LeapPad Explorer or Leapster - very confused!

[chocolatchaud]

I am thinking about getting DS3 a LeapPad Explorer for Christmas - he is 4.

Can anyone explain please the difference between the two products - one looks like a Nintendo DS and one looks like an Ipod to me?

Also, if you have any advice about which one to go for, I would be most grateful. Thanks.

The leapster explorer is the handheld one like the ds. It is touchscreen, but small and you use a stylus on it like a ds. It came out last year.

The leappad explorer is new this year and is more like a tablet, so it is a large touchscreen.

They both take the same games and similar apps. We got the leapster explorer last year when DD was 4. I found the available apps limited in number compared to what they give an impression of. They are also very expensive and you can't just purchase online, you have to buy leaplet codes in a physical box to get them. I have also found the games are more limited in age range. It certainly wouldn't last to 8 or 9 years old. The camera is very good to play with, but I feel it was expensive and quickly outgrown.

If I had my choice again I would buy a ds or a cheap Android tablet.

Thanks ismeyes.

Was trying to hold off buying a DS until he is 6 (has been the rule for the others!)

Sounds like a leappad explorer may be the one to go with.