Home > Budget Model Nintendo Switch Lite Revealed for $199
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.
About the Author:
Rial Johnson
Rial Johnson founded Nintendo Castle in 2011 with hopes to build the largest collection of Nintendo walkthroughs, guides, and content on the web. He is an avid gamer with a special place in his heart for Nintendo, but often finds himself writing about games more than actually playing them. You'll likely see him around Nintendo Castle and on social media, mostly managing the front-end content of the site.
