A big thanks goes out to Target for letting me get my hands on this 12 days early :) Anyways, since the announcement of the DS Lite many people asked what the differences are between the DS Lite and the original DS. Well, the internal hardware and abilities of the device are almost identical, but the design and overall appeal have greatly changed. The DS Lite has a sleeker design, much more bright and crisp dual screens, better stylus and bigger capacity battery.

The main difference between the Lite and the original is the design. The Lite has a softer look, more symmetrical and resembles something that Apple would make (ie. Ipod). As you can see in the picture below, the Lite looks quite different from its older model.

As you can see when the Lite is shut, it is almost as thick as the base of the original DS.

The Lite is also a bit shorter than the original.

The Lite also features brighter screens and I personally think they are a bit more crisp as well. The picture below shows the Lite (on the left) on its lowest brightness setting compared to the only brightness level the original DS has.

When the Lite is on the lowest setting it is just about the same brightness as the original DS, but the Lite still manages to be a little brighter. The picture below compares the Lite on its brightest setting to the original DS.

The screen on the Lite is so bright it is hard for the camera to pick up.

The following picture features Metroid Prime Hunters to help demonstrate just how much brighter and crisp the Lite is in game.

As you can see there is a big difference between the colors and visibility of the screen on the Lite vs. the original. The Lite pictured here isn't even on the brightest setting. The following picture is a close up shot of the top screen to help demonstrate the difference.

All in all, the DS Lite is a huge improvement upon the original. They have increased the battery capacity from 850mAh to 1000mAH, which if played on the lowest brightness setting it should provide longer gameplay than the original. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed the original immensely since I bought it at midnight when it was released November 21, 2004, but I would choose the new over the old. My only complaint is that when its released here in the United States there will be only one color, Polar White. Fret not, just give Nintendo a few months to replenish supply after the initial release and I'm sure new colors will be available. Enjoy a few more pictures as this review comes to an end.

The Lite in all its beauty.

The DS Lite is cat approved.

The DS Lites on the shelf May 31, 2006. 12 Days before the June 11th release. If you look closely you can see the reflection of my boots and pants.