Nintendo Switch Price: What Did It Cost In 2021?

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the Nintendo Switch price scene back in 2021. If you were looking to snag one of these awesome consoles or just curious about what they cost, you're in the right place. We're going to break down the prices, the different models, and what you could expect to pay. So, grab a seat, maybe a snack, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of the Nintendo Switch price in 2021.

The Base Price: What to Expect

Alright, so when we talk about the Nintendo Switch price in 2021, we're mainly focusing on the original model. That was the one that hit the market first. In 2021, the suggested retail price (SRP) for a new, standard Nintendo Switch was around $299.99. Now, that's what Nintendo suggested, but in the real world, prices could fluctuate a bit depending on where you were buying it from. Stores sometimes ran promotions, and of course, taxes varied by location.

• Original Nintendo Switch: This is the OG. It came with the main console unit, two Joy-Con controllers (one red and one blue, or sometimes a matching pair), the dock for connecting to your TV, a power adapter, and a Joy-Con grip. All the essentials to get you gaming right away. In general, that price point was pretty consistent across major retailers. You could usually find it at places like Target, Best Buy, Walmart, and of course, online through Amazon and the Nintendo store. However, the Nintendo Switch price could be impacted by the availability. During certain times in 2021, particularly due to the global chip shortage and increased demand, getting your hands on a Switch could be a little tricky. That meant that sometimes, you might see prices creep up a bit above the SRP due to limited supply. But in most cases, if you were patient and checked around, you could find it for around that $300 mark.

Exploring the Nintendo Switch Family in 2021

Now, 2021 wasn't just about the original Nintendo Switch. Nintendo had smarts and released more versions of the Switch, and understanding these is key to understanding the full price landscape. There was the Nintendo Switch Lite. There was also the Nintendo Switch (OLED model), which was announced later in the year. Each model came with its own price tag and features. Each targets a slightly different audience, as well.

• Nintendo Switch Lite: This is the handheld-only version, designed for gamers who wanted a more portable experience. It was significantly smaller and more affordable than the original, with a price tag of around $199.99. Because it was solely a handheld device, the Joy-Cons were built-in, and it didn't come with a dock for connecting to a TV. The main aim was to provide a cheaper entry point into the Nintendo gaming ecosystem for people who wanted to play on the go.

• Nintendo Switch (OLED Model): This was the hot new release of the year! Announced in the summer of 2021, the OLED model featured a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, improved audio, a wider adjustable stand, and a slightly upgraded dock with a built-in Ethernet port. This was the premium experience, and therefore, it came with a higher price of $349.99. The OLED model's release marked a significant upgrade, appealing to those who wanted the best possible visual and audio experience when playing games.

So, as you can see, the Nintendo Switch price in 2021 varied depending on the model you were after. The original Switch offered a versatile experience at around $300, the Lite provided a budget-friendly handheld option at $200, and the OLED model delivered a premium experience for $350.

Where to Find the Best Deals

If you were shopping for a Nintendo Switch in 2021, there were a few strategies you could use to potentially save some money. Firstly, checking different retailers was crucial. As mentioned earlier, prices could fluctuate, and one store might have a sale while another didn't. Keep an eye out for special offers or bundles, because these could also include a game or an extra accessory. These bundles often gave you more value for your money. Black Friday and other major shopping holidays were prime times to find deals on the Nintendo Switch. Stores would often slash prices or offer bundles with games, so it was worth waiting for these events if you weren’t in a rush to buy.

• Online Marketplaces: Don't forget to check online marketplaces such as eBay and Facebook Marketplace. You could sometimes find used Switches at a lower price. However, always do your research and ensure you were buying from a reputable seller to avoid any scams or issues. Make sure the console was in good working order and came with all the necessary accessories.

• Refurbished Consoles: Some retailers also offered refurbished Nintendo Switches, which were consoles that had been returned or repaired and then resold at a lower price. These could be a good option if you were on a budget. Make sure you bought from a trusted source that offered a warranty. Check the console carefully for any cosmetic damage or issues. Refurbished models could offer a good balance of price and quality if you were careful.

The Impact of Demand and Supply in 2021

In 2021, the Nintendo Switch price was significantly impacted by both high demand and global supply chain issues. The pandemic had increased the popularity of home entertainment. As people spent more time at home, gaming became a very popular pastime. The Switch was an attractive option for its portability and versatility. This huge interest led to a surge in demand, which, in turn, put pressure on supply. The global chip shortage, which affected multiple industries, also contributed to the problem. It made it difficult for Nintendo to produce enough consoles to meet the high demand. This imbalance of supply and demand led to some interesting scenarios.

• Price Fluctuations: During certain periods, particularly around the holiday season, it was not uncommon to see prices slightly above the suggested retail price, especially for the original Switch and the newer OLED model. Some resellers tried to take advantage of the situation.

• Stock Shortages: Certain retailers often faced stock shortages, making it challenging for customers to find the console they wanted. People had to be patient, checking different stores, and being ready to buy when stock became available. The release of major games like Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl and Metroid Dread likely boosted demand even further. This shows the importance of the games released and their impact on console sales.

Accessories and Games: Beyond the Console

When calculating the total cost of owning a Nintendo Switch in 2021, it's also important to factor in the cost of accessories and games. These are important for taking the overall gaming experience to the next level. Let's look at some of the things you might have considered.

• Games: Prices for new games usually ranged from $50 to $60, depending on the title. Some of the biggest titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey remained popular. There were also plenty of great new releases in 2021, such as Metroid Dread and Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. Buying games digitally through the Nintendo eShop often meant you were paying the same price as physical copies. However, you often had the convenience of immediate access. Discounts and sales were also available, and these happened pretty regularly, so it was possible to snag games at a reduced price.

• Accessories: Accessories could add up quickly. Extra Joy-Con controllers could be around $80, a Pro Controller about $70. A carrying case was essential for protecting the console on the go, and they ranged in price depending on the features and quality. Screen protectors were important if you wanted to protect your screen from scratches. Other accessories, like charging stands, headsets, and microSD cards for extra storage, added to the overall cost. In general, these are things that players considered when purchasing.

Conclusion: Nintendo Switch Price in 2021 - A Recap

So, to recap, in 2021, the Nintendo Switch price varied based on the model you were after. The original Switch retailed for around $300, the Lite for $200, and the OLED model for $350. Demand and supply played a big role, so prices could fluctuate. Shopping around, waiting for sales, and considering used or refurbished options were all good strategies for finding a good deal.

Remember to factor in the cost of games and accessories to get the full picture of the cost of ownership. The Nintendo Switch proved to be a popular console in 2021, and understanding the price landscape can help you make an informed decision if you were considering buying one. Enjoy your gaming! I hope this helps.