When is the Best Time to Buy a Nintendo Switch? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of when to buy a Nintendo Switch is a common one, especially for those eager to jump into the world of Nintendo gaming. The short, most practical answer is: buy a Nintendo Switch whenever you see a good sale, regardless of the time of year. While this might sound overly simplistic, it’s rooted in the reality of Switch pricing and availability. Unlike some other tech products that see consistent and significant price drops, Nintendo Switch deals are often rare and sell out quickly. It’s not unusual to see modest discounts of around $20 or $30 off the console price, or perhaps a bundle with a free game or accessory thrown in. Waiting for a “perfect” moment might mean missing out on a perfectly adequate deal that appears at an unexpected time.
Understanding Nintendo Switch Sales
The Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite consoles don’t typically experience massive price fluctuations. They maintain their retail price point fairly well, which means that the discounts that do occur are highly sought after. This makes it even more crucial to be prepared and informed, rather than relying on the hope of a significant price drop at a specific time.
Why Aren’t There Always Big Discounts?
Nintendo tends to hold its console prices steady. They rely heavily on their first-party games, like “Zelda” and “Mario”, to sell hardware, rather than aggressive price cutting. This strategy is successful for them, and it results in a different pricing landscape compared to other console manufacturers who may rely on aggressive discounting to boost hardware sales. Consequently, securing a Nintendo Switch at a discounted price often boils down to luck and quick action when a deal presents itself.
The Black Friday Factor
Black Friday is often touted as the prime time to snag a deal on a variety of products, and gaming consoles are no exception. While Black Friday can be a good time to look for a Nintendo Switch, it’s not a guaranteed goldmine. The key takeaway from the information provided is this: Amazon is likely to offer similar console bundles on any major sale day as it does on Black Friday. So, waiting until the end of November isn’t essential. While you might find deals on games and accessories, the console discounts are usually modest and not exclusive to Black Friday. Also, keep in mind that due to high demand, these deals often sell out very quickly.
Beyond the Console: Games and Accessories
However, if you are also looking for Nintendo Switch video games and accessories, then Black Friday is a more compelling opportunity. You’re far more likely to encounter significant price cuts on software and add-ons, making it a good time to stock up on games you’ve been eyeing or pick up extra controllers.
The Switch in 2023: Is It Worth It?
The decision to buy a Nintendo Switch in 2023 depends primarily on whether you are interested in playing Nintendo games. The console is packed with exclusive titles, most notably the likes of “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom”, which many argue is a must-play experience and justifies buying the console on its own. If you’re a fan of these types of games, then the Switch is absolutely worth buying in 2023.
The Upcoming “Switch 2”: Is It Time to Wait?
The elephant in the room, of course, is the rumored release of a new Nintendo Switch console (often referred to as the “Switch 2”) in 2024. According to the article, Nintendo’s next-generation console is slated for release in the second half of 2024. Development kits are reportedly in the hands of some “key partner studios”, suggesting a 2024 release is highly plausible.
Should You Wait?
The prospect of a new console might make you hesitate. However, it’s important to remember that Nintendo will not release a new console unless it is a significant improvement over the current one. Additionally, consider the timeframe: we are talking about the second half of 2024. That’s a considerable wait, especially if you’re itching to play titles like “Tears of the Kingdom” now. Given that the current Switch has a projected lifespan of 6–10 years, buying a Switch in 2023 is a perfectly valid option, and you’ll have a massive library of games to enjoy. Moreover, as the new console comes out the old one and games might be available at discounted rates too.
The OLED Model: Is it Worth the Upgrade?
The OLED Nintendo Switch offers a superior visual experience, particularly in handheld mode. The vibrant colors and slightly larger screen make gaming on-the-go much more enjoyable. If you plan on using your Switch primarily in handheld mode, the OLED model is worth considering. However, if you primarily intend to play games on your TV using the dock, the regular Switch is likely sufficient.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best time to buy a Nintendo Switch is when you find a deal you’re happy with. Don’t get bogged down in the search for the “perfect” moment. If you’re ready to play those coveted Nintendo exclusives and spot a discount, go for it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision on when to buy a Nintendo Switch:
1. Does the Nintendo Switch ever go on sale?
Yes, but deals are rare and often involve modest discounts or bundles. Expect to find $20 or $30 off the console price, or a free game or accessory thrown in.
2. Is it good to buy a Nintendo Switch in 2023?
If you’re interested in playing Nintendo games, especially titles like “Zelda” and “Mario,” then yes, the Switch is worth buying in 2023.
3. Will there be a new Switch in 2023?
No, a new console announcement is not expected before 2024, according to the provided information. A possible release is aimed for the second half of 2024.
4. Should I buy a Nintendo Switch now or wait for Black Friday?
Buying on any sale is recommended. Amazon will likely offer the same console bundles on any other sale as it does on Black Friday. Waiting for Black Friday may be beneficial if you want to purchase games and accessories but not necessarily the console itself.
5. Is it safe to buy a Switch right now?
Yes, buying a Switch now is perfectly safe, given its expected lifespan and extensive library of available games.
6. Is the OLED Switch worth it?
If you plan on playing primarily in handheld mode, then yes, the OLED Switch is worth the upgrade for its better visuals.
7. Do console prices go down on Black Friday?
Yes, Black Friday is often a good time to find deals on consoles, but Nintendo Switch discounts are usually moderate and not exclusive to that day.
8. Is the Switch 2 confirmed?
While not explicitly confirmed, various reports and news sources suggest the Switch 2 is slated for release in 2024.
9. Is Nintendo releasing a new console in 2024?
Yes, according to multiple sources, Nintendo’s next-generation console is expected in the second half of 2024.
10. What is the lifespan of the Switch?
The Nintendo Switch lifespan is 6–10 years with proper care.
11. Is it worth buying a Switch just for Zelda?
Yes, titles like “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” are considered worth buying the console for.
12. How often does the Nintendo Switch go on sale?
Nintendo Switch deals are rare, but the best times to find them are during major sales like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.
13. Will the Nintendo Switch get a price drop?
Nintendo has no plans to cut the price of its Switch console until at least April 2024.
14. Will Switch 2 be 4K?
The Switch 2 is rumored to be capable of running The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild at 4K 60FPS, using Nvidia DLSS upscaling technology.
15. How much will Switch 2 cost?
Current rumors suggest a starting price of $399 for the Switch 2, making it Nintendo’s most expensive console to date.