For U.S. buyers, the original Nintendo Switch became harder to recommend at its higher suggested prices—but it is not automatically a worse value than Switch 2. Nintendo raised U.S. prices for the original Switch family effective August 3, 2025. Switch 2’s U.S. MSRP then rose from $449.99 to $499.99 effective September 1, 2026, while Nintendo said the original Switch prices were not changing in that announcement. Compare today’s actual checkout prices, the model and features you want, and local availability before choosing; the historical suggested prices below are not live retailer quotes.
How the U.S. prices changed
The original Switch price increase took effect August 3, 2025. Tom’s Hardware reported the following U.S. suggested prices before and after that change. These figures describe the announced price update, not what a retailer charges today.
| Original Switch model | Reported U.S. suggested price before Aug. 3, 2025 | Reported U.S. suggested price after Aug. 3, 2025 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Nintendo Switch | $299.99 | $339.99 | $40 |
| Nintendo Switch OLED | $349.99 | $399.99 | $50 |
| Nintendo Switch Lite | $199.99 | $229.99 | $30 |
On May 7, 2026, Nintendo of America announced that U.S. Switch 2 MSRP would rise from $449.99 to $499.99 effective September 1, 2026. Nintendo said in the same notice that Nintendo Switch system pricing was not changing. That statement establishes the announced U.S. prices, not current sale prices or prices in other countries. Nintendo’s price revision notice attributes the change to “various changes in market conditions, which are expected to extend over the medium to long term”; it does not specify particular cost drivers.
For a current comparison, check the amounts each system would actually cost you today, including tax, delivery, bundles, and any discount. Nintendo’s U.S. hardware store lists Switch 2 hardware and accessories separately from Nintendo Switch systems, but its listing is not a substitute for checking local retailers and stock.
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#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
When Switch 1 can still make financial sense
The higher suggested prices make the original systems less compelling when their checkout price approaches Switch 2’s. A lower-priced listing, a used or refurbished unit, or a particular feature preference can change the calculation. Compare the condition and included accessories of used or refurbished systems with new ones, and account for any extra purchases you would need.
- You specifically want the OLED screen. The original Switch OLED has an OLED display, a feature distinction noted in Tom’s Hardware’s 2025 comparison. Decide whether that model and display are worth the price difference to you.
- You want a handheld-only option. Switch Lite is a different model in the original family; compare its form and features with what you need rather than treating its lower historical suggested price as a direct substitute for every other model.
- You find a meaningfully lower real price. A discount or a carefully evaluated used/refurbished listing may make Switch 1 a better fit than buying at its reported post-increase suggested price.
When to favor Switch 2
Switch 2 is the more straightforward choice if its current total price is close to the original model you are considering and you prefer the newer system. The $499.99 figure is its U.S. MSRP effective September 1, 2026—not a guarantee that every retailer currently sells it at that price. This comparison does not establish current benchmark results, so it should not be read as a measured performance ranking.
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
Storage plans can also affect the total cost: the 2025 comparison describes Switch 2 storage expansion using microSD Express cards. Before buying a card, verify that the specific product is compatible with Switch 2 and check its price; do not assume an arbitrary microSD card will meet that requirement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check the real buying conditions before deciding
Availability is local and time-sensitive. Tom’s Hardware described Switch 2 as readily available in its August 1, 2025 article, but that observation does not establish stock in October 2026. Check retailer listings for your location and confirm delivery timing or in-store inventory before treating either system as an easy purchase.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
- Compare the current checkout prices of the specific Switch 1 model and Switch 2, not just their historical suggested prices.
- Include taxes, shipping, bundle contents, and any needed accessories or storage in the total.
- Choose based on the feature that matters to you, including the original Switch OLED’s display or Switch 2’s stated microSD Express expansion path.
- Verify local availability and the condition, returns, and included items for any used or refurbished option.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
