The Nintendo 3DS was launched in 2011 and has since produced six versions, the original 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS, the “new” 3DS, the “new” 3DS XL, and the “new” 2DS XL. Most 3DSs come with TN-style LCD screens, which is fine. However, the contrast/viewing angles of these screens are not optimal and are more likely to have inconsistent colors. Then there’s the random luck of getting a system with an IPS screen that tends to have excellent contrast, viewing angles, and colors.
For the following tests and comparisons, I will be using the application Activity Log, as it is standard software on all Nintendo 3DS, the screen brightness will be turned to maximum (5 levels of auto brightness off), power saving mode is off, and if the system has a 3D mode , it is disabled. I would also only focus on the top screen. Most systems with IPS screens have a TN for touch screens.
Yellow Screen
First let’s look at the dreaded yellow screen. Below are two original 3DSs. The system on the left has a severe yellow tint on the top screen and even the secondary touchscreen is somewhat yellowed. I am the original owner of the system and purchased it day one. It came from the factory yellowed so I believe this is not a process that happens over time. On the right is a normal 3DS. Both are TN screens. Side note: I have never encountered an original 3DS with an IPS screen. If they do exist, I have not seen one.
I’ve noticed that the 3DS XLs are also prone to this defect. However, the yellowing effect may not be as pronounced.
Finding an IPS
Next, let’s try to find one of those lucky IPS screened 3DSs. In the picture below I have a “New” 3DS with an IPS screen on the left and one with a TN screen on the right. The IPS system (left) has noticeably better colors and contrast. However, it’s hard to see the difference between the two with my camera and lighting. But, there’s an easy way to tell if you have an IPS or TN screen.
The Tilt Test
Just tilt the system so you can see the screen from an angle. If you can still see the image you got yourself an IPS screen. If the image is obscured mostly by the backlight then you have the more common TN screen.
New 3DS IPS vS TNT
New 3DS XL IPS vS TNT
As for the 2DS and “New” 2DS so far, all the ones I have seen are TN screens and I have not found evidence that they ever came with IPS screens.