As with the New Nintendo 3DS, it has an updated processor, an analog pointing stick known as the C-Stick, and additional shoulder triggers, and near-field communications (NFC) support for Amiibo for use in compatible games.

In July 2018, a "Hylian Shield" variant was released as a GameStop exclusive in North America, bundled with a pre-installed copy of The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds.

[19] A month later, in August, Nintendo announced a new version of the console in purple with silver accents, which would release in September 2018.

Additionally, Nintendo confirmed that all future shipments of the Black + Blue, White + Orange and Purple + Silver models would come with a pre-installed copy of Mario Kart 7.

This includes a more powerful processor than the 2DS, an analog pointing stick, additional shoulder buttons, and built-in support for Amiibo use.

Other changes were noted, such as using flaps to protect the game and SD card slots (the latter also removing the need to use tools to access it), and better-feeling shoulder buttons than the New 3DS XL.

[12] TechRadar was similarly positive, but also noting that the hinge now protruded from the back of the device (thus making it look less streamlined when closed), its battery life was "underwhelming", and the timing of its launch was at odds with the release of Nintendo Switch.