Breaking News (January 20, 2026): If you have been waiting to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, the window to secure one at the launch price may be closing rapidly. A startling new report from market intelligence firm Niko Partners warns that Nintendo is poised to increase the global price of its flagship console later this year. With the current $449 entry price potentially jumping to $499 or higher, industry experts are urging gamers to take advantage of remaining Nintendo Switch 2 deals and January "New Year" bundles at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy immediately.

Why Experts Predict a Switch 2 Price Hike in 2026

The warning comes from Niko Partners' newly released "2026 Predictions" report, which highlights a perfect storm of economic factors forcing hardware manufacturers to adjust their pricing strategies. While the Nintendo Switch 2 has held its $449 MSRP since its release in June 2025, the cost of manufacturing the device has risen significantly in recent months.

According to the report, the primary drivers for this predicted Switch 2 price hike 2026 are skyrocketing component costs and new international trade tariffs. Unlike Sony and Microsoft, who adjusted their console pricing shortly after launch, Nintendo has absorbed these costs—until now.

The Global Memory Shortage Crisis

The most critical factor cited is the surging cost of memory modules. The explosion of demand for AI data centers has created a "Global Memory Shortage Crisis," drastically reducing the supply of DRAM and NAND flash memory available for consumer electronics. As tech giants compete for these components to power AI infrastructure, prices for the RAM used in consoles like the Switch 2 have spiked.

Niko Partners notes that Nintendo's profit margins are being squeezed by these rising premiums. "Nintendo chose to maintain its $449 entry price last year," the report states, "but increased demand for AI data centers has pushed RAM and storage prices up, making a price adjustment inevitable."

Tariffs Impacting Production

Compounding the memory issue are new trade tariffs affecting electronics manufactured in key regions like China and Vietnam. These tariffs have increased the landed cost of goods in the U.S. market, adding further pressure on the best Nintendo Switch 2 price points currently available.

The End of the $449 Base Model?

Perhaps the most concerning detail for consumers is how this price hike might be implemented. Analysts suggest that rather than a flat price increase on the existing unit, Nintendo may opt to discontinue the standalone $449 base model entirely. The strategy would likely shift focus exclusively to cheap Switch 2 bundles that start at $499.

The report explicitly mentions that Nintendo "may opt to discontinue the $449 SKU and only sell a $499 or higher bundle SKU instead." This would effectively raise the entry-level price by $50, forcing new buyers to purchase higher-tier packages that include games like the hit title Mario Kart World.

Comparison: Switch 2 vs. Competitors

If this hike occurs, the Switch 2 will follow a trend set by its competitors. Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X saw price increases in various territories post-launch due to similar macroeconomic conditions. However, Nintendo has historically been reluctant to raise hardware prices mid-cycle, making this Niko Partners Nintendo report particularly significant.

Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa hinted at this possibility recently, noting that while the company aims to keep prices stable, they must "monitor the situation closely" regarding volatile memory markets.

Best Nintendo Switch 2 Deals to Grab Now

With the threat of a price increase looming, now is arguably the best time to buy. Retailers are currently clearing out January inventory, offering some of the last opportunities to lock in the launch MSRP. Look for an Amazon Switch 2 discount or check stock at Walmart and Target for the standalone console before it potentially disappears.

  • Base Console ($449): Best for those who want the lowest entry price.
  • Mario Kart World Bundle ($499): Currently a good value, but could become the only option if the base model is scrapped.

Gamers searching for a Nintendo console sale should act fast. If the prediction holds true, the days of a sub-$450 Switch 2 could be numbered, making today's "standard" price tomorrow's discount.