Nintendo 3DS vs Nintendo DS

The Nintendo 3DS is the successor to the popular Nintendo DS, offering 3D gameplay without the need for special glasses. With improved graphics and a larger library of games, the 3DS provides an enhanced gaming experience compared to its predecessor.

General information

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo DS
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 DS, released in 2004, was a revolutionary handheld gaming console that featured dual screens, touch screen technology, and a wide range of popular games. It quickly became a hit with gamers of all ages, selling over 150 million units worldwide. The DS has since become a classic and collectible item for many gaming enthusiasts, with a vast library of games that continue to be enjoyed by players today.
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 :
  • Portable and compact design for gaming on the go.
  • Dual screens offer unique gameplay experiences.
  • Touch screen functionality adds interactivity to games.
  • Wide range of game titles available for all ages.
  • Backward compatibility with Game Boy Advance games.
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 newer consoles.
  • Small screen size may not be ideal for all players.
  • Limited online capabilities and multiplayer options.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves and downloads.
  • Lack of modern features such as HD graphics and streaming services.
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 : 2004
The Nintendo DS was launched in 2004, introducing dual screens and touch screen capabilities. It quickly became popular for its innovative features and diverse game library.
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 is the manufacturer of the Nintendo DS, a popular handheld gaming console that was released in 2004. Known for its innovative dual-screen design and extensive game library.
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 DS was a popular handheld console with over 154 million units sold worldwide. It had a significant market share in the handheld gaming market, but faced competition from other consoles.
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 : Handheld console.
The Nintendo DS is a portable console designed for gaming on the go. Its compact size and dual-screen layout make it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Official website : https://www.nintendo.com/ds/


Market and availability

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo DS
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 DS was available in multiple markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. It was one of the best-selling handheld consoles of all time.
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 DS is considered retro and collectible due to its nostalgic appeal, unique dual-screen design, and library of classic games. Collectors are willing to pay premium prices for rare editions.
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 DS is still relatively available in the secondhand market, with a decent amount of units being sold. However, finding brand new consoles may be more challenging as they are no longer in production.
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.
๐ŸŸข Console cost : Low.
The Nintendo DS is considered low in cost due to its age and availability in the second-hand market. It is relatively affordable compared to newer consoles on the 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.
While new games for the Nintendo DS are no longer being produced, there is still a decent selection available through secondhand markets, online retailers, and used game stores. Collectible availability varies.
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.
๐ŸŸข Game costs : Low.
The relative cost of games for the Nintendo DS is low due to the console being older and games being readily available in the second-hand market at affordable prices.


Technology

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo DS
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 : 32-bit.
The Nintendo DS uses a 32-bit architecture, providing sufficient processing power for its handheld gaming capabilities. This architecture allows for smooth gameplay and engaging graphics on the go.
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 : ARM946E-S
The Nintendo DS uses an ARM946E-S CPU, which is a 32-bit processor with a clock speed of 67 MHz. It is known for its power efficiency and suitability for handheld gaming devices.
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 DS has 4 MB of memory, which was sufficient for its time and allowed for a variety of games to be played on the handheld console.
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 DS only has a composite video output connection, 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 DS features a dedicated GPU for handling graphics processing tasks, providing enhanced visuals and performance for games on the console.
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.
๐ŸŸข Internet connected : Yes.
The Nintendo DS can connect to the internet through Wi-Fi, allowing players to access online features, download games, and play multiplayer games with others around the world.
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 DS is cartridges. These small cartridges contain the game data and are inserted into the console to play games.


Gaming

Nintendo 3DS
Nintendo DS
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 : Up to 8 controllers/players
The Nintendo DS supports multiplayer gaming with up to 8 players using wireless connections. This allows for a fun and engaging gaming experience with friends and family on a single console.
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.
๐ŸŸข Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Nintendo DS allows multiplayer online play for certain games, providing an interactive gaming experience with friends and players worldwide. However, the online service for the DS has been discontinued, limiting some multiplayer capabilities.
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.
๐ŸŸข Number of titles : Good.
Nintendo DS game titles were released consistently with a wide variety of genres and popular franchises. Many games are still highly sought after in the secondhand market, making it a collectible console for gamers.
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 DS has many exclusive and iconic games such as Mario Kart DS, New Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, and Animal Crossing: Wild World, making it a beloved console for gamers.


When choosing between the Nintendo 3DS and the Nintendo DS, it ultimately comes down to whether you prioritize 3D gameplay and enhanced graphics. If you value these features, the 3DS is the clear choice. However, if you prefer a simpler gaming experience and a more affordable option, the DS may be the better fit for you.