Nintendo DSi Matte Black Review: Conditional Buy Verdict
The Nintendo DSi Matte Black (Renewed) consistently scores high in user satisfaction, hovering around 9/10 across multiple platforms. While Nintendo marketed it as a sleek, camera-enabled evolution of the DS Lite, long-time handheld fans found more nuance in that claim—many praise its matte black styling, intuitive interface, and expanded online features, but battery life and camera quality remain predictable sore points.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sleek matte black finish praised for comfort and grip | No backward compatibility with Game Boy Advance titles |
| Dual screens larger and crisper than DS Lite | Cameras offer very low 0.3MP resolution |
| Robust DSiWare game, app, and music download ecosystem | Shorter battery life vs DS Lite, especially with Wi-Fi on |
| Built-in browser, photo editing, and audio recording | Limited selection of online content at launch |
| Lightweight, portable, and child-friendly durability | No SD card included, must buy separately |
| Easy Wi-Fi connectivity and friend linking | Internet browser lacks Flash and multimedia support |
| Compatible with all DS Lite games | Heavier than DS Lite, albeit slightly |
Claims vs Reality
Nintendo positioned the DSi Matte Black as a "sleek and stylish handheld with dual cameras and expanded media functions." Verified buyers responded to this styling claim with enthusiasm—one Reddit user wrote, "The brushed surface gives the DSi a textured feel that is very comfortable to hold and makes you feel confident you won't drop it." The look and finish repeatedly win approval, particularly from parents buying for kids.
However, the camera claim is where marketing meets reality. While Nintendo touted photo capture and editing, Amazon reviewers regularly pointed out the limitations. One Best Buy customer noted, "The camera quality doesn't even have a full megapixel… 0.3 megapixels. Kids would love it, but for adults it’s really just a novelty." The editing features, overlays, and fun filters couldn’t mask its inability to serve as a serious photo device.
The web browser was another touted feature—faster and accessible via Wi-Fi. While setup was painless for many, capabilities were limited. A Trustpilot reviewer described the Opera browser experience: "The screen is pretty cramped, and no Flash means forget streaming YouTube or similar video." Streaming and richer web features remain absent, shrinking real-world utility.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, ChickAdvisor, and Best Buy reviews, the DSi’s design draws consistent compliments. Parents commend the sturdiness: a ChickAdvisor mother said, "Other than falling on it, it seems to be just about indestructible… it’s been to camping and off-road driving and stood up." The matte finish is practical—fingerprint-resistant and offering better grip than the DS Lite’s gloss. The larger, crisper screens enhance both gameplay and media viewing, with Reddit users noting the "colors pop more" than earlier models.
The built-in software—photo editors, voice recorders, and basic art tools—proved entertaining for younger audiences. Linking DSi units among friends was cited as boosting fun during multiplayer sessions. A Best Buy reviewer summed up the appeal for families: "My son never puts it down… takes pictures, does art, makes voice recordings… lots to do and worth every penny."
Common Complaints
Dropping backward compatibility with Game Boy Advance games was, for many, the most unforgivable omission. Best Buy user feedback captured the sentiment: "Sacrificing the GBA slot to make it slimmer wasn’t smart… kids lost access to whole libraries." Camera quality was routinely called "bad" or "basic," while the web browser’s slow load times frustrated internet-savvy users. Battery life came up repeatedly—Trustpilot’s detailed review observed that "battery life is shorter than DS Lite, and even shorter if Wi-Fi is on."
Divisive Features
The DSiWare store was a split experience. Enthusiasts saw potential: downloadable games from Mario vs. Donkey Kong to Art Academy were appreciated for expanding the library. But early adopters agreed the store was content-poor at launch. One Reddit parent lamented, "Two more titles released this week… nothing that evokes much excitement… still optimistic titles will follow." Likewise, while the music player could entertain with quirky pitch and tempo effects, adult reviewers often skipped it in favor of dedicated devices.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Reddit accounts show little concern for scams; refurbished units backed by warranties delivered as promised. Cosmetic flaws (minor scratches or paint wear) were openly disclosed on marketplaces like eBay and Lukie Games, with multiple listings guaranteeing the console had been tested and was fully functional.
Long-term durability stories stand out—families report units surviving several years of heavy kid use. ChickAdvisor users described consoles being taken "everywhere from visits with grandparents to camping" without failure, other than accidental drops. Parents noted that replacement within days was possible through retailers, underscoring a reliable support environment.
Alternatives
Several users directly compared the DSi to its predecessor, the DS Lite. Surprisingly, not everyone considered the upgrade necessary. A Best Buy customer admitted, "If you have a DS Lite, I'd rather have it… faster Pictochat, bigger screens, but loses the GBA slot." The Nintendo 3DS was also mentioned indirectly in discussions, praised for its bigger library but lacking the DSi’s matte black aesthetic. Competing handhelds like Sony’s PSP offered richer multimedia, but reviewers on Amazon still valued the DSi's portability and game ecosystem over raw media features.
Price & Value
As of recent listings, refurbished units hover around $117–$160 on Amazon and Lukie Games, but eBay bundles with games can drop to $79 plus shipping. Community buying tips stress checking for included chargers, stylus, and SD cards—since the latter is not bundled but critical for maximizing storage. Resale values trend upward for well-kept matte black editions, with collectors valuing the finish and limited wear.
FAQ
Q: Can the Nintendo DSi play Game Boy Advance games?
A: No. Users frequently point out the removal of the GBA slot, which limits backward compatibility to DS titles only.
Q: Does the Nintendo DSi come with an SD card?
A: No SD card is included; buyers suggest purchasing at least 2GB for photo, audio, and game storage.
Q: How good is the DSi camera?
A: At 0.3MP, it’s mainly a toy—fun for kids, with quirky editing filters, but unsuitable for serious photography.
Q: Is the internet browser usable?
A: Yes for basic tasks, but it lacks Flash, video playback, and rich multimedia; slow load times frustrate heavy web users.
Q: What’s the battery life like?
A: Shorter than DS Lite, especially with Wi-Fi on; turning wireless off when not needed extends use.
Final Verdict:
Buy if you’re a parent seeking a durable, feature-rich handheld for kids or a DS newcomer wanting larger screens and online play. Avoid if GBA game support is critical or if you expect strong camera and browser performance. Pro tip from the community: invest in a quality SD card and protective case—you’ll extend both storage and lifespan while keeping that matte black finish pristine.
