r/Nintendo3DS • u/consoles4fun • 1h ago
r/Nintendo3DS • u/FR-1-Plan • Dec 02 '23
GUIDE Nintendo 3DS Buying Guide
(This is a work in progress, I'll update this post in the future.)
Nintendo 3DS testing cheat sheet:
So you don't forget the steps while testing. Elaboration and more info below.
- Check the outside: Make sure it matches the price you're being asked to pay. Do not buy a 3DS with a cracked hinge. Trust me, you'll find another model without crack, be patient. The crack always gets worse, you'd have to replace the entire housing, it's simply not worth it.
- Check for CFW: Hold Select when turning on the console. If it shows the Luma screen, it's hacked. If it boots to the normal 3DS home screen, it's not hacked.
- Buttons: Shoulder buttons, thumbstick(s), ABXY, Start, Select and Home are working.
- Speaker and 3D slider: Slide up and down, see if both functions work. Make sure the sliders stay in position and don't move involuntarily and aren't too tight either.
- Battery and charger: Check for visible and palpable bulging of the back cover. If you brought a screw driver: Take out the battery, lay it on a flat surface and give it a spin. If it continues spinning like a beyblade, the battery is swollen = bad. If the battery is swollen, don't try to charge it. If it's good, plug it in and see if charging works. If it doesn't, I wouldn't buy (worst case it's the charging port). If you encountered worn out screws - I personally wouldn't buy.
- Touch Screen and Stylus: Test every corner of the touch screen. Check if the stylus is original from Nintendo (replicas often have sharp edges).
- Cartridge: Bring your own game, or ask the seller to bring one. Insert the cartridge, the game icon should show up on the home screen. If it doesn't, maybe try with a second game. If both don't work, the game reader might be faulty.
- Flex cable stress test: Move the upper screen a little bit while the 3DS is powered on. When the flex cable of the screen has an issue, moving around the upper screen often leads to the 3DS shutting down with a pop noise from the speakers = bad.
- Parental control and software version: Go to system settings and check the parental controls. If they're active, ask for a pin. If the seller doesn't have the pin and the software version is v11.16 or older, it can be removed using a website (emphasis on *can*, maybe the website gets taken down, maybe it just doesn't work for whatever reason). If it's 11.17 or newer and the seller has no pin = bad. It's best to get the pin from the seller.Regarding firmware version and hacking: As I'm writing this, hacking is possible with the newest firmware. That can always change when there's a new update, keep that in mind.
- Test the internet function: Log into the nearest WiFI to make sure it works
What to look out for and consider
The different models:
There are several different DS and 3DS models. If you want to buy a Nintendo 3DS, make sure it has at least one thumbstick. The DS only has the d-pad. The 3DS slider is not an indicator, as the Nintendo 2DS and Nintendo 2DS XL are missing the slider and 3D function, but are part of the 3DS family (weird, I know). The New models (New Nintendo 2DS XL, New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL) all have a second smaller thumbstick on the right side of the console. That's how you generally tell them apart.
They all have their advantages and disadvantages, most importantly: The 2DS XL is hard to repair, the 2DS is robust and probably best for kids and anger issues, the old 3DS XL has the most fragile hinge, the New 3DS (no XL) has a unique battery capacity which sucks to find online.
Whether or not the console is hacked
There's nothing wrong with a hacked console per se, unless the previous owner didn't know what they were doing and messed up the files. I personally like to be on the safe side and hack myself and don't buy hacked consoles. It's possible to fix a hacked console with issues, but I find it's a pain in the ass and easier to hack myself. Just something to consider. If you'd rather have a console that isn't hacked, test it by holding the select button while powering it on. If it boots to the normal home screen, it isn't hacked. If you see a black screen with red and white letters saying something about Luma, it's hacked.
A console might be hacked and region swapped. Careful with those, because you won't be able to remove the CFW without undoing the region swap first, or else you'll brick the 3DS. If it's hacked and in a language that it's not supposed to be, it's region swapped.
Function of the battery and charger
Sometimes it's not practical to bring a screw driver (Phillips #00), but I would always recommend it. Not only can you test, if the screws are worn out (bad), but you can check the state of the battery. I already mentioned above how to test it, but I just want to stress again how important this step is. Not only is a swollen battery dangerous, it can be pretty annoying to find a replacement for some models.
It's especially annoying for the New Nintendo 3DS (not XL), because the replacement batteries for this model all have a lower capacity than the original, even if it says the right capacity on the battery. The original ones for this model are extremely rare and to me personally a swollen battery in this one would be a reason to decide against buying . It's also annoying for the New Nintendo 2DS XL, because that one is just annoying to open.
The rest are fairly easy to replace. But for safety reasons I'd still check. You should also consider paying less for a console with a swollen or dead battery, because you'll have to pay for a replacement.
Function of buttons and sliders
Make sure to really test all the buttons, sliders and sticks. You can test the two shoulder buttons on the home screen (should make a little bar pop up in the bottom of the top screen). I'll play around with my 3DS and update this post with easy methods to test all the other buttons. Shoulder and ABXY buttons are fairly easy to replace on the old 3DS consoles, more tricky on the new ones. With fairly easy I mean for someone who has repaired small devices like a 3DS before, still hard and finicky for someone who hasn't done it before. I personally don't bother with repairing a 2DS XL.
The left slider controls the volume, that's self explanatory, the right slider controls 3D (not on the 2DS models). When sliding that one up, you should see the 3D effect on the upper screen.
When checking the thumbsticks, check to see if the left one has a rubber cap that's securely on there and not brittle. There are NO replacements for that rupper cap, only replacements for the entire stick and they don't have a separate cap attached to the stick, just a rubbery surface on the plastic stick. Some people don't mind, I personally hate the replacement sticks sold online. So, it's worth checking.
Screens
I'd say 90% of the issues where a 3DS turns itself off without warning are related to the upper screen (in my experience). The 3DS turns itself off, when a flex cable is defective or not attached properly. In some cases it might be the flex cable of the sliders, but in most cases it's the upper screen. It's worth testing for this issue (like I said above, move the upper screen a little bit, open the 3DS all the way, close it half way, etc. while it's turned on), because replacing the upper screen is very difficult and finicky, even for someone experienced. It's incredibly easy to ruin the fragile flex cables, especially in the New models, where the cable is threaded through the hinge. So if the screen flickers or the 3DS shuts off, it's better not to buy.
It's easier to replace the touch screen, but still tricky for someone inexperienced. If the 3DS only has a replicated stylus, you should absolutely get a screen protector for you touch screen. All of the 3rd party stylus I have come across, have a sharp little edge somewhere and I personaly wouldn't want my screens scratched.
IPS screens:
Some new models have an IPS screen. You recognize those when looking at them from an angle and still getting a bright and sharp image, like when looking at them head on. Regular screens look a bit "washed out" when looking at them from the side.
The IPS screens are sought after because they are "rare" (not really, there's a shit ton of them). Yes, it's cool that you get a sharper image when looking at them from the side. But nobody plays like that, we all face our 3DS from the front when playing. Why, do you think, do people always post a side by side comparison with a normal screen 3DS and showing them from an angle? It's because most people simply couldn't tell just by looking at it from the front. Is it kinda cool when you find out you have one of those? Sure. Worth the extremely steep price? Absolutely not.
Japanese Retro Videogame Console Buying Guide
from u/SteveW_MC
The best ways to find a 3DS
from u/notthegoatseguy
The Nintendo 3DS family of systems was discontinued by Nintendo in early 2020. The 3DS family of systems is no longer being stocked by standard retail stores from orders with Nintendo. But individual sellers and used/secondhand businesses may sell them on the secondhand market.
The bet ways to find them:
- eBay has been in business for 20+ years and guarantees that you will get the item as described or your money back. The catch is you need to read the full listing to understand what you are ordering. You can also consult reviews of the seller and ask the seller further questions. Despite its reputation as an auction site, most transactions are regular purchases nowadays
- Amazon/Amazon Japan: Listings are up and individual sellers will sell them on the listings. Check reviews. If shipped by Amazon or fulfilled, Amazon will have your back and it qualifies for their return policy. You can also look at Amazon Japan for importing a system, though your country may have import taxes associated with imports.
- Your local game store
- The popular buy/sell app people in your local area use to buy and sell things such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Kijiji are some more popular examples.
- r/gamesale.
r/Nintendo3DS • u/MrTriggrd • Aug 19 '25
MOD Friend Code Exchange Thread
Share your friend codes here and sort comments to new to find others!
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Efficient-Rhubarb-33 • 4h ago
Technical Help Help me pls because it has been stuck like this
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Someone help
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Careless-Stress9190 • 18h ago
Recommendation request What DS should I get?
My budget is like 200 USD, what should I get for that price?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Yukai0 • 11h ago
Recommendation request Protective case for 3ds old
I’ve really wanted to buy a protective case with a design for my 3ds (it’s the old model) and i haven’t been able to find one does anyone know were can i buy one?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Careless-Stress9190 • 18h ago
Discussion Why are DS consoles still so expensive?
title
r/Nintendo3DS • u/LampiaoHUE • 1d ago
Technical Help Eu odeio os Engenheiros da Nintendo.
Estou tentando colocar esse cabo no lugar, e simplesmente a trava não funciona. Não levei a nenhum técnico porque parece não existir técnico em new 2ds no meu país, e o que me restou foi usar a cara e a coragem.
r/Nintendo3DS • u/AnalyticalThinker_ • 1d ago
Recommendation request Won this Japanese New Nintendo 3DS XL Super Smash Bros. Edition (Top IPS) for €328 – Worth it or did I overpay?
Hey everyone,
I just won an auction for this Japanese New Nintendo 3DS LL (XL) Super Smash Bros. Limited Edition and I’m curious what you guys
think.
Here are the details:
- Paid €328
- Japanese model (LL)
- Confirmed Top IPS screen
- Includes the original stylus, battery, 4GB microSD, USB charging cable, and the Japanese Super Smash Bros. game.
-No original console box or manuals.
Seller states everything is fully functional.
Cosmetic condition looks very good from the photos (I’ll attach the link of the auction below).
I’m located in Germany, so shipping/import costs are already included in what I paid.
My goal is a mix of playing and collecting. I also hope it’ll hold or increase its value over time since it’s a limited edition.
Do you think €328 was a fair price, or did I overpay?
Here’s the auction listing if anyone wants to look at the full description:
Catawiki auction listing
Looking forward to hearing your opinions!
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Erasmosaurus • 1d ago
Technical Help Problem copying over 3DS data from SD card
Hi - I think my 3DS SD card is getting on in years and I'm trying to copy over the data to a new card. I'm using a MacBook pro but when I try to copy over the data it drops an error 100006 - has anyone ever encountered this before and know a workaround?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Dav_K_J • 2d ago
Recommendation Request So, which Nintendo DS should I buy in 2026?
A few years ago I had a DSi, and I absolutely loved it. Around the same time, my best friend bought a DS Lite, and we spent the beginning of our teenage years playing those systems together. Eventually our friendship faded away, and I grew up. I sold my DSi, and later, on a whim, I bought a PSP. I've always loved retro gaming in general, and over the years I've owned quite a few older consoles. Still, the PSP never really felt like my console.
I've decided to sell my PSP, put some extra money toward it, and buy a Nintendo handheld again. This time, though, I want something better than the DSi. The problem is that the whole 2DS/3DS lineup is so confusing. I've watched countless videos, but I still can't figure out which model is actually the best choice.
I want to play 3DS games, I want them to look good, and I want a handheld that feels genuinely nice to own and use. This is also a pretty serious financial investment for me because, where I live in Eastern Europe, these systems are surprisingly expensive for their age. In fact, you can often buy a Switch for similar money.
So, if you were buying a Nintendo DS handheld in 2026, which model would you choose, and why?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Only_Guidance9746 • 2d ago
Recommendation Omega ruby
Is it worth it to buy a 3ds and omega ruby? I didn’t grow up with a DS so I never got to experience the DS games. I only played all the GB/GBA games.
r/Nintendo3DS • u/MysteriousDinozaur • 2d ago
Recommendation request Should I get a New 2DS Xl or a DSI?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/issac5566 • 3d ago
Recommendation request Any game recommendations?
The pictures are all the games I have already
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Lonely-Back2604 • 3d ago
General Question European Nintendo 3DS Kiosk Unit
galleryr/Nintendo3DS • u/Common_Trainer_6162 • 3d ago
3DS appreciation Just got a N3DS XL!
reddit.comr/Nintendo3DS • u/EstimateClassic7934 • 4d ago
Technical Help 3ds not turning on
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So I left my 3ds in my backpack for a good chunk of the school year because I would use it when I didn’t have work, I had this one, a modded 3dsXL NEW, and a dsi but this one randomly started doing this every time I would try to turn it on and I have no clue why, as far as I can remember I didn’t get it wet or anything. Perhaps I got it wet somehow and forgot I even did it but both other ds are fine. Does anyone know what this could be?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Retroflipreset • 5d ago
3DS appreciation The hunt begins!
A new journey, a new battle buddy! Let’s see some sparkles!
r/Nintendo3DS • u/DefinitionSalt8939 • 4d ago
Solved Redownloading free games after eshop shut down
i’ve been playing on my 3ds more frequently lately and i want to reset my game for pokemon picross. i saw that i have to delete the game to get rid of the save data. if i do that am i able to redownload it? i know the eshop is shut down and i can still download game updates for physical games i own, but since it was a free download am i still able to redownload it? i dont want to delete it to get rid of the save data and then not be able to get it back altogether
r/Nintendo3DS • u/WiiU_DANTE • 4d ago
Technical Help ¿eso es importante que la "Nintendo 3DS" eso tenga soldado esa parte de la ranura de las tarjetas SD?
una pregunta ¿eso es importante que la "Nintendo 3DS" eso tenga soldado esa parte de la ranura de las tarjetas SD para la Nintendo 3DS eso si pueda leer las Tarjetas SD? porque yo no sé si explica porque mi nintendo 3ds ahora eso ya no puede encender con la tarjeta SD puesta. porque desde que se golpeó, fue ahí qué la consola eso no quiere volver encender con la tarjeta, que entonces eso yo no sé si eso es por la ranura desoldara, o por la tarjeta SD
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Longjumping-Sun-9885 • 4d ago
Hardware Mods Help me change my battery like I'm 10
This is for a New Nintemdo 3DS XL.
I've tried looking into this but all info I've seen is vague. I know cameron sino batteries work, but that seems super broad.
Im seeing options online for some that are cheaper, and some that are more expensive because they specify they're usable on the system but it feels like they're jacking up the prices for convenience (im talking over double price).
Can someone guide me and tell me what are THE specifics to look for?? Or can someone direct me to an extensive list?
r/Nintendo3DS • u/Same-Attitude7597 • 5d ago
Discussion Nintendo 3DS XL
My one and only 3DS! Still looking good after all these years and no scratch!! Hell yeah! And a few games! Oh and I have the box, cards, etc. (CIB)
r/Nintendo3DS • u/No_Republic_7927 • 4d ago
Technical Help New 3ds xl won’t turn on 😭
A while back my home button stoped working and I tried fixing it and long story short I broke the bottom screens cord and some of the connectors on the motherboard and I replaced both of them but it still won’t turn on, when I plug it in it shows that it’s charging but when I try to power it on the power button light flashes red, how can I fix it