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3DS XL vs. 3DS LL — What's the Difference?

Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 9, 2023
The 3DS XL and 3DS LL are the same device; "XL" is used in North America and Europe, while "LL" is the name used in Japan.
3DS XL vs. 3DS LL — What's the Difference?

Difference Between 3DS XL and 3DS LL

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Key Differences

The 3DS XL and 3DS LL refer to the same handheld gaming console made by Nintendo, but their names differ based on region. In North America and Europe, it's known as 3DS XL, while in Japan, it's called 3DS LL.
Both 3DS XL and 3DS LL represent the larger version of the original Nintendo 3DS. Their specifications, features, and functionalities remain the same; only the nomenclature differs.
For a consumer buying the product in Japan, they would find the 3DS LL branding on the packaging and manuals. Conversely, a buyer in the US or Europe would see the 3DS XL branding.
It's important to understand that the difference in naming does not denote any variation in performance, gaming experience, or quality between the 3DS XL and 3DS LL.
Often, international gamers might be confused about these naming conventions, but a simple reminder is: the 3DS XL and 3DS LL are identical devices, just marketed under different names for different audiences.
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Comparison Chart

Name Usage Region

North America and Europe.
Japan.

Device Specifications

Identical to 3DS LL.
Identical to 3DS XL.

Functionality

No difference from 3DS LL.
No difference from 3DS XL.

Performance

Comparable to 3DS LL.
Comparable to 3DS XL.

Branding

Packaging and manuals say "3DS XL".
Packaging and manuals say "3DS LL".

Compare with Definitions

3DS XL

An identical counterpart to Japan's 3DS LL, differing only in name.
Even though it's called 3DS XL here, in Japan, they call it the 3DS LL.

3DS LL

The Japanese branding of the 3DS XL.
If you're buying the console in Japan, it will be labeled as 3DS LL.

3DS XL

Nintendo's console designed for those preferring larger screens.
For those who want bigger visuals, the 3DS XL is a great choice.

3DS LL

The device that Western gamers might know as the 3DS XL.
Although it's called 3DS LL here, it's the same as the 3DS XL in the US.

3DS XL

Nintendo's handheld gaming device branded for western markets.
I bought my 3DS XL while I was in the US last summer.

3DS LL

Offers the same functionalities and features as its western counterpart, the 3DS XL.
There's no functional difference between my 3DS LL and my friend's 3DS XL.

3DS XL

A larger variant of the original Nintendo 3DS sold in North America and Europe.
The 3DS XL has a bigger screen compared to the original model.

3DS LL

A device preferred by those seeking larger displays in the Japanese market.
The 3DS LL has become a popular choice among Japanese gamers.

3DS XL

A device that offers the same gaming experience as the 3DS LL.
My 3DS XL has given me countless hours of entertainment.

3DS LL

Nintendo's gaming device named for the Japanese market.
While touring Tokyo, I noticed stores selling the 3DS LL.

Common Curiosities

Are the games compatible between the 3DS XL and 3DS LL?

Yes, the games are universally compatible.

Can I use a 3DS LL charger for my 3DS XL?

Yes, the chargers are identical in function.

How is the 3DS LL different from the 3DS XL?

They are the same device; "LL" is the name used in Japan while "XL" is used in North America and Europe.

Why two different names for the same device?

It's a regional branding decision by Nintendo.

Is there a price difference between the 3DS XL and 3DS LL?

Prices may vary due to regional economic factors, but the devices themselves are the same.

Do they look different physically?

No, their physical appearance is identical.

Why would Nintendo choose different names?

Regional naming conventions and branding strategies can differ based on market research.

What is the 3DS XL?

It's the larger version of the original Nintendo 3DS sold in North America and Europe.

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Author Spotlight

Written by
Fiza Rafique
Fiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.

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