Throughout the years, Nintendo has released seven primary consoles. Each system has subsequently received changes like updated hardware, slimmed down form factor or just cosmetic variations. Keeping track of all the different changes and models can be a chore, so I've compiled a list of the various models of these consoles to make things a little easier.
NES
Original model (aka the Toaster)
The original NES console made some interesting design choices. The front-loading design was done to help the machine look more sleek and resemble non-gaming components like VCRs. This is by far the most common NES model.
Model 2 (aka the top-loader)
In 1995, a drastic overhaul of the NES hit stores to shrink it down and make it less expensive. Known as the top loader, this model is highly sought after by Nintendo collectors for its rarity and utility. The top loading cartridge slot was far more reliable than the original NES, which drastically improved connections and cut down on the blinking screens that were so common with the original.
The main downside of the model 2 is the lack of composite output. This system only offered lower-quality RF connections, though there are a very small number of model 2 systems that were released that used composite output, though they're quite rare.
Super Nintendo
Original model
As with the NES, the Super Nintendo's first model is by far the most common. The switch to the top loading cartridge slot made the SNES far more reliable and its hard to find systems today that aren't working, or can't be easily made to work with a little cleaning.
Model 2 (aka SNES Mini)
The model 2 Super Nintendo, known as the Mini, is an overhauled model released late in the Super Nintendo lifespan to cut costs. The biggest non-cosmetic changes to this system is the removal of the power indicator light, cartridge eject lever and RF video output.
Nintendo 64
Basic model
The basic Nintendo 64 console retained the top loading cartridge method of prior systems, added 2 more controller ports and output composite video by default (RF could be added with a special cord). No budget version of this console was released late in its life, like what followed the NES and SNES
Funtastic color models
Rather than a major redesign, the N64 was later released in a rainbow of six different semi-transparent colors. The colors available in North America were Jungle Green, Ice Blue, Grape Purple, Fire Orange, Smoke Black and Watermelon Red. These consoles fetch a higher price than the original model. A gold model was also released, but isn't considered part of the Funtastic series.
Pikachu edition
This model is fairly uncommon and features a drastic redesign of the body and some functions have been moved around. A Pokeball functions as the power button, Pikachu's foot is reset and his cheeks light up as power indicator lights.
A number of other models were released, some only to certain countries, and are very rare and expensive.
This concludes part 1, which is the first in a series that will examine the various models, upgrades, color variants and special editions of gaming hardware across major platforms. More articles in this series are coming soon.
