4" x 9.4" x .55". The new model is also unfortunately equipped with a bezel that is only slightly more attractive than the original Switch's.
The control layout is similar on the Nintendo Switch Lite, but the new device does not feature detachable Joy-Con. Rather, Joy-Con like controllers are permanently attached to the system. Perhaps the most exciting hardware change is the inclusion of a d-pad on the left side instead of a 4-button layout.
It's unclear if this device can be docked to charge (it won't come with a dock or HDMI cable), but we do know it cannot output over USB-C. Joy-Con controllers can be connected for table-top mode (although the flimsy little kickstand is gone). Otherwise, any game that requires the motion controls or IR sensor of the Joy-Con cannot be played. So long as a game is compatible with handheld mode, it can be played at the same resolution (with presumably the same performance) as the original Switch.
The system will come in three colors: grey, turqoise, and yellow. The Nintendo Switch Lite will retail for $199 while the original Switch reamins at the $299 price point. These three colors will be released on September 20, 2019. There will also be a limited time Pokemon Sword and Shield edition that will go for the same price starting November 8, 2019.
