Nintendo is a company that is renowned all around the globe for their innovative products and exceptional gaming experience. The Nintendo 3DS is one such device that made waves when it was introduced to the market. The 3DS model continues to be one of the most popular gaming consoles globally, especially since the launch of the Nintendo 3DS XL and 3DS LL, each having its unique features. In this article, we will review the differences between the 3DS XL vs. LL and help you decide which one is ideal for your gaming needs.
Size and Design
The most significant difference between the Nintendo 3DS XL and 3DS LL is in size and design. While the 3DS XL is longer, thinner, and more rounded, the 3DS LL is shorter, chunkier, and square in shape. The screen size is also different, with the XL model having a 4.88-inch screen and the LL model having a 4.18-inch screen. However, both models have the same resolution of 800*240 pixels, with 400 pixels for each eye when playing 3D games.
Moreover, the 3DS LL has a more matte finish that makes it more resistant to fingerprints, while the 3DS XL has a glossy finish that is more aesthetically pleasing. The LL model is also slightly heavier, weighing 9 ounces compared to the XL model’s 7.76 ounces. Therefore, choose the model based on your personal preferences and hand size.
Battery Life
Another significant difference between the Nintendo 3DS XL and 3DS LL is in their battery life. The 3DS XL has a slightly longer battery life, lasting up to 6.5 hours when playing 3D games and up to 10 hours when playing standard DS games. On the other hand, the 3DS LL has a shorter battery life since it uses a more massive battery, lasting up to 6 hours of 3D gaming and eight hours of standard DS gaming.
The LL model battery life may seem short compared to the XL model; however, the model’s larger size affords better grip and allows for longer gaming sessions without fatigue. Therefore, choosing between the two based on battery life depends on your playstyle and intended use.
Storage, Sound, and Connectivity
The 3DS LL has a larger storage capacity than the 3DS XL, with an onboard storage of 4GB compared to the XL’s 2GB of storage. Both devices support external microSD cards, allowing storage expansion of up to 32GB.
Furthermore, the sound quality and microphone placements are also different. The 3DS XL’s speakers sit at the lower front of the console, while the LL model’s speakers are located on the upper part of the console. The LL has more clarified audio, making the gaming experience more immersive. The microphone placement on the LL model is also better, situated at a more natural angle, allowing for comfortable use.
Lastly, both models have the same connectivity features, including Wi-Fi connectivity, StreetPass, and SpotPass, allowing players to engage with one another and receive game updates wirelessly. In conclusion, choose the model based on your preference in storage space, audio quality, and microphone placement.
Price
The Nintendo 3DS XL and 3DS LL are both priced differently, depending on the region and where you purchase it from. Nevertheless, the LL model is always more expensive than the XL in the Japanese market. However, the difference in price between the two models is not significant enough to warrant any substantial concern depending on your budget.
FAQs
Q: Which model is better for children?
A: Both models are suitable for children as they are both durable and have excellent graphics capabilities. However, the 3DS LL might be more comfortable for smaller children due to its larger size and grip.
Q: Are the consoles region-locked?
A: Yes, the Nintendo 3DS XL and 3DS LL are region-locked, meaning games released in one region cannot be played on consoles from other regions. Therefore, choose the model based on your preferred region.
Q: Can 2DS games be played on the 3DS models?
A: Yes, 2DS games can be played on both 3DS models. However, 3DS games cannot be played on the 2DS console.
Q: Which console has the better 3D feature?
A: Both consoles have the same 3D capabilities, with the only difference being the screen size.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Nintendo 3DS XL and 3DS LL are exceptional consoles that offer superb gaming experiences. The XL model has more extended battery life, a more glossy finish, and is lighter than the LL model, which offers a slightly sharper audio quality and bigger storage capacity. Ultimately, the primary difference between the two models is their size and design. Therefore, choose the model based on your preferred design and hand size, and most importantly, immerse yourself in one of the most exciting gaming experiences in the industry.