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Where can you find a Nintendo 3DS? Here’s where to buy

Gabe Gurwin
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Image used with permission by copyright holder
Looking for a Nintendo 3DS? Maybe you just want to upgrade to a better version of the handheld, or maybe you’ve been waiting for prices to go down so you can play Pokémon Sun and the remastered Ocarina of Time without paying a small fortune.

While Nintendo’s current focus is seemingly on the Switch, Nintendo has made it clear that it still plans to support the 3DS “family” of consoles, including the recently announced New Nintendo 2DS XL. Despite this, it hasn’t been easy to find new 3DS consoles online or in stores since the 2016 holiday season. Fortunately, we’ve been keeping with announcements of new 3DS shipments, so you’ll know where to go when you’re ready to pick one up.

Note: Not all 3DS models are packaged with a charger. Make sure to check the model details before purchasing. Thankfully, chargers are available in most of the places where you can still buy a 3DS — just make sure you opt for the correct model.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

GameStop

As of May 2, 2017, GameStop has the New 3DS XL in standard black and the special edition Galaxy Style available online. The company is also taking pre-orders for the New 2DS XL, which launches July 28, 2017.

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GameStop also offers a number of used and refurbished 3DS models online. Inventory is time-sensitive, however, so it can be difficult to tell exactly which models are in stock at any given moment.

Best Buy

Best Buy currently has both the black and Galaxy Style 3DS in stock online. The website also suggests that the red New Nintendo 3DS XL may be available in certain areas. Like GameStop, Best Buy also taking pre-orders for the New 2DS XL, which launches July 28, 2017.

However, make sure you pay close attention to availability before you buy: Best Buy will still list 3DS models, even if they’re not available for shipping, so be sure to look at the shipping options to make sure you can order online, or at least pick up at a nearby store. On the plus side, Best Buy does offer free shipping.

Target

Target’s offerings are similar to Best Buy, but they’re currently held back by a more limited inventory. The Galaxy Style and black New Nintendo 3DS XL are both available for $200. Like Best Buy, other models are listed, but are only available in certain areas.

Toys R Us

Like Best Buy and Target, Toys R Us currently has the black and Galaxy Style New Nintendo 3DS XL in stock.

Amazon

When it comes to variety, Amazon is on top of the 3DS market. You can find new or used versions of many 3DS, 3DS XL, and New Nintendo 3DS XL models, including special editions such as , the , and the black-and-gold . There are also a number of Japanese imports, such as this  (That’s the Japanese version of Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate). It’s the best place for Nintendo collectors, or just picky fans who want a specific 3DS model. (It’s also a good place to pick up a Switch if you’re a Prime member).

There is a catch, of course. Many of the models are lapsed or rare, and, many are sold by third-party retailers through Amazon. As a result, even the standard models cost more than the New Nintendo 3DS XL’s $199 retail price. Additionally, not all are guaranteed by Amazon Prime or available for free shipping, which can add to the cost. If you’re looking for any old 3DS, Amazon is probably not the best place to go, but scouring Amazon is well worth your time. if you want something special and are willing to pay $250 to $400 for a rare model.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Reddit

No, Reddit doesn’t actually sell 3DS consoles — well, at least not in any capacity worth trusting. But there is a subreddit, r/3DSdeals, that’s specifically designed to spot the latest discounts and deals for the 3DS and its games. It’s a good place to watch if you want to save as much money as possible, or if you’re on the lookout for a particular version of Nintendo’s handheld.

This article was originally published on December 21 and updated on April 28 by Tyler Lacoma to include the latest availability.

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Gabe Gurwin
Gabe Gurwin
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Gabe Gurwin has been playing games since 1997, beginning with the N64 and the Super Nintendo. He began his journalism career…
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