Nintendo 3DS vs Nintendo 64 (N64)

The Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 64 (N64) are both iconic gaming consoles from Nintendo, but they cater to different generations of gamers. The 3DS offers portable gaming with 3D capabilities and a vast library of games, while the N64 is a classic home console known for its groundbreaking 3D graphics and legendary titles.

General information

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo 64 (N64)
Introduction :
The Nintendo 3DS is a handheld gaming console released in 2011. It features a glasses-free 3D display and a wide range of popular games such as Pokemon, Mario, and Zelda. The 3DS has been well-received by gamers of all ages and has become a classic in the handheld gaming market. With its unique features and extensive game library, the Nintendo 3DS continues to be a popular choice for gaming on the go.
Introduction :
The Nintendo 64 (N64) was released in 1996 and quickly became a beloved console for gamers around the world. Known for its innovative 3D graphics and iconic games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, the N64 has solidified its place as a classic in the gaming industry. With its unique controller featuring the iconic joystick, the N64 remains a popular choice for collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
Advantages :
  • Portable and compact design makes it easy to take on-the-go
  • 3D capabilities provide a unique gaming experience
  • Extensive library of games available, including popular Nintendo franchises
  • StreetPass feature allows for social interactions with other players
  • Backward compatibility with DS games expands gaming options
Advantages :
  • Iconic 90s console with nostalgic appeal for retro gaming enthusiasts. - Wide selection of classic games available for collectors and fans. - Innovative controller design with unique features for immersive gameplay. - Affordable option for budget-conscious gamers looking to experience retro titles. - Durable hardware that has stood the test of time for long-term use.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to newer consoles.
  • Small library of games compared to other consoles.
  • Lower resolution screen compared to modern handheld devices.
  • Lack of online multiplayer features in some games.
  • Limited support and updates from Nintendo.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves
  • Limited selection of games compared to newer consoles
  • Outdated controller design and functionality
Year launched : 2011
The Nintendo 3DS was launched in 2011, offering gamers a glasses-free 3D gaming experience. It was a popular handheld console known for its innovative features and extensive game library.
Year launched : 1996
The Nintendo 64 was launched in 1996, offering groundbreaking 3D graphics and iconic games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, revolutionizing gaming experiences for players.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
Nintendo is the manufacturer of the Nintendo 3DS, a popular handheld gaming console known for its innovative features and extensive game library. Nintendo has been a leading player in the gaming industry for decades.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
Nintendo, a renowned gaming company, manufactured the Nintendo 64 (N64) console, known for its iconic games like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Nintendo 3DS has had moderate success in the market, selling over 75 million units worldwide. It has a dedicated fan base and a strong library of games, but faces competition from newer consoles.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Nintendo 64 was popular during its release in the late 90s, selling over 32 million units worldwide. It had a significant market share but faced strong competition from Sony's PlayStation.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Nintendo 3DS is a portable console, designed for gaming on the go with its compact size and clamshell design. It can be easily carried in a bag or pocket for gaming anywhere.
Form factor : Home console.
The Nintendo 64 (N64) is a home console designed to be connected to a TV for gaming. It is not meant to be easily portable, as it requires a power source and controllers to play.


Market and availability

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo 64 (N64)
Console markets :
The Nintendo 3DS was available in multiple markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It was not officially released in regions such as China and South Korea.
Console markets :
The Nintendo 64 was available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It was not officially released in regions such as South America and Africa.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Nintendo 3DS is now considered retro and collectible due to its discontinuation in 2020. Its unique 3D feature and library of exclusive games make it sought after by collectors and fans.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The Nintendo 64 is now considered retro and highly collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its iconic games and unique controller design have contributed to its lasting popularity in the gaming community.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo 3DS is still fairly available in the secondhand market, with a good selection of used consoles and games. However, new units may be harder to find as it is no longer in production.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Nintendo 64 is moderately available on the secondhand market, with a decent selection of consoles and games to choose from. However, finding brand new units may be more challenging.
๐ŸŸข Console cost : Low.
The Nintendo 3DS is considered to have a low relative cost due to being an older console with newer models available. It can often be found at a lower price point, especially in the second-hand market.
๐ŸŸก Console cost : Average.
The relative cost of the Nintendo 64 (N64) is average. While it is no longer in production, it is still popular among retro gamers, leading to a steady demand and stable pricing in the second-hand market.
๐ŸŸข Game availability : Good.
The Nintendo 3DS has a wide range of games available, both physically and digitally. Many popular titles are still in production, and there is a thriving secondhand market for older games.
๐ŸŸก Game availability : Average.
Games for the Nintendo 64 can be found through online marketplaces, retro game stores, and secondhand shops. While some titles are more rare and expensive, there is a decent selection available for collectors and gamers.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Nintendo 3DS is average. While some older titles may be more affordable due to their availability in the second-hand market, newer and popular games can still be on the pricier side.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
Games for the Nintendo 64 are relatively affordable on the second-hand market, with a good selection available at reasonable prices. However, some rare titles can be expensive to acquire.


Technology

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo 64 (N64)
Architecture : 32-bit.
The Nintendo 3DS uses a 32-bit ARM architecture, providing sufficient power for its handheld gaming capabilities. This architecture allows for smooth gameplay and immersive experiences on the go.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Nintendo 64 uses a 64-bit architecture, which was considered advanced for its time, allowing for improved graphics and gameplay compared to older consoles with lower bit architectures.
CPU : ARM11
The Nintendo 3DS uses an ARM11 CPU, which is a 32-bit RISC microprocessor. It is known for its power efficiency and is capable of handling the console's gaming needs effectively.
CPU : NEC VR4300
The Nintendo 64 (N64) uses the NEC VR4300 CPU, a 64-bit processor with a clock speed of 93.75 MHz. It is known for its performance and efficiency in handling N64 games.
Memory : 128 MB
The Nintendo 3DS has 128 MB of memory, which is used for storing game data, system software, and other applications. This memory size is sufficient for running games and performing basic functions.
Memory : 4 MB
The Nintendo 64 (N64) has 4 MB of memory, which was considered impressive for its time and allowed for more detailed graphics and larger game worlds compared to previous consoles.
Video output : Composite
The Nintendo 3DS has a composite video output connection, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or other digital connections.
Video output : Composite
The Nintendo 64 has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or other digital inputs.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Nintendo 3DS features a dedicated GPU, which enhances graphics performance and allows for smoother gameplay experiences. This GPU contributes to the overall gaming capabilities of the console.
๐ŸŸข Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Nintendo 64 has a dedicated GPU, the Reality Coprocessor, which was designed by Silicon Graphics specifically for the console. It provided impressive graphics capabilities for its time.
๐ŸŸข Internet connected : Yes.
The Nintendo 3DS is internet connected through Wi-Fi, allowing players to access online features, download games, and play multiplayer games with friends over the internet.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Nintendo 64 does not have internet connectivity capabilities, as it was released before online gaming became mainstream. It relies solely on physical game cartridges for gameplay.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Nintendo 3DS is cartridges. Games are inserted into the console through a slot on the back, allowing for easy swapping and portability.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Nintendo 64 is cartridge-based. Games are inserted into the console via cartridges, which contain the game data and are specific to the N64 system.


Gaming

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo 64 (N64)
Controllers : Up to 8 controllers/players
The Nintendo 3DS supports multiplayer gaming with up to 8 players using wireless connections. Players can enjoy various multiplayer games and experiences on a single console for a fun gaming session.
Controllers : 4 controllers
The Nintendo 64 supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming. Players can enjoy competitive or cooperative gameplay on a single console, making it a great option for group gaming sessions.
๐ŸŸข Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Nintendo 3DS allows players to enjoy multiplayer gaming online, connecting with friends and players worldwide for a more interactive gaming experience.
๐Ÿ”ด Online multiplayer : No.
The Nintendo 64 does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, some games may have been modified by fans to enable online play through unofficial means.
๐ŸŸข Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Nintendo 3DS have been released consistently, with a wide variety of popular titles available. The console is still sought after by collectors and has a strong secondhand market.
๐ŸŸก Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Nintendo 64 were released in physical cartridges, which are still widely available in the secondhand market. Some titles have become collectible and can be more expensive to acquire.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo 3DS has several exclusive and iconic games such as The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, Super Mario 3D Land, and Animal Crossing: New Leaf, making it a must-have for Nintendo fans.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Nintendo 64 has several exclusive, iconic, and notable games such as Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and GoldenEye 007, which are considered classics in the gaming world.


Ultimately, choosing between the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 64 depends on your gaming preferences and nostalgia factor. If you value portability and modern gaming experiences, the 3DS is the way to go. However, if you seek a retro gaming experience with classic titles and a unique gaming era, the N64 is a timeless choice that will bring back memories of the golden age of gaming.