- Firm predicts Switch 2 may face a price increase due to high memory costs, tariffs, and macroeconomic conditions.
- They recommend buying a Switch 2 handheld now, when the price is right.
- This also spells bad news for Valve, which plans to release the Steam Machine soon.
The Nintendo Switch 2 was launched in uncertain times, when the Trump administration was imposing tariffs worldwide, increasing production costs for the handheld. Fortunately, Nintendo was able to counter that by strategically building inventory and keeping the Switch 2 price stable.
However, they can only do so for so long, and now the manufacturer may lose out in the crumbling landscape of the current hardware scene. A research firm estimates a Switch 2 price hike will be announced soon.
Why it matters: Buying new hardware has become increasingly difficult, and the Switch 2 already costs a pretty penny for a handheld. Anything above the current MSRP, and sales of the hybrid consoles will stumble.
Niko Partners, a research firm known for video game statistics, published its predictions for 2026, and they didn’t have good news for Nintendo fans. The firm is encouraging gamers to buy a Switch 2 now because a global price hike will soon take effect.
But we believe the Switch 2 is set to follow in Sony and Microsoft’s footsteps with its own price hike driven by the impact from tariffs, increased memory costs, and broader macroeconomic conditions.
Nintendo stockpiles supplies for long-term manufacturing, and high production levels help it keep costs reasonable. However, memory prices have surged through the roof recently, and the company can’t help but raise prices.
The company may even stop selling the base console by itself and start selling bundles instead to push average prices up without sparking backlash. This means the Switch 2 will start at $500 or more.
The gaming giant is in a difficult situation: it hasn’t even been a year since the handheld’s launch, and sales have faltered recently. The Switch 2 sold less than its predecessor during the first holiday period after its launch.
Not just Nintendo, but all major manufacturers catering to consumers are in a tough spot right now. Valve is entering the home console market for the second time, and high memory costs will determine the Steam Machine’s success.
At the same time, Sony is also likely to raise PS5 console prices. The memory fiasco is also likely to force manufacturers to delay next-gen consoles, causing a major setback for the entire gaming industry.
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[Staff Writer]
Shaheer is currently pursuing a Business degree while also working as a part-time Content Writer. With his deep passion for both writing and video games, he has seamlessly transitioned into a role as a Journalist. Over the past two years, Shaheer has contributed as a freelancer to various websites and landed positions on acclaimed platforms like Gamerant. Currently, his role at Tech4gamers is as a Features Writer, but he also covers News occasionally. Shaheer’s favorite gaming franchises are Assassin’s Creed and the God of War series.
Get In Touch: shaheerzahid03@gmail.com
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