Nintendo fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, set to be revealed during the Nintendo Direct live event on April 2. The original Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017 at a price of $299.99, has remained in a similar price range across its various iterations. However, with advancing technology and economic shifts, experts predict a price increase for the next-generation console.
One of the most discussed aspects of the upcoming console is its retail price. Industry analyst Joost van Dreunen believes that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $399, marking a significant increase from its predecessor. Let’s explore what this could mean for consumers and why this pricing makes sense for Nintendo.
According to Joost van Dreunen, the $399 price point aligns with Nintendo’s strategy of maintaining a balance between affordability and premium hardware. While a $100 price jump from the original Switch may seem substantial, it remains competitive compared to Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X, which start at $499.
Van Dreunen argues that this pricing would:
Reflect the improved hardware and performance upgrades over the current Switch.
Allow Nintendo to maintain a profitable margin while keeping the console accessible to a large audience.
Position the console between budget-friendly handhelds and premium gaming consoles, making it an appealing choice for both casual and dedicated gamers.
Several other analysts also estimate the price could range between $400 and $450, depending on Nintendo’s hardware upgrades, production costs, and market competition.
The global gaming market has changed significantly since the original Switch launched in 2017. Several factors contribute to the expected higher price of the Switch 2:
Rumors suggest Switch 2 will feature improved graphics, a better processor, and enhanced battery life.
A larger, higher-resolution OLED display could also add to the cost.
Since 2017, manufacturing and shipping costs have increased, affecting console pricing.
Higher production costs mean Nintendo must price the console accordingly to maintain profitability.
While the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X remain dominant in the market, Nintendo must ensure that the Switch 2 offers enough value at a competitive price point.
Nintendo Switch (2017) – $299.99
Nintendo Switch OLED (2021) – $349.99
Nintendo Switch 2 (Expected 2025) – $399 (estimated)
If the price estimate is correct, the Switch 2 would be the most expensive Nintendo console at launch, but still significantly cheaper than its next-gen rivals.
While $399 is the expected price for the US, different taxes and import fees will affect the price in other countries.
Europe: ~€429
United Kingdom: ~£349
Japan: ~¥55,000
Turkey: ~15,000₺ - 16,000₺ (including taxes and import costs)
These prices are only estimates, and official pricing will be revealed during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.
While a $399 price tag would make the Nintendo Switch 2 more expensive than its predecessor, it’s still a reasonable price given the expected hardware improvements and inflation.
Nintendo has always focused on delivering unique gaming experiences rather than competing in hardware power, and the Switch 2 will likely continue this trend. Whether the new console is worth its price will depend on its exclusive features, game library, and performance improvements over the original Switch.