When the Nintendo Switch dropped in March 2017, it was out of stock everywhere for a long time. I was fortunate to get my hands on one the day after it released because someone canceled their reservation on it.
The Nintendo Switch Lite was announced recently, and now retailers such as Amazon and GameStop are now taking reservations on the system.
An updated Nintendo Switch console model which is the same as the original console model with an improved battery was also announced, however, there is no date yet on when that will release.
With all of these options, how does one decide which Switch is best for them? An easy way to decide whether to pick up a regular Nintendo Switch or a Nintendo Switch Lite is to use the compare feature on Nintendo's official website.
If you DO NOT already have a Nintendo Switch,
Do you want to get your hands on a Switch right now, or are you willing to wait a couple of months at minimum to acquire one? The original launch model is the only one currently able to buy right now.
There is a $100 price difference between the original and Lite models, which can heavily influence one's decision. If you have several children who want their own Switch systems, buying a Switch Lite is probably a more cost-efficient option for you. Keep in mind that the Switch Lite does not have a TV or tabletop mode, so playing certain games like Super Mario Party will require staring at a rather small screen.
If you DO have an original Switch already,
One could either trade in their current Switch for a Lite, or purchase a Lite separately and keep their original model. I am debating buying the Pokemon-themed Switch Lite simply because of how awesome it looks.
If you play your Switch in handheld more often than not, a Lite may not be a bad option for you to switch over since it is the only handheld. Keep in mind that some Switch games are not compatible in handheld mode and you will still need joy-con controllers to play those games since the Lite does not have detachable controllers.
I personally play a little more in docked mode versus handheld mode. I typically reserve handheld mode play for when I am on the go or if I am in my house away from my television.
In short,
If you already have a Nintendo Switch and you are fine with the battery life on it (or you play more often in the dock more often than not, so it does not matter)", you should probably stick with what you already have.
If you do not have a Switch yet, or you want to either have a console with improved battery or a console that is only in handheld mode, then maybe you should consider either the improved original model Switch or a Switch Lite.
I think the Switch Lite is a neat concept. However, it is not the most practical to fit my gaming preferences.
