Difference between Nintendo DSi and Nintendo DSi XL

Nintendo DSi vs Nintendo DSi XL

Nintendo DSi and Nintendo DSi XL are gaming consoles from the Nintendo DS family. Talking about Nintendo’s DS series, it is now four models old. Every new gaming console has better features than the one preceding it. As the name implies, Nintendo DSi XL is a larger version of Nintendo DSi. It has a bigger screen measuring at 4.3” in comparison to 3.25” of Nintendo DSi. The console itself is bigger and heavier. But talking of differences, there is nothing much to talk about. The screen is not sharper or brighter, and both operate on the same platform. Both have 256MB flash memory, 2 front-and back facing low resolution cameras, and built in Wi-Fi.

However, the bigger size does make a difference, at least for those who found it hard to concentrate on games with a small screen of Nintendo DSi. Though the pixels are the same, the graphics are easy on the eyes. This large screen helps when one is engaged in activities such as drawing and painting. This screen is also good to look at when one reads recipes or e-books. One big difference claimed by the company is 13-17 hours of battery life in Nintendo DSi XL as compared with 9-14 hours of Nintendo DSi.

If you downloaded a game from DSiWare store on your Nintendo DSi, you cannot transfer it on to your new Nintendo DSi XL, which is irritating. The glossy top of the console sticks to fingers and also looks cheaper than the top of DSi. Nintendo DSi easily fits into pockets of jackets and shirts, but you will need to carry a bag for Nintendo DSi XL.

Nintendo DSi XL is only $20 more than Nintendo DSi. So if you still do not own a DS, it is better to go for DSi XL, but if you own a DSi, it is better to stick to it as there is not much on offer except bigger size.