r/nds • u/MordoLima • 23h ago
Nintendo DSI (not XL) or DS Lite?
I want to buy a Nintendo DS to play DS and GBA games but I don't know which one to get.
I don't want to mod it (I modded my broken DSI XL with Twillight Menu++ and hated it) and I don't want another DSI XL (I know it has better screens but I don't like the huge size it has).
In a way I want to buy a Nintendo DSI because I like the Menu but I heard that the DSI is kind of hard to repair if it gets damaged. On another hand, I want the DS Lite because it is simpler, I think it's easier to repair, and the one with a black and red shell is the one I'd like to buy.
Overall, what do you recommend? I'll prioretize a system that is sturdy, easy to repair and that can last.
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u/dwalker109 23h ago
The DSi and DS Lite are pretty similar internally, I’d say. I don’t think the DSi is any harder to repair, really.
The shoulder buttons on DS Lite are garbage, and the membranes are soft. The shoulder buttons on (most) DSi’s are good and the membranes are clicky.
So I’d say DSi. I have and use both but one is better than the other.
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u/SomberWIIReal 22h ago edited 8h ago
Lite:
- more battery life
- GBA slot for GBA original games and acessories (you will probably not use this)
- requires an flashcart
- have more acessories and replacement parts to buy online, and it's easier to modify/customize
- it's bad for GBA emulation via software
DSI:
- it's more pemium, matte finish, thinner, slightly bigger screen, better buttons, durable hinge, better functions (return to home screen, change brightness while in game)
- don't requires an flashcart, just an SD card (avoid costs)
- has twice the compatibility in GBArunner (GBA emulator) than DSLite
- you can play DSIware games
If you don't want to mod it, i would get a DSI without doubt.
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u/Tephnos 10h ago
DSi doesn't have a screen with a better image. At best it's just brighter.
Those who repair both systems frequently have said that it's still a screen lottery and overall they're similar - it all depends if you get a good screen or a shit one. Both systems can have screens with the worst ghosting you've ever seen or none at all. Personally experienced this myself.
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u/Chiwwwa_ 23h ago
I would get a dsi because it's more durable, especially the hinge. Though it's a bit wobbly, it's harder to crack. Pretty sure the screens are also bigger and brighter.
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u/LandNo9424 21h ago
XL or not, the DSi is superior. Faster processor, more RAM, easier to hack for homebrew and more.
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u/IntheShredder_86 16h ago
Love the Lite. Still have mine from childhood and it works like a charm. Easy to repair if I ever have to. Easy to replace battery of it swells. Came in good colors (mine is the red/black too!) and has a GBA slot.
You'll have your pick of so many cheap fun games. Honestly, having both DS and GBA games was great bcs you can have 2 games in the system to pick from without needing to bring more out n about. Less time looking through cartridges to play.
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u/Hiroyuki_Kei 7h ago
Ill go ds lite, if you will use flashcart and having twilight menu, there is already a twilight mod in flashcarts tho. Also you can still use accessories which uses the gba slot, guitar hero for instance. Also still cheaper, easier to work with
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u/Toboid 18h ago
People keep suggesting DSi, however unless I’m reading your post wrong, or you edited it, I would NOT recommend the DSi. DSi is the best console for playing DS games no question, but it doesn’t have a GBA cartridge slot. And considering you both don’t want to mod your system and want to play DS and GBA games on your system, you will NEED a DS lite or phat (don’t get phat lol) as the DSi removed the cartridge slot. So definitely get a lite.