The Nintendo DS has been the most successful line of handheld video game consoles ever created. The DSi builds on that heritage and adds a number of unique features of its own to help make it the best DS yet. Current Nintendo DS users will surely prefer to upgrade even though at this point there seem to be enough trade-offs between the DS Lite and the DSi that many Lite users will probably decide to stick with it. .
If you own or have owned a DS Lite, the first thing you’ll notice about the DSi is how tough it is. It absolutely feels a lot more robust compared to the DS Lite. That said, you’ll see that it’s actually not bulkier as each one weighs less than half a pound. While the DS Lite is covered in shiny plastic, the DSi is covered in a matte, almost rubbery, outer coating. It appears that this particular cover may appear much more vulnerable to these types of cosmetic scuffs. Volume-wise, the DSi is only about 4 millimeters thinner compared to the Lite and only 5 millimeters larger.
Side by side, an individual will not detect much of a difference in appearance. The two LED lights located on the Lite’s right hinge tend to be absent, replaced by a cluster of three on the DSi’s left hinge. They’re labeled this time around too, along with layouts for power, charging, and also Wi-Fi activity. Along the exterior of the DSi, you’ll see some additional apparent alterations.
First off, the Game Boy Advance slot was removed, so fans of that handheld console are out of luck. Although some of us find this particular omission easier to downsize, the actual thickness of the device, we all wish the app had lasted the upgrade. We would gladly give up 4 millimeters so we could have fun with all the Game Boy Advance games.
Unlike its predecessors, the real DS and DS Lite, the Nintendo DSi is not backwards compatible with Game Boy Advanced (GBA) games, so if that’s a major issue for you, chances are you you are securing the DS Lite. Video games will be available for purchase through retailers or perhaps downloaded directly via a Wi-Fi link, as well as DSiWare software. Sound recording features have also been improved on the DSi along with a better microphone and various alternatives. The model features a pair of built-in stereo speakers and can also support stereo headphones for listening to your favorite songs stored on an SD card.