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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Choose the original Nintendo 3DS if you want optional glasses-free 3D and a folding design. Choose the original Nintendo 2DS if you prefer a 2D-only screen and a single-piece body. Both play Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo DS games, but the 2DS displays 3DS games in 2D. If you mean the wider family, the New Nintendo 2DS XL is a different, folding model with support for New Nintendo 3DS software.
Original Nintendo 3DS vs. original Nintendo 2DS
| Feature | Original Nintendo 3DS | Original Nintendo 2DS |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Adjustable glasses-free stereoscopic 3D; the effect can be turned off. | 2D only. |
| Body | Folding clamshell design. | Non-folding, single-piece design. |
| Screen sizes | 3.53-inch upper screen and 3.02-inch lower screen, according to Nintendo’s comparison chart. | 3.53-inch upper screen and 3.02-inch lower screen, according to Nintendo’s comparison chart. |
| Nintendo 3DS games | Compatible; supported games can use the 3D effect. | Compatible; displayed in 2D. |
| Nintendo DS games | Compatible. | Compatible. |
| New Nintendo 3DS-exclusive games | Not compatible; this is an original-model 3DS. | Not compatible. |
Nintendo’s chart also describes the original 2DS as having a mono speaker and no C-stick or ZL/ZR buttons. The original 3DS and original 2DS therefore offer the same broad generation of games, but differ in how they display them and how their bodies are built. Nintendo 3DS comparison chart
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo 3DS Handheld System - Aqua Blue (Renewed) | $219.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo 3DS Handheld System - Cosmo Black (Renewed) | $215.21 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
![Nintendo 3DS - Cosmo Black [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41-PdNCkdfL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Nintendo 3DS - Cosmo Black [video game] | $240.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System - Black/Blue (Renewed) [Nintendo DS]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/316whGNkIZL._SL160_.jpg)
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Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System - Black/Blue (Renewed) [Nintendo DS] | $275.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Nintendo 3DS - Flame Red (Renewed) | $224.99 | Buy on Amazon |
What the 3DS’s 3D feature changes
The original 3DS creates a glasses-free stereoscopic effect by showing different images to the left and right eyes. Its depth slider lets you adjust the effect or disable it, so you can play in 2D when you prefer. The original 2DS has no stereoscopic 3D display. Nintendo Support: How the Nintendo 3DS system’s 3D feature works
That makes the choice personal rather than a simple upgrade question: if you want to try the depth effect, choose a 3DS; if you know you will play in 2D, the 2DS still runs compatible 3DS software. The 3DS’s effect can be switched off, so choosing it does not require using 3D all the time.
#1 Best Overall
Can a 2DS play 3DS games?
Yes. The original Nintendo 2DS plays Nintendo 3DS titles, but displays them in 2D. “2DS” does not mean it has a separate, 2DS-only game library. It also plays Nintendo DS software, just as Nintendo’s comparison chart lists for the original 3DS. The important exception is software made specifically for the New Nintendo 3DS: the original 2DS cannot play those titles. Nintendo Japan Support: How Nintendo 2DS differs from other Nintendo 3DS systems
When the New Nintendo 2DS XL is the better comparison
The New Nintendo 2DS XL is not just an original 2DS with a larger screen. It is a folding, 2D-only system that supports New Nintendo 3DS software. Nintendo lists a 4.88-inch upper screen, a C-stick, ZL/ZR buttons, NFC, and microSD expansion. If you want New-model game compatibility and a larger display but do not need stereoscopic 3D, compare this model rather than assuming the original 2DS has the same features. Nintendo: New Nintendo 2DS XL
Rank #2
- Item Package Dimension- 8.49999999133L x 6.099999993778W x 2.399999997552H inches
- Item Package Weight - 0.9499999992033387 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - VIDEO GAME CONSOLE
For context, Nintendo lists the 3DS XL’s screens as 4.88 inches on top and 4.18 inches on the bottom; the original 3DS and original 2DS each have 3.53-inch upper and 3.02-inch lower screens. These are specifications from Nintendo’s comparison chart, not a measure of viewing comfort. The New Nintendo 3DS and New Nintendo 3DS XL add controls and processing capability; Nintendo says the New 3DS models use face tracking for a more stable 3D view. Nintendo: New Nintendo 3DS XL
Which one should you buy?
Choose the original Nintendo 3DS if…
- You want to try stereoscopic 3D and value being able to adjust or switch it off.
- You prefer a folding body that closes over the screens.
- The particular used console is in good condition and its price makes sense for you.
Choose the original Nintendo 2DS if…
- You are happy playing the compatible 3DS library in 2D.
- You prefer its non-folding shape.
- You do not need New Nintendo 3DS-exclusive software or the added controls found on later models.
Consider the New Nintendo 2DS XL if…
- You want a folding design and larger screen than the original models.
- You want compatibility with New Nintendo 3DS software.
- You do not need stereoscopic 3D.
There is no universal winner. Compare the exact model, games you want to play, preferred shape and display, and the total cost and condition of the particular used unit.
Rank #3
- Nintendo 3DS offers a new way to play, 3D without the need for special glasses. The 3D Depth Slider lets your determine how much 3D you want to see.
- Play 3D games and take 3D pictures with Nintendo 3DS. One inner camera and two outer cameras. Resolutions are 640 x 480 for each camera. Lens are single focus and uses the CMOS capture element.
- Connect to a deeper wireless experience with SpotPass and StreetPass, giving you more exclusive content and connecting you with other Nintendo 3DS users.
- Complete with an adjustable stylus, 6 AR cards, and fun built-in software such as Face Raiders, Nintendo 3DS Sound, and the Mii Maker application.
- Use Parental Controls to restrict 3D mode for children 6 and under.
What to check when buying a used 3DS-family system
Nintendo no longer manufactures the 3DS family, so buyers are generally choosing among used or refurbished consoles. Before buying, check the specific model and revision rather than relying on a listing that simply says “3DS” or “2DS.” Nintendo Support: screen issue and service availability information
- Region match: Nintendo says 3DS-family systems are region locked. Check that the console and physical games are from compatible regions. Nintendo Support: 3DS-family region locking
- Physical condition: Inspect the screens, hinges on folding models, buttons, controls, and charging port. Ask for clear photos and a description of any faults.
- Included items: Verify whether the listing includes a compatible charger and stylus, and whether any memory card is included. Do not assume accessories shown in a product description or photo will be in the box.
- Returns and repairs: Read the seller’s return terms and check Nintendo’s current service status for the exact model before relying on a repair. Nintendo lists several older models, including the original 3DS and original 2DS, as no longer serviced; availability can change.
Digital purchases and online play are limited
Nintendo ended new eShop purchases for the Nintendo 3DS family on March 27, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time; download-code redemption ended April 3, 2023. Online play and other functions using online communication ended April 8, 2024. Nintendo says owners can still redownload previously purchased games and DLC and receive software updates for the foreseeable future; that wording does not promise service for a fixed period. Nintendo Support: Wii U and Nintendo 3DS eShop discontinuation Q&A
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Features: 3D Depth Slider, Wi-Fi Capability, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Mii Maker, 3D Camera, Front & Rear Camera, Touch Screen
- Includes: AC Power Adapter, Stylus
- Wired Connectivity: Wireless
- Model Compatibility: Nintendo 3DS
Rank #4
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The resulting product includes all relevant accessories, comes
- 3D Entertainment Without Glasses- Nintendo 3DS games have incredible graphics, and you can turn down the 3D effect to any level, or turn it off completely at any time with the build-in 3D depth slider to play games in crisp, clear 2D
- Two Screens- A widescreen display on the top screen shows 800x240 pixel resolution, allocating 400*pixles for each eye to create the 3D effect. The bottom LCD touch screen operates at a resolution of 320*240
- 3D Photos, Plus More- Nintendo 3DS comes built-in with the ability to take photos in 3D. Capture eye popping images of your friends and family, have fun with filters like the Merge lens, or even use the system's AR technology and included AR Cards
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.
