Amstrad GX4000 vs Nintendo Switch

The Amstrad GX4000 was released in the early 1990s, while the Nintendo Switch is a modern console that came out in 2017. The GX4000 was known for its unique design and limited game library, while the Switch offers a wide range of games and versatile gameplay options.

General information

Amstrad GX4000
Nintendo Switch
Introduction :
The Amstrad GX4000 was released in 1990 as a follow-up to the unsuccessful Amstrad CPC Plus series. Despite its short lifespan and limited game library, the console has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. It was primarily marketed in Europe and featured enhanced graphics compared to its predecessor. While not as popular as other consoles of its time, the Amstrad GX4000 is considered a classic and collectible item for retro gaming collectors.
Introduction :
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console released in 2017, offering both handheld and traditional home console gaming experiences. It quickly gained popularity for its innovative design and exclusive first-party titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey. The Switch has become a classic among gamers and collectors, appealing to a wide audience with its versatile gameplay options and nostalgic Nintendo charm.
Advantages :
  • The Amstrad GX4000 offers a unique retro gaming experience.
  • It has a diverse library of classic games to enjoy.
  • The console is compact and easy to set up.
  • It provides a nostalgic feel for gamers who grew up with it.
  • The GX4000 is a budget-friendly option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Versatile: Can be used as a handheld or home console.
  • Innovative: Features detachable Joy-Con controllers for unique gameplay.
  • Extensive game library: Offers a wide range of popular titles.
  • Portable: Easy to take on-the-go for gaming anywhere.
  • Multiplayer capabilities: Supports local and online multiplayer gaming.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles of the time.
  • Lack of third-party developer support for new games.
  • Poor graphics and sound quality compared to competitors.
  • Fragile and prone to hardware malfunctions.
  • Limited controller options and accessories available.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited processing power compared to newer consoles
  • Lack of multimedia features like streaming apps
  • Joy-Con drift issues affecting gameplay
  • Limited internal storage space for game downloads
  • Online subscription required for multiplayer gaming
Year launched : 1990
The Amstrad GX4000 was launched in 1990, offering gamers a new console experience with its advanced graphics and gameplay capabilities compared to older systems.
Year launched : 2017
The Nintendo Switch was launched in 2017, offering a unique hybrid gaming experience that allows players to enjoy console gaming both at home and on the go with its portable design.
Manufacturer : Amstrad
The Amstrad GX4000 was manufactured by Amstrad, a British electronics company known for producing home computers and gaming consoles in the 1980s and 1990s. The GX4000 was their only foray into the gaming console market.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
Nintendo, a renowned gaming company, is the manufacturer of the popular Nintendo Switch console. Known for its innovation and iconic game franchises, Nintendo continues to be a leading force in the gaming industry.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Amstrad GX4000 had low popularity compared to other consoles. It sold poorly and had a small market share, leading to its discontinuation shortly after release.
🟢 Popularity : High.
The Nintendo Switch has been a popular choice for gamers, with strong sales numbers and a dedicated fan base. Its unique hybrid design and strong lineup of exclusive games have contributed to its high popularity.
Form factor : Home console.
The Amstrad GX4000 is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not intended to be portable and is best enjoyed in a living room setting.
Form factor : .
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console, designed to be used both as a portable handheld device and as a home console when docked to a TV. It offers the flexibility of gaming on the go or at home.
Official website : https://www.amstrad.com/


Market and availability

Amstrad GX4000
Nintendo Switch
Console markets :
The Amstrad GX4000 was primarily available in Europe, with a focus on markets such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. It was not widely distributed in other regions.
Console markets :
The Nintendo Switch is available worldwide, including major markets such as North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It has a strong presence in both developed and emerging gaming markets.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Amstrad GX4000 is now considered retro and collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its limited release and unique library of games have increased its value in the market.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Nintendo Switch is not yet considered retro, but its unique hybrid design and popular game library could make it a sought-after collectible in the future. Keep an eye on the market trends.
⚪ Console availability : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000 is a relatively rare console, with limited availability both new and secondhand. It may be challenging to find one for sale, especially in good condition.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo Switch is readily available in both new and secondhand markets. While some limited edition versions may be harder to find, the standard model is generally easy to purchase.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The Amstrad GX4000 is considered a low-cost console due to its limited availability and lack of popularity among collectors. It can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The Nintendo Switch is currently priced at a moderate level, with availability in both new and second-hand markets. Its cost is reasonable for the features and gaming experience it offers.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Amstrad GX4000 can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to come by, but overall there is a decent selection available for collectors and enthusiasts.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Games for the Nintendo Switch are widely available both physically and digitally. The console has a large library of popular titles and indie games, with new releases regularly added to the lineup.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the Amstrad GX4000 are relatively inexpensive due to the console's limited popularity and availability. They can often be found at affordable prices on the second-hand market.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Nintendo Switch is considered average. While some new releases can be expensive, there are also many affordable options available, especially in the second-hand market.


Technology

Amstrad GX4000
Nintendo Switch
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Amstrad GX4000 uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common for gaming consoles in the late 1980s. This architecture allowed for simpler graphics and gameplay compared to newer consoles.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Nintendo Switch uses a 64-bit architecture, allowing for advanced graphics and processing capabilities. This architecture enables the console to deliver high-quality gaming experiences to players.
CPU : Zilog Z80
The Amstrad GX4000 uses a Zilog Z80 CPU, a popular choice for many gaming consoles and computers in the 1980s. It is known for its simplicity and efficiency in handling 8-bit tasks.
CPU : NVIDIA Custom Tegra X1
The Nintendo Switch uses a custom version of the NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor, providing a balance of performance and power efficiency for gaming on the go. It features a quad-core ARM Cortex-A57 CPU and a Maxwell-based GPU.
Memory : 64 Kb
The Amstrad GX4000 has 64 Kb of memory, which was considered sufficient for gaming in the late 1980s when the console was released.
Memory : 32GB
The Nintendo Switch comes with 32GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using microSD cards for additional game downloads and data storage.
Video output : Composite
The Amstrad GX4000 has a composite video output connection, which can be used to connect to older TVs or with the use of a composite to HDMI converter for modern TVs.
Video output : HDMI
The Nintendo Switch has an HDMI output connection, which is the standard for connecting to modern TVs and monitors for high-definition video and audio output.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000's GPU information is not well-documented. Due to its release in the early 1990s, details about its dedicated GPU are scarce, making it difficult to determine its specific capabilities.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch features a dedicated NVIDIA GPU, providing enhanced graphics performance for a more immersive gaming experience compared to consoles without a dedicated GPU.
🔴 Internet connected : No.
The Amstrad GX4000 is not internet connected. It does not have any notable details such as Ethernet or WiFi capabilities for online connectivity.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch is internet connected, supporting both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for online gaming, downloading games, and accessing the eShop for digital purchases and updates.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Amstrad GX4000 is cartridge-based. Games are inserted into the console via cartridges, allowing for quick and easy gameplay without the need for additional accessories.
Game media format : Cartridge.
Nintendo Switch primarily uses game cartridges as the main game format. These cartridges are inserted into the console to play games, offering a physical option for game storage and play.


Gaming

Amstrad GX4000
Nintendo Switch
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Amstrad GX4000 supports 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences on a single console. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay together.
Controllers : Up to 8 controllers
The Nintendo Switch supports up to 8 controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for a variety of multiplayer options for games that support multiple players on a single console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Amstrad GX4000 did not have online multiplayer capabilities as it was released in the early 1990s before online gaming became mainstream. Local multiplayer with multiple controllers was the primary option.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch allows players to enjoy multiplayer gaming online, connecting with friends and other players worldwide for competitive and cooperative gameplay experiences.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Amstrad GX4000 were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. However, due to its limited popularity, finding specific titles may require some effort in the secondhand market.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Nintendo Switch game titles have been consistently released with a good variety and frequency, catering to a wide range of gaming preferences. The console's popularity ensures a strong market for both new and used games.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Amstrad GX4000 has notable exclusive games such as Burning Rubber, Switchblade, and Fire and Forget II, which are iconic titles for the console and offer unique gameplay experiences.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo Switch has exclusive games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, making it a must-have console for fans of these iconic franchises.


When deciding between the Amstrad GX4000 and the Nintendo Switch, it’s clear that the Switch is the superior choice for modern gamers. With its extensive game library, portability, and innovative features, the Switch provides a more enjoyable and versatile gaming experience compared to the outdated GX4000. Ultimately, investing in a Nintendo Switch would be a wise decision for those looking for a contemporary gaming console.