LeapFrog? Leapster? Learning Game System - Green Review

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(More customer reviews)So a few people have asked which one to purchase and we were wondering the same. I actually purchased both and called Leapfrog to get as much information as possible to make a good decision. In short you probably couldnt go wrong no matter which way you went.
LMax: I didnt buy the LMax, but the rep at Leapfrog said the only difference with the LMax is that it can plug into a TV for dual screen gaming (with LMax titles). I did not care about this functionality since I have 2 kids and didnt want them fighting over who got to use the TV. Plus I cant imagine the graphics looking very good on a TV. You can use Leapster titles on the LMax and LMax titles on the Leapster (so the number of titles are the same).
Old Leapster: This one is the larger version that more of a "triangular" shape. The Leapfrog rep said the internal components are the same, as the new one. The differences here are; Larger size, Heavier, Larger Screen and more built in games. The Larger Screen and more built in games are nice. The additional internal games are matching letters/numbers, some shape games, and some reward system for points earned in those other games. The pen is also slightly larger. The battery compartment is vastly different on both so beware of rechargable battery pack that you purcahse. Here are the stats:
Weight: 14.5 oz
Width: 7 5/8" (largest part) 4 1/2" approx (shortest part)
Height: 5 1/8" (largest part)
Thickness: 1 3/4" (largest part)
(this is hard to measure since its more tiangular shaped)
Screen Width: 2 3/4"
Screen Height: 2 3/4"
New Leapster: This is the more "square" leapster. It is much smaller but so is the screen. There are less internal games (see the additional ones that are excluded above). There is also a new internal activity but its more of a commercial with other games and characters in those games (so mostly useless). The thumbpad looks like it might be easier for small children since its more of a " + " shaped pad with more unique up, down, side action. The old one has more of a circular thumbpad so I might see smaller children hitting up direction as well. Because the shape is smaller theres more room when you put this one in the Leapster case (you probably could use the case with a game cartridge still in the Leapster which a previous reviewer said you cannot do with the older large leapster. Here are the dimensions:
Weight: 10.9 oz
Width: 6 3/8" (largest part)
Height: 4 3/8" (largest part)
Thickness: 1 3/4" (largest part)
Screen Width: 2 1/4" (approx)
Screen Height: 2 1/4" (approx)Ok thats probably more information than anyone wants to know but you're on your own on the choice. We are planning on giving this to our children on Christmas but right now I think we are leaning toward the smaller one (as it will probably be easier for our daughter and her small hands) - but this opinion could change before Christmas.
Good Luck - and Merry Christmas (or other celebrated holiday).


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Now parents and kids can both feel good about time spent playing electronic games with the Leapster Learning System by LeapFrog. An exciting library of educational games (sold separately) turn this handheld device into a conduit of exciting learning adventures that teaches reading, math, critical thinking, vocabulary and more. Kids can play fun games, read electronic books, create cool art and watch interactive videos. Color display on backlit screen is gentle on the eyes while the jack for optional headphones is gentle on other people's ears. Ages 4 to 10 years. Imported.

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