Skip to main content

Nintendo 3DS XL Review: Specs, Features, and Buying Guide

Nintendo 3DS XL Review: Specs, Features, and Buying Guide

Overview

The Nintendo 3DS XL, released in August 2012, is an upgraded version of the original Nintendo 3DS. It features larger screens (4.88 inches upper, 4.18 inches lower), improved battery life (1750 mAh), and a more comfortable grip. The device retains the clamshell design, stereoscopic 3D display (without glasses), and compatibility with the entire Nintendo 3DS and DS game library. It also includes a built-in camera, Wi-Fi connectivity, and NFC for amiibo support.

Key Specs Highlights

  • CPU: ARM11 (268 MHz) + ARM9 (134 MHz)
  • GPU: Digital Media Professionals PICA200 (268 MHz)
  • Memory: 128 MB FCRAM
  • Storage: 1 GB internal, expandable via SD/SDHC
  • Screens: Upper: 4.88-inch TN LCD (800x240), Lower: 4.18-inch TN LCD touchscreen (320x240)
  • Battery: 1750 mAh
  • Weight: 336 grams
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, IR, NFC
  • Launch Price: ¥18,900 / $199.99 / €199.99 / £179.99 / A$249.95

Who It Is For

The 3DS XL is ideal for gamers who want a larger screen and longer battery life than the original 3DS. It's perfect for playing the extensive library of 3DS and DS games, including classics like Pokémon, Zelda, and Mario. The device also supports emulation up to GBA, Genesis, and SNES via homebrew. It's a great choice for collectors, retro enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a dedicated handheld with a unique 3D display.

Buying Notes

When purchasing a used 3DS XL, check for screen scratches, hinge wear, and battery condition. The device is region-locked, so ensure you buy games from the same region. The 3DS XL is no longer in production, but it remains widely available second-hand. Prices vary based on condition and included accessories. For the best experience, consider the 'New Nintendo 3DS XL' model, which offers improved performance and additional features like a C-Stick and ZL/ZR buttons.

Specifications
CPUARM11 / ARM9
GPUDigital Media Professionals PICA200
Name3DS XL
Alias3DS XL (Large)
BrandNintendo
Memory128 MB FCRAM
Weight336 grams
Battery1750 mAh
SpeakerSingle speaker
Storage1 GB internal, external SD/SDHC
Grip TypeClamshell / Foldable
ProcessorCPU CTR
Dimensions156 mm x 93 mm x 22 mm
Screen PPI171.2 (upper) 95.7 (lower)
Body ColorsSilver Black, Red Black, Blue Black, White, Pink White, Black, Mint White, Pink, Orange Black, Turquoise Black
Screen Size4.88 inches (upper) 4.18 inches (lower)
Screen TypeTN LCD (upper) TN LCD touchscreen (lower)
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityWiFi, IR, NFC
Launch Price¥18,900; US$199.99; €199.99; £179.99; A$249.95
Release Date2012 / 08
Screen Ratio10:3 (upper) 4:3 (lower)
CPU Frequency268 MHz (ARM11) / 134 MHz (ARM9)
Other SensorsAccelerometer, gyroscope, front and dual rear cameras, microphone
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemNintendo 3DS System Software
Screen Resolution800 x 240 (upper) 320 x 240 (lower)
GPU Core Frequency268 MHz
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads2 cores (ARM11) / 1 core (ARM9)
Emulator Game SupportUp to GBA & Genesis & SNES

Full specs and updates on our site: https://www.oldman.dpdns.org/en/handheld/nintendo-3ds-xl

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Retroid Pocket 5 Review: A Powerful Retro Handheld for PS2 and GameCube Emulation

Overview The Retroid Pocket 5 (also known as RP5 or 'Sand Sculpture 5') is the latest retro handheld from Retroid Pocket, designed for gamers who want high-end emulation on the go. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor and Adreno 650 GPU, it delivers smooth performance for demanding systems like PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Wii, with some Nintendo Switch titles also playable. The device features a vibrant 5.5-inch AMOLED touchscreen with 1920x1080 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, and 500 nits brightness, making it ideal for both retro and modern games. Key Specs Highlights Processor: Snapdragon 865 (8-core, up to 2.84 GHz) GPU: Adreno 650 (587 MHz) RAM: 6GB or 8GB LPDDR4 Storage: 128GB UFS 3.1 internal, expandable via MicroSD Display: 5.5-inch AMOLED, 1920x1080, 60Hz, 500 nits, 400.5 PPI Battery: 5000 mAh Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C video output, 3.5mm headphone jack Cooling: Active fan and vents Weight: 280 grams Dimensions: 199.2 x 78.5 x 15....

Anbernic RG Vita Handheld Gaming Console Review

Overview The Anbernic RG Vita is a horizontal handheld gaming console running Android, designed for emulation and mobile gaming. It features a 5.5-inch IPS display with 1280x720 resolution, powered by a Unisoc Tiger T618 octa-core processor (2.0 GHz) with Mali-G52 MP2 GPU. The device includes 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64GB eMCP storage, and a microSD card slot for expansion. Key Specs Highlights Processor: Unisoc Tiger T618 (8 cores, 8 threads, 2.0 GHz) GPU: Mali-G52 MP2 (850 MHz) RAM: 3GB LPDDR4X Storage: 64GB eMCP + microSD slot Display: 5.5-inch IPS, 1280x720, 60Hz, 267 PPI Battery: 5000 mAh Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 Audio: Dual stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack Sensors: Gyroscope, vibration motor OS: Android Dimensions: 206 x 84 x 18.6 mm, 274g Who It Is For The RG Vita is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who want a dedicated Android handheld for emulating consoles up to PlayStation Portable and Dreamcast. Its 16:9 screen is also suitable for Android games and str...

Anbernic RG Rotate Review: A Compact 1:1 Screen Retro Handheld

Overview The Anbernic RG Rotate is a distinctive vertical handheld gaming device designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. It features a 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen with a 1:1 aspect ratio and 720x720 resolution, offering a unique square display ideal for classic games. Powered by the Unisoc T618 octa-core processor (2.0 GHz) with Mali-G52 MP2 GPU and 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, it runs Android OS, providing access to a wide range of emulators and apps. The device comes in plastic or metal shell options, weighing between 167g and 204g depending on material. Key Specs Highlights Display: 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen, 720x720 resolution, 1:1 aspect ratio, 290 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate Processor: Unisoc T618 (Cortex-A75/A55) octa-core @ 2.0 GHz, Mali-G52 MP2 GPU @ 850 MHz Memory & Storage: 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, 32GB internal storage, expandable via TF card slot Battery: 2000 mAh Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 Audio: Single speaker, USB-C audio output Vibration: Yes Dimensions: 80 x 80 x 21 mm Weight:...