After reports started to surface earlier this year that Nintendo was planning to release new iterations of the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo has officially unveiled the new smaller version of the console called the Nintendo Switch Lite. Not only is the Nintendo Switch Lite smaller than the original, it will be $100 cheaper as well coming in at a modest $200 USD. The Nintendo Switch Lite will launch later this year on September 20.
Nintendo considers the Switch Lite a dedicated handheld, and has updated the design of the system compared to the original Switch. The biggest difference is that Switch Lite has no way to output to the TV nor will it be able to be docked. The console also does not feature a kickstand or detachable Joy-Con controllers, so no Tabletop Mode either. Due to the controls being integrated into the system itself, some features have been removed such as HD Rumble and IR Motion Camera. Thus, games that require these features will not be playable without an extra set of Joy-Cons.
Without Joy-Cons, the Switch Lite sees the return of the traditional Nintendo D-pad which fans have been clamoring for. The console also has a smaller screen, 5.5 inches compared to 6.2 inches, is a tad bit lighter, and, as a dedicated handheld, has better battery life than the original Switch.
Nintendo also took to Twitter to unveil the first Special Edition of the Nintendo Switch Lite. With no surprise, this edition ties into Nintendo’s big Fall release Pokémon Sword and Shield. Called the Zacian and Zamazenta Edition, this special edition features the games’ legendary Pokémon engraved on the back of the console. This Special Edition will be sold in limited supply and release on November 8 which is one week before Pokémon Sword and Shield release on November 15.
The Nintendo Switch Lite is available to preorder now via the official Nintendo website. It will also come in three unique colors: Grey, Yellow, and Turquoise. It would come as no surprise if more color variants release down the line as well. You can check out the official reveal video for the Nintendo Switch Lite below: