If you’re into aesthetics (and who isn’t?), the Nintendo Switch Lite Timmy & Tommy’s Aloha Edition is worth checking out—especially now when it’s retailing for $159.99, down from its original price of $199.99.
This compact and lightweight console is designed exclusively for handheld play and gaming on-the-go—if you’re the type who’s always cramming your console into a backpack (or a large purse), this one’s for you. But if you prefer gaming on a big screen, the Switch Lite might not be ideal because it doesn’t support docking to a TV. Its layout is familiar and user-friendly with analog sticks, a conventional plus-shaped pad on the left, and A/B/X/Y buttons on the right. No detachable Joy-Cons here, but if you’re picking up the Lite, you’re probably not planning on extensive multiplayer marathons anyway.
The Switch Lite packs an 8-inch screen, a 1.02 GHz processor, and a smooth 60 FPS frame rate. It also supports Bluetooth audio, allowing for a convenient wireless listening experience. Plus, with Animal Crossing: New Horizons preloaded onto the system, you can start playing and building your island community right out of the box. Given that this game alone is valued at up to $60, the Aloha Edition seems like a steal for fans of the franchise. And, with local wireless and online multiplayer options, inviting friends to join your adventures or visiting their islands is easy. According to Nintendo—and this PCMag review—the battery life of this console varies between three to seven hours, depending on what you’re playing, which is decent for a portable system.
With 32GB of storage, the Switch Lite gives you enough space to get started, but you’ll probably need a microSD card sooner than later. (You might consider an option like the SanDisk 512GB microSD, which is licensed specifically for the Nintendo Switch.) While the Lite is capable of playing any game in the Nintendo Switch library that supports handheld mode, you can connect compatible controllers wirelessly for games that don’t (just keep in mind they’re sold separately, so that could add to your costs).
As an aside: If you find yourself confused about the process of downloading Animal Crossing: New Horizons onto your system, just remember to say “yes” when it prompts you to register in the eShop when you first log in.
