Nintendo's Switch Price Increase: Is the Original Console Becoming a Premium Buy?

A Surprising Shift for Nintendo Gaming Fans

Image: Anthony Ashley / Pixabay

In news that might disappoint many gaming enthusiasts, Nintendo, a prominent name in the gaming console industry, has officially announced a price increase for its beloved Original Nintendo Switch models. This adjustment will see the original console become more expensive for US users, with new retail prices taking effect from August 3, 2025. The company cites "market conditions" as the primary reason for this significant change.

The Scope of Nintendo's Price Adjustments

In a recent official blog post, Nintendo, the visionary force behind iconic gaming systems, detailed which Nintendo products would be affected by this price hike. Beyond the core Original Nintendo Switch console, the "Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, Nintendo Switch Lite, and a selection of Nintendo Switch accessories" are also included.

While Nintendo attributes these changes to "market conditions," industry analysts widely speculate that they are a direct consequence of ongoing tariffs, particularly those imposed by President Trump's administration. These tariffs have previously impacted numerous companies, including major mobile device manufacturers. Many businesses have attempted to circumvent these tariffs by relocating production to regions with less tariff exposure. However, the expansion of tariff impositions to more countries has unfortunately rendered many of these efforts futile. Nintendo itself, for instance, had shifted some Switch production from China to Vietnam to mitigate tariff effects, only to find these efforts undermined by the broader tariff landscape.

Nintendo also stated that other Nintendo products, including certain Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, select amiibo figures, and even the "Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo," are subject to adjustments. While the company hasn't explicitly clarified whether "adjustments" means a slight or major price increase, it suggests consumers should anticipate changes. Currently, before these adjustments, the Original Nintendo Switch retails for approximately $299, and the OLED model, which is also subject to the upcoming price change, is priced around $399.

Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Be Affected?

A pressing question for Nintendo Switch 2 users is whether their recently launched device will also be impacted by this upcoming price hike. Fortunately, for now, the answer is no. The Nintendo Switch 2 will continue to retail at its launch price of $450. However, Nintendo has explicitly stated, "However, please note that price adjustments may be necessary in the future." This cautionary note implies that while the Switch 2 price is stable for now, future market dynamics could lead to changes.

The Value Proposition: Original Switch vs. Switch 2

This price hike for the Original Nintendo Switch, especially the OLED model, brings its cost remarkably close to the newer Nintendo Switch 2. This creates a critical dilemma for potential buyers: if the gaming consoles fall into a similar price category, why would users opt for the Original Nintendo Switch when the Switch 2 offers advanced features and improved performance?

Furthermore, this situation poses a significant challenge for mid-range consumers who rely on more economic gaming console options to enjoy their favorite games. With the Original Switch becoming less affordable, its accessibility to this crucial market segment could diminish.

The true test for Nintendo now lies in how effectively they navigate both scenarios: maintaining the allure of the Original Switch while clearly demonstrating the superior value of the Switch 2, all without alienating budget-conscious gaming enthusiasts. Their strategy in the coming months will be crucial for consumer perception and market dynamics.