In an era of hyper-realistic graphics and cloud gaming, it’s easy to forget the magic of handheld consoles that once defined an entire generation of gaming. Enter the Nintendo DSi — specifically the Pink (Renewed) model — a bold throwback to a time when fun, portability, and creativity mattered more than raw power. Originally launched in the late 2000s, the DSi became a beloved staple for casual gamers, kids, and even adults who wanted a simple, engaging gaming experience on the go.
Today, the renewed version of the Pink Nintendo DSi brings that charm back to life, offering fans and collectors a second chance to enjoy this iconic handheld. Whether you missed it the first time around or want to relive the nostalgia, this model proves that good design and timeless gameplay never go out of style.
This review explores the Nintendo DSi Pink (Renewed) in detail, covering its key features, specifications, design appeal, performance, pros and cons, and who this device is best suited for.
Key Specifications
- Model: Nintendo DSi (Renewed)
- Color: Pink
- Display: Dual 3.25-inch LCD screens (touchscreen on the bottom)
- Resolution: 256 x 192 pixels (per screen)
- Processor: ARM9/ARM7 dual CPU
- Storage: 256MB internal memory, expandable via SD card
- Camera: Dual 0.3MP cameras (front and back)
- Audio: Stereo speakers, microphone, and headphone jack
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11b/g), DSi Shop access (discontinued)
- Dimensions: 5.4 x 2.9 x 0.74 inches
- Battery Life: 9 to 14 hours (depending on brightness level)
- Weight: 7.5 ounces
Design and Build Quality
The Nintendo DSi Pink edition carries the same iconic clamshell design that made the DS family so popular. The outer shell is smooth and features a bold yet soft pink finish that adds a playful and youthful appeal. Its compact form factor makes it easy to slip into a backpack, handbag, or even a coat pocket, making it ideal for travel.
Despite being a renewed product, most units come in good cosmetic condition, often refurbished by professionals to meet functional standards. The hinge mechanism is sturdy, the buttons are responsive, and the touchscreen remains accurate — all signs of a quality reissue.
What sets the DSi apart from earlier DS models is the removal of the Game Boy Advance cartridge slot, which made room for a sleeker profile and two integrated cameras. While some users missed the GBA compatibility, this tradeoff allowed for other modern features like an SD card slot and a lightweight body.
Display and Touchscreen
Both screens on the DSi measure 3.25 inches, slightly larger than the original DS Lite. The lower screen is touch-enabled, using a resistive touch system that works with a stylus (included). While the resolution is low by today’s standards, the screen is bright and clear enough to deliver an enjoyable experience, especially for titles like Mario Kart DS, Animal Crossing: Wild World, or New Super Mario Bros.
The touch input is precise, enabling smooth interaction in games that require drawing, tapping, or dragging — mechanics that were revolutionary in handheld gaming at the time.
Performance and User Experience
Powered by a dual-processor architecture, the DSi is not meant to compete with modern hardware but instead delivers a responsive and fluid gaming experience within its ecosystem. Games load quickly, menus are snappy, and switching between apps like the camera or sound recorder is seamless.
One notable feature is the DSi Camera and DSi Sound apps, which allow users to take photos, edit them with filters, or record and modify audio clips. While basic, these tools offered a surprising amount of creative expression, especially for younger users.
Additionally, the DSi menu is clean and intuitive. Icons are displayed horizontally, and navigating between them is straightforward — great for younger players or those new to handheld gaming.
Storage and Expandability
The DSi comes with 256MB of internal memory, which may seem limited, but it supports SD cards up to 32GB. This allows users to store digital games (from the now-defunct DSi Shop), photos, music, and audio recordings. While you can no longer purchase games online for this system, many physical DS cartridges are still compatible and widely available.
This model also includes a music player that supports AAC files, letting users create custom playlists and enjoy music on the go — a nice bonus feature in a compact gaming system.
Camera Functionality
The DSi introduced two 0.3MP cameras — one facing the user and one facing outward. Though low in resolution, these cameras offered fun gameplay interactions in certain titles and allowed users to capture quirky selfies or snapshots of their surroundings.
While the image quality is nowhere near what modern smartphones offer, it’s important to view the DSi’s camera as a fun, creative tool rather than a serious photography feature.
Battery Life
The battery performance remains one of the DSi’s strong suits. Depending on screen brightness and usage, the device delivers 9 to 14 hours of gameplay, which is excellent even by modern handheld standards. For those playing intermittently throughout the day, the DSi can last for days on a single charge.
Charging is done via a standard AC adapter (usually included in renewed packages), and full charge takes approximately 2–3 hours.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- Fun, engaging dual-screen gameplay
- Great battery life for long trips or all-day use
- Compatible with most Nintendo DS cartridges
- Built-in camera and audio features for added fun
- Kid-friendly and beginner-friendly interface
- Affordable price point for retro gaming fans
❌ Cons
- No support for Game Boy Advance games
- DSi Shop is no longer available for digital downloads
- Cameras are low-resolution and mostly for novelty
- Limited internal storage without SD card expansion
- Lower screen resolution compared to modern devices
Who Should Buy the Nintendo DSi Pink (Renewed)?
This handheld system isn’t trying to compete with the Nintendo Switch or modern Android/iOS gaming experiences. Instead, it’s perfect for:
- Parents looking for a kid-friendly device without internet distractions
- Retro gamers who want to revisit their favorite DS titles
- Collectors who appreciate the nostalgic and colorful hardware
- Travelers who want a durable, battery-friendly gaming companion
- Gift-givers searching for something simple, fun, and budget-conscious
While the DSi is no longer a flagship product, its renewed version still offers tremendous value and hours of classic gaming fun.
Final Verdict
The Nintendo DSi Pink (Renewed) is a delightful blend of nostalgia and function, packaged in a charming, travel-ready design. With a wide library of physical games, strong battery life, and just enough modern features to keep things interesting, it remains one of the most beloved handheld systems Nintendo has ever produced.
Whether you’re revisiting the past or introducing someone to it for the first time, this pink DSi delivers an experience that’s hard to find in today’s overly connected gaming world. Simple, tactile, and endlessly charming — this is retro gaming done right.