Nintendo DS vs Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)

The Nintendo DS and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) are both iconic gaming consoles from Nintendo, offering unique gaming experiences. The DS is a handheld console with dual screens and touch capabilities, while the SNES is a classic home console known for its library of timeless games.

General information

Nintendo DS
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
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.
Introduction :
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was released in 1990 and quickly became a beloved console in the gaming community. Known for its iconic games like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Super Metroid, the SNES has become a classic and collectible item for many gamers. It was popular in markets worldwide and is still highly sought after by retro gaming enthusiasts.
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.
Advantages :
  • Classic library of games
  • Iconic controller design
  • Retro gaming nostalgia
  • Easy to set up and play
  • Affordable price point
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.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to modern consoles.
  • Lack of online multiplayer functionality.
  • Limited storage capacity for game saves.
  • Limited availability of new games and accessories.
  • Lack of backward compatibility with newer game formats.
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.
Year launched : 1991
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was launched in 1991, captivating gamers with its advanced graphics and iconic game titles, solidifying its place in gaming history.
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.
Manufacturer : Nintendo
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was manufactured by Nintendo, a renowned gaming company known for creating iconic consoles and games that have shaped the gaming industry.
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.
๐ŸŸก Popularity : Average.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) had solid sales during its time, but was overshadowed by competitors like the Sega Genesis. It still holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of many gamers.
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.
Form factor : Home console.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is designed as a home console, meant to be connected to a TV for gaming in the comfort of your living room. It is not a portable unit.
Official website : https://www.nintendo.com/ds/


Market and availability

Nintendo DS
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
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.
Console markets :
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) was available in multiple markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Japan. It was not available in all countries, but had a wide distribution in major gaming markets.
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.
๐ŸŸข Collectible : Yes.
The SNES is highly sought after by collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts, driving up its value in the market. Its iconic games and nostalgic appeal make it a valuable and collectible console.
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.
๐ŸŸก Console availability : Average.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is moderately available in the secondhand market. While some popular titles may be harder to find, there are still plenty of consoles and games available for purchase.
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 Console cost : Low.
The relative cost of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is low due to its age and availability in the second-hand market. It is considered an affordable option for retro gaming enthusiasts.
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.
๐ŸŸข Game availability : Good.
SNES games are readily available through online marketplaces, retro gaming stores, and secondhand shops. Many popular titles are still in circulation, and there is a thriving collector's market for rare and sought-after games.
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.
๐ŸŸก Game costs : Average.
The cost of games for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is considered average. While some popular titles can be expensive due to rarity, there are also many affordable options available in the second-hand market.


Technology

Nintendo DS
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
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.
Architecture : 16-bit.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) uses a 16-bit architecture, allowing for more advanced graphics and gameplay compared to its predecessor. It was a significant advancement in gaming technology during its time.
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.
CPU : Ricoh 5A22
The SNES uses a Ricoh 5A22 CPU, which is a custom 16-bit processor running at 3.58 MHz. It is known for its efficient performance in handling the console's games and graphics.
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.
Memory : 128 Kb
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) has 128 Kb of memory, allowing for a wide variety of games to be played on the console with smooth performance.
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.
Video output : Composite
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) has composite video output connections, which may require an adapter to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI inputs.
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 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) does have a dedicated GPU, which was considered advanced for its time and allowed for impressive graphics and performance in 16-bit games.
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.
๐Ÿ”ด Internet connected : No.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) does not have internet connectivity features such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. It relies solely on physical game cartridges for gameplay.
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.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is cartridges. These cartridges are inserted into the console to play games, providing a physical and tangible gaming experience.


Gaming

Nintendo DS
Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)
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.
Controllers : 2 controllers / 2 players
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) supports up to 2 controllers for 2 players, allowing for multiplayer gaming experiences on a single console. Players can enjoy classic titles together in local co-op or competitive modes.
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.
๐Ÿ”ด Online multiplayer : No.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, some games may have been modified by fans to enable online multiplayer through unofficial means.
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 Number of titles : Good.
SNES game titles were released in physical cartridges, which are still widely available in the secondhand market. Many games have become collectible, with some rare titles fetching high prices among collectors.
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.
๐ŸŸข Featured games : Yes.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) has a range of exclusive, iconic, and notable games such as Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and Super Metroid, which are highly regarded in the gaming community.


When choosing between the Nintendo DS and SNES, consider your gaming preferences and whether you prefer portable or home console gaming. The DS offers versatility and innovation with its touch screen features, while the SNES provides a nostalgic gaming experience with its classic titles. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your gaming style and preferences.