A Switch 2 console is on display at Nintendo's flagship store in New York. (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia/Indian Express)
Nintendo is increasing prices on the original Switch hardware, as well as on some Amiibo, the Alarmo Clock, and various Switch and Switch 2 accessories in the US.
The price increases will officially take effect on August 3 and are being implemented “based on market conditions,” the Japanese company said in a post on its website. While Nintendo did not specify the new prices, US retailers have already begun adjusting them. For example, the original Switch, previously priced at $299, now costs $339. Similarly, the Switch OLED has risen from $349 to $399.
Nintendo has faced pressure to raise prices on its products in part due to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The company manufactures most of its products in countries like China and Vietnam, and then imports devices such as the Switch into the US.
Switch 2 price remains unchanged (for now)
While Nintendo has increased prices for the original Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED, it has not changed the price of the Switch 2 or its games. This decision is understandable, as the original Switch is nearing the end of its lifecycle, and consumer interest, particularly at retail is relatively low. As a result, the price hike is unlikely to have a major impact.
However, Nintendo’s choice not to raise the price of the Switch 2 appears to be a strategic one. Raising the price of a new console, especially one that has been a major hit and remains in limited supply could negatively affect the long-term sales performance of the Switch 2.
The Switch 2 already carries a higher base price of $450, and its games also cost more than previous generations. Increasing the price at this early stage, given that the console has been on the market for barely a few months, could potentially hurt sales momentum.
“However, please note that price adjustments may be necessary in the future,” the company added.
The original Switch (right) next to the Switch 2. (Image credit: Nintendo)
Strong early sales for Switch 2
Earlier on Friday, Nintendo reported its fiscal first-quarter earnings and announced that sales of the Switch 2 console have reached 5.82 million units since its release on June 5. While the company has maintained its forecast of 15 million Switch 2 units sold this fiscal year, many analysts suggest that the estimate may be conservative, given the better-than-expected performance of the Switch 2.
On Friday, the Trump administration unveiled a new wave of “reciprocal” tariffs on several countries, with rates ranging from 10 percent to 41 percent. Sony Corp’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X/S have seen price increases in several markets.
Anuj Bhatia is a seasoned personal technology writer at indianexpress.com with a career spanning over a decade. Active in the domain since 2011, he has established himself as a distinct voice in tech journalism, specializing in long-form narratives that bridge the gap between complex innovation and consumer lifestyle.
Experience & Career: Anuj has been a key contributor to The Indian Express since late 2016. Prior to his current tenure, he served as a Senior Tech Writer at My Mobile magazine and held a role as a reviewer and tech writer at Gizbot. His professional trajectory reflects a rigorous commitment to technology reporting, backed by a postgraduate degree from Banaras Hindu University.
Expertise & Focus Areas: Anuj’s reporting covers the spectrum of personal technology, characterized by a unique blend of modern analysis and historical context. His key focus areas include:
Core Technology: Comprehensive coverage of smartphones, personal computers, apps, and lifestyle tech.
Deep-Dive Narratives: Specializes in composing longer-form feature articles and explainers that explore the intersection of history, technology, and popular culture.
Global & Local Scope: Reports extensively on major international product launches from industry titans like Apple and Google, while simultaneously covering the ecosystem of indie and home-grown tech startups.
Niche Interests: A dedicated focus on vintage technology and retro gaming, offering readers a nostalgic yet analytical perspective on the evolution of tech.
Authoritativeness & Trust
Anuj is a trusted voice in the industry, recognized for his ability to de-jargonize trending topics and provide context to rapid technological advancements. His authority is reinforced by his on-ground presence at major international tech conferences and his nuanced approach to product reviews. By balancing coverage of the world's most valuable tech brands with emerging startups, he offers a holistic and objective view of the global technology landscape.
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The original Switch (right) next to the Switch 2. (Image credit: Nintendo)
