The Switch Lite is a handheld version of the smash hit gaming machine that plays all the same games as the regular console
Nintendo
The Nintendo Switch may be getting on a bit, but it still has plenty of fuel in the tank.
Not only are Nintendo and its partners continuing to release must-play games you can't find anywhere else, but the Switch also looks set for a long life as the go-to handheld for younger players who aren't fussed about cutting-edge graphics and just want to hang out with Mario and the gang.
The only thing holding it back is the price. But now, Nintendo is tapping into its long-term potential by offering its cheapest Switch yet. For £180, you can get your hands on the handheld-only Switch Lite - the perfect entry point into the colourful world of Nintendo for younger players.
Before you rush to grab it, though, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it doesn’t come with a power adapter. If you want one, you’ll have to shell out an extra £20 for the Switch Lite that includes it — but honestly, you might not even need it.
After all, the Switch uses a USB-C connector for charging, so you can easily use the same plug that powers up the latest iPhone or virtually any Android phone on the market. Nintendo likely skipped the plug to comply with new EU laws, which give consumers the chance to purchase new gadgets without a charger.
The Switch Lite doesn’t come with a dock to play games on TV
Nintendo
Switch Lite vs standard Switch vs Switch OLED - which is the best?
More broadly, the Switch Lite is missing some of the perks that come with its pricier siblings.
For starters, it's got a smaller 5.5-inch screen (compared to the 6-inch on the standard Switch and 7-inch OLED), and while the resolution is the same, it won’t wow you with deep blacks or vibrant colors like the OLED model.
The Lite is also limited to handheld mode, so no TV connections here. Plus, its built-in controls mean no detachable Joy-Cons for multiplayer fun, unlike the standard and OLED models. Battery life is decent, ranging from 3 to 7 hours, but the other models get a bit more juice with up to 9 hours.
It might be a no-frills version of the Switch proper, but the Switch Lite can still play all the games as the standard console, including the excellent Super Mario Bros. Wonder (pictured)
Nintendo
Meanwhile, storage is basic at 32GB, though you can expand it by purchasing a microSD card. And, while the Lite is the lightest and cheapest option, it’s missing features like an improved kickstand and enhanced speakers.
Still, if you’re after portability on a budget, the Lite is your best bet.
What about the Nintendo Switch 2?
Speaking of drawbacks, is it worth buying a Switch this close to the launch of its successor, the Switch 2?
Nintendo is indeed set to release an upgraded new console this year. So, why is the company still pushing out new bundles and special editions of the Switch? Well, it seems Nintendo isn’t quite ready to say goodbye to its current model.
The Switch 2 (pictured) with a new Mario Kart game
Nintendo
Unlike the Wii U, which was discontinued just months before the Switch’s release, Nintendo has confirmed it will continue selling the Switch as long as there’s demand.
Even with the recent dip in sales as the Switch enters its eighth year, Nintendo is confident the Switch will have a strong finish. It will also likely continue receiving software support, though it remains to be seen if new titles (like Mario Kart 9) will launch for both consoles simultaneously.