If you're a parent who's stumbled on this website wondering what to buy your child for their birthday or the holidays, then presumably you're in the market for picking up a Nintendo console. A wise choice, and one of which we heartily approve.
But with several options out there, you might be left wondering which model or bundle is the right one for you. Our guide Which Switch Is Best For Me guide may prove useful, but here we take a look at every Switch model from a parent's perspective. Allow us to offer some parental guidance.
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Nintendo Switch (the standard model)
After launching back in 2017, the standard Nintendo Switch remains the most popular Nintendo console right now and is the one which connects to your TV via a special dock.
The design of Nintendo Switch enables your kids to play on your TV like a regular games console or take the game with you when you leave the house and continue playing on-the-go. This means you can take full console games like Super Mario Odyssey, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Animal Crossing: New Horizons with you in the back of the car, on the bus or anywhere else you take your children.
The Nintendo Switch doesn't require a TV to function and you can happily play in portable mode forever if you choose. However, if you have absolutely no intention of using it on the TV, you might want to consider the portable-only Switch Lite, a smaller, cheaper Switch which isn't able to output to a television. Scroll down for more information on the Switch Lite.
What's included in the standard Nintendo Switch box?
When you open up your brand new Switch you'll find the following:
- The base Nintendo Switch console (essentially a small touchscreen tablet with railings either end)
- A pair of detachable Joy-Con controller of the colour indicated on the box
- A plastic grip for the Joy-Con which you can plug the controllers into to create a more standard game pad
- A cradle-style dock that connects to your TV
- An HDMI cable for connecting the dock to the TV
- A power supply which can be plugged into the dock or the console itself
What's the battery life of the Nintendo Switch?
A minor internal hardware revision increased maximum battery life for this model to 4.5 - 9 hours, depending on the game running. While playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, for example, the new console should give you approximately 5.5 hours of playtime between charges, versus around 3 hours for the older version.
Old inventory should be gone by now, but it's still worth making sure you're getting the revised model. Our guide to the differences between the old version and the improved Switch will help if you're unsure which is which (the box of the newer version has more red). For reference, the links included in this article are for the new version only.
Nintendo Switch OLED Model
In October 2021 the standard Nintendo Switch was joined by the current flagship Nintendo console — the Nintendo Switch OLED Model. It still connects to your TV via a special dock, although it boasts a couple of enhancements over the standard model to justify its higher price.
The inner workings of this console are largely identical to the regular Switch, but its standout feature is a larger, brighter OLED screen.
Additionally, Switch OLED comes with larger internal memory storage (64GB versus 32GB), a slightly different dock with an inbuilt ethernet port (for the fastest possible wired internet connection while the console is docked), improved speakers, and a larger and sturdier kickstand.
What's the battery life of the Nintendo Switch OLED Model?
While the screen is bigger, OLED screens are more power efficient than the screens in the other Switch models. Battery life is therefore comparable to the standard Switch — see above for details.
Nintendo Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch Lite is portable-only entry in Nintendo's console lineup – a smaller, cheaper, handheld-only version of the Switch. Unlike the standard console, the controllers on either side of the touchscreen are permanently attached on the Switch Lite, making it a tougher, more durable console that might be better for younger kids with butterfingers.
It is possible to link standard Joy-Con controllers wirelessly to the Switch Lite (indeed, it's necessary for a small number of games), but they'll need to be purchased separately.
One other benefit of the Switch Lite is the selection of colours it's available in. You can currently choose from Turquoise, Yellow, Gray and Coral or there's a special Pokémon version.
What's the battery life of the Nintendo Switch Lite?
The Switch Lite has a battery life of around 3 to 7 hours, depending on the game. For example, a full charge will get you around 4 hours of playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild versus approximately 5.5 hours on the standard Switch.
What games should I get with my new Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch has a vast library of family-friendly games on offer, including the Super Mario series. Here are a selection of evergreen classics to set you on the right path. All of the games below are family favourites that will guarantee smiles all round:
Micro SD cards
While many of the games on Nintendo Switch are available on physical cartridges, the Switch eShop offers the opportunity to avoid losing those tiny cartridges down the back of the sofa or in the footwell of the car by buying the games digitally instead (some smaller games are only available on the Nintendo eShop, too).
All versions of the Switch come with at least 32GB of internal storage, with the OLED Model having 64GB. Bear in mind that the console's operating system will use around 7GB of space, with the remainder accessible to the user. This will be fine for storing your save data and a few games, but if you run out of space it's easy to expand that storage with a micro SD card.
Nintendo Switch Common Questions
What are Joy-Cons?
Joy-Con(s) are the detachable controllers that slide onto the sides of the main Switch console. They operate wirelessly and also feature motion controls and rumble functionality for compatible games. The standard console comes with two, although none are included with Switch Lite which has its own integrated controls.
Joy-Con controllers can be used in a variety of ways depending on the game: split up, held sideways or combined to become 'one' game pad. For many games it's possible to play in two-player mode using only the two Joy-Con that come with the Switch, meaning it's the perfect system for kids who want to play games together on-the-go without the need for cumbersome extra accessories.
What is the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller?
If you're planning on playing the Switch yourself once you've tucked the kids in bed, you might want to consider getting a Pro Controller. The Pro Controller is more like a traditional game pad and it can't be split in two, although it offers the same motion control and rumble functionality found in the smaller Joy-Con.
The Pro Controller is not required for any game, and you can happily use two Joy-Con in the supplied grip to achieve the same control - the Pro Controller simply offers a more ergonomic, comfortable alternative for people with larger hands.
Can the Switch play games online?
Yes it can. Free-to-play games such as Fortnite can be played online at no cost, although most other games with online features will require an annual Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
The price of this service varies depending on how you choose to pay:
| 12 Months | 3 Months | 1 Month | Annual Family Membership |
|---|---|---|---|
| £17.99 / $19.99 | £6.99 / $7.99 | £3.49 / $3.99 | £31.49 / $34.99 |
There's also a family membership option for up to eight Switches for £31.49 / $34.99 per year. That's less than £5 / $5 per user if eight people are signed up.
Subscribing to Nintendo Switch Online also has other benefits. A subscription includes Cloud Saves for supported games, which means your child's in-game progress will be saved to the cloud (subject to a functioning WiFi connection) and can be accessed again if the worst happens and their Switch console somehow gets lost or dropped in the river.
You also get access to a growing catalogue of classic retro games from past Nintendo systems.
What is Nintendo Labo?
Nintendo Labo is a system of cardboard objects that you construct and which interact with the Switch in novel ways using the various features of the system's Joy-Con controllers. For example, you can construct a wearable Robot kit which registers your movements in-game, or use the system to experience some simple Virtual Reality games. It's ingenious, although beware that with younger children you will be called upon to do the lion's share of the building, which can take several hours.
Due to the required features and design of the Nintendo Labo kits, they are only compatible with the standard Switch model and will not work correctly with Switch Lite. Switch OLED is also slightly bigger than the standard model, so compatibility is not guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Nintendo Switch come with games?
After shelling out for the system itself, you may be wondering: Does Switch come with any free games?
Well, while Nintendo regularly sells console bundles which come with the advertised game, Switch doesn't come with playable games included as standard.
HOWEVER, Switch eShop hosts plenty of free-to-play titles (nearly all of them containing in-game stores with microtransactions — something to bear in mind), many of them excellent.
If you want to play online, you'll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, which also grants access for hundreds of retro titles. Check out the articles below for the full lineup.
Does Nintendo Switch Lite come with games already installed?
Nope, same deal with the standard Switch or the OLED — you have to buy games for your Switch Lite, too.
Watch out for bundle deals, though — it is possible to buy a Switch Lite console bundle with games pre-installed, so check the box to see what's included.
Does the Switch come with a charger?
Yes, every Switch model comes with a charger in the box.
So there you have it. Nintendo consoles are a great choice for children and parents alike, whether you're hoping to enjoy games together as a family or just want to make road trips a little more peaceful. We hope the details above help you make the right choice when it comes to getting the console and games that are best for you.
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The 2DS XL is really good in general and the catalogue of games on the system is immense with so many gems. My game of the year this year is a 3DS title; Persona Q2. So many genuinely amazing RPGs, adventure games, racing games etc. as well as a good selection of virtual console games. Really well-rounded system with tons of value. The home menu customisation with badges is really addictive as well.
Future vs past. I just wouldn't invest in a 2DS, not at this point in time, despite its stellar catalogue.
Also 10/10 for the quantity of affiliate links Nintendolife, it's quite breathtaking really.
@Peterjr1 well rounded that's hypocrisy in the breath to speak.
Apologies if this is a little bit off-topic. Is it bad that I want to comment to just say whoever takes the pictures of the Nintendo systems does a great job of it? They always look so clean whenever I see them here.
At this point I don't see why anyone would bother with a 2DS unless they got a whole collection of games for it on the cheap or something. Last time I went to stores just recently there was hardly anything 3DS related still available. There might be a couple of old 2DS XL consoles that haven't sold but that is about it. All the 3DS games have been pulled from the shelves and they are no longer even selling any accessories. If you want anything for it you gotta be hitting up the used games at Gamestop or order whatever you can find off Amazon/Ebay.
The Switch is the way to go, if you know your kid is just going to use it strictly as a portable there is no denying how the Switch Lite is ideal console.
I have got white and orange Nintendo 2ds XL because I have got loads of ds, 3d games but I don't care about playing games in 3d, I will buy both Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite I will use Nintendo Switch at home and Nintendo Switch Lite when playing outside of home because it's smaller then the normal one I also got Xbox one for games, EA games
I am pretty sure most kids would have told their parents exactly, and in great detail, what exactly it is they want.
@Lordplops
I woul,d but only if I can get it cheap.
I only want to play a handful of games including the Zelda remasters.
Advertising the standard model with a Bloodstained screenshot? Brace for expert comments, NL. 😆
And it's always spectacular to see the fandom read epitaphs to 3DS while buzzing over items like NES Classic. The console is still in production, still easy to buy, still boasting a massive library that will likely retain topical unported segments even after Switch itself starts getting similar post mortems in the face of its successor. You know my "#portbegging" optimism, and even I'm not holding my breath for, say, Konami to revisit that Castlevania LoS interquel anytime soon. And then there's the backward compatibility with DS and its own gargantuan library.
Switch is my all time favourite console to date, but the dual screen family is nothing to sneeze at. And won't be for a long time, if at all.
@SwitchForce what are you even trying to say with that sentence? It doesn't make sense
@SwitchForce 3ds has a ton of great games not on Switch. Future is irrelevant when you can have a ton of great games now.
Good to know you're just a switch fanboy instead of a Nintendo one. No need to defend your $300 purchase so much. A good pair of boots cost more than that.
@Lordplops "invest" you're not investing in anything. Buy the system if you want to experiance the games. 3ds has some really great ones.
@nhSnork My main gripe with continued 3DS/2DS support from Nintendo has always been how it caused a divided Nintendo to have such problems when their home console system bombed in terms of sales. So much about it, though, is great, and the library is the best part — and also the worst part, if it was uncomfortable for someone to play because of it's tiny size. Every once in awhile I would try again, and then just be disappointed that such great ideas for games were trapped on it. I couldn't play for long sessions, but even worse, I have limited time to play games and like to do so with the family participating/watching having fun together — pretty much impossible with this personal/private device.
If they had a way to share the screen or hook up a larger controller I'd be a much bigger fan. I have been an advocate of 3D, even, and I love that part of it — especially with the eye-tracking — but when the Wii U needed software and Nintendo was trying to remain profitable spreading out the development. It was a big problem.
So, yes, I welcome the changeover to the Switch and Switch Lite. Yes, the 3DS/2DS hardware will live on and make gamers happy for decades, but, yes, I'm happy to see it fade away from the focus of Nintendo.
I'd also be thrilled to see the library arrive on the Switch directly or as ports — but well-emulated, would be great.
This is one of the best of these types of guides I've seen online, to be honest. Good work, and there's nothing at all wrong with affiliate links that help support the site and direct consumers to decent deals and well-informed purchases.
I would much, much rather have that than the further encroachment of gigantic intrusive ads that seems to have been surging again on most web sites. (Please don't mention ad-blocking: that does NOT support the site, and I'd like this site to continue, thank you.)
@Sunsy that's fine. Mentioning new and old models helps a ton as it can be so confusing to someone uninitiated.
Also glad they mentioned labo not working with switch lite but no super Mario (holiday) party. That's not right, and it's one joycon per player, like party golf, which has so many modes and simultaneous play I think kids will like. New 2ds should've had some recommendations only on that system though.
Do feel bad for those that missed the black friday rush, though I did get Child of light and South park (good for the teenage ones) on sale. Child of light is even 2 player with the wisp highlighting so both can be immersed in the story.
You can't go wrong with a 3DS: Great Nintendo exclusives, plenty of bargin priced games, and great Japanese third party support. While new major 3DS game support is unlikely, there's a great big 3DS library that already exists. And personally I don't think there's anything wrong with playing a "dead" system.
I think it partly depends on how aware your "little ones" are of the concept of "new, must have releases." For a long time, any game that was new to me was awesome, and I happily took what ever I could get. Maybe at 12, I started wanting the same new things my friends had, whether it was games or clothes. So if your kid is like post 12 year old me and wants the same new releases his/her friends are getting, the 3DS could be a problem.
The reason you want Switch for kids is that more then one person can play on the game aka Mario Kart and multiplayer games all can join the fun. And should they be the only one then it's just them. That's the other appeal of Switch (not the Lite version). The more can play the more fun it is on multi player games. 2/3DS are good but remember they are no longer made and games are still there but you can't hook to TV and enjoy it. So it's out of the gaming light but still there but there is a limit to how far you can use it nowdays.
@YozenFroghurt "If I were a kid, I'd be more excited for a 2DSXL. But the challenge now would be finding most of its incredible library at retail."
I'll point out this tragic mistake. Kids nowdays where I work when I see them it's not 2/3DS anymore but Switch. So not sure where your finding your data but that isn't the route much nowdays when I see it in public. 2/3DS still has a large library but in terms of what they want it's Switch by wide margins if they can get it or parents can afford one for them. Put Mario Kart for 2/3DS and Switch and I can tell you before they power up with one they would want hands down.
@SwitchForce Yeah I don't know where all of these young 2DS enthusiasts are because all the kids I see are playing games on a Switch. All the big present pop culture sensation games like Fortnite are on the Switch, most kids these days seem like they want something that they can play online with their friends. The 2DS online infrastructure is very primitive and basic in comparison, and there is hardly anything to do with it.
It just seems like it would be a big mistake to get any kid that has the slightest interest in today's online gaming kid culture anything besides a Switch. They will be the odd kid out when it comes to their friends and all the kids at school, and they won't be able to relate to anything kids are currently talking about on the playground.
Yeahhh...switch lite isn't an option if you play quick/harsh motion games for a couple of months. Those joycons will break sooner or later due to the well known faulty joystick. I hope you have your warranty ready to send to Nintendo, or you have a dead console due joycons!
I played MHGU with my friends for like 200 hours, and both of their joycons were drifting by the final boss. Meanwhile my PS4 controller via adapter was fine. Switch Pro controller would probably be fine too. You don't really get that option for the Lite in its intended purpose. I assume you can link up another controller, but the joycons can't detach. With a reg Switch you can get a repair by Nintendo or just buy new ones...not with the Switch Lite...
Yes, buy a 2ds for the really young children and add Atrian Odyssey.
I particularly enjoyed the section on the 2ds ............
@Trajan clearly you do not understand the meaning of the word invest.
My son worked hard to earn his switch lite. I gave him jobs to do over the past few months so he could earn some extra money.
It wasn't about his productivity or the amount of chores or anything - hell, he's eight years old - but it helps in making him realise that working can get him results he wants, and I can reward him adequately, instead of poorly, for earning cash he wants so he could afford his own.
Kids gravitate towards the switch. Enable them to get it, it's both joy and lesson.
@JayJ Honestly I'd make the argument that any kids that care about online Nintendo isn't a good choice. If all they play is Fortnite a $200 PS4 or a $160 Xb1 is a much better option.
Edit: is Switchforce Anti-Matters alternative account?
@Trajan Not when they can only play those on a TV, the Switch stands out for it's portability which is a big thing for kids and parents.
@JayJ If the kids big into online games, then a tv isn't an existing issue.
TV's are cheap now in the rare instance it is an issue.
@YozenFroghurt the only thing missing is the randomly capitalized words. Lol
just get a Switch because the Switch is getting new games unlike the 3DS
@KBuckley27 "just get a Switch because the Switch is getting new games unlike the 3DS"
It's because the others don't want the kids to have fun and enjoy new Tech that is why. Why else would they say get 2/3DS for. As for Fortnite that only goes so far and there are boys and girls and not all of them play Fortnite. Let's get that misleading story out of the headlines shall we. Otherwise we should mention SmartPhone Pokemon Go then if that is the case. Also 2/3DS games that are worth the Digits they are written in are being Re-Mastered to Switch so those saying stay away from the Switch are probably the Scalpers.
Let’s be honest that 2ds XX orange white is beautiful to look at, much better than switch lite. I now imagine playing games, instead of playing them, because they r usually better in my mind. But seriously 2dsxl is gorgeous x x x x
Most gamers will know what they want or what to ask for. For the uninitiated, the correct advice is, avoid the DS machines they are out dated, unsurported, with no new games.
Go for a Switch.
And unless you know you want the Lite version, avoid it.
Get them the ultra 64.
@YozenFroghurt it’s the only reason I still have a tube tv hooked up. We need a n64 mini
@Trajan Nah, SwitchForce is much more hostile and demeaning. They're definitely two people XD
You guys should list other cards besides SanDisk! I've had so many die and go corrupt on me. Samsung cards on the other hand have never died on me. At least give people the option!
I regret getting a 2ds and should have gone for a new 3ds.
The 3ds is awesome and so is the 2ds! People who won't play older Nintendo systems are very young children or insecure teens who feel they will be ridiculed by their equally insecure friends who will ridicule them to feel that they are superior. Grow up get over it and enjoy all Nintendo has to offer.
@Trajan
Switchboy vs Nintendo fan is completely correct.
What a pity some people feel their older Nintendos' games stopped being worth playing once the switch came out.
@KitsuneNight Just because kids tell their parents everything they want, doesn't mean they necessarily understand everything. My neighbor knows I'm knowledgeable in games and tech, he came to me 2 years after the Wii U was released to ask if it the Wii was the right gift that his kids asked for, he picked it up during the $99 blow out special. I discouraged him knowing that's not what his children had asked for, but he gave it to them anyway. If I recall they were appreciative, but it didn't get much use and was eventually discarded.
If you're certain you'll never play Switch games on the TV, I've seen people on this site and others claim they go handheld mode all the time, get a Switch Lite. It feels better in the hands then the OG Switch, at least without a grip, as I do not own one yet for either system. Unlike the OG and XL DS and 3DS systems, the screen size difference isn't night and day, and neither is the quality of the graphics.
@MrVariant Indeed it does, especially since the pics do show where the memory card goes, or yes, you can sync a Joy-Con to a Switch Lite. Useful for people who may not own one. Though I should clarify I was talking about Nintendo Life's own pictures.
I have just bought a Switch Lite for my 6 year old. I already own a 3DS so thought it was pointless buying him a New 2DS as he already has access to mine. I was unsure that a console of his own at this age was to soon but his ability to plough through levels on Captain Toad Treasure Tracker and Box Boy on my Switch has convinced me that it's not too soon to put is his brain further to the test with other brain teasing puzzle based games.
There is no way I would buy my daughters a £200 Switch Lite, so the 2DS at £80 definitely still has its place. Even cheaper if you buy second hand. And the price of the games also means I’d never consider a Switch over a 2DS at their age. The fact the 2DS is last generation has no bearing on my decision, they couldn’t care less about console generations!
If they’re still into Nintendo gaming when they’re older (which I hope they will be) then that’s when I’d consider buying them a Switch. At which point I hope they have a cheaper model or it’s come down in price.
My 2DS XL arrives tomorrow — couldn't wait 'til Christmas! The eShop has so many stellar titles not available on Switch (or even Wii — I stockpiled before Wii was shut down; don't have a WiiU, so 3DS definitely fills gaps). Plus a loaded library of its own. Extremely late to the party, but I have zero regrets about investing in the 2DS XL rather than a Switch Lite (which I still don't fully comprehend the appeal of).
The 2DS can also play DS games, so the catalog is perfect especially if the parents have some DS games laying around. The 2DS with over 8 years worth of 3DS games, Virtual Console, DSiware and DS games is a no brainer if you want to get a child started on gaming on the cheap. 79 dollars vs 200 dollars is still a major difference.
This is exactly why I cannot recommend this site to any of my friends. Used to be informative and uiseful but has degraded into links to YouTube videos which is garbage and comparing the 3DS to the Switch. That is like comparing the PS Vita to the Switch. Even though the DS or 3DS has more games it is a bs metric and is not similar in any real regards.
@Lordplops
And I did get a 2DS cheap.
A brand new cheesewedge for 15 bucks.
@bound4earth The 3DS is just an extremely outdated piece of hardware in 2020, it is completely outclassed by just about every portable device on sale in this day and age and it looks completely archaic in comparison. I have no idea why they are still trying to recommend it when hardly anywhere still even offers any games or consoles for sale, most stores unloaded the last remaining stock they had last year. Buying one right now would be like buying a SNES in the late 90's or year 2000. Cool for retro enthusiasts I guess but I wouldn't be getting any kids that when all their friends and all the focus is on newer and far more advanced hardware.
At least 3ds doesnt have Nintendo Switch Online.
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