Nintendo 3DS vs 3DS XL vs 2DS Review

Continuing from our original DS family review we did we’re going to take a look at the new  3DS family and that’s the Nintendo 3Ds vs the 3DS XL vs the 2DS.  Each have unique factors about them which we are going to explore and hopefully help you decide which one is the best for you.

The Nintendo 3DS

The original and oldest model in the 3DS lineup. It was the first portable console to have a 3D capabilities.  The top screens is 3.52 inch and in 3D while the lower screen is 3.02 inches and is a touchscreen.  It comes with 3 cameras. One on the inside and two on the outside which take 3D photos and video and augmented reality using the AR Games cards included.  Also included is a stylus on the top which is an awkward location compare to most DS models in general. There is also stereo speakers and 2 GB SD card and charger. The build is more a shiny plastic which looks nice but will bring some fingerprints to it. The 3D levels can be controlled by a switch on the side of the screen that let’s you control how much of the 3D effect is used and it can be completely turned off. The system supports 3DS and DS games and games downloaded from the Nintendo eShop.  Battery life is around 5-9 hours for 3DS games and 5-8 hours for DS games and  around 3 days of standby time.

The Nintendo 3DS XL

 The 3DS XL is a larger version of the 3DS. It comes with 4.88 inch 3D display on top and a 4.1 inch touch screen display on the bottom. Besides the screens size the 3DS XL is similar spec wise with the same 3 camera setup, stereo speakers support for 3Ds, DS and Nintendo eShop games. It comes with a 4 GB SD card an increase from the 2 GB the standard 3DS comes with and the stylus placement returns to the normal area on the right side. The 3DS XL has a matte finish to it with more rounded edges. while the device is bigger the battery life remains the same with around 5-9 hours for 3DS games and 5-8 hours for DS games and  around 3 days of standby time.

The Nintendo 2DS

The 2DS is the latest model in the 3DS family and is considered the entry-level of them. The 2DS has a 2 in it because there is no 3D. There also isn’t a hinge like the other two so to put it in standby mode you will need to use the switch at the bottom. The screen sizes is the same as the original 3DS  with 3.52 inch  display on top and a 3.02 inch touch screen display on the bottom. There is mono speakers but stereo audio with headphones. It supports the same games 3DS games that will play in 2D and DS games. The stylus is on the rights side like the 3DS XL and comes with a 4 GB SD card. The 2DS even without the 3D shares similar battery life as the rest with  5-9 hours for 3DS games and 5-8 hours for DS games.

Wrap Up

As you can see there are 3 distinct options to choose from in the Nintendo 3DS Family. Any of which will be a great choice to have. Currently I am using the 3DS XL for my choice but check out our video and chart below for more info and you decide!