Today, I’ll be explaining how much the Nintendo Switch costs along with additional fees and the total cost of owning the popular hybrid gaming console.
The original Nintendo Switch costs $299, the handheld-only Nintendo Switch Lite is $199, and the larger screen Nintendo Switch OLED is $349. The Nintendo Switch has various form factors that each have its own MSRP–the manufacturers retail price–set by Nintendo you can expect to pay at your store of choice.
Of course, each Nintendo Switch comes with “hidden costs” you might not think about brought on by taxes, the need to purchase additional accessories, games, and services.
Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of what the Nintendo Switch truly costs to own in this detailed guide.
If you are interested in checking out the most popular Nintendo Switch products, you can find them by clicking here.
How Much Does The Nintendo Switch Really Cost
There are 4 main categories of items that adds to the Nintendo Switch’s total costs.
We’ll look at each one to help you better understand Nintendo Switch’s additional fees and true cost.
- Console
- Games
- Accessories
- Service
Let’s start with the prices of the various Nintendo Switch consoles.
1) How Much Does The Nintendo Switch Cost?
The standard Nintendo Switch costs $299.99. The premium Nintendo Switch (OLED) model costs $349.99 while the handheld-only Nintendo Switch Lite costs $199.99.
These prices are called the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP)–the console’s price excluding taxes, sales, and coupons.
Stores such as Target, Amazon, Walmart, etc. sell the Nintendo Switch.
| NINTENDO SWITCH MODEL | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch (OLED) | 349.99 |
| Nintendo Switch | 299.99 |
| Nintendo Switch Lite | 199.99 |
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There are various Nintendo Switch consoles to choose from at different price points.
A) Nintendo Switch (OLED) Price
The Nintendo Switch (OLED) is the premium Nintendo Switch console. It adds a larger and more vibrant screen over the standard Nintendo Switch. Nintendo Switch (OLED) also has more internal storage, a better speaker, and a sturdier kickstand than the other Nintendo Switch consoles.
- The OLED term refers to the type of screen this Nintendo Switch has
- OLED stands for “organic light-emitting diodes” or a fancy way of saying this Nintendo Switch has an awesome screen
I suggest new Nintendo Switch owners and those looking for an upgrade from a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite to purchase the OLED model.
Important Nintendo Switch (OLED) Specifications
- $349.99 MSRP
- 7 inch OLED screen
- 64 GB internal storage
- 4.5 – 9 hours battery life
- Dock to connect to TV includes wired internet cable port
- Joy-Con controllers included (detachable)
I’m really looking forward to the Nintendo Switch (OLED), and I’m planning to get one due to all of the great features this model adds.
A larger more vibrant screen, more storage, a built-in internet port on the dock, and a sturdier kickstand won me over.
If you’re interested in checking out the premium Nintendo Switch (OLED), you can do so by clicking here.
B) Nintendo Switch Price
The standard Nintendo Switch model released in 2017 and became instantly popular. This model is great in its own right and is less expensive than the Nintendo Switch (OLED). It supports both handheld and television modes, comes with a controller and docking station, and includes 32 GB of storage.
- The Nintendo Switch has sold nearly 100 million units, and this Nintendo Switch model counts for the majority of consoles sold
I suggest getting a standard Nintendo Switch if you’re on a budget or looking to pick up a used or new one on various auction sites such as eBay and so forth.
Important Nintendo Switch Specifications
- $299.99 MSRP
- 6.2 inch LCD screen
- 32 GB internal storage
- 4.5 – 9 hours battery life
- Joy-Con controllers included (detachable)
I’ve owned a standard Nintendo Switch model since launch day 2017 and it’s still working like new without any problems.
My two close friends along with my spouse (she has the awesome Animal Crossing: New Horizons edition you can view here) all have had their standard Nintendo Switch consoles, too, and are happy as can be.
If you’re interested in checking out the standard Nintendo Switch model and its various special editions, you can do so by clicking here.
C) Nintendo Switch Lite Price
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a handheld-only device that plays any Nintendo Switch game that is playable in Handheld mode.
This device is for players who want a handheld Nintendo Switch only. The Lite is smaller and more portable than its other family members. Plus, it comes in a variety of fun colors the other Nintendo Switch models do not.
The Nintendo Switch Lite is also far less expensive than its counterparts as well, making the Nintendo Switch Lite a perfect gift for a family member or a household with multiple children or gamers.
NOTE: The Nintendo Switch Lite does not come with a Dock and cannot connect to a television
Important Nintendo Switch Lite Specifications
- $199.99 MSRP
- 5.5 inch LCD screen
- 32 GB internal storage
- 3 – 7 hours battery life
- Comes in many colors
- Plays Handheld mode games only
- No Joy-Con controllers included (permanently attached)
My best friend has a Nintendo Switch Lite and she loves it.
In fact, she sold her original Nintendo Switch to fund the Lite because she adored its portable nature.
If you’re interested in checking out the portable friendly Nintendo Switch Lite and its many colors, you can do so by clicking here.
How Much Does Nintendo Switch Cost In Your State?
You now know the Nintendo Switch’s suggested retail price you can expect to pay, but what does the Nintendo Switch cost in your state?
After all, each state has its own sales tax that will add to the total cost of a Nintendo Switch purchase.
Use the information in this section to give you an estimate of the amount of sales tax that will be added to your Nintendo Switch purchase.
So let’s take a look at what the Nintendo Switch costs with sales tax in all 50 states.
NOTE: Feel free to skip this section if you live outside the United States.
Understanding Base Sales Tax
Each state has its own base sales tax.
- This is the bare minimum of tax added to a purchase, including the Nintendo Switch
Every state also has the option of adding additional taxes that may increase the price of the Nintendo Switch.
The final price may be more or less depending on your states local rate ranges.
Keep this in mind as we will only be looking at what the Nintendo Switch costs after adding each state’s base tax to it.
NOTE: Contact your local governing ordinances for further information on your state/county/and city’s current tax rates.
Nintendo Switch Total Price With Sales Tax
| STATE | OLED PRICE | BASE MODEL PRICE | LITE PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 363.99 | 311.99 | 207.99 |
| Alaska | 349.99 | 299.99 | 199.99 |
| Arizona | 369.59 | 316.79 | 211.19 |
| Arkansas | 372.74 | 319.49 | 212.99 |
| California | 375.37 | 321.74 | 214.49 |
| Colorado | 360.14 | 308.69 | 205.79 |
| Connecticut | 372.22 | 319.04 | 212.69 |
| Delaware | 349.99 | 299.99 | 199.99 |
| Florida | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Georgia | 363.99 | 311.99 | 207.99 |
| Hawaii | 363.99 | 311.99 | 207.99 |
| Idaho | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Illinois | 371.87 | 318.74 | 212.49 |
| Indiana | 374.49 | 320.99 | 213.99 |
| Iowa | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Kansas | 372.74 | 319.49 | 212.99 |
| Kentucky | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Louisiana | 365.57 | 313.34 | 208.89 |
| Maine | 369.24 | 316.49 | 210.99 |
| Maryland | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Massachusetts | 371.87 | 318.74 | 212.49 |
| Michigan | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Minnesota | 374.06 | 320.62 | 213.74 |
| Mississippi | 374.49 | 320.99 | 213.99 |
| Missouri | 364.78 | 312.67 | 208.44 |
| Montana | 349.99 | 299.99 | 199.99 |
| Nebraska | 369.24 | 316.49 | 210.99 |
| Nevada | 373.97 | 320.54 | 213.69 |
| New Hampshire | 349.99 | 299.99 | 199.99 |
| New Jersey | 373.18 | 319.87 | 213.24 |
| New Mexico | 367.93 | 315.37 | 210.24 |
| New York | 363.99 | 311.99 | 207.99 |
| North Carolina | 366.62 | 314.24 | 209.49 |
| North Dakota | 367.49 | 314.99 | 209.99 |
| Ohio | 370.12 | 317.24 | 211.49 |
| Oklahoma | 365.74 | 313.49 | 208.99 |
| Oregon | 349.99 | 299.99 | 199.99 |
| Pennsylvania | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Rhode Island | 374.49 | 320.99 | 213.99 |
| South Carolina | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| South Dakota | 365.74 | 313.49 | 208.99 |
| Tennessee | 374.49 | 320.99 | 213.99 |
| Texas | 371.87 | 318.74 | 212.49 |
| Utah | 366.97 | 314.54 | 209.69 |
| Vermont | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Virginia | 365.04 | 312.89 | 208.59 |
| Washington | 372.74 | 319.49 | 212.99 |
| West Virginia | 370.99 | 317.99 | 211.99 |
| Wisconsin | 367.49 | 314.99 | 209.99 |
| Wyoming | 363.99 | 311.99 | 207.99 |
This table shows the base sales tax of each state along with the total price of Nintendo Swtich OLED, Base/Standard/Launch, and Lite models with sales tax included (accurate at the time of publication).
Prices are calculated by taking each state’s sales tax and multiplying it by Nintendo Switch MSRP.
The Average Price Of A Nintendo Switch
Based on the Nintendo Switch price points and various sales taxes throughout the United States, you can expect to pay more-or-less $210 to $367 for a Nintendo Switch depending on what model you purchase.
NOTE: Prices are approximates based on MSRP and base sales tax
| NINTENDO SWITCH MODEL | AVERAGE PRICE w/TAX |
|---|---|
| NINTENDO SWITCH MODEL | AVERAGE PRICE W/TAX |
| Nintendo Switch OLED | 367.64 |
| Nintendo Switch | 315.12 |
| Nintendo Switch Lite | 210.08 |
COST: A Nintendo Switch ranges from $200 to $350+ taxes.
2) How Much Does Nintendo Switch Games Cost?
As a general rule, new Nintendo Switch games release for $59.99. This is the standard price for most big new releases such as Mario and Zelda. Some games may release at a $39.99 to $49.99 price point while digital only games and budget physical releases can be found for $29.99 or cheaper.
Nintendo Switch game prices commonly fall into three main price ranges:
A) Standard
B) Mid
C) Low
| NINTENDO SWITCH GAME PRICE RANGE | GAME PRICE |
|---|---|
| Standard | 59.99 |
| Mid | 39.99 to 49.99 |
| Low | 39.99 and under |
A) Standard Nintendo Switch Game Prices
Most new games release on Nintendo Switch for $60 ($59.99 MSRP).
EXAMPLES:
Popular titles such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Monster Hunter Rise, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild released at this price point.
B) Mid Range Nintendo Switch Game Prices
Some new games release on Nintendo Switch between $40 and $50 ($39.99 to $49.99 MSRP).
EXAMPLES:
Popular titles that launched at this price point include Fitness Boxing 2, Miitopia, and WarioWare: Get It Together.
C) Low Nintendo Switch Game Prices
Select new games (and a majority of digital Nintendo Switch games) release on Nintendo Switch under $40.
These games typically release anywhere from a few dollars to tens of dollars.
EXAMPLES:
The mega popular Among Us released on Nintendo Switch for $4.99, Quake remaster for $9.99, Stardew Valley for $14.99, and Minecraft for $29.99.
Free Nintendo Switch Games
Finally, a host of Nintendo Switch games can be downloaded for free.
EXAMPLES:
Free games include popular titles such as Fortnite, Apex Legends, Pokémon Unite, Warframe, Paladins, and more.
NOTE: Nintendo Switch games may drop in price over time; Nintendo Switch developed/published titles rarely drop in price.
COST: Games range from $39.99 to $59.99 (and lower for digital titles).
3) What Nintendo Switch Accessories Do You Need?
There are four main accessory categories you’ll need to consider when you purchase a Nintendo Switch. Extra controllers, additional storage, a screen protector, and a carrying case of some form. These “hidden costs” brought on from buying accessories can add up.
Furthermore, these are costs you must endure if you want to get the most out of your console.
These extra cost accessories usually falls in 4 main categories:
- Controller
- Memory
- Screen Protector
- Carrying Case
Let’s check out common price points and specific products for each so you understand what to expect.
NOTE: If you’re interested in checking out my essential Nintendo Switch accessories list, you can do so by reading a handy guide I crafted by clicking here.
A) Controller Prices
For most games, you’ll need an extra controller to play multiplayer modes. The cost of an extra controller varies.
The Nintendo Switch comes with one pair of Joy-Con controllers that can be split into two mini-controllers for two players, but that’s not comfortable or ideal for long play sessions.
I highly suggest picking up an extra controller with your Nintendo Switch purchase if you plan on playing with family, friends, or you have multiple children in your household.
Here are the top 3 Nintendo Switch controllers I recommend getting.
I’ve used and purchased all three, and I love each one.
- Official Nintendo Joy-Con Controller | click here to view
- YCCTEAM Wireless Pro Controller | click here to view
- Officially Licensed HORI Wire Controller | click here to view
COST: Controllers range from $20 to $80.
B) Memory Storage Prices
Quit worrying about running out of internal storage on your Nintendo Switch by increasing its memory with external microSD cards.
How much you need is dependent on
- how many games you download
- the amount screenshots you snap
- the amount videos you record
- the amount of games you play
- the extra content you download
- and so forth
I suggest three separate amounts of microSD storage depending on your usage: high, medium, and low.
| SPACE NEEDED | SUGGESTED SIZE |
|---|---|
| High | 400 GB+ |
| Medium | 128 to 400 GB |
| Low | 32 to 128 GB |
The more memory you need, the more it will cost.
If you need a lot of storage, get a 400 GB or higher microSD for your Nintendo Switch.
But if you don’t use much storage or never download games, stick with a 32 or 128 GB microSD card.
Plus, you can always upgrade.
I started with a 128 GB microSD card and then upgraded to a 400 GB, 512 GB, and then 1 TB microSD over the years.
Here are the top 3 Nintendo Switch microSD cards I recommend getting.
I’ve used and purchased all three, and I enjoy each one.
- SanDisk 400 GB microSD Card | click here to view
- Samsung 128 GB microSD Card | click here to view
- Samsung 32 GB microSD Card | click here to view
NOTE: Nintendo Switch models are only compatible with microSD cards.
COST: Memory ranges from $9 to 70+.
C) Screen Protector Prices
Like all mobile devices, the Nintendo Switch has a screen and screens can get scuffed and marked over time.
Plus, Nintendo Switch has a touch screen and you absolutely want to protect it against consistent play sessions of tapping, touching, and interaction.
Nintendo Switch screen protectors, luckily, are pretty inexpensive. Invest in a good one and have peace of mind.
This is the Nintendo Switch screen protector I use and have helped many of my friends install.
- amFilm Nintendo Switch Glass Screen Protector | click here to view
COST: Screen protectors range from $5 to $10
D) Carrying Case Prices
A carrying case is another extra cost that will help protect your Nintendo Switch from collecting dust and getting damaged.
Carrying cases are also great ways to transport a Nintendo Switch in the safest way possible.
Depending on the size and quality of the carrying case, you can expect to pay a little to a lot as cases vary in price.
Personally, I have a couple of smaller carrying cases I picked up at a lower price point as well as a Nintendo Switch backpack that was pricier.
Here is a nice standard Nintendo Switch carrying case that is the same brand as my Donkey Kong case I own.
- RDS Nintendo Switch Travel Case | click here to view
COST: Carrying cases range from $11 to $39.99+.
4) How Much Does Nintendo Switch Online Service Cost?
Finally, Nintendo Switch is an online device that requires an online subscription to play most games (the majority of free games such as Fortnite does not require an online subscription).
If you plan on playing online, get a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
This is an extra hidden annual fee that must be paid every year you decide to keep the Nintendo Switch Online service.
Your choices are quite easy as there are only two tiers:
- individual
- family
Both provide 1 year of Nintendo Switch Online service.
I suggest getting a family plan if you have more than one person playing Nintendo Switch online.
If you plan on playing online, get a Nintendo Switch Online subscription
Family plans allows up to 8 people to play online with a single price versus an individual plan that only allows one player to play online.
I personally started with an individual plan then moved up to a family plan when my spouse got her Nintendo Switch.
If you’re interested in a Nintendo Switch online subscription, you can check out both the individual and family plans below.
- Nintendo Switch Online Individual Plan | click here to view
- Nintendo Switch Online Family Plan | click here to view
COST: The Nintendo Switch online service is either $20 or $35 for a year.
The Total Cost Of Owning A Nintendo Switch
We have gone through and taken a detailed look at all of the main products and services that add hidden, additional costs to a Nintendo Switch purchase.
We are now ready to answer the most important question of the day.
What is the total cost of purchasing a Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo Switch Total Cost
Purchasing a Nintendo Switch costs between $288 and $708 without taxes, depending on which Nintendo Switch and products you purchase.
| PRODUCT | HIGH | MED | LOW |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch Console | 350 | 300 | 200 |
| Game | 60 | 40 | 20 |
| Controller | 80 | 30 | 20 |
| Memory | 150 | 30 | 10 |
| Screen Protector | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Carrying Case | 40 | 30 | 10 |
| Online Service | 20 | 20 | 20 |
Buying the . . .
Nintendo Switch (OLED) with a full priced game, 1 TB microSD card, a Joy-Con controller, quality case/screen protectors, and an individual online plan will cost about $708.
Nintendo Switch with a modestly priced game, 256 GB microSD card, a wireless controller, modest case/screen protectors, and an individual online plan will cost about $458.
Nintendo Switch Lite with a budget game, 32 GB microSD card, a wired controller, the least expensive case/screen protectors, and an individual online plan will cost about $288.
VERDICT: Nintendo Switch Total Cost Varies
The cost of a Nintendo Switch, including only the most essential accessories and products, will ultimately depend on what Nintendo Switch model you choose along with the quality of accessories you purchase alongside it.
For example, the total price of a Nintendo Switch Lite purchase will increase if you buy expensive accessories.
But a Nintendo Switch (OLED) total price will decrease if you purchase less expensive accessories.
NOTE: All total prices are close estimates based on average prices, purchasing an individual online plan, and are calculated before taxes.
Should You Buy A Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo Switch is the perfect way to enjoy games and media wherever you are with a community of like-minded players around the globe.
The Nintendo Switch Difference
No other dedicated video game system allows you to play at home on your big screen and on-the-go in handheld mode.
That’s the Nintendo Switch difference that I and millions of other players enjoyed since launch.
The Nintendo Switch Has Exclusive Games
Additionally, the Nintendo Switch is home to a library of quality games that are only on Nintendo Switch.
Exclusive Nintendo Switch games include
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- The Pokémon series
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- Luigi’s Mansion
- Fitness Boxing 1 & 2
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- and so many more!
The Nintendo Switch Has Popular Games
The Nintendo Switch also has the most popular games and series in the world such as
- Fortnite
- Apex Legends
- Minecraft
- Rocket League
- Among Us
- Just Dance
- Resident Evil
- Final Fantasy
- Street Fighter
- and the list goes on
Get a Nintendo Switch if you enjoy games of all types, genres, series, and play styles.
Nintendo Switch is the perfect way to play your way
The Nintendo Switch Provides Convenience
Get a Nintendo Switch if you like the convenience of playing wherever you like.
- curled up on the bed
- with a controller in each hand
- on your commute (train or subway) to work or class
- in the backseat during a road trip
- at the airport or friend’s house
- or on the television screen at home
Take it from me who has played the Nintendo Switch for over 2000 hours: the Nintendo Switch is the perfect way to play your way.
Is The Nintendo Switch Worth It?
The Nintendo Switch is definitely worth the price tag if you enjoy the types of gaming experiences and the convenience of play the Nintendo Switch provided as mentioned in the previous section.
The Nintendo Switch Can Pause Games At Any Moment
The Nintendo Switch’s sleep mode allows you to pause any game at a press of a single button without shutting the game down is worth the price alone.
The Nintendo Switch Brings Your Save File With You
Being able to keep the same save file no matter where you go, in handheld or on the big screen, is a huge feature.
It outshines in nearly ever other category from its vast library to convenience
The Nintendo Switch Has Quality Console Experiences
Being able to play console quality games and some of the most popular online games in the world in Handheld mode is simply awesome.
The Nintendo Switch Has Thousands Of Games
I haven’t even mentioned the console is home to a library of over 6,000 games to play.
You have so many options in front of you and it’s amazing!
The Nintendo Switch Is Worth It
In short, the Nintendo Switch may not compete with the most powerful gaming devices on the planet in terms of power.
However, it outshines in nearly ever other category from its vast library to convenience allotted by its portable form factor.
The Nintendo Switch is truly worth the cost.
I hope this detailed article helped you learn what a Nintendo Switch costs along with the additional, hidden fees you can expect.
Read More Great Articles
Now you know how much the Nintendo Switch, OLED, and Lite costs along with additional hidden costs you may have by purchasing the gaming device.
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(Screenshots taken by me. Images sourced from product pages, websites, or social media and are credited appropriately. Logos, images, etc. belong to their respective owners. All information current at time of publication.)
SOURCE: Nintendo
