Nintendo Switch Price In 2021: Everything You Need To Know

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Nintendo Switch Price in 2021: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey gamers, are you curious about the Nintendo Switch price in 2021? You're in the right place! This guide has everything you need to know about the cost of the Nintendo Switch, its different models, and where you can find the best deals. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newbie looking to join the Nintendo family, understanding the pricing landscape is crucial. So, let's dive in and unravel the mystery of the 2021 Nintendo Switch prices! We'll cover the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite, and the Switch OLED, so you can make an informed decision and grab the perfect console for your gaming needs.

The Original Nintendo Switch: A 2021 Price Overview

Alright, let's kick things off with the OG: the original Nintendo Switch. In 2021, the price of the original Nintendo Switch fluctuated a bit, but the standard MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) was around $299.99. Keep in mind that this was the base price, and the final cost could vary based on where you bought it and any bundles that were available. For example, some retailers offered bundles that included a game or accessory, which would naturally increase the overall price.

One thing that definitely affected the price of the original Switch was the demand. When popular games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons were released, the demand for the console skyrocketed, and sometimes, you'd find it difficult to find the console at its original price. Some retailers might have even bumped up the price slightly due to the high demand, but this wasn't always the case, and it wasn't the norm. You could usually find it at the standard price if you were patient and checked different stores. Buying used was an option for saving some money, but prices would vary, depending on the condition and if it came with any games or accessories.

Another factor influencing the Nintendo Switch price was the availability of different colors and designs. The standard version came with red and blue Joy-Con controllers, but there were also special edition consoles with unique designs, like the Animal Crossing or Fortnite bundles. These special editions sometimes came at a slightly higher price point, as they were often collector's items. In 2021, the original Nintendo Switch was still a strong contender in the console market. Its versatility, thanks to its ability to be played on a TV or in handheld mode, made it a popular choice for gamers of all ages. If you were looking to buy the original Nintendo Switch in 2021, you could generally expect to pay around $300, but it was worth keeping an eye out for deals and bundles that could save you some cash. Now, let's move on to the Switch Lite.

Nintendo Switch Lite Price: What You Could Expect in 2021

Now, let's talk about the Nintendo Switch Lite, the more compact and budget-friendly version. In 2021, the Switch Lite had an MSRP of around $199.99. This price point made it a great option for gamers looking for a portable-only gaming experience. Unlike the original Switch, the Switch Lite is designed exclusively for handheld play. The Switch Lite's price was significantly lower than the original Nintendo Switch, making it an attractive choice, especially for younger gamers or those who primarily played on the go.

The Switch Lite also came in a variety of colors, such as yellow, turquoise, and coral, adding a touch of personality to your gaming setup. The price of the Switch Lite remained relatively stable throughout 2021. You could typically find it at its suggested retail price, although, as with the original Switch, it's always a good idea to watch out for sales and special offers. Given its focus on portability and its lower price, the Switch Lite was a popular choice for those who didn't need or want the TV-docking capabilities of the original Switch. If you were primarily interested in playing games on the go, the Switch Lite offered an excellent value proposition.

Keep in mind that the Switch Lite doesn't have detachable Joy-Con controllers. Its controls are built into the console. This means that if you're looking for a console that can be used for multiplayer games with multiple players, the Switch Lite might not be the best choice. Overall, the Switch Lite was a solid option in 2021 for anyone looking for an affordable, portable gaming experience. Its price made it accessible, and its selection of games provided hours of fun for handheld gamers. Next, let's explore the Nintendo Switch OLED model price.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model Price in 2021: The Premium Experience

Alright, let's dive into the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, the premium version that was released in late 2021. This model came with a stunning 7-inch OLED screen, a wider adjustable stand, and enhanced audio. The MSRP for the Nintendo Switch OLED was around $349.99. This was a step up from the original Switch price, but the upgrade in features justified the cost for many gamers. The OLED screen provided richer colors and deeper blacks, making games look more vibrant and immersive. The new stand was much more stable and allowed for better tabletop gaming, and the enhanced audio improved the overall gaming experience.

The Nintendo Switch OLED was targeted toward gamers who wanted the best possible experience and didn't mind paying a little extra for it. It was a clear upgrade over the original Switch, with significant improvements in display quality and build. However, its release in late 2021 also meant that it was entering a market already saturated with the original Switch and Switch Lite. During the initial launch, the Switch OLED was in high demand. However, unlike the original Switch, it was readily available at retail prices, which made it easier for people to get their hands on it.

Although the price was higher than the original Switch, the Nintendo Switch OLED offered a compelling value proposition to gamers looking for the best handheld gaming experience. The improved screen, audio, and stand made it a clear upgrade. As we head into 2021, if you wanted the newest and greatest from Nintendo and were willing to pay a premium, the Switch OLED was the way to go. It provided a premium gaming experience that significantly enhanced gameplay, making it a great purchase for any serious Nintendo gamer. The console maintained its value due to its excellent features and new design. Let's look into the factors that influenced all the prices.

Factors Affecting Nintendo Switch Prices in 2021

Several factors influenced the Nintendo Switch prices in 2021. Understanding these can help you better understand why prices fluctuated. Let's break down the key elements:

  • Demand: This was the biggest factor. When a new game was released or when there were shortages due to supply chain issues, prices might increase. High demand drove prices up, especially for the original Switch. Special edition consoles often sold out quickly, which would sometimes cause prices to rise on the secondary market.
  • Availability: Supply chain issues sometimes affected the availability of the consoles. This made the prices increase sometimes, though this was not always the case.
  • Retailer Promotions: Retailers frequently held sales, especially around holidays or during special promotional events. These sales offered discounts on both the consoles themselves and on game bundles.
  • Bundles: Bundles that included the console plus a game or accessories often provided better value than buying everything separately. These bundles could slightly increase the initial cost, but the overall value was usually good.
  • Used Market: Prices in the used market varied based on the condition of the console, any included accessories or games, and demand. The used market offered an alternative for those looking for a more affordable option.
  • Model: As we've seen, each model (original, Lite, OLED) had a different price point based on its features and capabilities.

Where to Buy Nintendo Switch in 2021: Your Shopping Guide

So, where could you find a Nintendo Switch in 2021? Here are the best places to look:

  • Major Retailers: Stores like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target were reliable sources for all Switch models. They often had the standard consoles in stock and frequently ran promotions.
  • Online Retailers: Amazon was a great option for buying a Switch, offering competitive prices and sometimes bundling deals. Other online retailers like GameStop also had good options.
  • Nintendo eShop: While you couldn't buy the console directly, the eShop was the place to buy digital games and add-ons.
  • GameStop: GameStop usually had new and used consoles, as well as a selection of games and accessories.
  • Local Gaming Stores: Sometimes local gaming stores had special offers or exclusive bundles that you couldn't find elsewhere. Checking around for local stores could offer you some good deals.

Tips for Finding the Best Nintendo Switch Deals

Here are some tips to help you find the best deals on a Nintendo Switch:

  • Compare Prices: Always compare prices between different retailers before making a purchase.
  • Check for Bundles: Look for bundles that include a console and a game or accessories. These often offer better value.
  • Monitor Sales: Keep an eye out for sales, especially during holidays or major shopping events like Black Friday.
  • Consider Refurbished Models: Refurbished consoles from reputable retailers can be a good way to save money.
  • Set up Price Alerts: Use price tracking websites to get alerts when the price of a console drops.

Conclusion: Wrapping Up the Nintendo Switch Price in 2021

In conclusion, the Nintendo Switch price in 2021 varied based on the model, retailer, and any available promotions. The original Switch typically cost around $300, the Switch Lite was around $200, and the Switch OLED was priced at about $350. Understanding the different models, their features, and the factors influencing prices could help you make an informed decision and find the best deal for your gaming needs. No matter which Nintendo Switch you chose, it promised a great gaming experience. Keep an eye out for deals, and happy gaming!