Which version of the Nintendo DS should I get?

July 10, 2011 1:25 PM

I want to pick up a used Nintendo DS for cheap, but there are a bunch of different models. Which version of the DS should I get?

I've never owned a DS or even held one. I used to have a GBA but sold it long ago. I'd like to be able to play DS games as well. I don't think I need a 3DS, considering the price and the lack of quality games thus far. Since I don't want to spend much money, is there any reason I shouldn't pick up an original DS? Is there anything especially great about the later versions (DS Lite, DSi), either in terms of hardware or the available games?

posted by iamisaid to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (10 answers total)

...is there any reason I shouldn't pick up an original DS?

The original DS has a number of issues -- form factor, brightness, etc. -- that the DS Lite greatly improved upon. The DS Lite/DSi issue is based on whether you want any of the features the DSi has to offer -- bigger screen, another camera, a handful of exclusive games -- but there is absolutely no reason you should buy an original DS.
posted by griphus at 1:29 PM on July 10, 2011 [1 favorite]

I just purchased my first DS for my upcoming trip to PAX. I settled on the DSi, mainly because it has a few extra features (camera, etc) and isn't that much more expensive. I think the original DS is kind of a brick. I suggest craigslist - I picked up a like-new unit for $90.
posted by tryniti at 1:31 PM on July 10, 2011

another camera a camera
posted by griphus at 1:32 PM on July 10, 2011

One of the good things about the original and the lite is that they play game boy advance games which you can pick up really cheaply used.
posted by SpaceWarp13 at 1:32 PM on July 10, 2011 [2 favorites]

DS Lite is your best bet. You will not regret getting it over the original DS. The DSi is unnecessary. (You don't need a camera)

The DS and DS Lite are so different that they feel like completely different platforms to me.
posted by lakerk at 1:33 PM on July 10, 2011 [1 favorite]

I did a quick check at Amazon.com. The pricing difference between a used DS and DS Lite is about $10 USD (65 vs. 55). With such a difference, I'd go for a Lite.

If you're not planning to use your DS that much, then it may be worthwhile to do some searching for a low-priced DS original. I always recommend people to go low when they're trying out a new hobby. Otherwise, just go for the Lite. It's not as heavy, battery life is longer (if you set it on anything other than highest brightness), and it's relative popularity means that compatible accessories are still being sold for it.
posted by FJT at 1:47 PM on July 10, 2011

I'll just point out the few (only?) advantages of the original DS vs. the Lite: the original supposedly has a "clicky" D-pad that some people prefer to the Lite's, and the GBA carts don't stick out of the console like they do in the Lite (because the Lite is much smaller). You may also feel more comfortable playing on the bigger original than on the Lite (only way to know is to try both yourself), and if you intend to play mostly at home then size/brightness/battery life become less of an issue.

The DSi lacks a GBA cart slot, so if I were you I'd get the original/Lite.
posted by Bangaioh at 2:48 PM on July 10, 2011

Not sure if you are the kind of person for whom this will matter, but the DS Lite is a beautiful little object. It feels wonderful in the hand, open or closed, in "portrait" or "landscape" orientation, and has an almost Applesque level of fit and finish. The DS (original chunky style) feels like a hastily assembled prototype in comparison. Well worth the $10 premium if you are someone who appreciates good design.
posted by Rock Steady at 4:00 PM on July 10, 2011

Despite its drawbacks, I prefer the old, first-gen DS to any of the newer models. The way my hands are sized, or perhaps shaped, the newer, boxier DSi and DS Lite are very uncomfortable for me to use for more than a couple minutes, where I can go hours on my old first-gen DS. A huge library of great GBA games is a plus, too.
posted by xedrik at 10:11 PM on July 10, 2011

either the DS Lite or the DS XL (if you have big hands). the "bonus" features on the DSi are basically outmoded technology at this point, and it doesn't offer enough in the way of "new experience" to get over the hurdle of not being able to play GBA games.
posted by radiosilents at 11:45 AM on July 11, 2011