What is the price of the Switch 2? Discover the cost of the console after discount

At the dawn of 2026, the Nintendo Switch 2 establishes itself as a must-have for video game enthusiasts seeking novelty and performance. After years of waiting for a major evolution of Nintendo’s most popular handheld console, players finally discover the details regarding the Switch 2 price, as well as the various purchasing options and possible discounts. The console cost, often closely scrutinized, reflects a new era both technically and financially, with prices revised upwards and a console offer targeting both casual gamers and the most dedicated. This article provides a detailed overview of Switch 2 promotional prices, the technical features that justify these rates, without forgetting the essential tips to make the best Switch 2 deal and thus optimize your purchase.

With an official release scheduled for June 5, 2025, the Switch 2 quickly established itself on shelves, generating a wave of enthusiasm accompanied by questions about the console’s accessibility. From Micromania to FNAC, attractive offers or discounts encourage consumers to compare prices so as not to miss the best opportunity. However, the Switch 2 promotional price is not just the result of an aggressive commercial strategy; it mainly reflects a considerable technical upgrade. Indeed, the integration of a 7.9-inch screen with 1080p resolution, 4K output capability via the dock, and 256 GB of native storage help justify the console cost. Moreover, backward compatibility with the original Switch library enhances the added value of this machine, just like the accessibility to flagship titles at an increased Switch 2 price. This context demands a deep reflection on the price-quality ratio and the Switch 2 purchasing modalities, particularly in light of game prices which are also evolving.

Detailed analysis of the Nintendo Switch 2 price according to French distributors

The Switch 2 console cost turns out to be somewhat higher than that of the previous generation, which raises questions among buyers, especially those familiar with the very competitive prices of the first Switch. According to current data, the official announced price is around 469.99 euros, but it is possible to find the console from 419 euros thanks to certain price comparison platforms and occasional promotional offers.

Major retailers like Carrefour, Amazon, Leclerc, or FNAC play a key role in regularly adjusting their prices to offer attractive deals. For example, pre-orders, launched well before the official release, have already allowed a significant number of players to benefit from a preferential price. Furthermore, the commercial strategy orchestrated around bundles including the console and popular games such as Mario Kart World offers considerable savings, representing an interesting option to maximize the quality-price ratio.

In terms of concrete comparison, here is a table illustrating the price differences observed at some major sellers:

Distributor	Console Only Price	Pack Price with Mario Kart World	Remark
Micromania	469.99 €	509.99 €	Official price
Amazon	419.00 €	459.00 €	Regular promotion
FNAC	429.99 €	469.99 €	Pack offer including download
Cdiscount	425.00 €	465.00 €	Special sale discount

You will note that despite a relatively homogeneous appearance of the Switch 2 price, some retailers offer very interesting temporary discounts. Careful monitoring of console offers allows consumers to take advantage of these opportunities without compromising quality.

How do game prices impact the total price of the Switch 2?

While the console itself shows a fairly high price, game acquisition remains a significant part of the player’s final budget. In 2026, Nintendo Switch 2 titles are traded between 60 and 90 euros, marking a significant increase compared to the first Switch whose main titles hovered around 59.99 euros.

The major reason for this inflation lies in the cost of game production, which has exploded to meet the technical requirements of more powerful new hardware. This results in recommended retail prices of 79.99 € to 89.99 € for physical versions, while digital versions usually display a price about 10 € lower. For example, the hit Mario Kart World is offered at 89.99 € physical version versus 79.99 € digital version. A difference which, unlike the previous generation, becomes systematic, thus encouraging careful consideration regarding digital or physical purchase.

Another example, the game Donkey Kong Bananza is positioned around 79.99 € boxed version and 69.99 € digital. These prices are explained by the technological choice of physical media, notably the use of costly microSD Express cartridges.

Game	Physical RRP	Digital Price	Price at Major Retailers
Mario Kart World	89.99 €	79.99 €	69.99 €
Donkey Kong Bananza	79.99 €	69.99 €	59.99 €

Savvy players will take advantage of discounts offered by most specialized retailers, which can reach up to 20 € off on certain flagship titles. It is advisable to wait a few weeks after release to buy games during initial promotions, especially during annual sales when the Switch 2 game price is at its lowest.

Reasons behind the spectacular rise in Switch 2 game prices

It would be simplistic to criticize only Nintendo for the price increase: this progression actually reflects several economic and technical factors related to the current video game industry.

Firstly, the development budget for Switch 2 games has nearly tripled, with titles like Mario Kart World requiring investments ranging from 80 to 120 million euros. In comparison, major games for the first Switch hovered between 30 and 50 million. To better understand, a classic like Super Mario Odyssey cost about 50 to 60 million, but would have required a budget between 75 and 90 million for the Switch 2.

These overruns are explained notably by:

• The creation of 4K assets and ultra HD textures, as well as a complete 3D overhaul, representing between 20 and 30% of the total budget.
• The implementation of modern technologies like ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), which increase production costs by 10 to 15%.
• Larger development teams and longer production cycles, adding 10 to 20% to the budget.
• The impact of inflation on wage costs, which added around an additional 10%.

Secondly, the physical medium question weighs heavily. Unlike Blu-ray used by PlayStation 5 or Xbox, Nintendo Switch 2’s microSD Express cartridges have a very high manufacturing cost, between 20 and 50 times more expensive. The PCIe/NVMe technology embedded in these cartridges allows transfer speeds up to 985 MB/s, which considerably improves loading times and gameplay experience, but this inevitably affects the final price.

The Nintendo Switch 2 and its technical specifications: a justified price?

The technical innovations brought to the Switch 2 are at the heart of its pricing positioning. To better grasp the value of the console offer, it is essential to explore its main features.

The main screen is a 7.9-inch LCD, with a native Full HD 1080p resolution. Its refresh rate can reach up to 120 Hz, a novelty praised by players seeking optimal fluidity, notably for action and racing titles. That’s not all: the console supports HDR, delivering richer colors and improved contrast for enhanced immersion.

Regarding storage, the Switch 2 offers 256 GB of internal memory, a significant gain compared to previous models. This capacity is expandable via microSD Express cards, which meets the expectations of players owning numerous digital licenses or bypassing the physical media limit.

The dock allows 4K video output up to 60 frames per second, a major evolution positioning the console as a reliable competitor against other market players. In gameplay, displayed performances are very stable, with fast startups and almost no stuttering, even on the most demanding titles.

Another notable point concerns the new Joy-Con 2, which attach magnetically. Beyond the classic grip, they can be used as a mouse in certain titles, an innovative feature opening the door to new types of gameplay. The extended compatibility with older Nintendo controllers also adds flexibility, despite some persistent issues such as joystick drift reported by some users.

Backward compatibility and game catalog: a strong point for the Switch 2

A major argument to justify the Switch 2 purchase lies in backward compatibility which allows players to enjoy their entire original Switch library. This software continuity offers significant comfort, avoiding duplication of investment.

Thanks to this feature, it is possible to enjoy iconic titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Breath of the Wild, or recent competitive games such as Street Fighter 6. The experience is optimized thanks to the increased power and the screen quality of the Switch 2, enhancing visual rendering and fluidity.

For players keen to optimize their console cost, this backward compatibility represents a real plus. It not only preserves previous investments but also allows benefiting from promotions and second-hand sales without fearing rapid obsolescence.

As for the arrival of new licenses, it comes with a true upgrade marked by deeper gameplay mechanics, larger worlds, and improved graphics. This balance between old and new fosters the Nintendo ecosystem and reinforces the long-term notion in the Switch 2 purchase.

Where and how to find the best Switch 2 console deal in 2026?

For those looking for a profitable Switch 2 purchase, it is crucial to identify good deals and the right moments for discounts. Observing the market, one notices that certain retailers are particularly active in promoting the console, notably during sales periods or commercial events (Black Friday, Prime Day, etc.).

Here are some practical tips to find a good Switch 2 deal:

• Monitor price comparison sites: They update daily with the best available deals and facilitate comparison between retailers.
• Favor bundles: They often include a game at a reduced price, such as Mario Kart World, to maximize your purchase value.
• Subscribe to newsletters: Sites like Amazon or FNAC regularly send promo codes or alerts on console promotions.
• Take advantage of trade-in offers: Some stores accept your old Switch in exchange for a voucher on the Switch 2.
• Avoid impulsive purchases: Patient players can benefit from significant discounts a few weeks after the official release.

A good purchasing strategy is notably based on the considered combination between console price, game prices, and necessary accessories. Thus, budgeting before buying allows better evaluation of the overall investment and avoids surprises.

What are the price evolution prospects for the Switch 2 and the Nintendo ecosystem?

The price evolution of the Switch 2 reveals several trends for the near future. Firstly, one can expect a progressive stabilization of prices, provided that production reaches better efficiency and competition pushes Nintendo to moderate its rates.

Moreover, the Nintendo ecosystem is moving towards a hybrid model combining physical media and digital services. There is growing momentum for cloud gaming and subscriptions, which could influence the console cost and the way games are acquired in the medium term.

Internal and partner studios now invest more in creativity and innovation, which may justify a short-term price increase but also a qualitative enrichment of the catalog. There is also Nintendo’s will to maintain strong backward compatibility, preserving user loyalty and reassuring on the investment made.

Finally, some analysts mention a possible revision of distribution models which would include more bundled offers and regular promotions to boost sales and retain customers.

The assessment of the real cost of a complete Switch 2 experience

To fully equip yourself and enjoy the Switch 2 to its fullest, it is not enough to consider only the console price. The total budget includes the purchase of games, essential accessories, and options such as additional memory cards.

Here is an estimated overview in the context of a standard acquisition:

• Switch 2 Console: from 419 € to 470 € depending on offers
• Major games (e.g. Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza): 60 to 90 € each
• Accessories (additional Joy-Cons, protective case, fast charger): from 40 € to 100 € depending on needs
• 128 GB microSD Express card: around 50 € to 70 €

Thus, a basic complete pack can easily exceed 600 €, even reaching beyond 750 € for collectors or players eager for novelties. This reality requires reflection on purchase priorities and encourages fully taking advantage of available promotions.

In summary, the Switch 2 purchase is a significant investment in 2026, but it is justified by major technical improvements and an expanding catalog. Each person must find the best console offer that matches their budget and usage.