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Yes—if you want specific 3DS or DS games, local features such as StreetPass, or the original two-screen handheld experience. It is a much weaker buy if you expect to purchase games digitally from Nintendo or rely on Nintendo-hosted online multiplayer. In 2026, the sensible choice depends on the titles you want, the console’s condition and local price, and whether its aging hardware suits you.
What can you still do on a 3DS?
Play physical 3DS and DS games
Physical game cards remain the most straightforward way to build a library. Nintendo’s operations manual says the 3DS card slot accepts Nintendo 3DS, DS, and DSi game cards. That does not mean every title is easy to find or affordable: check whether the specific games you want are available as physical cards, and compare their condition and price before buying the console.
Use offline modes and local features
Offline modes continue to work. Nintendo states that players can still use features and game modes that do not require online communication. StreetPass also remains available because it uses local communication between nearby 3DS-family systems, rather than Nintendo’s online services. SpotPass features that require online communication do not continue on that basis. See Nintendo’s online-services notice.
Can you still buy 3DS games digitally?
No. Nintendo ended purchases of 3DS software and DLC through Nintendo eShop on March 27, 2023. Nintendo says previously purchased games and DLC can still be redownloaded “for the foreseeable future,” but that is not a permanent guarantee. A secondhand console also does not automatically include its previous owner’s digital library; do not pay extra on the assumption that it does. Nintendo’s redownload support page explains the current distinction between new purchases and past purchases.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Does online multiplayer still work?
Nintendo discontinued online play and other functionality using online communication for 3DS and Wii U software on April 8, 2024. Nintendo-hosted online multiplayer and online features that depend on that service are therefore not a sound reason to buy a 3DS. The shutdown does not disable offline play or local communication such as StreetPass. Nintendo’s notice named Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter as services that remained online at the time, while warning that they may also end; check Nintendo’s current status before relying on them. Claims about third-party online networks should be evaluated separately: Nintendo’s announcement does not establish their present reliability or game compatibility.
Which buyers are most likely to find it worthwhile?
| Good fit if… | Less suitable if… |
|---|---|
| You have particular 3DS or DS titles in mind and can find them on physical cards. | You mainly want a broad digital storefront or plan to buy new 3DS games from Nintendo. |
| You value local play, StreetPass, offline modes, or the distinctive two-screen design. | You expect Nintendo-hosted online multiplayer or online communication features to work as they once did. |
| You are comfortable checking used hardware carefully and accepting battery wear. | You want a newer device with fresh hardware, dependable battery condition, and current online services. |
This is a library- and use-case decision, not a claim that a 3DS outperforms a modern handheld. The console was discontinued in September 2020. Read and co-authors’ 2024 secondhand-device study, citing Nintendo (2021), reports nearly 76 million units sold over the system’s lifetime; that approximate historical figure does not guarantee that a particular model or game will be available near you.
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
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- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How much should you pay?
There is no dependable one-size-fits-all 2026 price. Model, condition, included accessories, location, and seller terms all change the value. Tom’s Hardware reported a used range of US$200–350 for New Nintendo 3DS XL units in December 2025. Treat that as a dated, model-specific report—not a current appraisal, a guaranteed selling price, or a guide to other models or countries. A 2024 secondhand-device study describes thousands of console listings and completed sales on marketplaces including eBay and Amazon, but listing volume is not a substitute for checking recent sold prices in your area.
Compare like with like: the same family model, similar cosmetic and functional condition, and the same included items. Factor in shipping, taxes, charger, stylus, battery condition, and return policy. Do not assume that an XL or any other variant has a universal price premium; the evidence here does not establish a current model-by-model comparison.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
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- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which 3DS model should you choose?
Choose by the games and features you care about, then judge the individual unit. Consider whether you want the stereoscopic 3D display or the larger-screen XL form, and compare total local cost rather than relying on broad claims that one variant is always the best value. Check region and compatibility for the specific games you plan to play; do not infer that every card, console, or digital purchase will work together without restrictions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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- Screen and hinge: Look for scratches, discoloration, dead pixels, damage, and looseness. Ask for clear pictures of both screens and the hinges.
- Controls and inputs: Test buttons, circle pad, touch screen, speakers, and card slot. Check cameras if you expect to use them.
- Power and accessories: Ask whether the battery holds a charge and whether a compatible charger is included. Nintendo’s original 3DS manual identifies the CTR-003 battery and, in the manual’s regional variant, the WAP-002 adapter. Parts can differ across family models and regions, so verify the exact model and part before purchasing a replacement.
- Connectivity and game reading: If these matter to you, test wireless/local functions and confirm that the console reads a physical game card.
- Identity and terms: Confirm the model and region from the label, and check the seller’s return policy. Avoid paying a premium for a claimed digital library or online capability you cannot verify.
Used 3DS buying checklist
- Write down the specific 3DS and DS games you want, then confirm which are available on physical cards.
- Search recent sold listings in your location for the exact family model and similar condition. Compare the complete cost, including shipping and taxes, as well as the charger, stylus, and return terms.
- Request clear photos of both screens, hinges, shell, charging port, and model or serial label.
- When possible, test both screens, touch input, buttons, circle pad, speakers, cameras if needed, charging, wireless/local functions, and physical card reading.
- Confirm battery condition and charger compatibility. Check the part for the exact console model and region instead of trusting a generic “3DS compatible” description.
- Verify the console’s region against the games you intend to use, and base your offer on the hardware and included items—not assumed digital purchases or future redownload access.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
