Best Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles of 2025

Ethan Nicholls Avatar
Ethan Nicholls
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles are portable gaming devices that offer a unique gaming experience. These consoles allow players to enjoy 3D games without the need for special glasses. The 2DS variant is a budget-friendly option that does not include the 3D feature. Both consoles have a large library of games, including classic Nintendo titles and new releases. With features such as StreetPass and SpotPass, players can connect with others and share game data. The consoles are also backward compatible with older DS games. Overall, the Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles provide hours of fun and entertainment for gamers of all ages.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Nintendo New 2DS XL with Stylish Design Cover #TOP 1
Nintendo New 2DS XL with Stylish Design
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Nintendo New 3DS Handheld Console - Black Cover #TOP 2
Nintendo New 3DS Handheld Console - Black
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NEW Nintendo 3DS XL Console in Metallic Black Cover #TOP 3
NEW Nintendo 3DS XL Console in Metallic Black
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Nintendo 3DS & 2DS Consoles

#TOP 1

Nintendo New 2DS XL with Stylish Design

JANSOAAB
black
Nintendo New 2DS XL with Stylish Design Cover
Nintendo New 2DS XL - Black + Turquoise

The Nintendo New 2DS XL offers a sleek clamshell design that not only adds style but also ensures comfort while playing. Its fast processor means you can jump into games with minimal loading times, making it perfect for on-the-go gaming. The enhanced controls, including the C Stick and additional ZL and ZR buttons, provide greater precision in gameplay. Furthermore, tapping an amiibo figure to the NFC reader allows you to unlock special features in compatible games, enhancing your gaming experience.

What We Like
Stylish and comfortable design
Fast loading times
Enhanced control options
Compatible with amiibo features
#TOP 2

Nintendo New 3DS Handheld Console - Black

2205846
Black
Nintendo New 3DS Handheld Console - Black Cover
Nintendo Handheld Console 3DS - New Nintendo 3DS - Black

The New Nintendo 3DS offers a fantastic gaming experience with its built-in NFC reader, allowing you to enjoy amiibo functionality across various Nintendo 3DS titles. You can also play your entire library of 3DS and DS games, giving you access to a wealth of gaming content. The addition of a second analogue stick and extra shoulder buttons enhances your control, making gameplay smoother and more enjoyable. Furthermore, its improved processing power ensures faster loading times and quicker downloads, allowing you to spend less time waiting and more time playing.

What We Like
Amiibo functionality included
Compatible with all 3DS and DS games
Enhanced control with extra buttons
Faster loading and download speeds
#TOP 3

NEW Nintendo 3DS XL Console in Metallic Black

2206049
NEW Nintendo 3DS XL Console in Metallic Black Cover
NEW Nintendo 3DS XL Console, Metallic Black

The Nintendo 3DS XL Console offers an enhanced gaming experience with its C Stick, allowing for improved control during gameplay. Its built-in amiibo compatibility and NFC support let you interact with a range of toys and figures, adding depth to your gaming. With faster processing power than its predecessor, the Nintendo 3DS, you can enjoy smoother performance and quicker load times. Additionally, the Face tracking 3D feature brings games to life, providing an immersive visual experience for users.

What We Like
Enhanced controls with C Stick
Amiibo compatibility available
Faster processing power
Face tracking 3D feature
Plays all Nintendo 3DS games
#TOP 4

Nintendo 3DS Handheld Console in Aqua Blue

N3HEHWNIN50011
Aqua Blue
Nintendo 3DS Handheld Console in Aqua Blue Cover
Nintendo 3DS Handheld Console - Aqua Blue

The Nintendo 3DS Console lets you enjoy your entire library of 3DS and DS games wherever you go. With its impressive 3D gaming capabilities, you can immerse yourself in thrilling adventures from beloved franchises like Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon. You can also set customisable parental controls, ensuring that your kids can play safely and responsibly. This feature allows you to manage what they can access, giving you peace of mind while they explore the gaming world.

What We Like
Play 3DS and DS games
Portable 3D gaming experience
Access to popular franchises
Customisable parental controls
#TOP 5

COSMOS BLACK Nintendo 3DS Console

2200032
Kosmos Schwarz
COSMOS BLACK Nintendo 3DS Console Cover
COSMOS BLACK (EURO) /3DS- - NI

The COSMOS BLACK 3DS is a fantastic gaming console from Nintendo, aimed at players aged seven and over. It boasts a sleek design that makes it appealing and easy to handle. With one package included, you can start gaming right away without needing to purchase additional items. This console provides an excellent platform for enjoying a wide range of games, allowing you to immerse yourself in interactive adventures. Its robust brand reputation ensures you are investing in a quality device, perfect for both casual and serious gamers alike.

What We Like
Stylish design
Great for ages 7
Easy to use
Quality brand
Diverse game library
#TOP 6

Nintendo 3DS XL Metallic - Black Console

2206046
Metallic Black
Nintendo 3DS XL Metallic - Black Console Cover
Nintendo Handheld Console 3DS XL - New Nintendo 3DS XL Metallic - Black

The Nintendo 3DS XL offers an impressive gaming experience with its built-in NFC reader, allowing you to enjoy amiibo functionality across a variety of Nintendo 3DS titles. This console enables you to play your entire library of 3DS and DS games, giving you access to a vast selection of entertainment. You will also appreciate the enhanced processing power, which results in significantly faster loading times and download speeds. Additionally, the inclusion of a second analogue stick and two extra shoulder buttons enhances your control and gameplay comfort.

What We Like
Amiibo functionality included
Play 3DS and DS games
Faster loading times
Enhanced control options
Largest 3DS screen
#TOP 7

Nintendo 2DSXL Handheld Console - Pokeball Edition

2209646
Poke Ball Edition
Console
Nintendo 2DSXL Handheld Console - Pokeball Edition Cover
Handheld Console 2DS - Pokeball Edition (Nintendo 3DS)

The Nintendo 2DSXL Console is your gateway to a fantastic world of gaming. With its ability to connect with friends and the global Nintendo community, you can easily share your gaming experiences. The handheld design allows you to enjoy your favourite games on the go, making it perfect for travel. Additionally, the vibrant Pokeball Edition adds a fun and unique touch to your gaming device, appealing to Pokémon fans and collectors alike.

What We Like
Portable and easy to use
Connects with friends easily
Unique Pokeball design
Access to vast game library
#TOP 8

New Nintendo 2DS XL Pikachu Edition Console

2209766
New Nintendo 2DS XL Pikachu Edition Console Cover
New Nintendo 2DS XL - Pikachu Edition

The New Nintendo 2DS XL offers an enhanced gaming experience with its C stick and ZL/ZR buttons, providing you with more control options in compatible games. The integrated NFC reader on the touchscreen allows you to easily read and store data from amiibo figures, unlocking new features in your games. You can expand your storage effortlessly using microSD cards, ensuring you have ample space for downloadable titles. The console package includes a stylus, a 4GB microSDHC card, a power adapter, and additional AR cards, making it a complete gaming solution.

What We Like
Enhanced control options
Integrated NFC reader
Expandable storage capacity
Complete package included
#TOP 9

Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld Console - White

12730
White
Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld Console - White Cover
Nintendo Handheld Console 3DS XL - White (Nintendo 3DS)

The Nintendo 3DS XL is a versatile handheld console that enables you to enjoy your entire library of 3DS and DS games wherever you are. With its stunning 3D gaming capabilities, you can immerse yourself in exciting adventures from beloved franchises like Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Pokémon. The console also features customisable parental controls, ensuring a safe gaming experience for your children. This means you can set limitations on what they can access, providing peace of mind while they play.

What We Like
Play 3DS and DS games
Portable 3D gaming experience
Access to popular franchises
Customisable parental controls
#TOP 10

Nintendo 3DS XL Blue and Black Limited Edition

2206546
Nintendo 3DS XL Blue and Black Limited Edition Cover
Nintendo Handheld Console XL - Blue and Black Limited Edition with Pokemon X (Nintendo 3DS)

The Nintendo 3DS XL is a stunning handheld console that features a striking blue and black limited edition design. It includes the popular game Pokemon X, which offers hours of fun and adventure. With its larger screen, you can enjoy a more immersive gaming experience, making gameplay easier on the eyes. This console is part of the Nintendo 3DS series, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of games. For those who love gaming on the go, the Nintendo 3DS XL is a perfect choice, combining style and functionality.

What We Like
Limited edition design
Includes Pokemon X game
Larger screen for better gameplay
Compatible with many games
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Nintendo 3DS and 2DS the same?

The Nintendo 2DS and 3DS have the same size screens. You get a 3.53-inch display up top and a slightly smaller 3.02-inch screen below. However, the 2DS screens are actually part of a single, flat screen that's split in two by the plastic screen surround of the console. It makes the 2DS cheaper and simpler to produce.

2. Do they still make 2DS consoles?

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.

3. Can you play Nintendo 3DS games on a 2DS console?

Nintendo 2DS can play all Nintendo 3DS games in 2D, and with an amazing catalogue of Nintendo 3DS games that's growing every month, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Nintendo 2DS is backwards compatible, so you also have the entire library of Nintendo DS games to replay or discover!

4. Does Nintendo still make 3DS consoles?

In November 2019, Bowser reaffirmed that Nintendo would continue to support the 3DS into 2020. On September 16, 2020, Nintendo confirmed that production of the Nintendo 3DS family of systems had ended.

Editor's Notes

During our nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles research, we found 61 nintendo 3ds & 2ds consoles products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 66,884 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 £357.45.

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 and more. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 83 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Ethan Nicholls Avatar

Ethan Nicholls is a developer from Manchester, and he is also a web content writer. Ethan is a first-class graduate from the department of electrical and electronics engineering, University of Surrey. Ethan has programmed series of software and games. When Ethan is not programming or developing software, he writes tips and tricks on passing tough levels in popular video games.