The gaming world has been buzzing ever since Nintendo launched its highly anticipated Switch 2 console on June 5, 2025. Priced at $450, the new hardware boasts a host of upgrades, including a larger, higher-resolution screen, enhanced processing power, and social features like GameChat. As the spotlight shifts to the next generation, the original Nintendo Switch has seen substantial price drops, with discounts nearing $100 off its regular cost. This prompts an important question for potential buyers: Is the older model still worth purchasing?
The release of the Switch 2, eight years after the original’s debut, marks a major milestone for Nintendo. The company expects to ship 15 million Switch 2 units by March 2026, while projecting sales of 4.5 million units of the original Switch within the same timeframe. This shows that Nintendo’s strategy is clear—continue pushing the older model, albeit at a more affordable price.
A Look at the Price Changes
The original Nintendo Switch, which typically retailed around $299.99, is now seeing substantial price reductions across multiple retailers. Depending on the model and the retailer, prices for the base Switch and the Switch Lite can be found for as low as $199.99, or even less. This translates to a discount of around $100, making the console more accessible than ever before. For example, in India, the standard Nintendo Switch (Black) is now listed for ₹26,999, a noticeable drop from its previous price points. While the Switch OLED model has also seen some reductions, the price cuts aren’t as steep, reflecting its higher initial cost.
This kind of price adjustment is a common move in the console market after the release of a successor. It helps clear out older inventory while appealing to a new demographic—those who might be more price-sensitive or simply don’t need the latest technology.
Why the Original Switch Still Holds Appeal
Despite the Switch 2’s notable advancements, the original Nintendo Switch remains an attractive option for many.
Vast Game Library: The original Switch boasts a massive and critically acclaimed library of games. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe have sold tens of millions of copies and continue to be fan favorites. Many of these titles are backward compatible with the Switch 2, meaning new Switch 2 owners can also enjoy them. However, for those on a budget, the original Switch offers immediate access to these games without the higher price tag of the new console.
Portability and Play Modes: One of the original Switch’s key draws is its hybrid nature—letting users seamlessly transition between handheld, tabletop, and TV modes. This core feature remains unchanged in the older model. While the Switch 2 does come with a larger 7.9-inch screen (compared to the original’s 6.2-inch or the OLED’s 7-inch), the overall portability experience is largely the same.
Established Ecosystem: With over 152 million units shipped worldwide as of March 2025, the original Nintendo Switch has built a robust ecosystem of accessories, online communities, and continued third-party game support. Even though Nintendo will undoubtedly focus its first-party development efforts on the Switch 2, it’s likely that many third-party developers will continue to release games for the original Switch for the foreseeable future, tapping into its large user base.
Considerations for Buyers
While the price drop makes the original Switch tempting, there are a few factors worth considering before making a purchase.
Future Game Support: While the Switch 2 is backward compatible with Switch games, newer, graphically demanding titles from Nintendo and other developers will likely be optimized for the Switch 2’s superior hardware. This means that over time, the original Switch could see fewer new major releases. However, Nintendo has suggested that it will continue releasing “new titles” for the original Switch, though likely on a reduced schedule.
Technical Specifications: The Switch 2 features a more powerful NVIDIA custom processor, a 1080p screen with HDR10 support and VRR up to 120Hz (in handheld mode), and 4K output when docked. It also comes with 256 GB of internal storage—much more than the original Switch‘s 32 GB. For gamers who prioritize cutting-edge graphics and performance, the Switch 2 definitely has the edge.
Accessory Compatibility: While some accessories for the original Switch—like Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller—can be used with the Switch 2, the older dock and some charging accessories are not compatible due to design changes, such as the new magnetic Joy-Con 2 connectors. This means those upgrading to the Switch 2 will likely need to invest in new accessories, whereas Switch owners can keep using their existing gear.
Market Dynamics and Outlook
Nintendo experienced a decline in net sales during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, due to anticipation for the Switch 2 and a drop in Switch sales. However, this trend is expected to reverse with the launch of the new console. The continued sales of the original Switch suggest that Nintendo is targeting both the high-end market with the Switch 2 and the value-conscious segment with the discounted original model.
At its new, lower price point, the original Nintendo Switch presents an attractive option for those entering the Nintendo ecosystem or for families looking for a more affordable gaming device. Its well-established game library and versatility offer plenty of value. That said, for those who want the latest in gaming technology and are looking to future-proof their experience, the Switch 2 is the way to go. Still, for many, the original Switch, now more affordable than ever, could serve as a smart entry point into Nintendo’s unique gaming universe.
