Does the Nintendo DS Lite Have a Built-in Microphone? No—Here's What You Need

The Nintendo DS Lite does not have a built-in microphone. Neither does the original "Phat" DS (2004). The first Nintendo handheld with an integrated mic was the Nintendo DSi (2009).

How to Use a Microphone on DS Lite

• Official Nintendo DS Headset: Wired headset plugs into the 3.5 mm headphone jack (top of DS Lite). Includes boom mic. Works with Nintendogs, Brain Age, Pokémon Diamond/Pearl (voice commands), Mario Party DS, Diary Girl.
• Third-party headsets: Any 3.5 mm TRRS (4-pole) headset with mic works. Test before buying.
• DSi/3DS: Built-in mic (front hinge). No accessory needed.

Games That Use Microphone on DS/DS Lite

• Nintendogs – Voice commands ("Sit," "Roll over," name)
• Brain Age / Brain Age 2 – Stroop test, voice calculation
• Pokémon Diamond / Pearl / Platinum – Chat in Union Room (DSi/3DS only? No—DS Lite + headset works)
• Mario Party DS – Minigames (blow, shout)
• Diary Girl – Voice diary lock
• Karaoke games (Japan only)

Identifying Your Model

• DS "Phat" (2004): Thick, matte, no mic, GBA slot, 3h battery.
• DS Lite (2006): Slim, glossy, 4 brightness levels, no mic, GBA slot, 15–19h battery.
• DSi (2009): Cameras (2), SD slot, DSi Shop, browser, **built-in mic**, no GBA slot.
• DSi XL (2010): Larger screens, same features.
• 3DS (2011): 3D top screen, Circle Pad, **built-in mic**, StreetPass, eShop.

If you need mic functionality on DS Lite, buy a 3.5 mm headset. They're $5–$15 used. Or upgrade to DSi/3DS for built-in.