Best Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles of 2025

James Ryan Avatar
James Ryan
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

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Nintendo 3DS and 2DS are handheld game consoles that offer a unique gaming experience with their dual screens and 3D capabilities. The 3DS features a clamshell design with a 3D display on the top screen, while the 2DS has a flat design with a 2D display. Both consoles have a wide range of games available, including popular franchises like Mario and Zelda. The 3DS also has a built-in gyroscope and accelerometer, allowing for motion controls in certain games. Additionally, both consoles have Wi-Fi capabilities for online gaming and virtual console access. These consoles are great for gamers on the go who want a versatile and immersive gaming experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System Cover #TOP 1
Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System
ftb score rating icon 9.8
New Nintendo 2DS XL - Black + Turquoise Cover #TOP 2
New Nintendo 2DS XL - Black + Turquoise
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Renewed Nintendo 3DS with Dual Screens, Motion Sensor, and Analog Control Cover #TOP 3
Renewed Nintendo 3DS with Dual Screens, Motion Sensor, and Analog Control
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles

#TOP 1

Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System

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Black/Blue
Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System Cover
Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System - Black/Blue (Renewed) [Nintendo DS]

The Nintendo 3DS XL offers an impressive gaming experience with its unique features. Enjoy 3D entertainment without the need for glasses, allowing you to adjust the 3D effect to your liking or switch to a clear 2D mode whenever you prefer. The dual screens enhance gameplay, with a vibrant top screen providing stunning visuals and a responsive touch screen below for easy navigation. Capture memorable moments in 3D with its built-in camera, complete with fun filters and AR technology, bringing your photos to life. This system is designed to provide convenience and entertainment for all users.

What We Like
3D gaming without glasses
Dual-screen functionality
3D photo capture
User-friendly controls
#TOP 2

New Nintendo 2DS XL - Black + Turquoise

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Black + Turquoise
New Nintendo 2DS XL - Black + Turquoise Cover
New Nintendo 2DS XL - Black + Turquoise With Mario Kart 7 Pre-installed - Nintendo 2DS

The New Nintendo 2DS XL is designed with sleek clamshell model and colorful accents that offer a comfortable grip. It is equipped with a fast processor that ensures short loading times, C Stick that enables enhanced controls and ZL/ZR buttons that provide multiple options. Moreover, it is compatible with all Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS and most Nintendo DS games in 2D. The system is lightweight and portable, making it easy to play games anywhere. Additionally, it features a near field communication (NFC) reader that allows you to tap an amiibo figure and enjoy amiibo features in compatible games.

What We Like
Sleek and colorful design.
Fast processor for short loading times.
Compatible with most Nintendo DS games in 2D.
Lightweight and portable.
Near field communication (NFC) reader for amiibo figures in compatible games.
#TOP 3

Renewed Nintendo 3DS with Dual Screens, Motion Sensor, and Analog Control

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Pearl Pink
Renewed Nintendo 3DS with Dual Screens, Motion Sensor, and Analog Control Cover
Nintendo 3DS, Pearl Pink (Renewed)

This renewed Nintendo 3DS comes in a Pearl Pink color and features two screens, a motion sensor, and an analog control. It is suitable for children aged 6 and up, and offers backwards compatibility, StreetPass, and Spotpass capabilities. The console also includes a Nintendo 3DS camera, an adjustable stylus, a charging cradle, and a 2GB SD memory card, providing users with a complete gaming experience.

What We Like
Dual screens for an immersive gaming experience
Features motion sensor and analog control for precise and intuitive gameplay
Includes charging cradle and 2GB SD memory card for added convenience
#TOP 4

Nintendo New 3DS XL Bundle

Black
Nintendo New 3DS XL Bundle Cover
Nintendo New 3DS XL, Black Premium Bundle (Renewed)

The Nintendo 3DS XL is a versatile gaming console that comes with a complete bundle, including a charging dock, charger, stylus, carrying case, and more. With its enhanced processing power, you can enjoy smoother gameplay and quicker loading times, making your gaming experience more enjoyable. The face tracking 3D feature adds a new dimension to your games, immersing you in the action. Plus, this system is compatible with all Nintendo DS games, allowing you to explore a vast library, although those games won’t display in 3D. The 90-day guarantee ensures peace of mind with your renewed purchase.

What We Like
Complete gaming bundle included
Smoother gameplay experience
Face tracking 3D feature
Compatible with Nintendo DS games
90-day guarantee
#TOP 5

Nintendo 3DS XL - Black

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Black/Black
Nintendo 3DS XL - Black Cover
Nintendo 3DS XL - Black [Old Model] (Renewed)

The Nintendo 3DS XL - Black [Old Model] (Renewed) is a refurbished handheld gaming console from Nintendo. With its sleek black design, this 3DS XL offers an immersive gaming experience. The larger screen size allows for enhanced visuals and gameplay, bringing your games to life. The 3D feature adds depth to your games, making them more engaging and realistic. The built-in camera lets you capture and share your gaming moments with friends. With the Nintendo 3DS XL, you can enjoy a wide range of games and entertainment on the go, making it the perfect companion for gaming enthusiasts.

What We Like
Sleek black design
Larger screen size
Enhanced visuals and gameplay
#TOP 6

Nintendo 3DS Cosmo Black (Renewed)

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Nintendo 3DS Cosmo Black (Renewed) Cover
Nintendo 3DS Handheld System - Cosmo Black (Renewed)

The Nintendo 3DS offers a compact design with dimensions of approximately 8.5 x 6.1 x 2.4 inches, making it easy to carry anywhere you go. Weighing just under a pound, this handheld system is lightweight, allowing you to enjoy gaming without feeling burdened. With a single unit in the package, you can start playing right away without the hassle of additional items. As a video game console, it provides a versatile platform for a variety of games, ensuring hours of entertainment at your fingertips.

What We Like
Compact and portable size
Lightweight design
Ready to use out of the box
Diverse gaming options
#TOP 7

SIZEEYYOU Classic Retro Game Console

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Grey-Blue
SIZEEYYOU Classic Retro Game Console Cover
Super Classic Retro Game Console Built-in 5000 Video Games and Dual 2.4G Wireless Controllers,4K HDMI Output Plug & Play TF Expansion. (Grey-Blue)

The SIZEEYYOU Retro Game Console is a fantastic way to relive your childhood with thousands of classic games built right in. You can easily save your progress and download additional retro games, making it convenient for you to play at your own pace. With 4K HDMI output, setting up the console is a breeze—just plug it in and start playing. This console not only entertains but also helps children develop logical thinking and confidence through gaming. It's a perfect gift for the younger generation to experience the joy of classic gaming.

What We Like
Thousands of classic games
Easy game saving and downloading
4K HDMI output
Enhances logical thinking skills
Great gift for children
#TOP 8

Nintendo New 3DS XL - Red

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Nintendo New 3DS XL - Red Cover
Nintendo New 3DS Xl - Red [Discontinued]

The Nintendo New 3DS XL is a powerful handheld gaming console that offers an enhanced gaming experience. With its built-in C Stick, you can enjoy enhanced controls, allowing for more precise movements in games. The console also features built-in amiibo compatibility and NFC support, allowing you to easily unlock additional content and features in compatible games. The faster processing power of the New 3DS XL ensures smoother gameplay, while the Face Tracking 3D feature provides a more immersive gaming experience. With the ability to play all Nintendo 3DS games, you'll have a vast library of games to choose from. Please note that the AC adapter is not included, so you'll need to purchase one separately. Additionally, the console offers Parental Controls, which allow you to restrict the use of the 3D mode for children 6 and under.

What We Like
Enhanced controls
Built-in amiibo compatibility
Faster processing power
#TOP 9

Nintendo 3DS XL - Blue/Black

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Blue/Black
Nintendo 3DS XL - Blue/Black Cover
Nintendo 3DS XL - Blue/Black [Old Model] Games Included

The Nintendo 3DS XL is a versatile handheld gaming console that enhances your gaming experience with built-in WiFi, allowing you to connect online effortlessly. Enjoy games with stunning graphics, even at 240p resolution, providing a clear and vibrant display. You can expand your storage with compatible Secure Digital (SD) memory cards, giving you plenty of space for your favorite games. This model is perfect for gamers looking for convenience and portability, making it easy to take your gaming on the go.

What We Like
Built-in WiFi connectivity
Clear 240p graphics
Expandable storage options
Portable gaming experience
#TOP 10

Nintendo 3DS XL

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Red/Black
Nintendo 3DS XL Cover
Nintendo 3DS XL - Red/Black

The Nintendo 3DS XL is a gaming console that offers 3D entertainment without the need for glasses. With incredible graphics and a built-in 3D depth slider, you can adjust the 3D effect to your desired level or turn it off completely to play games in crisp, clear 2D. This feature allows you to enjoy immersive gameplay and stunning visuals. The console belongs to the Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles category and is manufactured by Nintendo. With its sleek design and innovative features, the Nintendo 3DS XL offers a unique gaming experience that is both convenient and enjoyable.

What We Like
3D Entertainment
Incredible Graphics
Adjustable 3D Effect
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are the 3DS and 2DS discontinued?

Yes, both the Nintendo 3DS and 2DS consoles have been discontinued. The Nintendo 2DS was discontinued in Japan in 2019 and in the rest of the world in 2020, along with the other systems in the Nintendo 3DS family.

2. Is the 3DS compatible with the 2DS?

Yes, the Nintendo 2DS is compatible with all Nintendo 3DS games in 2D. It can also play the entire library of Nintendo DS games. So, if you own a 2DS, you can enjoy a wide range of games from both systems.

3. Why is 2DS cheaper than 3DS?

The Nintendo 2DS is cheaper than the 3DS because it lacks the glasses-free 3D technology and the hinge found in the 3DS. It is designed for a more affordable gaming experience, making it suitable for small children or individuals who are looking for a budget-friendly option.

4. Is Nintendo 3DS going away in 2023?

Yes, after March 27, 2023, you will no longer be able to purchase or download new games, in-game content, demos, or redeem download codes on the Nintendo 3DS or Wii U eShop. This means that the support for these systems will be discontinued.

5. What 3DS games can the 2DS not play?

The Nintendo 2DS can play all Nintendo 3DS games except for a few that are specifically labeled as 'Only for NEW Nintendo 3DS XL'. These games, such as Xenoblade Chronicles or Binding of Isaac, require the enhanced capabilities of the New 3DS XL and are not compatible with the 2DS.

6. Can you put a 2DS SD card in a 3DS?

Yes, the Nintendo 3DS, 3DS XL, and 2DS XL are compatible with SD cards up to 2GB in size, as well as SDHC cards of 4GB and larger, up to 32GB. However, other types of SD cards, such as miniSD and microSD, require the use of an SD card adapter to be compatible with these consoles.

Editor's Notes

During our nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles research, we found 16 nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 48,352 customer reviews through our big data system to write the nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles list. We found that most customers choose nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles with an average price of $283.65.

The nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles, including Nintendo, Susanny, SIZEEYYOU. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 101 consumers with an average rating of 3.7.

Written by
James Ryan Avatar

James Ryan is a young writer with a degree in journalism. He’s well-versed in topics such as literature, video games, and gaming devices. In his free time, he enjoys editing, playing games, exercising and photography.