Is Nintendo Switch worth it in 2026?
The Nintendo Switch is now over 5 years old, yet it remains one of the most popular and best-selling gaming consoles on the market. But is the Switch still worth buying in 2024? Let‘s take a look at the pros, cons, and what we might expect in the future.
Nintendo has no major hardware revisions planned for 2024
According to statements from Nintendo, there are currently no plans to release an upgraded "Switch 2" model this year. The last refresh we saw was the OLED model in 2021, which offered some nice improvements but no real performance boost.
This means the existing Switch, Switch Lite and Switch OLED are here to stay for 2024. For gamers looking to buy a Switch console, the choices remain the same as last year.
The game library and first party support stay strong
The Switch lacks the raw power of the PS5 and Xbox Series X, but makes up for it with an extremely strong catalog of exclusive first party games. Nintendo‘s wildly popular franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario, Pokémon, Animal Crossing, and more continue to release hit after hit on Switch.
Upcoming first party titles for 2024 include Fire Emblem Engage, Bayonetta 3, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Pikmin 4. As long as Nintendo keeps producing excellence, the Switch will keep selling.
Switch OLED only worthwhile for handheld gaming
The Switch OLED model‘s main appeal is the larger, higher contrast 7" OLED screen compared to the original‘s 6.2" LCD. This makes the OLED better for handheld play. However, when docked and outputting to a TV, there is no real difference in graphics or performance compared to the standard Switch.
Gamers who plan to play mostly in TV mode should probably opt for the regular Switch and save $50. But the OLED is certainly the superior choice for mobile gaming.
Switch Lite excels as a portable
The Switch Lite can only be played in handheld mode, lacks detachable Joy-Cons, and has a smaller 5.5" screen. But it‘s a fantastic portable system, weighs only 0.61 lbs, and costs $100 less than the full Switch.
For gaming on the go, the Switch Lite provides a cheaper and more compact alternative. It‘s ideal for travel or as a secondary console for households that already own a standard Switch.
The Switch could have up to a 10 year lifespan
How much longevity can we expect from the Switch? According to a CNET interview with former Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime, Nintendo‘s plan is for the Switch to have a traditional home console lifespan of 5-7 years, which could be extended to 10 years through iterative updates like the OLED.
Considering cumulative sales just passed 122 million units, don‘t expect a next-gen Switch anytime soon. The hardware should hold up for a while still.
Rumors point to a "Switch 2" in 2024
While Nintendo themselves have denied any new models releasing in 2024, industry insiders suspect the launch of a true "Switch 2" successor could come sometime in 2024.
Recent reports suggest Nintendo has a new 4K capable Switch in the works for late 2024. It would compete with the PS5 and Xbox Series X power-wise and possibly support VR.
Of course nothing is confirmed yet, but 2024 seems a likely timeframe for the next major Nintendo console revision based on past generations.
All Switch models can play the full games library
An advantage of the Switch family is that whether you opt for the flagship Switch, Lite or OLED, you have access to the entire extensive library of Switch games. Games are not locked to specific models.
This gives buyers flexibility – the Lite for portability or OLED for its display, while enjoying the same vast game catalog on any Switch device. Backwards compatibility should continue into future generations.
OLED screen is easier on the eyes
One subtle but noticeable benefit of the OLED display is that it produces light internally and displays deeper blacks. This gives improved image contrast compared to the standard LCD screen, with less glare and visual artifacts.
Many users report the OLED model is more comfortable for long gaming sessions. The self-emitting OLED pixels put less strain on your eyes. If you play handheld frequently, it can be worthwhile.
Nintendo games hold value but deals exist
First party Nintendo games almost never drop in price and retain their $60 value years after launch. But seasonal sales and pre-owned game discounts can mitigate costs. Sites like DKOldies offer used Switch games at significant savings.
For non-Nintendo titles, deals are easier to find. Third party games frequently go on sale both physically and on the Nintendo eShop digital store. Patience pays off for Switch game collectors.
Wide age range appeal for families
A major advantage of the Switch is its vast library spanning all age ranges, from games suitable for preschoolers to those aimed at teens and adults. This gives it incredibly broad appeal for families.
According to Parent Zone‘s guide, the Switch offers age appropriate games starting from ages 3 to 18+ years. The hybrid portable design also makes it easy for families to share the console around the home.
Outlook remains strong but new competition looms
While the Switch lags behind the PS5 and Xbox Series X in raw specs, the Nintendo console dominates in sales and remains in high demand among gamers. As long as Nintendo‘s exclusives keep delivering, the outlook remains positive.
However, as Sony and Microsoft move forward, Nintendo faces increasing pressure to keep up technologically. The rumored 4K Switch 2 could be their answer. We‘ll have to wait and see what the future brings.