How Much Does a Nintendo Switch Cost?

Last Updated on September 27, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

The Nintendo Switch has quickly become one of the most popular consoles thanks to its unique hybrid design and diverse library of first-party games. But for anyone considering buying a Switch, it’s important to understand the complete costs involved beyond just the upfront console price.

In this guide, we’ll break down the latest pricing for each Switch model, bundles, accessories, games, online subscriptions, and more. You’ll learn insider tips for finding the best Nintendo Switch deals, how to save money on your purchase, and additional expenses to factor into your budget. Arm yourself with the knowledge needed to make the most informed buying decision.

How Much Does a Nintendo Switch Cost?

Nintendo Switch costs anywhere between $275 and $370, depending on the model you go for, the retailer you buy it from, and several other important factors. There are now three different Nintendo Switch models on the market, each with their own pricing structure and capabilities:

Nintendo Switch (Released 2017)

The standard Nintendo Switch currently retails for $299.99 at most major retailers. Sale and discount prices typically range from $275 to $320, depending on promotions and holiday deals.

This is the original Nintendo Switch model first released back in 2017. It features a 6.2-inch touch screen with 720p resolution when used portably. When docked to a TV via the included dock, it outputs video up to 1080p HD. The defining feature is the versatility between handheld and TV modes.

It comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers and can be played multiplayer out of the box with the console acting as one screen. It initially launched with 32GB of internal storage but has since been bumped up to 64GB.

Nintendo Switch Lite (Released 2019)

The Nintendo Switch Lite is currently priced at $199.99. Based on historical sale prices, you can expect to find it discounted between $175 and $210 during major sales events.

In 2019, Nintendo introduced the Switch Lite as a dedicated handheld-only version. It features integrated controls rather than detachable Joy-Cons, meaning multiplayer requires purchasing additional controllers.

The Switch Lite has a smaller 5.5-inch LCD display compared to the original’s 6.2-inch size, but keeps the same 1280×720 screen resolution. It also has slightly improved battery life over the original Switch thanks to more power-efficient components.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model (Released 2021)

The Nintendo Switch OLED model launched at $349.99 and still sells for full MSRP most of the time. Sale prices typically knock it down to the $330 to $370 range at retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

In 2022, Nintendo released an upgraded Switch featuring an OLED display and a few other enhancements. It has the same 6.2-inch screen size as the original Switch but with an OLED panel for more vivid colors and contrast.

The Switch OLED also includes 64GB of onboard storage (up from 32GB), enhanced audio, and a wider adjustable kickstand for tabletop gaming. It retains the same detachable Joy-Con controller setup and video resolution as the original when docked.

According to Amazon, the Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con is currently priced at $281.99, reflecting a 6% discount from its original price. This model offers versatile play styles including TV mode, tabletop mode, and handheld mode, making it a popular choice among gamers.

At Best Buy, the pricing for various Nintendo Switch models ranges from about $199.99 for the Switch Lite to $299.99 for the standard Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con. Additionally, the OLED model is available for around $349.99, offering enhanced features such as a larger screen and improved audio.

According to Nintendo’s official website, the standard Nintendo Switch is priced at $299.99, while the Nintendo Switch Lite is available for approximately $199.99. The OLED model is listed at $349.99. These prices reflect the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) and may vary based on sales or promotions at different retailers.

Factors Affecting Nintendo Switch Cost

While the Nintendo Switch retails starting at $199.99 for the base Lite model, there are several factors that can influence the final price you’ll pay, both higher or lower:

Retailer Price Variances

Large retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart generally stick closest to the full MSRP for Nintendo consoles. Specialty gaming stores like GameStop are more likely to tack on markup premiums of $20 to $40 above MSRP when not on sale.

Regional or local game shops may offer used Switch models and older inventory at slightly reduced pricing compared to major national retailers as well.

Holiday Sales, Bundles, and Promotions

Timing your Nintendo Switch purchase around major holiday sales events can lead to significant savings compared to paying full price:

• Black Friday/Cyber Monday – Typical discounts of $25 to $50 off new Switch consoles
• Holiday Bundles – Free games or accessories valued around $60 included in the box
• Retailer Sales – Random markdowns of $10 to $25 off throughout the year

Buying Refurbished or Used Consoles

Opting for a refurbished or pre-owned Nintendo Switch can save you between $100 and $150 compared to brand new:

• Nintendo Refurbished – $260 to $275 with warranty from Nintendo Store
• Retailer Refurbished – $180 to $250, inventory varies
• Used from Game Resellers – Avg. $180 to $220 in good condition

One tip from Simon Carter, manager at GameZone in Columbus, Ohio: “Used Nintendo Switch stocks sell out extremely fast due to high demand, so call around or check online inventory regularly because deals pop up sporadically based on trade-ins.”

Bundle Deals and Packages

Another way to maximize the value from your Nintendo Switch purchase is to buy one of the retail bundles that include popular games and accessories:

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Edition Nintendo Switch

This bundle includes the standard Nintendo Switch console plus a download code for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, one of the bestselling and highest reviewed Switch games. It retails for the same $299.99 MSRP as a standalone console. Considering Mario Kart 8 sells for $59.99 separately, the bundle effectively provides around $60 in added value.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons Nintendo Switch

For fans of the hit life-simulator franchise, this package includes Animal Crossing: New Horizons pre-installed on a standard Nintendo Switch. Retail prices currently range from $299.99 to $349.99 depending on sales and retailer promotions. Given that Animal Crossing sells for $59.99 on its own, you’re getting $60 to $100 in extra gameplay value with this bundle.

According to Simon Carter of GameZone, “Nintendo’s official bundles provide a nice extra game or accessory, but they rarely offer discounts beyond the individual item’s retail price. You can sometimes find third-party retailer bundles with a bit more value during seasonal sales.”

Accessories and Add-On Costs

While the Switch comes with the basics like console, dock, 2 Joy-Cons, and grip accessory, there are a few add-ons many gamers end up buying:

Extra Joy-Con Controllers

The Switch supports up to 8 wireless controllers connected at once for local multiplayer. Extra Joy-Cons cost:

• $79.99 for a pair of left and right controllers
• $39.99 individually for one left or right

Buying additional Joy-Cons for 2+ players adds a significant expense but unlocks more of the Switch’s party-friendly potential.

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

For gamers who prefer a traditional controller, the Switch Pro Controller costs $59.99 to $69.99. Its comfortable grip and familiar button layout make it ideal for TV play or longer handheld gaming sessions.

Nintendo Switch Carrying Case

To protect the Switch while traveling, a good hard shell carrying case costs $10 to $30 based on size, storage, and extra features. A case is a smart early investment to prevent damage.

MicroSD Card for Extra Storage Space

The Switch’s onboard storage fills up fast, especially with digital downloads. A microSD card to expand space:

• 128GB card – $20 to $30 range
• 256GB card – $40 to $60 range

Once the internal storage is full, you absolutely need a microSD card to keep downloading games.

You might also like our articles about the cost of an Xbox 360, a Crunchyroll subscription, or a Hulu subscription.

Online Subscription Cost

To play Switch games online, access cloud save data backups, and unlock access to classic NES/SNES titles, a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required:

• Individual (1 account) – $3.99/month or $19.99/year
• Family (up to 8 accounts) – $34.99/year
• Expansion Pack (N64/Genesis games) – $49.99/year

While optional, most multiplayer Switch gamers will want the subscription for online play. Access to the NES and SNES game libraries is an added bonus.

Nintendo Switch Game Costs

While you can find some indie or older Switch games discounted as low as $5 to $20, most new AAA Nintendo releases retail for $59.99. A modest Switch game library of 10 titles easily totals over $600.

A few ways to save on software:

• Wait for eShop digital sales up to 50% off
• Buy used physical copies at GameStop or resellers
• Share/trade games with friends

According to shopper surveys, the average Switch owner buys 18 games in the console’s lifetime. That can mean $1,000+ spent on software.

Nintendo Switch Pricing vs. Other Platforms

Here’s how the Nintendo Switch models and prices stack up against the current PlayStation and Xbox console generations:

• Nintendo Switch – $299.99 (Standard model)
• Nintendo Switch Lite – $199.99
• PlayStation 5 – $499.99 (Disc version), $399.99 (Digital-only)
• Xbox Series X – $499.99
• Xbox Series S – $299.99

Among the major consoles, the Switch and Switch Lite are the lowest cost options, followed by the Xbox Series S and digital PS5. This affordability has contributed greatly to the Switch’s popularity and sales momentum according to gaming analysts.

“The Switch hits a real sweet spot between power and price,” says Simon Carter of GameZone. “The value proposition is strong compared to other new consoles, especially with Nintendo’s brand power.”

Where to Find Discounts and Deals

Finding the lowest Switch prices requires regularly checking for sales and promotions:

• The official Nintendo Store rarely offers discounts, but provides refurbished models and trade-in bonuses.
• Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy frequently mark Switch consoles and games down $20 to $50 for daily or weekly deals.
• GameStop offers pre-owned Switch consoles and bundles not found elsewhere when inventory is available.
• eBay and Facebook Marketplace provide access to individual sellers’ used Switch systems, often $150 to $250 based on condition and included accessories.

International Pricing and Availability

Since the Switch is region-free, you can use a unit purchased anywhere worldwide. However, prices vary across different countries:

Price in Europe

• €279 to €329 for the standard Switch
• Equivalent to roughly $305 to $360 USD

European pricing includes required taxes and fluctuates based on currency rates. Bundles with games are common at leading retailers.

Price in Japan

• ¥29,980 MSRP for the standalone Switch console
• Approximately $220 USD based on direct currency conversion

Japan is Nintendo’s home country, so hardware and games release first there and see the most aggressive pricing.

Price in Australia

• AU$469.95, around $325 USD
• Among the highest pricing globally due to shipping costs

Similar pricing is found throughout Oceania given the logistics challenges importing the Switch.

Tips for Saving Money

Follow these tips from the experts to get the lowest pricing:

Buy at Specific Times of Year

According to Simon Carter at GameZone, “Nintendo Switch prices drop $50 or more during peak sales weekends like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day. The discounts apply to bundles and games too.”

Time your purchase around these major sales for the biggest markdowns.

Explore Trade-In Programs

“Gaming stores like GameStop and Best Buy offer trade-in credit if you have an older console to swap,” explains Carter. “You can get $100 to $200 in instant credit to save on a new Switch purchase when trading your PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or other devices.”

Consider Refurbished or Pre-Owned to Save Over 20%

“Buying a refurbished Nintendo Switch directly from Nintendo for around $275 saves over $25 vs. brand new,” says Carter. “For even bigger savings, pre-owned Switch consoles sell for $180 to $250 in good condition on Facebook Marketplace or eBay.”

Just be sure to confirm the unit and components are fully functional first.

Wait for eShop Digital Game Promotions

“Digital games redeemed through the eShop go on sale for 30% to 50% off much more often than physical cartridges,” notes Carter. “You can build a bigger game library for less buying digitally on promotion.”

Answers to Common Questions

How much should you pay for a used Nintendo Switch?

Expect to spend $180 to $250 for a used Nintendo Switch in good working condition with all components. Check that the battery holds a charge and no damage is present. Meet locally when buying from individual sellers for testing.

Does Nintendo offer any financing programs?

Unfortunately no, Nintendo does not offer official financing or payment plans. However, many credit cards and third-party financing companies like Klarna let you split the cost into multiple installments for low or no interest.

How much will Switch 2 cost?

Nothing is confirmed yet, but based on past console generational leaps, a Switch Pro with upgraded performance could retail around $399 to $499. The current Switch would likely drop to $199 or less at that point.