Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
In the U.S., Nintendo’s 2025 price increases made the original Switch family more expensive, but the old comparison that Switch 2 was $449.99 is no longer current: Nintendo raised Switch 2’s U.S. MSRP to $499.99 effective September 1, 2026. Nintendo said original Switch system pricing was not changing in that announcement. Whether a Switch 1 is now a hard sell depends on the actual price you can get, the model you want, and the games and features that matter to you.
What changed in U.S. prices
The original Switch family’s U.S. price increases took effect August 3, 2025. Tom’s Hardware reported the following suggested prices after the change; these are historical reported prices, not current retailer listings.
| System | Reported U.S. price before Aug. 3, 2025 | Reported U.S. price from Aug. 3, 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Nintendo Switch | $299.99 | $339.99 |
| Nintendo Switch OLED | $349.99 | $399.99 |
| Nintendo Switch Lite | $199.99 | $229.99 |
Nintendo of America later announced that the U.S. Switch 2 MSRP would rise from $449.99 to $499.99 effective September 1, 2026. In its May 7, 2026 notice, Nintendo said, “This is in response to various changes in market conditions, which are expected to extend over the medium to long term.” The announcement did not specify particular cost drivers, and it said original Nintendo Switch system pricing was not changing. Nintendo’s official price revision notice.
These figures do not settle what a buyer should pay today. Retailer prices, promotions, refurbished or used systems, and local stock can differ from MSRP. Nintendo’s U.S. hardware store lists Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch systems as separate product categories; check current listings and availability where you live before comparing totals.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors#1 Best Overall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 a Switch 1 still makes sense
You want the OLED screen
The original Switch OLED’s distinguishing feature is its OLED display. If that screen is your priority, compare its current price with Switch 2 and consider whether the display preference is worth the difference to you. Do not assume the 2025 reported price is what it costs now.
You are considering a lower-cost Lite
The Switch Lite had the lowest reported price among the three original Switch models in the 2025 adjustment. That historical gap alone does not establish today’s best value. Compare the actual price of the Lite with the other systems available to you and make sure its form factor suits how you plan to play.
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
A specific game or accessory matters more than the newest system
Start with the games you intend to play and the accessories you already own or plan to buy. If the original Switch fits those needs and is substantially cheaper in your local market, it may still be a reasonable choice. The 2025 price article compared price, performance, display, and storage, but it does not provide current benchmark testing; this comparison therefore does not make a measured performance claim.
How to compare Switch 1 with Switch 2 now
- Check the actual price. Compare current listings for the specific Switch 1 model and Switch 2, including any promotion and whether a used or refurbished unit is being offered. Treat $499.99 as the U.S. Switch 2 MSRP effective September 1, 2026, not as a guarantee of a retailer’s price.
- Choose by model and screen. Decide whether the original Switch OLED’s display is important to you, or whether you are considering the standard Switch or Lite. Compare like-for-like purchase options rather than using the entire Switch 1 family as if it were one model.
- Check game and accessory needs. Confirm that the system you choose supports the games and accessories you intend to use. Do not assume compatibility based only on the product name.
- Account for storage. The 2025 comparison noted that Switch 2 supports storage expansion with microSD Express cards. Verify the exact compatibility requirements before buying a card; a generic microSD recommendation is not enough to establish suitability.
- Confirm availability near you. The claim that Switch 2 was increasingly easy to find in stock described conditions reported in August 2025. It does not establish stock in October 2026. Check live retailer listings and local availability rather than relying on that older observation.
Is the original Switch now a hard sell?
It can be, particularly if a current Switch 1 listing is close in price to Switch 2 and you do not specifically value that Switch 1 model’s features. But the earlier argument rested on Switch 2’s then-$449.99 MSRP and a dated stock observation. With U.S. Switch 2 MSRP now $499.99, and with actual street prices and stock varying, the right answer depends on the two offers you can buy today and the features you want. Tom’s Hardware’s August 1, 2025 comparison is useful for understanding the original price change, not as a current availability report.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →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)
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.
