Choosing the right Nintendo Switch system matters: whether you want a full docked-console experience, a lightweight handheld for travel, or a bundle that gets the whole family playing right away. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, comparison of specs, and aggregation of expert and consumer feedback.
Considerations and Methodology
We evaluated candidate systems using a mix of real-world testing, technical verification, and consumer feedback analysis. Key factors included:
- Play modes & versatility (TV docked, tabletop, handheld)
- Portability & ergonomics (size, weight, built-in controls)
- Battery life and charging under typical workloads
- Included software, bundles, and extra value (games, subscriptions)
- Condition and warranty (new vs renewed/refurbished risk)
- Price and total value
Testing involved daily-play sessions, battery runtime checks, validation of stated specs (screen size, detachable controllers), and cross-referencing reviews from experts and thousands of user ratings. Where products were renewed/refurbished, we weighed the cost savings against the limited or varied warranty coverage.
Nintendo Switch Lite Handheld
Compact, lightweight, and made for handheld play, the Switch Lite is ideal for travelers and solo players. It supports all Switch games that run in handheld mode and offers a simple, integrated control layout for a hassle-free, affordable Nintendo experience.
The Nintendo Switch Lite is the best budget option for players who primarily want portable gaming. It’s noticeably lighter and more pocketable than the full Switch, with integrated controls and a built-in d-pad that improves classic game navigation. Because it lacks a dock, TV output and detachable Joy-Cons are missing—so multiplayer requiring separate controllers or games that need Joy-Con motion/IR features can be limited. Battery life is comparable to the standard Switch depending on the model, and being a renewed unit here makes it a strong value if you want official Nintendo hardware without the higher new-unit price.
Nintendo Switch Mario Kart Bundle
A full Switch system bundled with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and 12 months of Nintendo Switch Online — excellent for families or new owners who want immediate multiplayer fun and a complete, out-of-the-box experience.
This Mario Kart 8 Deluxe bundle is the premium, ready-to-play choice: you get a full Nintendo Switch system with Neon Joy-Con, the full game download, and a year of Nintendo Switch Online. That combination delivers immediate local and online multiplayer, a robust game to show off the system’s capabilities, and strong long-term value through online features and classic game access. Technically identical to the standard Switch hardware (dock, 6.2” LCD, TV/tabletop/handheld modes), the bundle's real advantage is convenience — everything needed for local couch play and online racing is included.
Nintendo Switch (Renewed) Console
A renewed standard Switch offering the full three play modes and detachable Joy-Con controllers. It’s a good middle ground if you want official hardware at a lower price, with acceptable cosmetic standards and a refurbishment-backed return policy.
The renewed Nintendo Switch gives you the full console experience — 6.2" LCD, TV/tabletop/handheld modes, and detachable Joy-Cons — at a noticeable discount versus new. For budget-conscious buyers who still want full functionality, this is often the best compromise. Renewed units are inspected and often come with a limited replacement/refund window, but you should check the seller’s warranty. Performance, game compatibility, and ergonomics match new models; the main trade-offs are potential cosmetic wear and shorter or variable warranty coverage.
Game & Watch: Super Mario
A compact, nostalgia-driven handheld with Super Mario titles and a clock — great as a collectible, impulse-friendly portable for fans, but not a substitute for a Switch console’s library or multiplayer features.
The Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros. is a delightful, low-cost handheld that captures Nintendo nostalgia and includes Super Mario Bros., The Lost Levels, and a themed Ball game. It’s lightweight and collectible, making it an excellent gift or casual-play option. However, it’s not a Switch and lacks the modern ecosystem: no eShop, no save syncing with Switch accounts, and no multiplayer support. We recommend it as an editor’s pick for fans who value design and classic gameplay rather than as a replacement for a full Switch system.
Comparison at a Glance
- Nintendo Switch Mario Kart Bundle (Premium Choice) — Best for families and players who want an all-in-one package with a full game and online time. Includes everything needed for immediate multiplayer fun.
- Nintendo Switch (Renewed) Console (Best Value for Money) — Best for buyers who want full Switch functionality at a lower price; check warranty and seller reputation.
- Nintendo Switch Lite (Best Budget Pick) — Best for solo players and travelers who prioritize portability and affordability over TV play.
- Game & Watch: Super Mario (Editors Choice) — Best niche pick for collectors and casual retro play; not a Switch replacement.
Key differences to remember:
- TV/ Docked Play: Only the full Switch models (bundle and renewed) support TV output. Switch Lite and Game & Watch do not.
- Multiplayer: Local couch multiplayer is easiest on the full Switch (and bundles with extra Joy-Cons). Switch Lite requires extra controllers.
- Portability: Switch Lite is the smallest and lightest; Game & Watch is even smaller but with a limited library.
- Value: Renewed Switch units give strong hardware value; bundles can be the best long-term deal when including full-price games and subscriptions.
Final Recommendation
If you want a single recommendation: choose the Nintendo Switch Mario Kart Bundle if budget allows — it offers the best combination of hardware, immediate software value, and family-friendly multiplayer. For cost-conscious buyers who still want full Switch capabilities, a renewed standard Switch is a sensible buy. If you primarily play on the go and never need TV output, the Switch Lite delivers excellent portability at a lower price. Finally, the Game & Watch is a fun, inexpensive collector’s toy that’s perfect for fans of classic Mario but should not be considered a replacement for a Switch console.
These recommendations reflect hands-on testing, careful spec comparison, and synthesis of user and expert feedback. Select based on how you’ll play (TV vs. handheld), how many people will share the device, and whether bundled software or warranty considerations matter to you.