Since the Nintendo Switch's launch in 2017, it can't be underestimated what kind of impact it had on the gaming world. Now a completely new category has been added. No longer was it merely a handheld - TV set for docked table-top as well. Gamers of all ages love it, and this hybrid feature has become synonymous with the name Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch Lite, alongside, adopts a more compact and cheaper style for games. This time it only works when held.
Refurbished Nintendo Switch consoles offer a low cost gaming solution as well. New or old, this guide will help you decide which of the two - the standard Switch or the Switch Lite - suits your needs. It will also point towards the UK's best Nintendo Switch refurbished deal.
Key Differences Between Nintendo Switch And Switch Lite
1. Features
Nintendo Switch:
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6.2-inch LCD screen
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Handheld, tabletop and TV (docked) play are all supported.
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Detachable Joy-Cons with HD Rumble and IR Motion Camera
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Ideal for multiplayer games as well as other applications.
Nintendo Switch Lite:
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5.5-inch LCD screen
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Purely hand-held gameplay that supports mobile devices
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Fixed controls (not detachable)
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Lacks HD Rumble & TV support
Special Joy-Cons are needed for some games. In other words, the Switch offers flexibility for all types of use, while the Lite is specially designed for individual gamers on the go.
2. Performance
Both consoles share the same internal specs and games compatibility, but there are some differences:
Graphics: Same resolution in handheld mode (720p), but the regular Switch can game at up to 1080p when connected to a TV.
Battery Life:
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Nintendo Switch (2019 revision): 4.5 – 9 hours
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Nintendo Switch Lite: 3 – 7 hours
Game Compatibility:
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Nintendo Switch: Can play all Switch games
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Switch Lite: Compatible with most games, but some need Joy-Cons (sold separately) for motion control or multiplayer
Explore this blog for more insights
Best Nintendo Switch Games in 2025
If you play games that need motion control or multiplayer, the regular Switch is a better option. But for lighter games or single-player, the Lite works equally well.
3. Price Comparison
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Nintendo Switch (new): About £259.99
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Nintendo Switch Lite (new): £199.99
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Nintendo Switch OLED (new): £309.99
However, perhaps due to increased costs, refurbished Nintendo Switch UK is a very popular option. Some common refurbished prices might be:
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Nintendo Switch Refurbished: £150 – £229
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Refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite: £120 – £160
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Nintendo Switch OLED refurbished: £220 – £299
Although refurbished, performance is not lost and great savings can be had when bought from reputable UK retailers.
Which One Is Best For You?
Every category has different requirements:
Best For Casual Gamers
The Nintendo Switch Lite is perfect for casual gamers who prefer single-player games or don’t need the option for TV mode. It’s light and portable and cheap — a low-stakes entry into Nintendo land.
Best For On-The-Go Gamers
The Switch Lite is the one for you if your gaming needs are portable. Its smaller design and built-in controls make it very portable, and its lower cost means you don’t have to stress about bumps and scrapes on the road.
Best For Families
Regular Nintendo Switch, best for the family. It supports local multiplayer, connects to the TV for family game night and has a broader roster of titles and peripherals. Throw in a few refurbished controllers, and you have a full suite on a budget.
Ideal For Buyers Who Need To Stick To A Budget
If you want to save, buying a refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite or refurbished Nintendo Switch is a smart move. Yes, even the premium Refurbished Nintendo Switch Lite is discounted so that you can try the best screen for less.
Refurbished Models
Buying Nintendo Switch refurbished consoles is a more cost-effective way to get into gaming — but here's something even better:
Why Buy Refurbished?
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Affordable: 30% cheaper than new models. You can save a big amount. Play top tier gaming without breaking the bank.
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Sustainability: Extends the life of electronic devices, reduces e-waste. A suitable eco-friendly choice for mother-nature.
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Trustworthiness: Warranty backed quality checked certified refurbished Nintendo products. They have all been tested to ensure they function as good as new.
You can use refurbished models which are in your budget and deliver the best gaming experience.
Where Do You Find Perfect Deals?
Some top UK retailers for Nintendo Switch refurbished UK deals include:
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Nintendo Official UK Store: Certified refurbished hand play consoles with 12-month warranties.
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Tech4Cash: A reliable UK-based brand that specialises in providing affordable, quality-assured Nintendo Switch refurbished consoles and their peripherals, along with warranties and customer support for customer peace of mind. You can get amazing deals of Nintendo Switch Lite refurbished here.
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Amazon Renewed: Offers a wide range of refurbished models with the security that your money-buyer protection–is safe
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GAME & Currys: Occasional trade-ins or end-of-line clearances
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eBay UK & CEX: Both have been quoted as being excellent sources of pre-owned technology
If you want the maximum save, watch for seasonal promos of Nintendo Switch console deals, like during Black Friday. Also check out Nintendo Switch OLED offers for high-quality display screens on Boxing Day sales, or student discount events.
Final Verdict – Which Model Is Right For You?
Pick Nintendo Switch if you like versatility, multiplayer in mind and want to game on both the go and on TV as well
Choose Nintendo Switch Lite if your style runs more to a small, money-saving console designed for hand-held play
Choose Nintendo Switch OLED if what is most important in display quality and colourful images (and also considering buying a refurbished Nintendo Switch OLED for great value!).
By picking from this array of Nintendo Switch refurbished or Nintendo Switch deals, you must be sure that it lies within budget. The decision of buying your first console or upgrading depends on both whether the game is portable at all (and, if not, where you want to play it); and what kind of screen it has.
With prices starting as low as $109.99, don't let high prices keep you from joining the game today. Just take home a Switch from top sellers like Tech4Cash, confident in the knowledge that they are professional.
