Nintendo Switch prices at major retailers
A new Nintendo Switch costs between $299 and $349 depending on which model you buy. The standard Switch is $299. The Switch OLED model, which has a larger screen and better speakers, costs $349. The Switch Lite, a smaller handheld-only version with no TV connection, costs $199.
These are the manufacturer's suggested prices. Most major retailers—Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Amazon—sell at these prices most of the time. Occasionally you'll find sales during holiday periods or when a new model launches, but discounts are usually $20 to $50 off, not more.
Nintendo's official online store also sells directly at these same prices. Buying from Nintendo means you get the full manufacturer warranty, though you'll pay shipping unless you live near a Nintendo store location.
Key Takeaways
- The standard Nintendo Switch costs $299, the OLED model costs $349, and the Switch Lite costs $199.
- Major retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart sell new Switch consoles at manufacturer prices year-round.
- Sales and discounts happen during holidays and new model launches, but rarely exceed $50 off the retail price.
- Buying used or refurbished from GameStop or Facebook Marketplace can cost $150 to $250, but you lose the manufacturer warranty.
What's included in the box
Every new Switch comes with the console itself, two Joy-Con controllers (the small wireless controllers that attach to the sides), a dock for connecting to your TV, an AC adapter, and a USB-C cable. The standard Switch and OLED model both include these items. The Switch Lite comes without a dock since it doesn't connect to a TV.
You do not get a game included with any model. Nintendo stopped bundling games with new consoles several years ago. If you want a game, you'll need to buy it separately—prices range from $40 to $70 for new titles.
Where to buy and what to check
Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Amazon all stock new Switch consoles regularly. Best Buy often has the widest selection of colors and models in stock. Target and Walmart typically have standard models available. Amazon ships quickly but occasionally has longer wait times during peak seasons.
When you order online, check the seller name carefully. On Amazon especially, make sure you're buying from Amazon itself or an authorized retailer, not a third-party seller. The price should match the $299, $349, or $199 range—if it's significantly higher, you're looking at a reseller marking up the price.
If you prefer to buy in person, call ahead. Stock varies by location and season. During the holiday shopping season (November and December), Switch consoles often sell out quickly, so checking availability before you drive to the store saves time.
Used and refurbished options
GameStop sells refurbished Switch consoles for $150 to $200, depending on the model and condition. These have been tested and cleaned by GameStop but are not new. They come with a 30-day return window and a one-year GameStop warranty, which is shorter than Nintendo's standard warranty.
Facebook Marketplace and eBay have used Switch consoles from individual sellers, usually priced between $150 and $250. Buying from a person means no warranty protection unless the seller offers one. You should test the console in person before handing over money—check that both Joy-Cons connect properly, the screen has no dead pixels, and the dock connection works.
Used consoles are cheaper upfront but carry risk. If something breaks after you buy it, you have no recourse unless you paid through a platform like eBay that offers buyer protection. New consoles from a retailer are more expensive but come with Nintendo's one-year warranty covering hardware defects.
Comparing the three models
| Model | Price | Screen Size | TV Connection | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Switch Standard | $299 | 6.2 inches | Yes, with dock | Playing on TV and handheld |
| Switch OLED | $349 | 7 inches | Yes, with dock | Better screen and speakers, handheld play |
| Switch Lite | $199 | 5.5 inches | No | Handheld only, portable gaming |
The standard Switch and OLED model both connect to your TV using the included dock. The OLED model has a brighter, larger screen and better audio, which matters if you play handheld often. The Switch Lite is handheld-only—it cannot connect to a TV at all—but it's the cheapest option and the most portable.
If you already own a Switch and want to know which model you have, look at the back of the console. The original Switch has a kickstand that covers most of the back. The Switch OLED has a larger kickstand that takes up more space. The Switch Lite is smaller overall and has a built-in kickstand that doesn't fold out as far.
Warranty and return policies
Nintendo includes a one-year limited warranty with every new Switch. This covers hardware defects—things like Joy-Con drift (when the stick registers movement without you touching it), screen problems, or dock connection failures. The warranty does not cover accidental damage, water damage, or normal wear.
Most retailers offer a 14 to 30-day return window if you change your mind. Best Buy offers 15 days. Target offers 30 days. Walmart offers 15 days. Amazon offers 30 days. Keep your receipt and original packaging if you think you might return it.
If a Joy-Con develops drift within the warranty period, Nintendo will repair or replace it for free. You can mail it in or visit a Nintendo service center. The process usually takes one to two weeks. Some retailers like Best Buy also offer their own protection plans that extend coverage beyond Nintendo's warranty, though these cost extra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find a Switch cheaper than the official price?
Occasionally, yes. During Black Friday, holiday sales, or when a new model launches, retailers discount by $20 to $50. Refurbished models from GameStop cost $100 to $150 less but lack the full manufacturer warranty. Used consoles from individuals are cheaper but have no warranty protection.
What's the difference between the Switch and Switch OLED?
The OLED model has a larger 7-inch screen versus the standard 6.2 inches, better speakers, and a larger kickstand. Both connect to TV and cost $50 apart. The OLED is worth it if you play handheld often; otherwise the standard Switch does the same things.
Do I need to buy a game with the console?
No. Games are sold separately and cost $40 to $70 for new titles. The console itself comes with nothing to play. You can read free games from the Nintendo eShop or buy used games cheaper than new ones.
Is buying a used Switch a good idea?
It depends on price and condition. A used Switch from a trusted seller for $150 to $200 is a reasonable deal if you inspect it first and confirm both Joy-Cons work. Avoid used consoles with visible damage or from sellers with no return option.
What should I check when I get a new Switch?
Test it when ready: connect both Joy-Cons, dock it to your TV, and check that the screen has no dead pixels or cracks. Make sure the kickstand works and the controllers respond to input. If anything is wrong, return it within the retailer's return window before opening games or accessories.