The True Cost of a Nintendo Switch
Since the launch of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, various updates and packages have been released, all of which vary in price and features offered. Depending on the version you purchase, the Nintendo Switch can cost anywhere from $199.99 to $349.99, just for the console itself. While this might not seem like such a bad deal, especially considering that the Switch has had some heavy hitters like Breath of the Wild , the cost will only go up from there if you start adding extra accessories.
Cost of the system itself
As I noted above, the Switch is available for just $199.99 if you buy the Nintendo Switch Lite . This version of Nintendo’s gaming console doesn’t support docking mode, which means you won’t be able to connect it to your TV and will be playing on a smaller portable screen all the time. Although for many this is quite normal. For another $100 you can purchase an original Nintendo Switch . It costs just $299.99 and includes a docking station so you can easily switch from portable to desktop mode and play on your TV or monitor.
But if you want to buy arguably the best version of the Nintendo Switch, you’ll have to shell out $349.99 for the new Switch OLED model . This version features a slightly larger OLED display, whereas the original Switch featured a smaller LCD panel. In my opinion, this is a good upgrade that’s worth the $50 price increase, but it’s not necessary if you’re trying to buy the Switch at the lowest price.
You can also choose from a variety of bundles that include many different accessories or games, so that’s something to keep in mind as well.
Nintendo Switch Online
As I noted above, the initial price is for the system only. Once you start talking about games and accessories, you’ll see a lot more. For example, if you want to play online or access older SNES and NES games, you can invest in Nintendo Switch Online . This service typically costs $20 per year or $3.99 per month. Any game that uses online components, such as online multiplayer, will require Nintendo Switch Online. It’s cheaper than other similar services for PlayStation and Xbox, but you’ll only have to worry about it if you play online games or want to access those older games.
Accessories for Nintendo Switch
Next, it’s time to talk about some additional (but very nice) accessories, such as controllers and additional storage.
Professional controller
The first accessory I want to highlight is the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller . This wireless controller is ideal for those who want to play their Switch in TV mode and want a controller that looks a little more substantial than the Joy-Con controller that came with your Switch. Personally, I find the Pro Controller much more comfortable to hold for long periods of time. It usually costs $69.99, but can sometimes be found on sale depending on what time of year you’re looking.
Micro SD card
It might be strange to think about buying a micro SD card for a gaming console in 2024, but here we are. All versions of the Nintendo Switch come with 32GB of internal storage. That’s not a lot, and while the Switch certainly has fewer games than the PlayStation or Xbox, you’ll quickly find yourself running out of space.
To alleviate this problem, you can purchase a micro SD card with a capacity of up to 2TB. These cards come at a variety of price points, but Amazon has a solid Samsung EVO Select Micro SD card for $34.99 that will give you 512GB of extra space to work with and also offers really solid speeds. On the Switch, 512GB should provide more than enough space for all your gaming needs, but you can increase it if you feel the need.
Additional protection
If you plan on taking your Switch on the go, as Nintendo designed it to do, you might want to consider some additional protection options, like a screen protector.
Screen protectors for Switch vary, but most are available on Amazon for under $10, such as this set of three daydayup tempered glass screen protectors . Be sure to buy the right screen protector for your Switch model, as the Switch Lite’s display is different from the original Switch’s.
There are also many protective cases and stands available. One of my personal favorites is the Tomtoc Slim Case . It’s very thin, but provides protection if you need to put the Switch in a backpack or bag. It’s not the most durable case, but if you just need something for everyday use, the Tomtoc is a good option.
The “true” cost of Nintendo Switch
Overall, buying a Nintendo Switch will cost a little more than just buying the console itself, even if you’re only investing in a couple of games. Of course, you don’t need all these extra accessories, but they will definitely help get the job done better. If you decide to go all out and invest in everything, your purchase will jump to $360 for the Switch Lite, $460 for the original Switch, and $510 for the Switch OLED, and that’s without adding any games.
Be sure to budget for some of these recommended accessories, as well as some of the best Switch games available on the market right now. As with everything, prices vary, so don’t be afraid to wait for sales.