Reasons to Get a New Nintendo Switch Instead of a Switch 2

Nintendo just held the Nintendo Direct for the Switch 2, and it featured all of the pros and cons for the upcoming console. If you’re still conflicted about whether you should pick up Nintendo’s latest toy, or purchase the original TV to handheld hybrid console, we have five reasons why you should stick rather than twist with a new Nintendo Switch.

Switch 2 is Much More Expensive

One of the biggest shocks from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct didn’t come until after the showcase had finished. It was revealed that the console will cost $449 which is comparable to the price of a PS5 or an Xbox Series X. By comparison you can grab the original console starting from $199 for the Switch Lite. The Switch 2 is a major graphical upgrade, with up to 4K resolution and 120 FPS, but if you’re only looking for a Fortnite or Balatro machine, then the upgrade is not going to be worth it for you.

Switch 2 Games Will Cost More

The lineup for the Switch 2 is looking impressive with Mario Kart World available at launch, and Donkey Kong Bananza releasing not long afterwards. However, many upcoming Switch games will be cross-generational, meaning you can play games like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond on both the original Switch, and the Switch 2. While we’ve only seen the prices for a few Switch 2 games, they are trending more expensive than the original console’s. If you’re not as interested in the upcoming games, then you won’t just save money on the console purchase, but on the software too.

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The Switch 2 Isn’t as Innovative

There are clear performance and graphical upgrades between the Switch and the Switch 2, but it doesn’t offer much in the way of fun new ways to play. The ability to use Joy-Con 2 like mice is a cute idea, but it’ll likely be a gimmick for games like Drag x Drive that will soon fall out of favor. The camera, GameChat, and screen sharing functions were pretty embarrassing. The frame rate really tanked with these features active, and they do little to elevate your game in a way that Discord doesn’t.

Switch 2 Isn’t as Portable

You can take your Switch 2 out of the dock and carry it around with you, but that doesn’t mean it will be a good idea. It’s bigger than the original Switch, and that was barely a portable console to begin with. If you’re looking for a console that you can put in your backpack and play on the bus, then you’ll want to buy a Switch Lite, at least until Nintendo releases a Switch 2 Lite.

Patience is a Virtue

Those who are willing to hang on for at least a year will be rewarded greatly. Not only will the price of the Switch 2 and its games come down, but there will be a larger library of games to play making it better value for money. The Switch Lite also launched just two years after the original, and a similar console version could come in the future. Waiting a little longer will also allow you to know more about the console, and potential issues like Joy-Con drift, to make a more informed decision when you make your purchase.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch on June 5, 2025.

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