Nintendo Shocks Gamers with First Ever Switch Price Hike After 8 Years

The iconic Nintendo Switch console – unchanged in price since its 2017 debut – just became significantly more expensive overnight. As of August 3, 2025, Nintendo implemented sweeping price increases across its entire legacy Switch lineup in the United States, marking a historic shift for the beloved handheld hybrid and rattling budget-conscious gamers.

Why Did Nintendo Raise Switch Prices in 2025?

Nintendo attributes the unprecedented move to “changing market conditions” in an official statement. While the company didn’t explicitly cite recent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, industry analysts note the timing aligns with increased manufacturing and import costs. This represents the first price adjustment for the original Switch family since launch, breaking Nintendo’s long-standing tradition of price reductions for aging hardware. The hikes position the aging models alarmingly close to the upcoming Switch 2’s $449.99 MSRP, raising questions about consumer choice in the transitional period.

The Full List of New Switch Prices

Retailers received updated pricing sheets effective August 3rd:

• Nintendo Switch (Standard): Now $339.99 (previously $299.99)
• Nintendo Switch – OLED Model: Now $399.99 (previously $349.99)
• Nintendo Switch Lite: Now $229.99 (previously $199.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Controllers (Pair): Now $84.99
• Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo: Now $44.99

How Retailers Are Reacting

Major U.S. retailers like Target briefly displayed the new prices on August 2nd before reverting to original tags – likely an accidental early update. As of publication, some stores still honor legacy pricing, but Nintendo confirms all official channels must reflect the increases. “This isn’t a temporary sale adjustment; it’s a permanent MSRP change,” clarified a Nintendo representative. Consumers are advised to verify local stock and pricing immediately, as remaining units at old prices are selling rapidly.

What This Means for the Switch 2

The price surge narrows the gap between the original Switch ($339.99) and the next-generation Switch 2 ($449.99) to just $110. Industry watchers speculate this could accelerate adoption of the newer model, despite Nintendo’s assurance that both lines will coexist. Crucially, Nintendo hinted that “price adjustments for Switch 2 hardware or software may be necessary in the future” if market pressures persist.

For millions who delayed upgrading, Nintendo’s surprise price hike transforms the Switch from a bargain into a premium purchase overnight – making the imminent Switch 2 suddenly look like a sharper value proposition. Verify current prices at your local retailer before stocks at legacy pricing vanish.

Must Know

Why did Nintendo increase Switch prices after 8 years?
Nintendo cites “changing market conditions” as the primary reason for the August 2025 price hike. While not explicitly named, industry analysts link this to increased production and tariff costs. This marks the first MSRP increase for the Switch family since its 2017 launch, breaking Nintendo’s typical pattern of price reductions for older hardware.

How much more expensive is the Nintendo Switch now?
The standard Switch rose from $299.99 to $339.99 (13% increase), the OLED model jumped from $349.99 to $399.99 (14% increase), and the Switch Lite increased from $199.99 to $229.99 (15% increase). Accessories like the Joy-Con 2 controllers also saw price bumps.

Can I still buy a Switch at the old price?
Some retailers like Target temporarily reverted to old prices after an early update glitch, but Nintendo confirms the new MSRP is mandatory. Limited remaining stock at legacy prices may exist locally but is selling quickly. Online listings are rapidly updating to reflect the increases.

Does this affect the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2?
No, the Switch 2 retains its $449.99 launch price. However, Nintendo stated future “adjustments” for the Switch 2 are possible depending on market factors. The price hike makes the new console only $110 more expensive than the base Switch now.