The Nintendo Switch Lite is a smaller, cheaper version of Nintendo’s handheld game console that’s coming in September for $200.

But if you want to part with your cash a little early, you can pre-order the Switch Lite starting today. Amazon, Best Buy, and Target are all taking orders for several different color options.

Just keep in mind that while the Switch Lite is $100 less than the original Nintendo Switch, there are also a few things it can’t do.

First up, the controllers are built into the body of the Switch Lite, so they’re not detachable like the original Switch Joy-con controllers. You can pair a set of Joy-cons with the Switch Lite if you want. You’ll just need to buy them separately.

Second, there’s no docking station included and if even if you already have a dock, you can’t use the Switch Lite with it. In fact, there’s no TV output at all.

There’s also no IR camera or HD rumble support.

In other words, while the Switch is a multi-purpose device that gets its name from its ability to work as a TV and handheld game console, the Switch Lite is only meant for handheld use.

On the other hand, the Switch lite is a little smaller than the original Switch, measuring about 8.2″ x 3.6″ x 0.55″. That makes it a little easier to fit into a pocket. And it offers slightly longer battery life than the original due to an updated chipset (but there’s also a new non-Lite Switch on the way that also has a new chipset and even longer battery life).

Oh, and one other thing that will probably set the Switch Lite apart from its predecessors? I doubt it’s as easily hackable since Nintendo has almost certainly patched the security vulnerabilities that have allowed folks to install Linux and Android on the original Switch.

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8 replies on “Nintendo Switch Lite available for pre-order for $200”

  1. I see a lot of people complaining about not having tv output? This is supposed to be a portable isn’t it? Had a good chuckle reading the comments here…one guy mentioned the original switch being too bulky and heavy to bother taking with them sometimes? You’re kidding right?

    Ever thought of being appreciative that you’re actually able to have one of these? Do you realize how entitled and whiny you sound? It’s quite cringeworthy.

    I for one…am not able and would like to have one.

  2. If it ever goes $50 cheaper, I’ll probably pick one up then. Until then, I just can’t justify spending the same amount as I would have spent on a Black Friday PS4 for a console that doesn’t have an option for TV output. Yes, the portability is nice compared to a PS4, but you’re sacrificing so many other features.

  3. I’d like to say that I’m going to pick one up, but the lack of TV output, and lack of kickstand are issues for me. The normal switch isn’t portable enough, and the Lite lacks too many features that I want.

  4. I find it such a bummer that it doesn’t do TV output. I find that the original switch is just slightly too big and too heavy to bother taking me with sometimes (if my bag’s already filled with other stuff).

  5. The TV output is USB C, same as the charging port. So if it uses that to charge, it should be able to output AV to an HDMI adapter, like the dock. No?

    1. Well, they can just disable it in the firmware or not connect the pins in the socket responsible for DP signals. Pretty sure they don’t want it to cannibalize the “Pro” switch sales, this is the 3DS replacement and gate-drug to enter the Nintendo ecosystem. Irregardless I’m sure there will be many hacks within a couple of months to run homebrew software and maybe even hacks to re-enable the TV output. Which is the day I’m buying it.

      1. But, there’s no indication TV output is disabled. Is there? It even has the notch in the back, middle, bottom for the dock. That pretty much guarantees compatability.

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