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Best Nintendo 3DS Systems

Updated August 2021
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS XL Super Nintendo Edition & Super Mario Kart
Nintendo
New Nintendo 3DS XL Super Nintendo Edition & Super Mario Kart
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Best for Experts
Bottom Line

A delightfully retro styled 3DS model that hardcore Nintendo enthusiasts will appreciate.

Pros

Super Nintendo themed case is a must-have for retro game fans. Includes SNES classic Super Mario Kart, a large display. Plays many games in 3D. Able to download and play “New 3DS” exclusive games like EarthBound and Donkey Kong Country.

Cons

Fairly expensive. AC adapter sold separately.

Best Bang for the Buck
Nintendo New Nintendo 2DS XL & Mario Kart 7
Nintendo
New Nintendo 2DS XL & Mario Kart 7
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Best for Kids
Bottom Line

If you can live without 3D gameplay, the New 2DS XL does everything else just as well as the 3DS, but at a more affordable price.

Pros

Has all of the features of the New 3DS XL without the 3D gameplay for at least $50 less. Includes Mario Kart 7. Is available in orange or turquoise. Makes for an excellent first video game system for kids. Includes AC adapter.

Cons

No 3D gameplay, but 3D isn’t recommended for kids under 6 years old anyway.

Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS XL Solgaleo Lunala Black Edition
Nintendo
New Nintendo 3DS XL Solgaleo Lunala Black Edition
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Sun and Moon Players
Bottom Line

The 3DS design of choice for dedicated Pokémon Sun and Pokémon Moon players.

Pros

This jet-black New 3DS XL sports Pokémon Sun & Moon’s mascots, Solgaleo & Lunala, on both sides of the case. Stereo speakers. Amiibo functionality, and face-tracking 3D controls.

Cons

Special edition 3DS models like this one can be pricy. Doesn't include a game or AC adapter.

Nintendo Electric Blue 2 Nintendo 2DS & Mario Kart 7
Nintendo
Electric Blue 2 Nintendo 2DS & Mario Kart 7
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Best for Beginners
Bottom Line

An ultra-durable and affordable 2DS model designed for the youngest of players.

Pros

Easily the cheapest modern DS system available. Its sturdy wedge shape is perfect for younger players. Plays every game in the 3DS library. Available in Crimson Red 2 or Electric Blue 2, and includes Mario Kart 7.

Cons

No 3D gameplay. Lacks protective foldable clamshell design.

Nintendo New Nintendo 3DS XL - Pikachu Yellow Edition
Nintendo
New Nintendo 3DS XL - Pikachu Yellow Edition
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Retro Vibes
Bottom Line

The best 3DS platform for old-school Pokémon adventurers who love everyone’s favorite electric mouse.

Pros

An adorable Pikachu-yellow 3DS XL that supports 3D gameplay, online multiplayer, compatibility with original DS games. Amiibo support, and includes parental controls. Stereo speakers.

Cons

Does not include a game or AC adapter.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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32
Models
Considered
143
Consumers
Consulted
20
Hours
Researched
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Nintendo’s 3DS is an incredibly popular handheld video game system that has sold well over 73 million units worldwide. Featuring a wide range of creative and entertaining games, including Donkey Kong, Super Mario, Pokémon, and Kirby, online gameplay with millions of allies and opponents, and a durable design with a long-lasting ion lithium battery, it’s no surprise that the Nintendo 3DS family of game systems is such an incredible hit. With that said, Nintendo has released a few different models under the 3DS banner over the years, which may make it difficult to select the best 3DS game system for your gaming needs.

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