Full Nintendo DSi XL vs DSi comparison, new colors, and larger stylus. Facing lower than expected profits for the past six-month period, Nintendo formally announced an updated DSi model with 4.2 inch screens, releasing in Japan on November 21st and in the U.S. and Europe some time in the first quarter of 2010. Across the Pacific, where it’s referred to as the DSi LL, the handheld will sell for ¥20,000 ($220).

The new system’s launch colors include Dark Brown, Wine Red, and Natural White. Each new handheld in Japan will include several pre-installed applications like the DSi Browser, Flipnote Studio, A Bit of Brain Training: Arts, A Bit of Brain Training: Science, and Kiyou Akira Rakuhiku Language Easier.

As its name implies, the XL/LL represents a significant size increase from previous designs. Let’s compare!

Screen size:

• DSi XL/LL - 4.2”
• DSi - 3.25”
• DS Lite - 3.0”

Body (width x length x thickness):

• DSi XL/LL - 161.0 × 91.4 × 21.2mm
• DSi - 137.0 × 74.9 × 18.9mm
• DS Lite - 133.0 × 73.9 × 21.5mm

Stylus length:

• DSi XL/LL - 129.3mm (also comes with smaller stylus)
• DSi - 92mm
• DS Lite - 87.5mm

Weight:

• DSi XL/LL - 314g
• DSi - 214g
• DS Lite - 218g

Battery life (minimum brightness):

• DSi XL/LL - 13 to 17 hours
• DSi - 9 to 14 hours
• DS Lite - 15 to 19 hours

Battery charge time:

• DSi XL/LL - 3 hours
• DSi - 2.5 hours
• DS Lite - 3 hours

It’s battery life is actually longer, so I was incorrect on that point in my recent list of reasons why you shouldn’t buy this new DSi. My refusal to import a new model, however, is abating now that I’ve seen the Dark Brown edition. That thing is the god damn business.

Buy: U.S. Nintendo DSi XL/LL (Burgundy and Bronze), U.S. Nintendo DSi (White, Pink, Black and Blue)