The Nintendo Switch costs between $200 and $350 depending on which model you choose

Nintendo makes three versions of the Switch, and the price you pay depends on which one you want. The standard Switch costs around $300. The Switch Lite, a smaller handheld-only version, costs around $200. The Switch OLED model, which has a larger screen and better display, costs around $350. These are the manufacturer's suggested prices, though you may find sales or discounts at retailers.

The price difference reflects what each model can do. The standard Switch connects to a TV and works as a handheld device. The Lite is portable only — you cannot dock it to a television. The OLED model does everything the standard Switch does, but with a bigger, brighter screen. None of these prices include games, controllers, or a memory card, which are separate purchases.

Key Takeaways

  • The standard Nintendo Switch costs around $300, the Switch Lite around $200, and the Switch OLED around $350 at manufacturer's suggested retail price.
  • The Switch Lite cannot connect to a TV, while both the standard and OLED models dock to a television.
  • The box includes one console, a dock (except on Lite), two Joy-Con controllers, and a USB charging cable, but no games or memory card.
  • Games, extra controllers, and a memory card are sold separately and will add to your total cost.
  • Actual prices vary by retailer and change with sales, so checking multiple stores before you buy can save you money.

What comes in the box with each model

When you buy a Nintendo Switch, you get the console itself, a dock (on standard and OLED models), two Joy-Con controllers attached to a grip, a USB-C charging cable, and documentation. You do not get a game, a memory card, or a carrying case. The Switch Lite comes with the console, two Joy-Con controllers, a grip, a charging cable, and documentation — no dock, because it does not connect to a TV.

The OLED model includes everything the standard Switch has, plus a stand that is wider and more stable. Both the standard and OLED versions can be played three ways: docked to a TV, in tabletop mode with the stand, or as a handheld device with the Joy-Con controllers attached to the sides.

Extra costs you should plan for

The console price is only the beginning. Games range from $20 to $70 each depending on the title and whether it is new or older. Nintendo's first-party games — the ones Nintendo makes itself, like Mario and Zelda — usually cost $60. Smaller indie games often cost $15 to $30. You will need at least one game to play, so budget for that.

A memory card is nearly essential. The Switch comes with 32 GB of built-in storage, but many games take up 10 to 30 GB each. A microSD card costs $15 to $40 depending on size and speed. A 128 GB card is usually enough for most players. If you want extra controllers for multiplayer, each Joy-Con controller costs around $35, and a Pro Controller costs around $70.

A carrying case is optional but useful if you travel with your Switch. Cases range from $15 to $50. A screen protector costs $5 to $15. None of these are required, but most people end up buying at least a memory card and one or two games within the first month.

How prices compare between retailers

Nintendo sets the manufacturer's suggested retail price, but individual stores may charge different amounts. Major retailers like Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Amazon all sell the Switch. Prices are usually the same across these stores, but sales and promotions happen regularly — especially around holidays, back-to-school season, and Black Friday.

Some retailers bundle the console with a game or accessories at a discount. For example, you might find a Switch with a game and a carrying case for less than buying them separately. Checking a few stores before you buy, or waiting for a sale if you are not in a hurry, can save you $20 to $50 on the console alone.

Used and refurbished Switch consoles

If you want to spend less, used and refurbished Switch consoles are available. A used Switch in good condition typically costs $150 to $250 depending on age and condition. Refurbished consoles sold by Nintendo directly come with a warranty and cost around $240 to $300. Used consoles from private sellers or secondhand retailers may not have a warranty, so you take on more risk if something breaks.

Buying used or refurbished can save you $50 to $100, but you lose the manufacturer's warranty that comes with a new console. Nintendo's warranty covers hardware defects for one year from purchase. If you buy used, ask the seller whether the console has been repaired or had any problems. Check that all the pieces are there — the dock, controllers, and cables — before you hand over money.

Regional differences and where to buy

Prices in the United States are what we have described here. If you are buying from outside the US, prices will be different because of currency exchange rates and local taxes. In Canada, the Switch costs more in Canadian dollars. In Europe, prices are listed in euros and are higher than US prices.

Online retailers like Amazon ship to most addresses, but shipping times and return policies vary. Local stores like Best Buy and Walmart let you see the console in person and take it home the same day. GameStop specializes in gaming hardware and games, though their store count has shrunk in recent years. Nintendo's official online store sells consoles and games directly, though shipping takes longer than local pickup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Switch Lite cheaper to own overall, or just cheaper upfront?

The Lite is cheaper upfront, but the total cost over time is similar. You still need games, a memory card, and extra controllers if you want to play with others. The Lite cannot dock to a TV, so if you later want that feature, you would have to buy a standard or OLED model instead.

Do I need to buy a memory card right away?

Not when ready. The Switch comes with 32 GB of storage, which is enough for one or two large games or several smaller ones. You will need a memory card once you have downloaded a few games or want to keep multiple large titles installed at once. A 128 GB card costs $20 to $30 and lasts for years.

Can I find the Switch cheaper if I wait for a sale?

Yes. The Switch goes on sale several times a year, especially during holiday seasons and major retail events. Prices rarely drop below $250 for the standard model, but bundles with games or accessories often offer better value. If you are not in a hurry, waiting for a sale can save you $20 to $50.

What is the difference between a refurbished Switch and a used one?

A refurbished console has been inspected, repaired if needed, and tested by the manufacturer or a certified seller. It usually comes with a warranty. A used console is sold as-is by a previous owner and may have no warranty. Refurbished is safer but costs more than used.

Do I have to buy Nintendo games, or can I play other companies' games?

The Switch plays games from many companies — Nintendo, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, indie developers, and others. Nintendo's own games like Mario and Zelda are popular and usually cost $60, but thousands of other games are available at lower prices. You are not locked into Nintendo games.