Increasing the costs of Nintendo's original Switch and Switch OLED models could stimulate customers to opt for Switch 2 purchases instead.
Nintendo Announces Price Increase for Nintendo Switch Models
Nintendo has announced price increases for its popular gaming devices, effective August 3, 2025. The price hike affects the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, the original Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch Lite, and select accessories.
The Nintendo Switch OLED version will now retail at $399.99, an increase of $50, while the original Switch will be priced at $339.99, an increase of $40. The Nintendo Switch Lite remains at $199.99 but will see a $30 increase in the near future.
The Joy Con 2 controllers will also see a price increase, now costing $99.99, a rise of $5. Some Switch 2 accessories, including Amiibos and the Alarmo clock, will also see price adjustments.
Nintendo attributes the price increase to "market conditions," a phrase that likely hints at economic pressures, including tariffs enacted by the Trump administration. However, the company did not explicitly confirm tariffs as the direct cause.
In 2019, Nintendo moved most of its hardware production out of China to Vietnam to avoid tariffs. However, changes announced by Trump regarding reciprocal tariffs on Vietnam complicate this strategy.
Despite the price increase, the pricing for the newer Nintendo Switch 2, its software, and online memberships remains unchanged for now, though future adjustments are not ruled out.
Three Best Nintendo Switch 2 Games on Sale
For those looking to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, three of its best games are currently on sale, offering savings on Mario Kart and Zelda. Target's website briefly showed higher prices for the original Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite, though current pricing is unclear.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Available at Best Buy
The Nintendo Switch 2 is available for purchase at Best Buy for $449, with a higher-priced version also available for $499.
Consider Purchasing Before Further Tariff Increases
Given the potential for further tariff increases, it may be beneficial to purchase an original Nintendo Switch or the Nintendo Switch 2 before prices potentially rise further.
An article detailing the author's experience taking the Nintendo Switch 2 on a trip has been published. The Nintendo Direct live showcase, the first since the Switch 2 launch, featured the latest news and reveals.
The increase in the prices of smartphones such as the Nintendo Switch OLED Model and the original Nintendo Switch is likely causing a market shift, potentially encouraging users to purchase additional smartphones or gadgets like the Nintendo Switch 2 before the technology becomes even more expensive. This increased spending on smartphones might also lead to individuals postponing other technology purchases, such as smartphone accessories, until they can afford them.
