How Much Will Switch 2 Cost? Nintendo Says It Needs to Consider ‘The Price Range That Consumers Expect for Nintendo Products’

Nintendo is currently weighing various factors as it deliberates on the price of the upcoming Switch 2. While industry analysts have speculated to IGN that the console could launch at $400 later this year, Nintendo has yet to officially announce the price of its next-generation console.

In a recent Q&A session focused on investors, Shuntaro Furukawa, the head of Nintendo, addressed the pricing considerations for the Switch 2. He acknowledged the significant changes in inflation and exchange rates since the original Switch's launch in 2017. Furukawa emphasized the importance of understanding the price range that consumers anticipate for Nintendo products. "We are aware that, in addition to how inflation is currently proceeding, the exchange rate environment has also changed significantly since around the time we launched Nintendo Switch in 2017," he stated. "We also need to consider the price range that consumers expect for Nintendo products. We think a multifaceted consideration of these factors is needed when deciding on the price of a product. I cannot tell you a specific price for Nintendo Switch 2 at this time, but we are taking various factors into account."

The original Nintendo Switch debuted at $299.99 and has maintained that price point for years. With nearly eight years having passed, the question remains: what price range do consumers now expect from Nintendo? Competitors like Sony and Microsoft have recently increased the prices of their current-generation consoles due to rising costs, inflation, and currency fluctuations.

Analysts predict that Nintendo might set the Switch 2's price at $400, which would mark a notable increase from the $300 launch price of the original Switch. The Nintendo Switch OLED model is currently priced at $350, while the Nintendo Switch Lite costs $200. Although specifics about the Switch 2’s specs and features remain largely undisclosed beyond Nintendo’s initial reveal, all indications suggest a more powerful and larger next-gen console, making a $400 price point seem reasonable.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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Nintendo has scheduled a Switch 2 Direct for April 2, where they will provide a "closer look" at the console following its reveal last month. The initial reveal showcased the Switch 2's form factor, hinted at a new Mario Kart game, possibly Mario Kart 9, and suggested a potential 'mouse' mode for the new Joy-Con controllers.

However, many questions about the Switch 2 remain unanswered, such as the function of the mysterious new Joy-Con button, the console's power capabilities, and the purpose of its new ports. Nintendo plans to host Switch 2 hands-on events in various cities worldwide to give fans a chance to experience the new console firsthand.

Shuntaro Furukawa also confirmed that Nintendo has no plans to adjust the price of the original Switch despite the impending launch of the Switch 2, indicating that the current model's price will remain stable.