TL;DR
- Nintendo is increasing the prices of original Switch consoles due to “market conditions.”
- Tariffs announced by President Trump are likely a key factor behind the price hike.
- The price changes will impact multiple console models and accessories.
- Nintendo says Switch 2 pricing remains stable — for now.
Nintendo Reacts to Market Pressures
Nintendo confirmed on Friday that it will be raising prices on its original Switch consoles starting August 3, citing vague “market conditions.” The announcement came as the company shared its fiscal Q1 earnings, revealing 5.82 million units sold of the new Switch 2 since its June 5 launch.
Although Nintendo didn’t directly cite tariffs, the phrase “market conditions” is widely interpreted to be linked to President Trump’s new reciprocal tariffs. These new policies affect both China and Vietnam, the two countries central to Nintendo’s supply chain.
What’s Getting More Expensive?
The following Nintendo products will be subject to price increases:
Additionally, other niche products such as the Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo, select amiibo, and Switch 2 accessories will also see higher prices.
Currently, the price points are:
| Product | Current Price |
| Nintendo Switch | $299.99 |
| OLED Model | $349.99 |
| Switch 2 | $450.00 |
The company has not yet disclosed new pricing, but confirmed these adjustments will not yet affect digital or physical games, Nintendo Switch Online memberships, or Switch 2 console pricing — although future hikes aren’t ruled out.
“However, please note that price adjustments may be necessary in the future,” Nintendo stated in its official press release.
Tariff Tensions Complicate Strategy
Nintendo’s production strategy has long relied on avoiding tariffs. The company moved manufacturing from China to Vietnam years ago to escape U.S. import penalties. However, Trump’s recent policy changes now include Vietnam under new reciprocal trade adjustments — disrupting Nintendo’s workaround.
These tariffs appear to be raising production and shipping costs, pressuring companies like Nintendo to adjust pricing or absorb losses.
Switch 2 Sales Strong — For Now
Despite the pricing turbulence, Nintendo’s Switch 2 is off to a strong start, with 5.82 million units sold in under two months.
This boost suggests consumer appetite remains strong. However, the looming threat of higher console prices — especially if future tariffs expand or persist — could dampen sales growth in late 2025.
Industry Impact and Outlook
Other gaming companies may soon follow Nintendo’s lead. If the tariff ripple effects continue to raise costs in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian production hubs, console and accessory price hikes could become a sector-wide trend.
Nintendo, meanwhile, must walk a fine line between profit margins and consumer loyalty — particularly as it prepares to scale Switch 2’s global reach in holiday 2025.
📊 Data Snapshot
| Metric | Value | Source |
| Switch 2 Sales Since June 5 | 5.82 million units | Nintendo |
| OLED Model Price (Pre-Increase) | $349.99 | Nintendo Store |
| Tariff Updates on Vietnam | Included in new U.S. policy | USTR |
