Why the Nintendo Switch 2 Is Not Overpriced: Breaking Down the $449 Value
Despite some backlash online, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers hardware upgrades and features that fully justify its price—gamers might be overreacting.
The outrage olympics over Switch 2's price
So, the Nintendo Switch 2 is supposedly launching around $449 or €449, and social media is already acting like Nintendo just slapped a mortgage on their childhood. Calm down. It's a next-gen hybrid console, not a toaster with Joy-Cons.
Yes, it's more expensive than the original Switch at launch — but what isn’t more expensive in 2025?
What you're actually getting
If the leaks and developer kits are to be trusted, this thing is packing:
DLSS support
Ray tracing capabilities
A significantly better custom Nvidia chip
Faster load times, improved battery, and better cooling
Compatibility with your old Switch library (in most cases)
And it’s still portable, which automatically puts it in a category most other consoles don’t even compete in.
Compared to what, exactly?
People are screaming "too expensive" while happily dropping $999 on an iPhone that runs Candy Crush. Even the Steam Deck OLED starts at $549, and it's heavier than my regrets.
If you want performance and portability with Nintendo exclusives on top, $449 is… actually pretty reasonable.
Final thought: It’s not 2017 anymore
Inflation is real. Tech has moved on. And if Nintendo really delivers a console that can run Zelda in 4K with smooth framerate and modern features, then they're not overcharging — you’re underestimating.
Stop the panic. Save the drama for Joy-Con drift.