The base cost to start playing is $299 to $349, depending on which model you choose
A Nintendo Switch console costs $299 for the standard model with a dock and TV connection, or $349 for the OLED version with a larger screen. The Switch Lite costs $199 but cannot connect to a TV. These are the prices Nintendo sets, though you may find discounts at retailers during sales. You will need a game to play — the cheapest first-party titles (games made by Nintendo) run $40 to $60, and many popular games cost $50 to $70.
Beyond the console and one game, most people spend more on accessories and online services within the first year. This guide breaks down what those costs actually are, what you can skip, and where you might spend more than you expect.
Key Takeaways
- The Switch console itself costs $299 (standard), $349 (OLED), or $199 (Lite), and you must add at least one game to play.
- Nintendo Switch Online costs $20 per year for basic online play, or $50 per year for the Expansion Pack with extra games and cloud saves.
- A carrying case, screen protector, and extra controllers are common purchases that add $50 to $150 to your first-year spending.
- The Switch uses microSD cards for storage; the console includes 32 GB built-in, but most games require an additional card costing $15 to $30.
- You do not need a Pro Controller to play most games — the Joy-Con controllers that come with the console work for nearly everything.
Console prices and what comes in the box
Nintendo sells three Switch models at different price points. The standard Switch at $299 includes the console, two Joy-Con controllers (one red, one blue), a dock for TV connection, and a USB-C charging cable. The OLED model at $349 has the same contents but with a larger, brighter screen and a better speaker. The Switch Lite at $199 is smaller, lighter, and designed only for handheld play — it cannot dock to a TV and does not come with a dock.
All three models come with 32 GB of built-in storage, but this fills quickly. Most games take 5 to 20 GB of space, so you will likely need a microSD card within your first few purchases. A 128 GB microSD card costs around $15 to $20, and a 256 GB card costs $25 to $30. Nintendo recommends cards rated for fast read and write speeds (UHS-I or faster).
None of the consoles include a game in the box. You must purchase games separately. Nintendo's own games (Mario, Zelda, Animal Crossing) typically cost $50 to $70 new. Older titles and third-party games often cost $20 to $50. Digital games (downloaded to the console) cost the same as physical cartridges, but physical games can be resold or traded.
Nintendo Switch Online subscription costs
Playing online multiplayer requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership. The basic plan costs $20 per year and includes online play, cloud saves for most games, and access to a library of classic NES and SNES games. The Expansion Pack costs $50 per year and adds Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games, Game Boy games, and access to DLC (extra content) for certain games like Mario Kart 8 and Animal Crossing.
You do not need Switch Online to play single-player games, use the eShop (Nintendo's digital store), or download free-to-play titles. Only multiplayer requires the subscription. If you play with others in the same room (local multiplayer), you do not need Switch Online either.
Family memberships are available: a family plan for $50 per year covers up to eight accounts on one console, which works out to $6.25 per person if you split the cost with others. This is the same price as the individual basic plan for two people.
Controllers and replacement costs
The standard Switch comes with two Joy-Con controllers. For most games, these are enough. A single Joy-Con costs $35 to $50 if you need a replacement or extra. A pair of Joy-Cons costs $70 to $80. The Pro Controller, a larger controller designed for handheld play and docked mode, costs $70. You do not need it — the Joy-Cons work for nearly all games — but some players prefer its size and button layout.
Joy-Con controllers have a known issue called "drift," where the analog stick registers movement even when you are not touching it. Nintendo offers free repairs for drift within the warranty period (typically one year from purchase). After that, repair costs vary by region but typically run $15 to $40 per controller. Buying a replacement is often cheaper than repair.
Third-party controllers from companies like 8BitDo and PowerA cost $30 to $60 and work with most games, though some titles require official Joy-Cons or the Pro Controller. Check the game's requirements before buying a third-party option.
Accessories that most people buy
A carrying case is useful if you travel with your Switch. Official Nintendo cases cost $20 to $30, while third-party cases range from $10 to $50 depending on size and features. A screen protector costs $5 to $15 and prevents scratches from the dock or handheld play. A charging dock or stand for tabletop play costs $15 to $30 — the console comes with a basic stand, but many people upgrade to something sturdier.
A USB-C charging cable and power adapter are included with the console, but a second cable for travel or a car charger costs $15 to $30. If you own multiple Switch consoles, you can share one power adapter, but each console needs its own cable.
None of these accessories are required to play, but most people end up buying at least a case and screen protector within the first year. Budget $50 to $100 for accessories if you plan to travel with your console or want protection.
Games and DLC spending
Nintendo's first-party games (made by Nintendo) cost $50 to $70 new and rarely go on sale. Popular titles include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild ($60), Super Mario Odyssey ($60), Mario Kart 8 Deluxe ($60), and Animal Crossing: New Horizons ($60). These games have strong resale value if you buy physical cartridges — you can often sell them for $30 to $50 after playing.
Third-party games (made by other studios) vary widely. Indie games often cost $10 to $30, while AAA titles from studios like Activision or Take-Two cost $40 to $70. The eShop frequently discounts games, especially older titles and indie releases. If you wait for sales, you can find many games at 20 to 50 percent off.
Some games include optional DLC (downloadable content) that adds characters, levels, or cosmetics. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has a DLC pass for $12 that adds 48 new tracks over time. Animal Crossing: New Horizons has free updates but paid cosmetic packs. Budget for DLC only if you plan to play a specific game heavily.
First-year spending breakdown
| Item | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Switch console (standard model) | $299 | Yes |
| One game | $50–$70 | Yes |
| MicroSD card (128 GB) | $15–$20 | Recommended |
| Nintendo Switch Online (basic, 1 year) | $20 | For multiplayer only |
| Carrying case | $20–$30 | Optional |
| Screen protector | $5–$15 | Optional |
| Extra Joy-Con pair | $70–$80 | Optional |
| Additional games (2–3 more) | $100–$210 | Optional |
Your minimum first-year cost is around $369 to $389 (console plus one game plus Switch Online if you play multiplayer). Most people spend $450 to $600 by adding a microSD card, case, screen protector, and one or two more games. If you buy a Pro Controller and several games, you could reach $700 to $800.
Ways to spend less
Buy physical games instead of digital if you plan to resell them. A $60 game you finish and sell for $30 effectively costs you $30. Digital games cannot be resold, so the full price is permanent.
Wait for sales on third-party and indie games. The eShop discounts games regularly, and retailers like Amazon and Best Buy run sales on physical cartridges. Nintendo's own games rarely discount, so buy those at full price or used.
Skip the Pro Controller if you are new to the Switch. The Joy-Cons work for almost everything, and you can always buy a Pro Controller later if you find you need it.
Use the family plan for Switch Online if you have multiple people in your household. At $50 per year for up to eight accounts, it is the cheapest way to get online play for multiple players.
Buy a used console if you are comfortable with secondhand electronics. Used Switch consoles typically cost $200 to $250 and come with controllers and a dock. Check the battery health and test the Joy-Cons for drift before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Pro Controller to play most games?
No. The Joy-Con controllers that come with the console work for nearly all games, including competitive titles like Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart. A Pro Controller is larger and some players find it more comfortable, but it is not required. Buy one only if you try the Joy-Cons and find them uncomfortable.
Can I play without buying Nintendo Switch Online?
Yes, if you only play single-player games or local multiplayer (with people in the same room). Switch Online is required only for online multiplayer. You can use the eShop and download free-to-play games without a subscription.
How much storage do I need?
The console includes 32 GB, which holds about two large games or five to ten smaller games. Most people need a microSD card within their first few purchases. A 128 GB card is a good starting point and costs $15 to $20. A 256 GB card costs $25 to $30 and lasts much longer.
Is the OLED model worth the extra $50?
The OLED model has a larger, brighter screen and better sound, which matters if you play handheld often. If you mostly play docked on a TV, the standard model is fine. If you travel frequently or prefer handheld play, the OLED upgrade is worth considering.
Can I use my old controllers from another console?
No. The Switch uses proprietary Joy-Con controllers and does not support controllers from PlayStation, Xbox, or other systems. Some third-party controllers work with the Switch, but they are not compatible with all games.