@darkchas1
flashcards cost 40-80+usd
gateway (40+) takes time to install uses 2 flashcards (one for ds roms one for 3ds roms) and its own cfw that you need to install to use it
scds2+ (50+) a ds flashcard that emulates gateway (that uses cfw (requires setup)) . . . (also in the past gateway has used code in there fw to brick 3ds systems of clone card users)
all the above support ds games without buying another flashcard
sky3ds (80+) if you want to play games online requires you to
update system (to use eshop to download game updates . . . if you update sky becomes your only option) or
install cfw
with all of the above you need to setup headers for every (3ds)game or risk nintendo will give you a permanent ban
with all of the above only let you play retail cartridge (3ds)games no eshop only titles
cfw (free) requires a sd card or a micro sd with an adapter. all cfw takes time to install (also you can use the flashcard money you save to buy a bigger sd card instead) lets you play eshop titles
in my opinion cfw is your best option it takes time to setup but in the end its worth it not just because its free but cfw has more features then the cfw you get with gateway , you don't need to update like with sky3ds, you don't have to fear a greedy company with its panties all bunched up bricking you, and after all that its still free
also if you noticed any choice you make will require cfw (except sky but its recommended) so why not skip the card and get to the good stuff
if you need a good cfw guide then use this one
[Tutorial] Installing rxTools Custom Firmware - (3DS and 2DS) it has a detailed walk-through, a video version, and a link to a overly noobproof guide (pics of nearly every step) so you can pick your own speed
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