Identifying your model

Identifying your model

Before buying anything, confirm which DS you own. Every model in the original line uses the same slot-1 workflow, but the body and ports differ. A quick look settles it.

Original DS ("Phat")

The first model is chunky and boxy, with a thick body and rounded edges. The screens are noticeably dimmer than later units and there is no brightness control. It has a prominent slot-2 (GBA) port at the bottom that accepts full-size Game Boy Advance cartridges flush with the shell.

DS Lite

The Lite is thinner, glossier, and much brighter, with a four-level brightness toggle. Its slot-2 port is the same width as a GBA cartridge but leaves a small gap, so GBA carts stick out slightly. This is the most common model and a great choice for newcomers.

Not sure?

• If the unit is thick and matte with dim screens, it is an original DS.
• If it is slim and shiny with a bright screen, it is a DS Lite.
• If it has cameras and an SD card slot on the side, it is a DSi and belongs to a different guide.