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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Nintendo’s original Switch is still selling and its software remains commercially active, but “The Switch Isn’t Dead Yet” refers to a 2023 statement—not a new 2026 announcement. With Switch 2 now on the market, the original console is no longer Nintendo’s only current platform. Whether to buy one depends on the games you want and whether you specifically want original Switch hardware.
What Nintendo meant by “the Switch isn’t dead yet”
The headline comes from Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa’s February 2023 earnings Q&A. He cautioned that hardware sales could not reasonably be expected to keep growing at their previous pace, but also said Nintendo had Switch games in development. As reported at the time by Insider Gaming, Furukawa said: “Under these circumstances, it is hard to imagine that hardware sales will continue to grow at the same pace they have to date.” He also said: “However, there are titles under development for Nintendo Switch, and new titles will continue to be proposed going forward.” These are 2023 remarks, not a fresh promise about the console’s future in 2026.
Is the original Switch still selling?
Yes. Nintendo reported 3.80 million original Nintendo Switch hardware units sold during fiscal 2026, the year ended March 31, 2026, and described continued demand. The company said the console had entered its tenth year since launching in March 2017. That is a fiscal-year sales figure, not a lifetime total. Nintendo also reported 136.91 million original Switch software units sold during fiscal 2026. See Nintendo’s description of operating results for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026.
How large is the Switch platform now?
Nintendo’s cumulative worldwide figures through June 30, 2026, put original Switch hardware sales at 156.59 million units and Switch software sales at 1,561.95 million units. These totals cover sales over the platform’s lifetime; they should not be confused with the fiscal 2026 figures above. Nintendo’s official sales data also lists Mario Kart 8 Deluxe at 71.53 million units worldwide through that date. Nintendo’s software-unit counts include bundled and downloadable copies.
#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
What Switch 2 changes
The original Switch remains active, but Nintendo’s platform landscape has moved on: Switch 2 has launched, and Nintendo says Switch 2 users can play Nintendo Switch software. That backward compatibility helps explain why established Switch games can continue to sell as players move to the newer system. It does not establish that every Switch game or feature works identically on Switch 2, nor does it mean that every new release is available for the original console.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you buy an original Nintendo Switch?
Choose based on what you plan to play and which hardware you want, rather than treating ongoing sales as proof that the original console is the right choice for everyone.
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
- Consider an original Switch if you specifically want that hardware and the games you intend to play are available for it.
- Consider Switch 2 if you want Nintendo’s newer platform and are interested in its ability to play Nintendo Switch software. Check compatibility for each specific game before buying.
- Check the release platform for any game you want. Continued Switch software sales and development do not establish how long Nintendo will release games that run natively on the original console.
Nintendo’s current results establish continuing original-Switch sales and software activity, but they do not give a date for when native game releases or support will end. A buyer should therefore verify the platform listed for the particular games they care about instead of assuming either that the original Switch is finished or that future releases are guaranteed.
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.
