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Nintendo DSi XL Review: Bigger Screen, Classic Handheld Gaming

Nintendo DSi XL Review: Bigger Screen, Classic Handheld Gaming

Overview

The Nintendo DSi XL (also known as NDSi XL) is a larger iteration of the popular DSi handheld, released in March 2010. It retains the clamshell design and dual-screen setup but increases screen size to 4.2 inches per display, offering a more comfortable experience for extended play sessions. Powered by a custom SoC with ARM946E-S and ARM7TDMI processors, it supports a vast library of Nintendo DS games and some emulated classics.

Key Specs Highlights

  • CPU: ARM946E-S @ 133 MHz, ARM7TDMI @ 33.514 MHz
  • Memory: 16 MB PSRAM
  • Storage: 256 MB internal NAND flash, expandable via SD/SDHC card slot
  • Screens: Dual 4.2-inch IPS LCD (top) and IPS LCD touchscreen (bottom), 256×192 resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio, 60 Hz refresh rate
  • Battery: 1050 mAh
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Weight: 314 grams
  • Dimensions: 161 mm × 91.4 mm × 21.2 mm

Who It Is For

The DSi XL is perfect for Nintendo DS fans who want a larger screen for easier viewing, especially for text-heavy games or those with small details. It also appeals to collectors and retro gamers interested in the DSi library and some emulated titles (Genesis, GBA, SNES).

Buying Notes

As a discontinued product, the DSi XL is available only on the secondhand market. Prices vary based on condition and color (available in wine red, copper, white, midnight blue, green, yellow, red). Ensure the unit includes the stylus and charger. The original US launch price was $189.99.

Specifications
CPUARM946E-S, ARM7TDMI
GPU2D Graphics Engine, 3D Graphics Engine
NameDSi XL
AliasNDSi XL
BrandNintendo
Memory16 MB PSRAM
Weight314 grams
Battery1050 mAh
SpeakerMono speaker
StorageBuilt-in 256 MB NAND flash memory, external SD/SDHC card slot
Grip TypeClamshell / Foldable
ProcessorCustom SoC
Body ColorWine red, copper, pure white, midnight blue, green, yellow, red
Dimensions161 mm x 91.4 mm x 21.2 mm
Screen PPI76.2
Screen Size4.2 inches x2
Screen TypeIPS LCD (top) IPS LCD touchscreen (bottom)
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityWiFi
Launch PriceUS$189.99
Release Date2010 / 03
CPU Frequency133 MHz (ARM946E-S) 33.514 MHz (ARM7TDMI)
Other SensorsMicrophone, stylus
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemNintendo DSi System Software
Screen Resolution256 × 192
Screen Aspect Ratio4:3
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads1 core 1 thread
Emulator Game SupportCan emulate some Genesis/GBA/SNES

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

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