View source for Engineering:Nintendo Switch

{{Short description|Hybrid video game console}}

<!-- Infobox and lead shouldn't have references. Insert them in prose instead later in the article. -->
{{Infobox information appliance
| name = Nintendo Switch
| logo = Nintendo Switch logo.svg
| logo_upright = 0.55
| logo_alt = The logo for the Nintendo Switch console, consisting of two very stylized Joy-Con controllers accompanied by the text "NINTENDO SWITCH" below.
| image = {{Unbulleted list
  | [[File:Nintendo-Switch-wJoyCons-BlRd-Standing-FL.jpg|frameless|upright=1.35]]
| [[File:Nintendo-Switch-Console-Docked-wJoyConRB.jpg|frameless|upright=1.35]]<!-- Upright = 1.35 is equal to 300px by default, which is the default infobox width. -->
  }}
| caption = {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Top:''' A Nintendo Switch in "Handheld mode", with the Joy-Con attached to the sides of the console
  | '''Bottom:''' A Nintendo Switch in "TV mode", with the Joy-Con attached to a grip and the main unit docked
  }}
| aka = {{Hlist
  | NX
  | HAC {{Small|(Nintendo code names)}}
  | Odin {{Small|(Nvidia code name)}}
  }}
| developer = Nintendo PTD
| manufacturer = {{Hlist
  | [[Company:Foxconn|Foxconn]]
  | Hosiden
  }}
| family = Nintendo Switch
| type = [[Engineering:Video game console|Video game console]]
| generation = Eighth / Ninth{{efn|The Switch has been compared and considered to compete with consoles of both the eighth and ninth generation by sources.}}
| release date = {{Unbulleted list
  | {{vgrelease|WW|March 3, 2017|CHN|December 10, 2019}}
  | {{Collapsible list
    | framestyle = border: none; padding: 0;<!--Hides borders and improves row spacing-->
    | title = Other models
    | <u>Lite</u>
    | {{Start date|2019|09|20}}
    | <u>OLED model</u>
    | {{Start date|2021|10|08}}
    }}
  }}
| retail availability = {{Start date|2017}}–present
| lifespan = {{Start date|2017}}–present
| price = {{Unbulleted list
  | {{US$|299.99|link=yes}}
  | {{JPY|29,980|link=yes}}
  | {{GBP|279.99|link=yes}}
  | {{€|329.99|link=yes}}
  | {{Collapsible list
    | framestyle = border: none; padding: 0;<!--Hides borders and improves row spacing-->
    | title = Other models
    | <u>Lite</u>
    | {{US$|199.99|link=no}}
    | {{JPY|19,980|link=no}}
    | {{GBP|199.99|link=no}}
    | {{€|229.99|link=no}}
    | <u>OLED model</u>
    | {{US$|349.99|link=no}}
    | {{JPY|37,980|link=no}}
    | {{GBP|309.99|link=no}}
    | {{€|349.99|link=no}}
    }}
  }}<!--  Do not add prices from any additional regions! This field should only represent major markets. -->
| discontinued = <!-- In production. -->
| units sold = <!-- Nintendo only reports shipped units. -->
| units shipped = {{Nowrap| 132.46 million}} ({{As of|2023|09|30|df=US|lc=y}}){{Efn
  | name="units shipped"
  | {{Unbulleted list
    | '''Shipments breakdown:'''
    | <u>Nintendo Switch:</u> {{Nowrap|90.83 million}}
    | <u>Lite:</u> {{Nowrap|21.92 million}}
    | <u>OLED model:</u> {{Nowrap|19.71 million}}
    }}
}}<br />(details)
| media = {{Hlist
  | Game card
  | [[Finance:Digital distribution in video games|Digital distribution]]
  }}
| os = [[Software:Nintendo Switch system software|Nintendo Switch system software]]
| soc = [[Company:Nvidia|Nvidia]] Tegra X1{{Efn|name=Original|Original model}}/Tegra X1+{{Efn|HAC-001(-01) revision, Lite, and OLED model}}
| cpu = [[Company:Arm Ltd.|ARM]] 4 Cortex-A57 cores @ {{Nowrap|1.02 GHz}}<!-- Not octa-core; No ARM big.LITTLE -->{{Efn|While the Tegra X1 SoC features 4 Cortex-A57 plus 4 Cortex-A53 CPU cores, the Nintendo Switch only uses the former, of which 1 is reserved to the operating system.<ref name="Eurogamer performace monitoring" />}}{{Efn|A temporary "boost mode" increases the CPU clock speed to {{Nowrap|1.785 GHz}}. It is primarily used during loading screens.<ref name="Eurogamer boost mode" />}}
| memory = {{Nowrap|4 [[Gigabyte|GB]]}} LPDDR4 @ {{Nowrap|1331/1600 MHz}}
| storage = {{Nowrap|32 GB}}{{Efn|Original model, HAC-001(-01) revision, and Lite}}/{{Nowrap|64 GB}}{{Efn|OLED model}} eMMC
| memory card = [[Engineering:MicroSD|microSD]]/HC/[[Engineering:MicroSDXC|XC]] {{Small|(up to {{Nowrap|2 [[Terabyte|TB]]}})}}
| display = {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Nintendo Switch:''' 6.2-[[Inch|inch]], {{Nowrap|1280 × 720}} IPS (237 [[Pixel density|ppi]])
  | '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.5-inch, {{Nowrap|1280 × 720}} IPS (267 ppi)
  | '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 7-inch, {{Nowrap|1280 × 720}} [[Chemistry:OLED|OLED]] (210 ppi)
  | '''Docked:''' [[Engineering:480p|480p]]/[[Engineering:720p|720p]]/[[Engineering:1080p|1080p]] via [[Engineering:HDMI|HDMI]]
  }}
| graphics = 256 [[Engineering:Maxwell (microarchitecture)|Maxwell]]-based [[Software:CUDA|CUDA]] cores
{{Unbulleted list
 | '''Undocked:''' 307&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]], 236 GFLOPS
 | '''Docked:''' 768&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]], 393 GFLOPS}}
{{Efn|The GPU is clocked at {{Nowrap|768 MHz}} when the device is docked; in handheld mode, it fluctuates between {{Nowrap|307.2 MHz}}, {{Nowrap|384 MHz}}, and {{Nowrap|460 MHz}}.<ref name="Eurogamer performance modes" /><ref name="Eurogamer boost mode" />}}{{Efn|When the CPU is in "boost mode", the GPU clock speed drops to {{Nowrap|76.8 MHz}}.<ref name="Eurogamer performace monitoring" />}}
| sound = {{Unbulleted list|
  | '''Undocked:''' Linear PCM {{Nowrap|2.0 {{Abbr|ch|channels}}}} stereo speakers {{Small|(with pseudo-surround)}}
  | '''Docked:''' Linear PCM {{Nowrap|5.1 {{Abbr|ch|channels}}}}
  }}
| input = Volume +/−, power buttons
| controllers = {{Unbulleted list
  | Joy-Con
  | Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
  | {{Collapsible list|title=Others
    | [[Engineering:GameCube controller|GameCube controller]] (with adapter)
    | Joy-Con Wheel
    | Special [[Engineering:Nintendo Entertainment System|NES]] controller
    | Special [[Engineering:Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] controller
    | Special [[Engineering:Nintendo 64|N64]] controller
    | Special [[Engineering:Sega Genesis|Genesis]] controller
    | Toy-Con
    | [[Engineering:USB|USB]] [[Computer keyboard|computer keyboard]]
    }}
  }}
| camera = [[Physics:Ambient light sensor|Ambient light sensor]]
| touchpad = Multi-touch capacitive
| connectivity = {{Unbulleted list|
  | Wi-Fi 5 @ {{Nowrap|2.4/5 GHz}}
  | Bluetooth 4.1
  | 1 × USB-C
  | Headphone jack
  | {{Collapsible list
  | title = Dock
|'''Nintendo Switch'''
| 3 × USB 2.0
|'''Nintendo Switch – OLED Model'''
| 2 × USB 2.0
| 1 x [[Ethernet]]
}}
}}
| power = {{Unbulleted list
  | {{Nowrap|3.7 [[Volt|V]]}} {{Nowrap|15.95 Wh}} ({{Nowrap|4310 mAh}}) Li-ion battery
  | '''Duration:''' {{Nowrap|2.5–6.5 hours}}{{Efn|name=Original}}/{{Nowrap|4.5–9 hours}}{{Efn|HAC-001(-01) revision and OLED model}}
  | '''Charger:''' {{Nowrap|7.5 [[Watt|W]]}} {{Nowrap|5.0 V}} {{Nowrap|1.5 [[Ampere|A]]}}/{{Nowrap|39 W}} {{Nowrap|15.0 V}} {{Nowrap|2.6 A}}
  | {{Collapsible list
    | framestyle = border: none; padding: 0;<!--Hides borders and improves row spacing-->
    | title = Other models
    | <u>Lite</u>
    | {{Nowrap|3.8 V}} {{Nowrap|13.6 Wh}} ({{Nowrap|3570 mAh}}) Li-ion battery
    | '''Duration:''' {{Nowrap|3–7 hours}}
    }}
  }}
| currentfw = 17.0.1, as of {{Start date and age|2023|12|04}}
| platform = 
| service = {{Hlist
  | Nintendo eShop
  | Nintendo Switch Online
  }}
| dimensions = {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Nintendo Switch'''
  | '''Width:''' {{Convert|173|mm|in|abbr=on}}
  | '''Height:''' {{Convert|102|mm|in|abbr=on}}
  | '''Depth:''' {{Convert|14|mm|in|abbr=on}}
  | {{Collapsible list|title=With Joy-Con attached
  | '''Width:''' {{Convert|238|mm|in|abbr=on}}
  | '''Height:''' {{Convert|102|mm|in|abbr=on}}
  | '''Depth:''' {{Convert|14|mm|in|abbr=on}}{{Efn|name=Depth|The depth from the tip of the analog sticks to the tip of the ZL/ZR buttons is {{Convert|28|mm|in|abbr=on}}.}}
   }}
   | '''Nintendo Switch Lite'''
   | '''Width:''' {{Convert|208|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Height:''' {{Convert|91|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Depth:''' {{Convert|14|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Nintendo Switch OLED'''
   | '''Width:''' {{Convert|176|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Height:''' {{Convert|102|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Depth:''' {{Convert|14|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | {{Collapsible list|title=With Joy-Con attached
   | '''Width:''' {{Convert|242|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Height:''' {{Convert|102|mm|in|abbr=on}}
   | '''Depth:''' {{Convert|14|mm|in|abbr=on}}{{Efn|name=Depth}}
}}
  }}
| weight = {{Unbulleted list
|'''Nintendo Switch'''
| {{Convert|297|g|oz|abbr=on}}
  | {{Collapsible list|title=With Joy-Con attached
    | {{Convert|398|g|oz|abbr=on}}
}}
|'''Nintendo Switch Lite'''
| {{convert|277|g|oz|abbr=on}}
|'''Nintendo Switch OLED'''
| {{Convert|319|g|oz|abbr=on}}
| {{Collapsible list|title=With Joy-Con attached
| {{Convert|420|g|oz|abbr=on}}
}}
  }}
| topgame = ''[[Software:Mario Kart 8 Deluxe|Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'' ({{Nowrap|57.01 million}}, {{As of|2023|09|30|df=US|lc=y}})
| compatibility = <!-- None. -->
| predecessor = [[Engineering:Wii U|Wii U]]<!-- See Talk:Nintendo Switch/Archive 2#Console succession for relevant discussion. -->
| successor = <!-- None. -->
| related = Nintendo Switch Lite
| marketing_target = 
| website = {{URL|nintendo.com/switch}}
| language = 
}}

The {{Nihongo foot|'''Nintendo Switch'''|ニンテンドースイッチ|Nintendō Suitchi|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha|extra=Nintendo branded the console in Japan in its English name}} is a <!-- Please do not add "hybrid" here, as it is already stated later in this paragraph. --> [[Engineering:Video game console|video game console]] developed by [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] and released worldwide in most regions on March 3, 2017. Released in the middle of the eighth generation of home consoles, the Switch succeeded the [[Engineering:Wii U|Wii U]] and competes with [[Company:Microsoft|Microsoft]]'s [[Engineering:Xbox One|Xbox One]] and [[Company:Sony Interactive Entertainment|Sony]]'s [[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]]; it has also competed with the ninth-generation consoles, Microsoft's [[Engineering:Xbox Series X and Series S|Xbox Series X/S]] and Sony's [[Engineering:PlayStation 5|PlayStation 5]]. 

The Switch is a [[Engineering:Tablet computer#Gaming tablet|tablet]] that can either be [[Engineering:Docking station|docked]] for [[Engineering:Home video game console|home console]] use or used as a [[Handheld game console|portable device]], making it a [[Engineering:Video game console#Hybrid video game consoles|hybrid console]]. Its wireless Joy-Con controllers, with standard buttons and directional analog sticks for user input, motion sensing, and tactile feedback, can attach to both sides of the console to support handheld-style play. They can also connect to a grip accessory to provide a traditional home console [[Engineering:Gamepad|gamepad]] form, or be used individually in the hand like the [[Engineering:Wii Remote|Wii Remote]] and [[Engineering:Wii Remote#Nunchuk|Nunchuk]], supporting local multiplayer modes. The [[Software:Nintendo Switch system software|Switch's software]] supports [[Software:Online game|online gaming]] through internet connectivity, as well as local [[Engineering:Wireless ad hoc network|wireless ad hoc]] connectivity with other consoles. Switch games and software are available on both physical flash-based ROM cartridges and [[Software:Digital distribution of video games|digital distribution]] via Nintendo eShop; the system has no [[Social:Regional lockout|region lockout]].{{efn|Switch units sold in China do have a regional lockout, limited to games published in China and those on the Chinese eShop.}} Two hardware revisions have been released: the handheld-only Switch Lite, released on September 20, 2019; and a higher-end version featuring an [[Chemistry:OLED|OLED]] screen, released on October 8, 2021.

The Switch was unveiled on October 20, 2016. Known in development by its codename '''NX''', the concept came about as Nintendo's reaction to several quarters of financial losses into 2014, attributed to poor sales of the Wii U and market competition from [[Software:Mobile game|mobile game]]s. Nintendo's then-president Satoru Iwata pushed the company towards mobile gaming and novel hardware. The Switch's design was aimed at a wide demographic of players through multiple modes of use. Nintendo opted to use standard electronic components, such as a chipset based on [[Company:Nvidia|Nvidia]]'s [[Engineering:Tegra|Tegra]] line, to make development for the console easier for programmers and more compatible with existing [[Software:Game engine|game engine]]s. As the Wii U had struggled to gain external support, leaving it with a weak software library, Nintendo preemptively sought the support of many [[Software:Video game developer#Third-party developers|third-party developers and publishers]] to help build the Switch's game library alongside its first-party games, including many independent video game studios. While Nintendo initially anticipated around 100 games for its first year, over 320 from first-party, third-party, and independent developers were released by the end of 2017.

{{As of|2023|September}}, the Nintendo Switch has sold over 132 million units worldwide, making it Nintendo's best-selling home console{{Efn|name="Home Console Note"|Although the Switch is a hybrid game console, Nintendo refers to it as "a home video game system that can also be used as a handheld".<ref>{{cite web|title = Company History|access-date = 2022-09-30|url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/en/history/|archive-date = September 30, 2022|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220930180837/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/corporate/en/history/|url-status = live}}</ref>}} and the [[Engineering:List of best-selling game consoles#Best-selling game consoles|third-best-selling game console of all time]], behind the [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]] and Nintendo DS. Switch sales have been strongly tied to sales of Nintendo's first-party games, with seven having sold over twenty million copies each: ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', ''[[Software:Mario Kart 8 Deluxe|Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'', ''[[Software:Super Mario Odyssey|Super Mario Odyssey]]'', ''[[Software:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'', [[Software:Pokémon Sword and Shield|''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Shield'']], ''[[Software:Animal Crossing: New Horizons|Animal Crossing]]'', and [[Software:Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|''Pokémon Scarlet'' and ''Violet'']].

== History ==

=== Background ===
While Nintendo had record revenues, net sales, and profits in 2009 as a result of the release of the Nintendo DS and [[Engineering:Wii|Wii]] in 2004 and 2006 respectively,<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/business/nintendo-defies-recession-with-record-profits-20090507-awdo.html|title=Nintendo defies recession with record profits|date=May 7, 2009|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909185240/https://www.smh.com.au/business/nintendo-defies-recession-with-record-profits-20090507-awdo.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/21/official-nintendo-ds-launch-details |title=Official Nintendo DS Launch Details |last=Harris |first=Craig |date=September 20, 2004 |website=IGN |language=en-US |access-date=September 9, 2018 |archive-date=September 9, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909185703/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/21/official-nintendo-ds-launch-details |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="2009 Annual Financial">{{Cite report|publisher=Nintendo|year=2009|access-date=September 3, 2015|title=2009 Annual Financial Report: Financial Section|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2009/annual0903e.pdf|page=17|archive-date=March 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307051131/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2009/annual0903e.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> its revenues soon declined.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=http://business.time.com/2014/01/17/nintendo-chief-we-failed/|title=Nintendo Chief: 'We Failed'|last=Nicks|first=Denver|date=January 17, 2014|magazine=Time|access-date=March 1, 2019|language=en|issn=0040-781X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214192209/http://business.time.com/2014/01/17/nintendo-chief-we-failed/|archive-date=December 14, 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine|url=http://time.com/3850264/nintendo-sales-wii-u-3ds-universal-studios/|title=Why Nintendo is Suddenly Profitable Again|last=Luckerson|first=Victor|date=May 7, 2015|magazine=Time|language=en|access-date=March 1, 2019|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304201209/http://time.com/3850264/nintendo-sales-wii-u-3ds-universal-studios/|url-status=live}}</ref> The company posted its first loss as a video game company in 2012 prior to the [[Engineering:Wii U|Wii U]]'s introduction that year and had similar losses in the following years due to the console's poor reception.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/25/technology/nintendos-wii-u-takes-aim-at-a-changed-video-game-world.html|title=Nintendo's Wii U Takes Aim at a Changed Video Game World|last=Wingfield|first=Nick|newspaper=The New York Times|date=November 24, 2012|access-date=November 21, 2018|language=en|archive-date=April 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407190043/https://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/25/technology/nintendos-wii-u-takes-aim-at-a-changed-video-game-world.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''{{wipe|The New York Times}}'' attributed Nintendo lowering financial forecasts in 2014 to weak hardware sales against mobile gaming.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/18/technology/resisting-mobile-hurts-nintendos-bottom-line.html | title = Resisting Mobile Hurts Nintendo's Bottom Line | first = Nick | last = Wingfield | date = January 18, 2014 | access-date = December 9, 2016 | website = {{wipe|New York Times}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170728200642/https://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/18/technology/resisting-mobile-hurts-nintendos-bottom-line.html?_r=0 | archive-date = July 28, 2017 }}</ref> Previously, the company was hesitant about this market, with then-president Satoru Iwata considering that they would "cease to be Nintendo" and lose their identity if they attempted to be a part of it.<ref>{{Cite web|first=Lucas M.|last=Thomas|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|date=September 13, 2011|access-date=September 3, 2015|title=Nintendo + Smartphones? Iwata Says "Absolutely Not"|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/14/nintendo-smartphones-iwata-says-absolutely-not|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730121534/http://www.ign.com/articles/2011/09/14/nintendo-smartphones-iwata-says-absolutely-not|archive-date=July 30, 2017}}</ref> About three years prior to the Switch's announcement, Iwata, Tatsumi Kimishima, Genyo Takeda, and Shigeru Miyamoto crafted a strategy for revitalizing Nintendo's business model, which included approaching the mobile market, creating new hardware, and "maximizing [their] intellectual property".<ref name="bloomberg" /> Iwata was able to secure a business alliance with Japanese mobile provider [[Company:DeNA|DeNA]] before his death. The deal developed mobile titles based on Nintendo's first-party franchises, believing this approach would not compromise their integrity.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://time.com/3748920/nintendo-mobile-games/|title=Exclusive: Nintendo CEO Reveals Plans for Smartphones|last=Peckham|first=Matt|magazine={{wipe|Time (magazine)}}|date=March 18, 2015|access-date=July 13, 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150423091350/http://time.com/3748920/nintendo-mobile-games/|archive-date=April 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|first=Eddie|last=Makuch|website=GameSpot|publisher=CBS Interactive|date=March 18, 2015|access-date=July 21, 2015|title=Players More Important Than Money, Nintendo Pres. Says About Smartphone Deal|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/players-more-important-than-money-nintendo-pres-sa/1100-6426003/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729002851/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/players-more-important-than-money-nintendo-pres-sa/1100-6426003/|archive-date=July 29, 2017}}</ref> Following Iwata's death in July 2015, Kimishima was named as [[Social:President (corporate title)|president]] of Nintendo, while Miyamoto was promoted to the title of "Creative Fellow".<ref name="bloomberg" />

=== Development ===
The initial conception for the Switch started shortly after the release of the Wii U in 2012.<ref name="glixel history">{{Cite web | title = How the Polarization Of Video Games Spurred the Creation of the Switch | url = https://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/news/nintendo-talks-origins-and-development-of-the-switch-w514671 | first = Blake | last = Hester | date = December 26, 2017 | access-date = December 26, 2017 | website = Glixel | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171226184539/https://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/news/nintendo-talks-origins-and-development-of-the-switch-w514671 | archive-date = December 26, 2017 }}</ref> Kimishima stated that when Nintendo was evaluating what new hardware they wanted to produce, they "didn't just want a successor" to either the {{wipe|Nintendo 3DS}} or Wii U, but instead asked "what kind of new experience can we create?"<ref name="bloomberg">{{Cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-28/nintendo-s-big-switch-q-a-with-president-tatsumi-kimishima | title = Nintendo's Big Switch: Q&A With President Tatsumi Kimishima | first1 = Yuji | last1 = Nakamura | first2 = Takashi | last2 = Amano | website = {{wipe|Bloomberg News}} | date = October 28, 2016 | access-date = December 9, 2016 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161220064153/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-28/nintendo-s-big-switch-q-a-with-president-tatsumi-kimishima | archive-date = December 20, 2016 }}</ref> In an interview with ''The Asahi Shimbun'', Kimishima said that the Switch was designed to provide a "new way to play" that would "have a larger impact than the Wii U".<ref name="vg247-nxsuccessor">{{Cite web|title=Nintendo NX "is neither the successor to the Wii U nor to the 3DS"|url=https://www.vg247.com/2016/05/16/nintendo-nx-is-neither-the-successor-to-the-wii-u-nor-to-the-3ds/|first=Shabana|last=Arif|date=May 16, 2016|website=VG247|access-date=May 17, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160517101355/http://www.vg247.com/2016/05/16/nintendo-nx-is-neither-the-successor-to-the-wii-u-nor-to-the-3ds/|archive-date=May 17, 2016}}</ref><ref name=CnetNX>{{Cite web|last1=Westaway|first1=Luke|title=Nintendo will make games for phones, new 'NX' system|url=http://www.cnet.com/news/mario-set-for-smartphones-as-nintendo-forges-new-mobile-deal/|website=CNET|access-date=March 17, 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318071603/http://www.cnet.com/news/mario-set-for-smartphones-as-nintendo-forges-new-mobile-deal/|archive-date=March 18, 2015}}</ref> Nintendo of America president and [[Social:Chief operating officer|COO]] Reggie Fils-Aimé emphasized the console's appeal as a device that would provide gamers the option to play at home or on the go and noted that it would enable developers to create new types of games.<ref name="NYT new market">{{cite news|first=Nick|last=Wingfield|title=Nintendo Switch Reaches for a New Market With Home-and-Mobile Console|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/21/technology/nintendo-switch-game-console.html|work={{wipe|The New York Times}}|location=Seattle|date=October 20, 2016|access-date=October 23, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161023154613/http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/21/technology/nintendo-switch-game-console.html|archive-date=October 23, 2016}}</ref> This approach continued Nintendo's [[Finance:Blue Ocean Strategy|blue ocean strategy]] for the competitive console marketplace, as rather than compete feature for feature with the other consoles, they would establish unique and difficult-to-copy devices.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.fastcompany.com/3067343/innovation-agents/nintendo-switch | title = With Nintendo's Switch Game Console, New Ideas Create New Experiences | first = Kevin | last = Ohannessian | date = January 20, 2017 | access-date = January 20, 2017 | website = Fast Company | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170120150351/https://www.fastcompany.com/3067343/innovation-agents/nintendo-switch | archive-date = January 20, 2017 }}</ref> Miyamoto said that some broad concepts of the Switch extend from the "lateral thinking with seasoned technology" design philosophy of Gunpei Yokoi that Nintendo has used over the last couple of decades.<ref name="time miyamoto" />

The commercial failure of the Wii U also pressured Nintendo in the Switch's development. Early sales of the Wii U were weak compared to the Wii, and major third-party studios like [[Company:Electronic Arts|Electronic Arts]] and [[Company:Ubisoft|Ubisoft]] announced they would not support the console near the end of the Wii U's first year, further hampering its sales. According to Fils-Aimé, when it became apparent that the Wii U's life cycle performance would underperform the company's expectations, the Switch became a "make or break product" for Nintendo.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2021/01/30/reggie-switch-switch-wii-u/ | title = Reggie: Switch was a "make or break product" for Nintendo that "luckily was a hit" | date = January 30, 2021 | access-date = January 30, 2021 | work = VG247 | archive-date = July 1, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220701033529/https://www.vg247.com/reggie-switch-switch-wii-u | url-status = live }}</ref>

The design of the Switch was aimed to bridge the polarization of the gaming market at the time, creating a device that could play "leisurely" video games along with games that are aimed to be played "deeply", according to Shinya Takahashi and Yoshiaki Koizumi, general manager and deputy general manager of Nintendo's Entertainment Planning & Development Division (EPD) respectively.<ref name="glixel history" /> This approach also would apply to the cultural lifestyle and gaming differences between Japanese and Western players; Japanese players tend to play on the go and with social groups, while Western players tend to play at home by themselves.<ref name="time feb2017" /> The design of the Switch would meet both cultures, and certain games, like ''[[Software:1-2-Switch|1-2-Switch]]'', could potentially make social gaming more acceptable in Western culture.<ref name="time kimishima" /> Two key elements that were set to address this mixed market were the ability for the unit to play either on a television screen or as a portable and the use of detachable controllers.<ref name="glixel history" /> The "Switch" name was selected not only to refer to the console's ability to switch from handheld to home console modes, but to present "the idea of being a 'switch' that will flip and change the way people experience entertainment in their daily lives".<ref name="siliconera naming">{{Cite web | url = http://www.siliconera.com/2016/12/07/nintendo-explains-switch-got-name-goal-reveal-trailer/ | title = Nintendo Explains How The Switch Got Its Name And What Their Goal Was With Its Reveal Trailer | author = Casey | date = December 7, 2016 | access-date = December 7, 2016 | website = Siliconera | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161208125224/http://www.siliconera.com/2016/12/07/nintendo-explains-switch-got-name-goal-reveal-trailer/ | archive-date = December 8, 2016 }}</ref>

Part of the inspiration of the Switch's form and design was from feedback players had given Nintendo on the [[Engineering:Wii Remote|Wii Remote]], according to Shinya Takahashi. With the release of games like ''[[Software:Wii Sports|Wii Sports]]'' and ''[[Software:Wii Fit|Wii Fit]]'', players had asked Nintendo if they could make the Wii Remote in a smaller form factor, potentially strapped to a part of their body. This led to Nintendo envisioning what a smaller form-factor controller could provide in both hardware and gameplay, and it led to the idea of a console that was small enough with these new controllers to also be portable.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/the-nintendo-switch-joy-cons-and-even-labo-are-the-result-of-wii-era-feedback |title=The Nintendo Switch, Joy-Cons, and even Labo are the result of Wii-era feedback |first=Alissa |last=McAloon |date=February 9, 2018 |access-date=February 9, 2018 |website=Game Developer |archive-date=August 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827162952/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/the-nintendo-switch-joy-cons-and-even-labo-are-the-result-of-wii-era-feedback |url-status=live }}</ref> Other concepts came out of critical consumer feedback of the Wii U. Fils-Aimé said that one common criticism they had for the Wii U was that while players did enjoy using the Wii U GamePad and would want to play games on it anywhere, it became functionless if they moved a distance away from the main console. This served for Nintendo to design a home console that the player could take with them anywhere.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/10/nintendo-president-our-future-is-as-an-entertainment-company/ | title = Nintendo president: "I compete for time," not against Xbox, PlayStation | first = Sam | last = Mackovech | date = October 3, 2018 | access-date = October 8, 2018 | work = [[Ars Technica]] | archive-date = November 9, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201109042247/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/10/nintendo-president-our-future-is-as-an-entertainment-company/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Around five different prototypes were developed for the Switch before they finalized on the released design. This included developing different methods of how the Joy-Con controllers would physically connect to the console, including using magnets to hold them in place.<ref name="glixel history" />

In addition to the form-factor design, Nintendo needed to balance the power and speed of the console's [[Central processing unit|central processing unit]] with battery life and the unit's size, coupled with limited development resources and deadlines set by Nintendo's management. One choice made by the development team was to use an existing [[System on a chip|system on a chip]] (SOC) rather than creating their own as they had done on previous consoles. Koizumi said that this break from tradition was done to gain more third-party support for the console by using an SOC to which developers could easily port games. Nintendo was not focused on raw processing power but was instead looking to balance the overall features of the system, including battery life and size, as well as keeping in mind their limited development resources and timeline. Koizumi said, "The most difficult part was on how to take an overall balance while we were getting entangled with all of those in complexity."<ref name="glixel history" /> To achieve this balance, they did not opt to use the more powerful hardware they could have used, instead using a middle-ground approach to achieve their vision of the Switch.<ref>{{Cite magazine | url = http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/02/28/the-switchs-architect-on-why-nintendos-consoles-are-different.aspx | title = The Switch's Architect On Why Nintendo's Consoles Are Different | first = Ben | last = Reeves | date = February 26, 2017 | access-date = March 1, 2017 | magazine = Game Informer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170301082232/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/02/28/the-switchs-architect-on-why-nintendos-consoles-are-different.aspx | archive-date = March 1, 2017 }}</ref>

Koizumi served as the general producer of the Switch during its development.<ref name="time feb2017" /> According to Miyamoto, the Switch's development within Nintendo was headed by younger employees, with him saying "it's really been them that have put this forward and designed this system".<ref name="glixel miyamoto">{{Cite web | url = http://www.glixel.com/news/nintendos-shigeru-miyamoto-didnt-lead-switch-development-w460944 | title = Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto Didn't Lead Switch Development | first = John | last = Davidson | date = January 12, 2017 | access-date = January 12, 2017 | website = Glixel | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170113170747/http://www.glixel.com/news/nintendos-shigeru-miyamoto-didnt-lead-switch-development-w460944 | archive-date = January 13, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="nytimes dec 2017" /> Miyamoto said of the younger employees: "I always look for designers who aren't super-passionate game fans. I make it a point to ensure they're not just a gamer, but that they have a lot of different interests and skill sets."<ref name="nytimes dec 2017" /> Junior developers were also used to help brainstorm ideas of how to make sure the Switch had a longer lifecycle beyond the typical five-to-six years as most other consoles had.<ref>{{Cite web | last = Makuch | first = Eddie | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/switch-lifecycle-could-extend-beyond-the-typical-5/1100-6456717/ | title = Switch Lifecycle Could Extend Beyond The Typical 5-6 Year Window, Nintendo Says | date = February 11, 2018 | access-date = February 13, 2018 | website = GameSpot | archive-date = February 12, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180212131600/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/switch-lifecycle-could-extend-beyond-the-typical-5/1100-6456717/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Miyamoto, Takeda, and Iwata were less involved, but provided necessary oversight on the Switch's development principally around the cost of implementing new features that would make the Switch stand out.<ref name="time miyamoto">{{Cite magazine | url = http://time.com/4668908/nintendo-switch-miyamoto-interview/ | title = 10 Things Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto Told Us About Switch and More | first = Matt | last = Peckham | date = February 13, 2017 | access-date = February 13, 2017 | magazine = {{wipe|Time (magazine)}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170213201103/http://time.com/4668908/nintendo-switch-miyamoto-interview/ | archive-date = February 13, 2017 }}</ref> For Miyamoto, his limited involvement allowed him to spend more time on Nintendo's software titles being developed at the time, such as ''[[Software:Super Mario Run|Super Mario Run]]''.<ref name="glixel miyamoto" />

=== Announcements ===
The first public news of about the Switch's hardware happened alongside the announcement of Nintendo and DeNA's partnership on March 17, 2015. At this stage, Nintendo referred to the console under the codename "NX" and described it as a "brand new concept".<ref>{{citation| url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2015-03-17-nintendo-nx-is-new-hardware-with-a-brand-new-concept| title = Nintendo NX is "new hardware with a brand new concept"| first = Wesley| last = Yin-Poole| date = March 17, 2015| work = Eurogamer| url-status=live| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161020234649/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2015-03-17-nintendo-nx-is-new-hardware-with-a-brand-new-concept| archive-date = October 20, 2016 }}</ref> At an investor's meeting in April 2016, Nintendo announced that it planned to release the NX worldwide in March 2017.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/herocomplex/la-et-hc-nintendo-dates-its-successor-to-the-wii-u-the-nx-20160427-story.html|title=Nintendo dates its successor to the Wii U, the NX|website=Los Angeles Times|first=Todd|last=Martens|date=April 27, 2016|access-date=April 27, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160428094932/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/herocomplex/la-et-hc-nintendo-dates-its-successor-to-the-wii-u-the-nx-20160427-story.html|archive-date=April 28, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Reilly|first1=Luke|title=Nintendo NX Will Launch In March 2017|url=http://ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/nintendo-nx-will-launch-in-march-2017/|website=IGN.com|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=April 27, 2016|date=April 27, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160428095149/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/nintendo-nx-will-launch-in-march-2017|archive-date=April 28, 2016}}</ref> While Nintendo did not unveil the NX's hardware at E3 2016 in June, it did announce that ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', which was originally announced as a Wii U-exclusive, would also be released for the NX. At a Nintendo shareholders' meeting following the conference, Miyamoto stated that the company had concerns that competitors could copy ideas from the NX if they revealed it too soon.<ref name="geekcom-wontreplace" /><ref name="polygon-e3imitator">{{Cite web|title=Report: Nintendo's fear of imitators kept NX out of E3|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/6/29/12059030/nintendo-nx-e3-no-show-virtual-reality-details|first=Allegra|last=Frank|website=Polygon|date=June 29, 2016|access-date=June 30, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629205851/http://www.polygon.com/2016/6/29/12059030/nintendo-nx-e3-no-show-virtual-reality-details|archive-date=June 29, 2016}}</ref> The following month, rumors began to surface surrounding the nature of the console, including its use of Nvidia Tegra hardware, being a "hybrid" device intended for both home and mobile use, controllers that can detach from the main device and be played separately, and that Nintendo would distribute games on the console via cartridges and digital downloads.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-07-26-nx-is-a-portable-console-with-detachable-controllers | title = Nintendo NX is a portable console with detachable controllers | first = Tom | last = Philips | date = July 26, 2016 | access-date = July 26, 2016 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160726135100/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-07-26-nx-is-a-portable-console-with-detachable-controllers | archive-date = July 26, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2016-nintendo-nx-mobile-games-machine-powered-by-nvidia-tegra | title = Nintendo NX is powered by Nvidia Tegra technology | first = Richard | last = Leadbetter | date = July 26, 2016 | access-date = July 26, 2016 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160727134615/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2016-nintendo-nx-mobile-games-machine-powered-by-nvidia-tegra | archive-date = July 27, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendos-nx-controller-could-have-detachable-d-pa/1100-6442713/ | title = Nintendo's NX Controller Could Have Detachable D-Pad, According To Updated Patents | first = Zorine | last = Te | date = August 16, 2016 | access-date = October 20, 2016 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161022053809/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendos-nx-controller-could-have-detachable-d-pa/1100-6442713/ | archive-date = October 22, 2016 }}</ref>

On October 20, 2016, Nintendo officially announced the console under the name Nintendo Switch, alongside a trailer that demonstrated the hardware's nature as a hybrid device.<ref name="engadget-nxreveal2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/10/20/switch-is-nintendos-next-game-console/|title='Switch' is Nintendo's next game console|website=Engadget|date=October 20, 2016 |publisher=AOL Inc.|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020141148/https://www.engadget.com/2016/10/20/switch-is-nintendos-next-game-console/|archive-date=October 20, 2016}}</ref> At the time of the trailer's release, Nintendo did not provide many details on features of the platform, though they planned to have events in 2017 to provide more details about the console. The company stated that there are additional features that were not presented in the introductory trailer.<ref name="nytimes">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/business/international/nintendo-stock-switch-console.html|title=Nintendo Switch Console Is Met With Skepticism From Investors|last=Soble|first=Jonathan|date=October 21, 2016|newspaper={{wipe|The New York Times}}|issn=0362-4331|location=Tokyo|access-date=October 22, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024102600/http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/22/business/international/nintendo-stock-switch-console.html|archive-date=October 24, 2016}}</ref><ref name="wsj">{{Cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendos-new-switch-console-fails-to-turn-on-investors-1477034448|title=Nintendo's New Switch Console Fails to Turn On Investors|last=Mochizuki|first=Takashi|date=October 21, 2016|newspaper={{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}}|issn=0099-9660|access-date=October 22, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021141043/http://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendos-new-switch-console-fails-to-turn-on-investors-1477034448|archive-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> Miyamoto and Fils-Aimé presented the Switch to host Jimmy Fallon on a broadcast of ''The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon'' in December 2016. In addition to showing more of the console's hardware and functionality, Fallon was given the opportunity to play part of ''Breath of the Wild'' live.<ref name="arstech tonightshow">{{Cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/12/miyamoto-lands-on-late-night-tv-with-nintendo-switch-reveal-and-guitar-riffs/ | title = Miyamoto lands on late-night TV with Nintendo Switch reveal—and guitar riffs | first = Sam | last = Markovech | date = December 8, 2016 | access-date = December 8, 2016 | website = [[Ars Technica]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161208072302/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/12/miyamoto-lands-on-late-night-tv-with-nintendo-switch-reveal-and-guitar-riffs/ | archive-date = December 8, 2016 }}</ref>

Nintendo revealed technical details of the Switch, including its worldwide launch date and price, at a press event in Tokyo on January 13, 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/more-nintendo-switch-news-coming-in-january-2017/1100-6444838/ | title = More Nintendo Switch News Coming in January 2017 | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = October 26, 2016 | access-date = October 26, 2016 | website = GameSpot | archive-date = September 7, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220907143719/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-price-system-specs-and-launch-line/1100-6444838/ | url-status = live }}</ref> The event was [[Engineering:Streaming media|livestreamed]],<ref name="switch-january-reveal">{{Cite web | url=http://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/nintendo-reveals-plans-for-nintendo-switch-presentation | title=Nintendo reveals plans for Nintendo Switch presentation | publisher=[[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date=October 26, 2016 | access-date=October 27, 2016 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161027031757/http://www.nintendo.com/whatsnew/detail/nintendo-reveals-plans-for-nintendo-switch-presentation | archive-date=October 27, 2016 }}</ref> with an English voiceover provided by Nintendo of America through their broadcast and regional [[Company:Twitter|Twitter]] accounts relaying details in other languages. A Nintendo Treehouse event occurred the following day to reveal the full launch lineup and upcoming games for the Switch.<ref name="switch event details vg247">{{Cite web |url=http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/05/switch-reveal-will-feature-english-voiceover-in-depth-look-at-games-coming-via-treehouse-live/ |title=Switch reveal will feature English voiceover, "in-depth" look at games coming via Treehouse Live |last=Nunneley |first=Stephany |website=VG247 |date=January 5, 2017 |access-date=January 5, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106104547/http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/05/switch-reveal-will-feature-english-voiceover-in-depth-look-at-games-coming-via-treehouse-live/ |archive-date=January 6, 2017 }}</ref>

=== Release ===
The Switch was officially released on March 3, 2017, worldwide in Japan and most English-speaking and Western markets. It was released with an MSRP of {{JPY|29,980|link=yes}} in Japan, {{USD|299.99|link=yes}} in the United States, {{GB£|279.99|link=yes}} in the United Kingdom, and {{AU$|469.95|link=yes}} in Australia; with standardized pricing for the European market varying.<ref name="cnbc">{{Cite web |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2017/01/12/nintendo-switch-to-launch-globally-on-march-3-at-300-dollars.html |title=Nintendo Switch to launch globally on March 3, to cost $300 in the US |first=Saheli Roy |last=Choudhury |website={{wipe|CNBC}} |date= January 13, 2017 |access-date= January 13, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170114201154/https://www.cnbc.com/2017/01/12/nintendo-switch-to-launch-globally-on-march-3-at-300-dollars.html |archive-date=January 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="eurogamer jan17" /><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendo-switch-launches-on-3rd-march-2017 |title=Nintendo Switch launches on 3rd March 2017! |publisher=[[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] Australia |date=January 14, 2017 |access-date=January 14, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170116172913/http://www.nintendo.com.au/nintendo-switch-launches-on-3rd-march-2017 |archive-date=January 16, 2017 }}</ref> The set includes a Switch console, a dock; left and right Joy-Con controllers and accompanying straps; a Joy-Con grip, an AC power adapter and an [[Engineering:HDMI|HDMI]] cable.<ref name="usgamer prices">{{Cite web |url=http://www.usgamer.net/articles/nintendo-switch-accessory-prices-are-steep-80-for-additional-joycons |title=Nintendo Switch Accessory Prices Are Steep, $80 For Additional JoyCons |first=Mike |last=Williams |date=January 13, 2017 |access-date=January 13, 2017 |website=US Gamer |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170116004943/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/nintendo-switch-accessory-prices-are-steep-80-for-additional-joycons |archive-date=January 16, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://switchplayer.net/2017/03/16/nintendo-switch-review/ |title=Nintendo Switch Review {{!}} Switch Player |website=switchplayer.net |date=March 16, 2017 |language=en-US |access-date=September 18, 2018 |archive-date=September 18, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918091147/https://switchplayer.net/2017/03/16/nintendo-switch-review/ |url-status=live }}</ref> There were two Switch bundles available at launch, one with grey Joy-Con and one with neon red and blue Joy-Con.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=http://time.com/4632820/nintendo-switch-nx/|title=Everything You Need to Know About the Nintendo Switch|magazine=Time|language=en|access-date=November 24, 2018|archive-date=November 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116212124/http://time.com/4632820/nintendo-switch-nx/|url-status=live}}</ref> Nintendo feared that a higher price would harm sales, which prompted them to not include any additional hardware or games.<ref name="gamespot price" /> The global launch did not include parts of Asia, including India and Mainland China.

The Switch continued to be officially released in particular markets like {{wipe|Argentina}} on August 15, 2017,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://culturageek.com.ar/nintendo-switch-argentina-precio-fecha/|title=Nintendo Switch en Argentina: ¡Precio y fecha de lanzamiento oficial confirmados!|last=Finocchiaro Preci|first=Augusto|date=July 24, 2017|website=Cultura Geek|language=es|access-date=February 15, 2019|archive-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121031456/http://culturageek.com.ar/nintendo-switch-argentina-precio-fecha/|url-status=live}}</ref> and in South Korea and Taiwan on December 1.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nintendo.co.kr/PR/press_list.php?cPage1=1&cPage2=1&idx=274&press_div=P|title=Switch and Play 게임 생활을 보다 액티브하게! 한국닌텐도, 「Nintendo Switch™」 12월 1일 국내 정식 발매 결정|date=September 20, 2017|access-date=September 21, 2017|website=Nintendo of Korea official press release|language=ko|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170920035442/http://www.nintendo.co.kr/PR/press_list.php?cPage1=1&cPage2=1&idx=274&press_div=P|archive-date=September 20, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nintendo.tw/pressrelease/switch_20170920.html|title=Switch and Play 讓遊戲生活更有趣味 「Nintendo Switch」 2017年12月1日、NTD9,780(含稅) 在台灣發售|date=September 20, 2017|access-date=September 21, 2017|website=Nintendo (Hong Kong) Ltd. official press release|language=zh|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170920070145/http://www.nintendo.tw/pressrelease/switch_20170920.html|archive-date=September 20, 2017}}</ref> In April 2018, CD Media, Nintendo's official distributor in Greece and the [[Place:Balkans|Balkans]] since 2016, announced after opening their new offices in Istanbul, that Nintendo's products will officially be distributed in Turkey later in the year.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://nintendocu.com/1086 | title = Nintendo'nun Yeni Türkiye Distribütörü CD Media Olacak | first = Kadir | last = Çakır | date = April 24, 2018 | access-date = July 27, 2018 | website = Nintendocu.com | language = tr | archive-date = September 29, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180929023326/http://nintendocu.com/1086 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Nintendo abruptly withdrew from the Turkish market back in June 2012 when then-distributor Nortec Eurasia closed.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://microsite.nintendo-europe.com/nintendo.turkey/ | title = Nintendo of Europe addressing Turkish distribution situation in June 2012 | date = June 2012 | access-date = July 27, 2018 | website = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] of Europe | archive-date = July 9, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210709171633/https://microsite.nintendo-europe.com/nintendo.turkey/ | url-status = live }}</ref> CD Media released the Nintendo Switch in Turkey in July 2018.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.webtekno.com/nintendo-switch-turkiye-h50307.html | title = Resmi Açıklama Geldi: Nintendo Switch Türkiye'de Satışa Çıkıyor | first = Enes | last = K. | date = July 24, 2018 | access-date = July 27, 2018 | website = Webtekno | language = tr | archive-date = October 17, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181017002049/https://www.webtekno.com/nintendo-switch-turkiye-h50307.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.webtekno.com/nintendo-switch-ve-oyunlarinin-turkiye-fiyati-h50545.html | title = Türkiye'de Satışa Sunulan Nintendo Switch ve Oyunlarının Fiyatı Belli Oldu | first = Enes | last = K. | date = July 27, 2018 | access-date = July 27, 2018 | website = Webtekno | language = tr | archive-date = October 17, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181017042923/https://www.webtekno.com/nintendo-switch-ve-oyunlarinin-turkiye-fiyati-h50545.html | url-status = live }}</ref> Nintendo's [[Place:Singapore|Singapore]]-based distributor, Maxsoft, officially launched the Nintendo Switch in the {{wipe|Philippines}} on November 30, 2018,<ref>{{Cite tweet |user=MaxsoftOnline |number=1068395621936025600 |date=November 30, 2018 |access-date=November 6, 2019 |title=Nintendo Switch – Official Philippines Version will be released today!}}</ref> in Thailand on March 29, 2019,<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.com/th/hardware/switch/modal/lineup.html | title = Nintendo Switch วางจำหน่าย：29 มีนาคม 2019 (ศุกร์) | access-date = February 6, 2022 | website = Official Nintendo website for Thailand | language = th | archive-date = February 6, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220206134805/https://www.nintendo.com/th/hardware/switch/modal/lineup.html | url-status = live }}</ref> and in Malaysia on January 17, 2020.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.com/my/hardware/switch/modal/lineup_kabaa.html | title = Nintendo Switch Released:17 January 2020, Friday | access-date = March 10, 2022 | website = Official Nintendo website for Malaysia | archive-date = April 7, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220407182907/https://www.nintendo.com/my/hardware/switch/modal/lineup_kabaa.html | url-status = live }}</ref> In early-2019, Nintendo of Europe signed a partnership with [[Place:Tel Aviv|Tel Aviv]]-based distributor TorGaming Ltd., making them Nintendo's official distributor in Israel, and launched their products in the market, including the Nintendo Switch, on March 1, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://il.ign.com/nintendo/40693/news/lrshvnh-byshrl-tvr-gyymyng-mshyqh-t-nyntndv-brts-bybv-rshmy | title = לראשונה בישראל – תור גיימינג משיקה את נינטנדו בארץ ביבוא רשמי | date = March 12, 2019 | access-date = May 15, 2019 | website = IGN Israel | language = he | archive-date = May 15, 2019 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190515033409/https://il.ign.com/nintendo/40693/news/lrshvnh-byshrl-tvr-gyymyng-mshyqh-t-nyntndv-brts-bybv-rshmy | url-status = live }}</ref> Nintendo's Dubai-based distributor, Active Gulf, officially launched the Nintendo Switch in Oman on September 27, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.facebook.com/NintendoMiddleEast/photos/a.257069684360761/2536615979739442/ | title = The Nintendo Switch is officially launched today in Oman!! | date = September 27, 2019 | access-date = November 6, 2019 | website = Active Gulf's official [[Company:Facebook|Facebook]] | archive-date = January 31, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200131061556/https://www.facebook.com/NintendoMiddleEast/photos/a.257069684360761/2536615979739442/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

Although the Nintendo Switch had not officially been released in {{wipe|China}} prior to December 2019, it is still widely available in the country due to [[Social:Grey market|grey market]] imports from [[Place:Hong Kong|Hong Kong]] and other regions, such as {{wipe|Japan}}.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.abacusnews.com/big-guns/gamers-china-cant-play-online-games-nintendo-switch-anymore/article/2166039|title=Gamers in China can't play online games on Nintendo Switch anymore|work=Abacus|access-date=October 6, 2018|archive-date=October 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006235420/https://www.abacusnews.com/big-guns/gamers-china-cant-play-online-games-nintendo-switch-anymore/article/2166039|url-status=live}}</ref> In January 2018, former Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima said in an interview with Chinese news website [[Software:Tencent QQ|QQ]] that Nintendo has tried to release the Switch in China, but has been unable to do so.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://new.qq.com/omn/20180111/20180111A0O28M.html|title=任天堂社长：多次尝试进中国未果 手游或寻代理-腾讯网|website=new.qq.com|access-date=October 6, 2018|archive-date=October 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006235155/https://new.qq.com/omn/20180111/20180111A0O28M.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Nintendo partnered with [[Company:Tencent|Tencent]] in April 2019 to gain the necessary approvals to release the Switch in China, along with a test version of ''New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe'';<ref name="reuters tencent" /> it was released on December 10, 2019, at a base price of {{CNY|2099|link=yes}} or about {{USD|298|link=yes}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-and-tencent-have-set-a-launch-date-for-the-switch-in-china |title=Nintendo and Tencent have set a launch date for the Switch in China |first=Chris |last=Kerr |date=December 4, 2019 |access-date=December 4, 2019 |work=Game Developer |archive-date=August 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827114610/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-and-tencent-have-set-a-launch-date-for-the-switch-in-china |url-status=live }}</ref> Tencent will continue to help Nintendo bring other Switch games through China's approval process via National Radio and Television Administration.<ref name="reuters tencent">{{cite web | url = https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tencent-nintendo-china/tencent-wins-key-approval-to-sell-nintendos-switch-in-china-idUSKCN1RU0YK | title = Tencent wins key approval to sell Nintendo's Switch in China | first1 = Pei | last1 = Li | first2 = Sam | last2 = Nussey | date = April 18, 2019 | access-date = April 18, 2019 | publisher = {{wipe|Reuters}} | archive-date = December 5, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221205175807/http://www.reuters.com/article/us-tencent-nintendo-china/tencent-wins-key-approval-to-sell-nintendos-switch-in-china-idUSKCN1RU0YK | url-status = live }}</ref> In addition, Tencent will help localize various titles, and help implement the Nintendo Switch Online service within the country, integrating its offerings with the [[Software:WeChat|WeChat]] payment systems.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.engadget.com/2019/08/02/nintendo-switch-china-launch-plans/ | title = Tencent is at the center of Nintendo's Switch launch in China | first = Steve | last = Dent | date = August 2, 2019 | access-date = August 2, 2019 | work = [[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] | archive-date = August 2, 2019 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190802153053/https://www.engadget.com/2019/08/02/nintendo-switch-china-launch-plans/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

Nintendo had exited the {{wipe|Brazil}}ian market in 2015 due to high tariffs, but independent resellers have been trading the console in Brazil since March 2017.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://olhardigital.com.br/games-e-consoles/noticia/nintendo-switch-ja-esta-sendo-vendido-no-brasil-e-o-preco-assusta/66568 |title=Nintendo Switch já está sendo vendido no Brasil e o preço assusta |first=Rodrigo |last=Loureiro |date=March 3, 2017 |publisher=Olhar Digital |access-date=November 29, 2017 |language=pt |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201033300/https://olhardigital.com.br/games-e-consoles/noticia/nintendo-switch-ja-esta-sendo-vendido-no-brasil-e-o-preco-assusta/66568 |archive-date=December 1, 2017}}</ref> Nintendo had since assigned NC Games as their local game distributor in May 2017,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.tecmundo.com.br/nintendo-switch/117082-games-switch-vem-brasil-nc-games-custar-r-399.htm |title=Games do Switch vêm ao Brasil pela NC Games e podem custar até R$ 399 |first=Renan |last=Hamann |date=May 25, 2017 |publisher=Tecmundo |access-date=November 29, 2017 |language=pt |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201035122/https://www.tecmundo.com.br/nintendo-switch/117082-games-switch-vem-brasil-nc-games-custar-r-399.htm |archive-date=December 1, 2017 }}</ref> and the local company had committed to sell some officially imported Nintendo Switch units in small quantities.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vice.com/pt_br/article/j5ezpy/jogos-de-nintendo-switch-e-3ds-serao-distribuidos-no-brasil | title = Jogos de Nintendo Switch e 3DS serão distribuídos no Brasil | first = Pedro | last = Falcão | date = May 25, 2017 | access-date = September 21, 2017 | website = [[Company:Vice Media|Vice]] | language = pt | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170921102410/https://www.vice.com/pt_br/article/j5ezpy/jogos-de-nintendo-switch-e-3ds-serao-distribuidos-no-brasil | archive-date = September 21, 2017 }}</ref> NC Games silently went defunct in c. 2019. In August 2020, Nintendo affirmed that it would restart imports directly into Brazil,<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-switch-brazil-152833236.html | title = Nintendo is bringing the Switch to Brazil at last | first = Kris | last = Holt | date = August 19, 2020 | access-date = September 6, 2020 | work = [[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] | archive-date = August 21, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200821172107/https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-switch-brazil-152833236.html | url-status = live }}</ref> for release on September 18, 2020.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-switch-brazil-september-18-224512970.html | title = The Nintendo Switch goes on sale in Brazil on September 18th | first = Igor | last = Bonifacic | date = September 7, 2020 | access-date = September 8, 2020 | work = [[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] | archive-date = September 8, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200908071915/https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-switch-brazil-september-18-224512970.html | url-status = live }}</ref>

Numerous special-edition models and bundles have been released, including those for ''[[Software:Splatoon 2|Splatoon 2]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-05-18-splatoon-2-gets-switch-hardware-bundle|title=Splatoon 2 gets Switch hardware bundle|first=Brendan|last=Sinclair|date=May 18, 2017|access-date=May 18, 2017|website=GamesIndustry.biz|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170521045756/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-05-18-splatoon-2-gets-switch-hardware-bundle|archive-date=May 21, 2017}}</ref> the 2018 [[Finance:Black Friday (shopping)|Black Friday]] shopping day,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/11/13/18091286/black-friday-deals-2018-nintendo-switch-2ds-mario-kart|title=Nintendo's Black Friday 2018 deals on Nintendo Switch and 2DS|work=Polygon|access-date=November 13, 2018|archive-date=November 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181113195905/https://www.polygon.com/2018/11/13/18091286/black-friday-deals-2018-nintendo-switch-2ds-mario-kart|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Software:Animal Crossing: New Horizons|Animal Crossing]]''<ref>{{Cite tweet |author=Nintendo of America |user=NintendoAmerica |number=1223035247098384385 |date=January 30, 2020 |access-date=April 28, 2020 |title=A #NintendoSwitch system inspired by #AnimalCrossing: New Horizons is on the way!}}</ref> and ''[[Software:Fortnite|Fortnite]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Byford |first=Sam |date=September 10, 2020 |title=Fortnite special edition Nintendo Switch announced for Europe |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/10/21430290/fortnite-special-edition-nintendo-switch-announced-release-date |access-date=February 28, 2022 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=October 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221021164610/https://www.theverge.com/2020/9/10/21430290/fortnite-special-edition-nintendo-switch-announced-release-date |url-status=live }}</ref> The Japan-exclusive "2nd Unit Set" released in May 2018 on the My Nintendo Store at a reduced price of {{¥|24,980}}, was positioned towards households which already owned a Switch. It did not include a dock, AC adapter, HDMI cable, and charging grip.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/5/22/17383104/nintendo-switch-dockless-bundle-japan-price|title=Nintendo starts selling cheaper Switch bundle without dock in Japan|work=The Verge|access-date=May 23, 2018|archive-date=May 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180523181115/https://www.theverge.com/2018/5/22/17383104/nintendo-switch-dockless-bundle-japan-price|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/nintendos-plan-for-getting-multiple-switch-in-every-household-starts-with-a-new-bundle|title=Nintendo's Plan for Getting Multiple Switch in Every Household Starts With a New Bundle [Update: No Plans for a US Release]|website=USgamer|language=en|access-date=November 10, 2018|date=May 23, 2018|archive-date=September 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180921193655/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/nintendos-plan-for-getting-multiple-switch-in-every-household-starts-with-a-new-bundle|url-status=live}}</ref>

By February 2021, about four years from the console's release, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa said that "The Switch is in the middle of its life cycle".<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-15/nintendo-is-said-to-target-record-year-in-switch-game-sales | title = Nintendo Targets a Record Year in Switch, Game Sales | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = March 15, 2021 | accessdate = March 15, 2021 | website = {{wipe|Bloomberg News}} | archive-date = April 21, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220421212538/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-15/nintendo-is-said-to-target-record-year-in-switch-game-sales | url-status = live }}</ref>

The Switch Lite launched on September 20, 2019, in three colors: yellow, grey, and turquoise. The system was promoted alongside ''The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening'', a remake of [[Software:The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening|the 1993 Game Boy game]]. A special [[Software:Pokémon Sword and Shield|''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Pokémon Shield'']] branded version of the Switch Lite, themed around the Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta, launched on November 8, 2019, a week before the game's release.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/the-nintendo-switch-lite-is-getting-a-lovely-pokemon-sw-1836239622?|title=The Nintendo Switch Lite Is Getting A Lovely Pokémon Sword and Shield Edition|work=Kotaku|last=Rivera|first=Joshua|date=10 July 2019|access-date=10 July 2019|archive-date=August 10, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810141540/https://kotaku.com/the-nintendo-switch-lite-is-getting-a-lovely-pokemon-sw-1836239622|url-status=live}}</ref> A coral color was released on March 20, 2020, in Japan, and on April 3 in the rest of the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/2/18/21142059/nintendo-switch-lite-coral-pink-release-date |title=A coral pink Nintendo Switch Lite is coming |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |work=Polygon |date=February 18, 2020 |access-date=March 14, 2020 |archive-date=April 4, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200404120620/https://www.polygon.com/2020/2/18/21142059/nintendo-switch-lite-coral-pink-release-date |url-status=live }}</ref> A blue color released on May 7, 2021, in Europe, and on May 21 in the rest of the world.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Carpenter|first=Nicole|date=2021-04-13|title=New Nintendo Switch Lite color coming in May|url=https://www.polygon.com/22381572/nintendo-switch-lite-color-blue-release-date-price|access-date=2021-04-13|website=Polygon|language=en|archive-date=August 10, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810154732/https://www.polygon.com/22381572/nintendo-switch-lite-color-blue-release-date-price|url-status=live}}</ref> A special Pokémon Dialga and Palkia limited edition was released on November 5, 2021, 14 days before the release of ''[[Software:Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl]]''. This special edition pays homage to the Nintendo DS Lite Dialga and Palkia edition.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Diaz|first=Ana|date=2021-08-18|title=Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are getting a Nintendo Switch Lite|url=https://www.polygon.com/22630445/new-nintendo-switch-lite-console-pokemon-brilliant-diamond-shining-pearl|access-date=2021-12-01|website=Polygon|language=en-US|archive-date=July 27, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230727065639/https://www.polygon.com/22630445/new-nintendo-switch-lite-console-pokemon-brilliant-diamond-shining-pearl|url-status=live}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="display:inline-table; width:45%; font-size:100%; margin:1em auto;"
|+ List of color variations for the Switch Lite
|-
! Name
! style="width:2em;" | Color
! style="width:2em;" | Standard
! style="width:2em;" | Special
!Initial release date
|-
! scope="row" | Gray
| style="background: #6d7075" |
| {{ya}}
| scope="row" |
| rowspan="3" |September 20, 2019
|-
! scope="row" | Turquoise
| style="background: #5eb3b6" |
| {{ya}}
| scope="row" |
|-
! scope="row" | Yellow
| style="background: #eccd61" |
| {{ya}}
| scope="row" |
|-
! scope="row" | [[Software:Pokémon Sword and Shield|Zacian & Zamazenta Edition]]
| style="background: #c0c1c4" |
| scope="row" |
| {{ya}}
|November 8, 2019
|-
! scope="row" | Coral
| style="background: #ff8186" |
| {{ya}}
| scope="row" |
|March 20, 2020
|-
! scope="row" | Blue
| style="background: #4157a2" |
| {{ya}} 
| scope="row" |
|May 7, 2021
|-
! scope="row" |[[Software:Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl|Dialga & Palkia Edition]]
| style="background: #444444|
| scope="row" |
| {{ya}}
|November 5, 2021
|}

== Hardware ==
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid video game console, consisting of a console unit, a dock, and two Joy-Con controllers.<ref>{{cite news |first=Keith |last=Stuart |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jan/12/nintendo-switch-is-this-hybrid-console-the-future-of-gaming |date=January 12, 2017 |work=The Guardian |access-date=November 21, 2018 |title=Is Nintendo's Switch hybrid console the future of gaming? |archive-date=September 29, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190929105403/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jan/12/nintendo-switch-is-this-hybrid-console-the-future-of-gaming |url-status=live }}</ref> Although it is a hybrid console, Nintendo classifies it as "a [[Engineering:Home video game console|home console]] that you can take with you on the go".<ref name="wired filsamie">{{Cite magazine | url = https://www.wired.com/2017/01/reggie-fils-aime-nintendo-interview/ | title = Nintendo's Boss Promises the Switch Won't Have the NES Classic's Supply Issues | first = Chris | last = Kohler | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 16, 2017 | magazine = Wired | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170116013534/https://www.wired.com/2017/01/reggie-fils-aime-nintendo-interview/ | archive-date = January 16, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="polygon-homefirst2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13347910/nintendo-switch-home-gaming-system|title=Nintendo: Switch is a home gaming system 'first and foremost'|last=Crecente|first=Brian|date=October 20, 2016|website=Polygon|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021004824/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13347910/nintendo-switch-home-gaming-system|archive-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> In addition the company says that the Switch and the Nintendo 3DS are meant to co-exist, considering the 3DS as an entry-level product for younger players.<ref name="wired filsamie" /><ref name="gamasutra 100m" />

=== Console ===
[[File:Nintendo-Switch-Console-Bare-FL-B.jpg|thumb|upright=1|The back of the Nintendo Switch (without the controllers), showing the kickstand, [[Engineering:MicroSD|MicroSD]] slot, charging port, and intake vents. The Joy-Con slotting mechanism is visible on the short side.]]
[[File:Innenleben der Nintendo Switch 20230405 HOF09139 RAW-Export.png|thumb|alt=This image shows an opened Nintendo Switch console with its hardware components and where they are|View of the hardware inside the console from the back]]

The main unit of the Switch is the console, a battery-powered [[Engineering:Tablet computer|tablet]]-like monitor that consists of an [[Engineering:Liquid-crystal display|LCD]] screen measuring {{convert|6.2|in|mm}} on its diagonal, the same as the Wii U GamePad.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/10/what-we-now-know-about-the-nintendo-switch/|title=One day later, additional Nintendo Switch details dribble out|last=Orland|first=Kyle|date=October 21, 2016|work=[[Ars Technica]]|access-date=October 21, 2016|publisher=Condé Nast|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021155231/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/10/what-we-now-know-about-the-nintendo-switch/|archive-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> The unit measures {{convert|173 x 102 x 13.9|mm|in}} and weighs {{convert|297|g|oz}}.<ref name="Nintendo web tech specs">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-Switch/Specifications/Specifications-1176277.html|title=Specifications — Nintendo Switch — Nintendo|access-date=February 27, 2018|archive-date=July 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709171641/https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-Switch-Family/Specifications/Specifications-1176277.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The screen supports ten-point multi-touch [[Capacitive sensing|capacitive sensing]] and includes [[Engineering:Haptic technology|haptic technology]] from Immersion Corporation.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-touchscreen-technology-powered-by-immersion-corporation | title = Nintendo Switch Touchscreen Technology Powered By Immersion Corporation | first = Jonathan | last = Dornbrush | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114100425/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-touchscreen-technology-powered-by-immersion-corporation | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref> The LCD screen supports resolutions up to [[Engineering:720p|720p]] (1280×720 [[Pixel|px]]).<ref name="shacknews specs">{{Cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/article/98546/nintendo-switch-has-a-720p-screen-32-gb-of-storage-and-expandable-storage-via-microsdxc-cards | title = Nintendo Switch has a 720p screen, 32&nbsp;GB of storage, and expandable storage via microSDXC cards | first = David | last = Craddock | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Shacknews | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114201327/http://www.shacknews.com/article/98546/nintendo-switch-has-a-720p-screen-32-gb-of-storage-and-expandable-storage-via-microsdxc-cards | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="eurogamer jan17" /> The console includes a 3.5&nbsp;mm [[Engineering:Phone connector (audio)|audio jack]], stereo speakers on the bottom face of the unit below the screen, a USB-C port for charging, and a kickstand on the back side.<ref name="ign clarify2">{{cite news|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/10/20/nintendo-confirms-amiibo-support-for-nintendo-switch-clarifies-additional-features|title=Nintendo Confirms Amiibo Support for Nintendo Switch, Clarifies Additional Features|author=Rad, Chloi|date=October 20, 2016|work=IGN|access-date=October 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021073054/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/10/20/nintendo-confirms-amiibo-support-for-nintendo-switch-clarifies-additional-features|archive-date=October 21, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="polygon-design2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13345454/nintendo-switch-photos|title=This is what the Nintendo Switch looks like|website=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021004405/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13345454/nintendo-switch-photos|archive-date=October 21, 2016|date=October 20, 2016}}</ref> The unit also includes slots for a game card (cartridge-based media) and a [[Engineering:MicroSD|microSD]] card slot located under the kickstand. The Switch console itself includes three buttons, all on the top of the device, Volume +/- and Power. The console has rails on the side, into which the Joy-Con controllers can be slid to attach them to the Switch unit.<ref name="anandtech specs" /> An [[Physics:Ambient light sensor|ambient light sensor]] on the front of the console adjusts the screen's brightness automatically.<ref name="poly detail specs" /> The model number of the original Switch model is "HAC-001".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.techinsights.com/reports-and-subscriptions/open-market-reports/Report-Profile/?ReportKey=DDT-1707-802|title=Deep Dive Teardown of the Nintendo NX Switch HAC-001 Handheld Game Console|date=August 29, 2017|website=TechInsights|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012021712/https://www.techinsights.com/reports-and-subscriptions/open-market-reports/Report-Profile/?ReportKey=DDT-1707-802|archive-date=October 12, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

There are three gameplay modes that can be used with the Switch; "TV mode" with the console slid into the dock to support play on a television, "Tabletop mode" with the console placed on a table or other flat surface using its kickstand for shared gaming away from a dedicated screen, or in "Handheld mode" as a standard portable tablet device.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/1/13/14262366/nintendo-switch-event-analysis-wii-u|title=Nintendo's Switch already gets right what the Wii U got wrong|last=Byford|first=Sam|publisher=[[The Verge]]|date=January 13, 2017|access-date=January 17, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170115230824/http://www.theverge.com/2017/1/13/14262366/nintendo-switch-event-analysis-wii-u|archive-date=January 15, 2017}}</ref><ref name="polygon specs">{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14241898/nintendo-switch-details | title = Everything we know about Nintendo Switch | first = Allegra | last = Frank | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114042835/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14241898/nintendo-switch-details | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="eurogamer jan17" /> Users can switch between these modes simply by placing the console in the dock or removing it, extending or retracting the kickstand, and detaching or connecting the Joy-Con.<ref name="eurogamer jan17" /> Games may be designed to play only in specific modes; for example, ''[[Software:Voez|Voez]]'' initially could not be played in TV mode and relied on touchscreen controls.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-02-27-nintendo-switch-has-its-first-touchscreen-only-game | title = Nintendo Switch has its first portable-only game | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = February 27, 2017 | access-date = February 27, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170227215116/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-02-27-nintendo-switch-has-its-first-touchscreen-only-game | archive-date = February 27, 2017 }}</ref> Support for controllers and TV mode was later added to ''Voez'' in January 2018 via an update for the game.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.kotaku.co.uk/2018/01/24/voez-switch-version-1-3-1-adds-docked-controller-play-options|title=Voez Switch Version 1.3.1 Adds Docked Controller Play Options|website=Kotaku UK|language=en|access-date=September 16, 2018|archive-date=February 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180211072555/http://www.kotaku.co.uk/2018/01/24/voez-switch-version-1-3-1-adds-docked-controller-play-options|url-status=live}}</ref> Another example is ''[[Software:Super Mario Party|Super Mario Party]]'', which does not support Handheld mode.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/09/super_mario_party_for_nintendo_switch_wont_support_handheld_mode|title=Super Mario Party For Nintendo Switch Won't Support Handheld Mode|last=Doolan|first=Liam|date=September 22, 2018|work=Nintendo Life|access-date=September 22, 2018|language=en-GB|archive-date=November 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109010615/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/09/super_mario_party_for_nintendo_switch_wont_support_handheld_mode|url-status=live}}</ref>

Nintendo stated that the Switch is a "single-screen experience", in that the player either sees the content on the console when it is out of the dock, or on the screen attached to the dock when the console is docked. The Switch cannot feature dual-screen functionality that was offered through the Wii U via its GamePad.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/21/13362890/nintendo-switch-not-dualscreen | title = Nintendo's Switch can't serve as a second gameplay screen in your home | first = Brian | last = Crecente | date = October 21, 2016 | access-date = December 30, 2016 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161230231202/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/21/13362890/nintendo-switch-not-dualscreen | archive-date = December 30, 2016 }}</ref>

Nintendo patented a means of using multiple Switch consoles to create a [[Multi-monitor|multi-monitor]] configuration by arranging them on a flat surface and spanning a single gameplay environment across their screens. This technology was first seen in ''Super Mario Party''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/04/nintendos-new-multi-screen-multi-touch-patent-concept-is-very-very-nintendo/|title=Nintendo's new multi-screen patent isn't just crazy—it might already hide in Switch|work=Ars Technica|access-date=June 13, 2018|language=en-us|archive-date=June 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613210620/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/04/nintendos-new-multi-screen-multi-touch-patent-concept-is-very-very-nintendo/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/6/12/17451550/super-mario-party-nintendo-switch-release-date-e3|title=Super Mario Party might be the most creative Switch game yet|work=The Verge|access-date=June 13, 2018|archive-date=June 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612201151/https://www.theverge.com/2018/6/12/17451550/super-mario-party-nintendo-switch-release-date-e3|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Dock ===
The console, with or without Joy-Con attached, can be placed into the Switch dock, a [[Engineering:Docking station|docking station]] with electrical connectors to connect the console to a power supply to charge its battery, and to a television via an HDMI connection for video/audio output.<ref name="engadget-nxreveal2" /> The dock also includes two USB 2.0 ports and one USB 3.0 port.<ref name="anandtech specs">{{Cite web | url = http://www.anandtech.com/show/11039/nintendo-switch-hardware-launch-details | title = Nintendo Switch Hardware Launch Details – 32&nbsp;GB w/Expandable Storage, 6.2" 720p Screen, 2.5 to 6.5 Hour Battery Life | first = Ryan | last = Smith | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 15, 2017 | website = Anandtech | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114215002/http://www.anandtech.com/show/11039/nintendo-switch-hardware-launch-details | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref> While docked, the unit can support resolutions up to [[Engineering:1080p|1080p]] and a maximum frame rate of 60 [[Physics:Frames per second|frames per second]],<ref name="polygon specs" /><ref name="ign ui">{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/27/nintendo-switch-more-specs-and-ui-detailed? | title = Nintendo Switch: More Specs and UI Detailed | first = Joe | last = Skrebels | date = January 27, 2017 | access-date = January 27, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170127171557/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/27/nintendo-switch-more-specs-and-ui-detailed | archive-date = January 27, 2017 }}</ref> though the maximum resolution varies depending on the game. As an example, ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'' runs at a maximum 900p and 30 frames per second while the Switch is docked.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/17/nintendo-explains-differences-between-switch-wii-u-versions-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild | title = Nintendo Explains Differences Between Switch, Wii U Versions of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | first = Andrew | last = Goldfarb | date = January 17, 2017 | access-date = January 18, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170118001152/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/17/nintendo-explains-differences-between-switch-wii-u-versions-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild | archive-date = January 18, 2017 }}</ref> The dock measures {{convert|173 x 104 x 54|mm|in}} and weighs {{convert|327|g|oz}}.<ref name="Nintendo web tech specs" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/hardware/switch/specs/index.html#2|title=機能・仕様 - Nintendo Switch｜Nintendo|access-date=March 12, 2018|archive-date=March 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312144711/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/hardware/switch/specs/index.html#2|url-status=live}}</ref> The dock included with the updated OLED consoles features a slightly redesigned housing, as well as replacing the rear USB port with a built-in Ethernet port.<ref name="polygon oled announce" />

{{Gallery
| title = Nintendo Switch dock
| align = center
| File:Nintendo-Switch-Dock-Front.jpg
 | alt1 =Front of the dock, with no console inserted.
 | Front of the dock. The Switch console is inserted from the top.
| File:Nintendo-Switch-Dock-Back.jpg
 | alt2 =Back of the dock, closed, and with no console inserted. Two USB ports are visible.
 | Back of the dock, showing its two [[Engineering:USB|USB]] ports on the right side
| File:Nintendo-Switch-Dock-Back-Open.jpg
 | alt3 =Back of the dock, opened, A port for a USB-C charger and HDMI cable is visible, additional USB 3.0 port visible.
 | Back of the dock, opened. A USB-C AC adapter and [[Engineering:HDMI|HDMI]] cable must be connected for TV gameplay. There is an additional USB 3.0 port inside.
| File:Nintendo-Switch-Dock-Top.jpg
 | alt4 =Top of the dock, a USB-C male port is visible.
 | Top of the dock, featuring a USB-C male port that connects to the console
}}

=== Controllers ===

==== Joy-Con ====
The Nintendo Switch comes with two [[Engineering:Game controller|controllers]], collectively called Joy-Con and individually called the "Joy-Con (L)" and "Joy-Con (R)".<ref name="poly detail specs" /> The controllers attach to the Switch console via side rails using a locking mechanism, with a small release button on their rear face to allow them to be detached. When detached, they can be used as a pair by a single player, attached to a grip that emulates a [[Engineering:Gamepad|gamepad]] form factor, or used as separate controllers by two individual players. A single Switch console can support up to eight Joy-Con connections.<ref name="eurogamer joycon">{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-01-13-a-pair-of-nintendo-switch-joy-con-controllers-costs-75 | title = A pair of Nintendo Switch Joy-con controllers costs £75 | first = Wesley | last = Yin-Poole | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114002130/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-01-13-a-pair-of-nintendo-switch-joy-con-controllers-costs-75 | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref> Straps can be attached to the sides of Joy-Con when they are detached.<ref name="poly detail specs" /><ref name="polygon specs" /> A charging grip is available for the Joy-Con, which provides a means to attach a USB-C cable for power.<ref name="polygon joycon charge" /> Alongside that, Nintendo released a charging strap that allows players to charge an individual Joy-Con via embedded AA batteries on June 16, 2017.<ref name="verge yellow">{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/4/12/15279766/nintendo-switch-joy-con-neon-yellow-color-aa-battery-pack | title = Nintendo introduces new neon yellow Joy-Con color and controller battery pack | first = Nick | last = Statt | date = April 12, 2017 | access-date = April 12, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170413063146/http://www.theverge.com/2017/4/12/15279766/nintendo-switch-joy-con-neon-yellow-color-aa-battery-pack | archive-date = April 13, 2017 }}</ref>

==== Pro Controller ====
The Switch also supports a wireless controller, called Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, which has a more traditional design reminiscent of the Wii Classic Controller Pro and Wii U Pro Controller. The Pro Controller connects to the Switch via wireless Bluetooth communication, and is charged through a standard USB-C port on the controller.<ref name="polygon-design2" /><ref name="verge-controller2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/10/20/13345758/nintendo-switch-joy-con-controller-modular|title=A close look at the Nintendo Switch's wild modular controller: the Joy-Con|website=The Verge|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020191425/http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/20/13345758/nintendo-switch-joy-con-controller-modular|archive-date=October 20, 2016|date=October 20, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-pro-controller-will-cost-you-70-joycon-and-other-peripherals-priced/ | title = Nintendo Switch Pro Controller will cost you $70, JoyCon and other peripherals priced | first = Brenna | last = Hillier | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170113221357/http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-pro-controller-will-cost-you-70-joycon-and-other-peripherals-priced/ | archive-date = January 13, 2017 }}</ref>

{{Gallery
| title = Standard Switch controllers
| align = center
| File:Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Controllers.png
  | The gray Joy-Con (L) and Joy-Con (R) controllers. The inside rails slot onto the side of the main Switch console or grip controller.
| File:Nintendo-Switch-JoyCon-Grip-Chargeable-01.jpg
  | Red and blue Joy-Con slotted onto the charging grip, giving the general proportions of a standard controller
| File:Nintendo-Switch-JoyCon-Grip-Chargeable-03.jpg
  | The top of the charging grip, showing the USB-C port
  | alt3 = The charging grip upside down, with the USB-C port visible
| File:Nintendo-Switch-Pro-Controller-FL.jpg
  | The optional and more conventional Pro Controller
  | alt4 = A Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
}}

==== Other ====
The Nintendo Switch supports a wide array of additional accessories, according to Kimishima. Kimishima suggested that the Switch is part of a large ecosystem of devices, though the Switch unit remains the core console element.<ref name="bloomberg oct2016">{{Cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-27/nintendo-president-hints-of-bigger-hardware-plans-for-switch | title = Nintendo President Hints of Bigger Hardware Plans for Switch | first1 = Yuji | last1 = Nakamura | first2 = Takashi | last2 = Amano | date = October 27, 2016 | access-date = October 27, 2016 | website = {{wipe|Bloomberg News}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161028085841/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-27/nintendo-president-hints-of-bigger-hardware-plans-for-switch | archive-date = October 28, 2016 }}</ref> Takahashi suggested the possibility of other units besides the Joy-Con that could attach and/or connect to the console to serve as alternate input devices and change how the Switch can be used.<ref name="time feb2017">{{Cite magazine | url = http://time.com/4661055/nintendo-switch-interview/ | title = The 8 Most Interesting Things Nintendo Told Us About Switch | first = Matt | last = Peckham | date = February 6, 2017 | access-date = February 6, 2017 | magazine = {{wipe|Time (magazine)}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170206223053/http://time.com/4661055/nintendo-switch-interview/ | archive-date = February 6, 2017 }}</ref>

Nintendo offers a Joy-Con Wheel, a small [[Engineering:Steering wheel|steering wheel]]-like unit that a Joy-Con can slot into, allowing it to be used for [[Software:Racing game|racing game]]s such as ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe''.<ref name="usgamer prices" /> Standalone docks are available, which include a power adapter and HDMI cable.<ref name="usgamer prices" /> Third parties also support the Switch with additional accessories, such as carrying cases and screen protectors.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/4/14152544/nintendo-switch-accessories|title=Nintendo Switch accessories unveiled at CES|last=Crecente|first=Brian|date=January 4, 2017|website=Polygon|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170104234214/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/4/14152544/nintendo-switch-accessories|archive-date=January 4, 2017|url-status=live|access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref> The 4.0.0 system update enabled support for [[Engineering:GameCube controller|GameCube controller]]s connected via USB with the GameCube adapter that was available for the Wii U as well as a new adapter produced for the Switch; GameCube controllers can be used with most games compatible with the Switch's Pro Controller, such as ''[[Software:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''.<ref name="GC Adapter">{{Cite web|url=https://store.nintendo.co.uk/nintendo-switch-accessory/nintendo-gamecube-controller-adapter-for-nintendo-switch/11793689.html|title=Nintendo GameCube Controller Adapter for Nintendo Switch|website=Nintendo}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2017/10/24/nintendos-switch-gamecube-controller/|title=Nintendo's Switch now supports your old GameCube controllers|last=Moon|first=Mariella|date=October 24, 2017|work=Engadget|access-date=October 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024235302/https://www.engadget.com/2017/10/24/nintendos-switch-gamecube-controller/|archive-date=October 24, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.gamepur.com/guide/29610-how-connect-gamecube-controller-switch.html|title=How To Connect And Use GameCube Controller With Nintendo Switch|access-date=August 15, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=August 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180815091015/https://www.gamepur.com/guide/29610-how-connect-gamecube-controller-switch.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/08/10/gamecube-controller-adapter-and-everything-else-you-need-to-play-super-smash-bros-ultimate|title=GameCube Controller, Adapter, and Everything Else You Need to Play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|last=Macy|first=Seth G.|date=August 10, 2018|website=IGN|language=en-US|access-date=August 14, 2018|archive-date=August 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814201103/http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/08/10/gamecube-controller-adapter-and-everything-else-you-need-to-play-super-smash-bros-ultimate|url-status=live}}</ref> USB [[Computer keyboard|computer keyboard]]s are supported for certain tasks, such as text entry.

[[File:Nintendo Labo fishing rod.jpeg|thumb|upright=1|A Nintendo Labo kit simulating a fishing rod and reel]]

In January 2018, Nintendo announced [[Engineering:Nintendo Labo|Nintendo Labo]], a child-oriented platform that combines games coupled with do-it-yourself cardboard projects that attach or wrap around the Switch Console and Joy-Con, effectively creating toys around the Switch hardware to interact with games. These cardboard units, which may also include string, rubber bands, and other pieces, are referred to as Toy-Con. The game software provides instructions for the Toy-Con construction and provides the interface to control the Toy-Con. Such examples given include a remote-controlled "car", where the two Joy-Con attach to the car and their vibration feedback provide the motion for the car, controlled from the Switch, a fishing rod where the Joy-Con are part of the reel and handle of the rod and their motion controls used to simulate the act of fishing in the mini-game, and a small toy piano.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2018/1/17/16900496/nintendo-switch-labo-cardboard-diy-accessories-announced-price-release-date | title = Nintendo is making a bunch of weird DIY cardboard toys for the Switch and they're awesome | first = Andrew | last = Webster | date = January 17, 2018 | access-date = January 17, 2018 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180117220704/https://www.theverge.com/2018/1/17/16900496/nintendo-switch-labo-cardboard-diy-accessories-announced-price-release-date | archive-date = January 17, 2018 }}</ref>

In September 2018, with the release of Nintendo Switch Online, Nintendo introduced NES Controller style Joy-Con controllers alongside its classic games service. In September 2019, when [[Engineering:Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] games were added to the service, wireless SNES Controllers were released. In September 2021, when [[Engineering:Nintendo 64|Nintendo 64]] games and [[Engineering:Sega Genesis|Sega Genesis]] titles were added to the service alongside the Expansion Pack, wireless [[Engineering:Nintendo 64 controller|Nintendo 64 Controllers]] and SEGA Genesis Control Pads were released for use with their respective services.

Nintendo released ''[[Software:Ring Fit Adventure|Ring Fit Adventure]]'' in October 2019, which includes a Leg Strap to mount a Joy-Con to a leg, and the Ring-Con, a flexible hard plastic ring with Joy-Con mounting. The player interacts with the game, fashioned after a console role-playing game, by doing various exercises, such as running in place, squatting, and squeezing the ring, to perform in-game actions of running, jumping, and attacking and defending, respectively.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switchs-weird-new-fitness-device-detailed/1100-6469798/ | title = Nintendo Switch's Weird New Fitness Device Detailed: Ring Fit Adventure Releases Soon | first = Oscar | last = Dayus | date = September 12, 2019 | access-date = September 12, 2019 | work = GameSpot | archive-date = July 9, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210709171630/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/ring-fit-adventure-nintendo-switchs-weird-new-fitn/1100-6469798/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Such features are part of Nintendo's "quality of life" goals to incorporate physical activity alongside the Switch, similar to past titles like ''[[Software:Wii Fit|Wii Fit]]''.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/5/20851907/nintendo-new-motion-control-experience-switch-fitness-joy-con-controller-tease-september-12 | title = Nintendo teases strange new motion control experience for Switch | first = Chaim | last = Gartenburg | date = September 5, 2019 | access-date = September 5, 2019 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = March 8, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210308152611/https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/5/20851907/nintendo-new-motion-control-experience-switch-fitness-joy-con-controller-tease-september-12 | url-status = live }}</ref>

In February 2017, Nintendo president Tatsumi Kimishima stated that it had been "studying" [[Virtual reality|virtual reality]] solutions, but felt that comfort was a main concern. Nintendo of America president and [[Social:Chief operating officer|COO]] Reggie Fils-Aimé also cited that existing VR solutions were not "fun" or "social".<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/1/14474524/nintendo-switch-vr-support | title = Nintendo 'studying' Switch VR support | first = Samit | last = Sarkar | date = February 1, 2017 | access-date = February 1, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170201210005/http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/1/14474524/nintendo-switch-vr-support | archive-date = February 1, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo ultimately unveiled a new Labo VR kit in March 2019, using a cardboard headset and viewer placed in front of the console's screen, in combination with attached accessories.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/nintendos-really-getting-into-vr-with-a-labo-kit-for-switch/|title=Nintendo's really getting into VR with a Labo kit for Switch|last=Stein|first=Scott|website=CNET|language=en|access-date=March 7, 2019|archive-date=March 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190307052843/https://www.cnet.com/news/nintendos-really-getting-into-vr-with-a-labo-kit-for-switch/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/6/18254019/nintendo-labo-vr-kit-switch|title=Nintendo just announced a Labo VR kit for the Switch|last=Webster|first=Andrew|date=March 6, 2019|website=The Verge|access-date=March 7, 2019|archive-date=June 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190606115559/https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/6/18254019/nintendo-labo-vr-kit-switch|url-status=live}}</ref>

Stands and alternate docks have also been created for the Switch to overcome the limitations of the device's own kickstand for tabletop play, including an official "Adjustable Charging Stand" that can be connected to the device's AC adapter.<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/5/9/17338314/nintendo-switch-kickstand-replacement-charging-dock |title= Nintendo is fixing the Switch's bad kickstand with a $20 charging dock |first= Sam |last= Byford |date= May 9, 2018 |access-date= May 11, 2018 |website= [[The Verge]] |archive-date= May 10, 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180510185444/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/5/9/17338314/nintendo-switch-kickstand-replacement-charging-dock |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-best-nintendo-switch-accessories|title=The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories 2019|website=IGN|language=en|access-date=March 7, 2019|archive-date=March 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190307112355/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-best-nintendo-switch-accessories|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Technical specifications ===
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible floatright"
|+ Technical specifications of Nintendo Switch
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2" | [[System on a chip|System-on-chip]]
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Name
| Nvidia Tegra X1
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Engineering:Semiconductor device fabrication|Process]]
| {{Unbulleted list
  | 20{{Spaces}}nm
  | 16{{Spaces}}nm{{Efn|Consoles manufactured after August 2019 featured chips made on the 16nm process, improving battery life and performance. These consoles were shipped featuring slightly different boxes from those manufactured before August, but Nintendo has not otherwise differentiated between the two models.|name=|group=}}
  }}
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="5" | [[Central processing unit|CPU]]
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Type
| {{Unbulleted list
  | Quad-core [[Engineering:ARM Cortex-A57|ARM Cortex-A57]]
  | Quad-core [[Engineering:ARM Cortex-A53|ARM Cortex-A53]]
}}
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Instruction set architecture|ISA]]
| ARMv8-A
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Clock rate]]
| 1.02{{Spaces}}[[Gigahertz|GHz]]
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2" | [[CPU cache|Cache]]
! scope="row" | L1
| {{Unbulleted list
  | '''A57:''' 48{{Spaces}}[[Kilobyte|kB]] + 32{{Spaces}}kB per core
  | '''A53:''' 32{{Spaces}}kB + 32{{Spaces}}kB per core
  }}
|-
! scope="row" | L2
| {{Unbulleted list
  | '''A57:''' 2{{Spaces}}[[Megabyte|MB]]
  | '''A53:''' 512{{Spaces}}kB
  }}
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="6" | [[Graphics processing unit|GPU]]
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Type
| Nvidia GM20B [[Engineering:Maxwell (microarchitecture)|Maxwell]]-based
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Clock rate
| 307.2-768{{Spaces}}MHz
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Stream processing|Stream processors]]
| 256 (157-393{{Spaces}}[[FLOPS|GFLOP/s]])
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Texture mapping unit|TMUs]]
| 16 (4.9-12.3{{Spaces}}GTexel/s)
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Render output unit|ROPs]]
| 16 (4.9-12.3{{Spaces}}[[Pixel|GPixel/s]])
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[General-purpose computing on graphics processing units|Compute units]]
| 2
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="3" | [[Random-access memory|Memory]]
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Total
| 4{{Spaces}}[[Gigabyte|GB]] LPDDR4 SDRAM
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Clock rate
| 1600{{Spaces}}[[Megahertz|MHz]]
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | [[Memory bandwidth|Bandwidth]]
| 25.6{{Spaces}}GB/s
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="4" |[[Data storage|Storage]]
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2" |Main
! scope="row" | Type
| eMMC NAND flash memory
|-
! scope="row" | Capacity
| {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Base model:''' 32{{Spaces}}GB
  | '''OLED model:''' 64{{Spaces}}GB
  }}
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2" | [[Removable media|Removable]]
! scope="row" | Type
| [[Engineering:MicroSD|microSD]]/HC/[[Engineering:MicroSDXC|XC]]
|-
! scope="row" | Capacity
| Up to 2{{Spaces}}[[Terabyte|TB]]
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2" | [[Data storage|Media]]
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Name
| Nintendo Switch game card
|-
! scope="row" colspan="2" | Capacity
| 1–64{{Spaces}}GB
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="5" |[[Engineering:Computer monitor|Display]]
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="3" |Main
! scope="row" | Type
| {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Base model:''' [[Engineering:Liquid-crystal display|LCD screen]]
  | '''OLED model:''' [[Chemistry:OLED|OLED]] screen
  }}
|-
! scope="row" | [[Engineering:Display size|Size]]
| {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Base model:''' 6.2-inch
  | '''OLED model:''' 7-inch
  }}
|-
! scope="row" | [[Engineering:Display resolution|Resolution]]
| {{Unbulleted list
  | '''Base model:''' [[Engineering:720p|720p]] (237{{Spaces}}[[Pixel density|ppi]])
  | '''OLED model:''' 720p (210{{Spaces}}ppi)
  }}
|-
! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2" | External
! scope="row" | [[Interface (computing)|Interface]]
| '''Dock:''' HDMI 1.4b

'''Dock with LAN port:''' [[Engineering:HDMI#Version 2.0|HDMI 2.0]]
|-
! scope="row" | Resolution
| 1080p, 720p, or 480p
|}

==== SoC, CPU, GPU and RAM ====
Original Switch models were released with model number "HAC-001". The Switch uses a system-on-chip from the [[Engineering:Tegra|Tegra]] family of products, developed in partnership with [[Company:Nvidia|Nvidia]].<ref name="shacknews specs" /><ref name="vg247 updated specs">{{Cite web|url=http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/27/nintendo-switch-wireless-lan-support-battery-replacement-other-specs-outlined/|title=Nintendo Switch: Wireless LAN support, battery replacement, other specs outlined|first=Stephany|last=Nunneley|date=January 27, 2017|access-date=January 27, 2017|website=VG247|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170127224500/http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/27/nintendo-switch-wireless-lan-support-battery-replacement-other-specs-outlined/|archive-date=January 27, 2017 }}</ref> No specific details were revealed beyond that it is a "custom" Tegra chip "based on the same architecture as the world's top-performing [[Engineering:GeForce|GeForce]] gaming graphics cards" that are common in personal computers, and has a custom [[API]] known as "NVN", which is designed to "bring lightweight, fast gaming to the masses".<ref name="engadget-nxreveal2" /><ref name="polygon-nvidia">{{Cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13345738/nintendo-switch-nvidia-tegra-announcement|title=Nintendo Switch confirmed to have Nvidia components|website=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020145144/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13345738/nintendo-switch-nvidia-tegra-announcement|archive-date=October 20, 2016|date=October 20, 2016}}</ref> Takeda described the Nvidia chipset as being critical for delivering gamers a level of performance similar to that which they experience on personal computers, helping to achieve "high performance but low power consumption" for the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170207e.pdf | title = Corporate Management Policy Briefing / Nine Months Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2017 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = February 2017 | access-date = February 8, 2017 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170211155229/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170207e.pdf | archive-date = February 11, 2017 }}</ref> Pre-release reports, unconfirmed by either Nintendo or Nvidia, stated that the SoC would be a standard Nvidia Tegra X1 instead, composed of four [[Engineering:ARM Holdings|ARM]] Cortex-A57 and four ARM Cortex-A53 CPU cores along with 256 [[Engineering:Maxwell (microarchitecture)|Maxwell]]-based [[Software:CUDA|CUDA]] GPU cores.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Walton|first1=Mark|title=Nintendo Switch uses Nvidia Tegra X1 SoC, clock speeds outed|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/12/nintendo-switch-nvidia-tegra-x1-specs-speed/|access-date=December 20, 2016|publisher=Ars Technica|date=December 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220150528/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/12/nintendo-switch-nvidia-tegra-x1-specs-speed/|archive-date=December 20, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/352485/nintendo-switch-uses-a-standard-tegra-x1-processor|title=Nintendo Switch Uses a Standard Tegra X1 Processor|first=Matthew|last=Humphreys|work=PC Magazine|access-date=March 22, 2017|date=March 20, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170323011839/http://www.pcmag.com/news/352485/nintendo-switch-uses-a-standard-tegra-x1-processor|archive-date=March 23, 2017}}</ref> This was later corroborated by an analysis on the console done by Tech Insights in March 2017.<ref name="tegra">{{Cite web|url=http://wccftech.com/nintendo-switch-tegra-x-1-nvidia-maxwell/|title=Nintendo Switch Uses Stock NVIDIA Tegra X1 T210 CPU & GM20B Maxwell Core|access-date=March 16, 2017|website=wccftech.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170316233534/http://wccftech.com/nintendo-switch-tegra-x-1-nvidia-maxwell/|archive-date=March 16, 2017|date=March 16, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2017-custom-tegra-processor-inside-switch-outed-as-standard-tegra-x1 | title = Standard Tegra X1 'confirmed' as Switch's processor | first = Richard | last = Leadbetter | date = March 19, 2017 | access-date = March 19, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170319172220/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2017-custom-tegra-processor-inside-switch-outed-as-standard-tegra-x1 | archive-date = March 19, 2017 }}</ref> The CPU cores are clocked at 1.020&nbsp;GHz. While the SoC features 8 CPU cores, the Switch only uses the 4 64-bit Cortex-A57 cores, of which 1 is reserved to the operating system.<ref name="Eurogamer performace monitoring" /> The GPU cores are clocked at {{Nowrap|768 MHz}} when the device is docked, and in Handheld mode, fluctuating between the following speeds: {{Nowrap|307.2 MHz}}, {{Nowrap|384 MHz}}, and {{Nowrap|460 MHz}}.<ref name="Eurogamer performance modes" /><ref name="Eurogamer boost mode" /> This gives the Switch's GPU a theoretical peak performance of {{#expr:((256*2)*768)/1000round0}} [[FLOPS|GFLOPS]] in TV mode and {{#expr:((256*2)*460)/1000round0}} GFLOPS in Handheld mode.<ref name="Eurogamer boost mode" /> A later iFixit teardown of the final product confirmed 4&nbsp;GB of LPDDR4.<ref name="iFixit teardown" /> It's clocked at {{Nowrap|1600 MHz}} in TV mode, while at a reduced {{Nowrap|1331.2 MHz}} in Handheld mode.<ref name="Eurogamer performance modes" />

==== Wireless compatibility ====
The Switch offers Wi-Fi 5 (dual-band [[IEEE 802.11ac|802.11ac]] wireless connectivity compliant with 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac modes).<ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> Up to eight Switch consoles can be connected in a [[Engineering:Wireless ad hoc network|wireless ''ad hoc'' network]] for local multiplayer games, and multiple players can play on each of the connected Switch consoles.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/1/13/14261876/nintendo-switch-specs-32gb-720p-screen-battery-life | title = Nintendo announces Switch specs: 720p screen, 32&nbsp;GB of storage, and more | first = Chaim | last = Gartenberg | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170113231540/http://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/1/13/14261876/nintendo-switch-specs-32gb-720p-screen-battery-life | archive-date = January 13, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="engadget-nxreveal2" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/heres-your-first-look-at-the-nx-nintendos-upcoming-con-1788004927?|title=Here's Your First Look At The Nintendo Switch, Nintendo's Next Console|last=Hernandez|first=Patricia|publisher=Gizmodo Media Group|website=Kotaku|date=October 20, 2016 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020141216/http://kotaku.com/heres-your-first-look-at-the-nx-nintendos-upcoming-con-1788004927|archive-date=October 20, 2016}}</ref> In the case of at least one game, ''Splatoon 2'', ten Switch consoles can connect in the ''ad hoc'' network, though only eight can play directly while the other two can watch as spectators.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/2/14/14612142/nintendo-switch-local-lan-multiplayer-ethernet-adapter | title = The Nintendo Switch is bringing back the LAN party | first = Chaim | last = Gartenburg | date = February 14, 2017 | access-date = February 14, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170215020534/http://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/2/14/14612142/nintendo-switch-local-lan-multiplayer-ethernet-adapter | archive-date = February 15, 2017 }}</ref> The Switch uses [[Bluetooth]] 4.1 for wireless communication between the console and its controllers.<ref name="poly detail specs">{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14255984/nintendo-switch-hardware-specifications-screen-resolution | title = Nintendo Switch has 32&nbsp;GB storage, 720p touchscreen | first = Samit | last = Sarkar | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 23, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114194749/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14255984/nintendo-switch-hardware-specifications-screen-resolution | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> Users can purchase a third-party USB LAN adapter for wired connectivity when the console is docked for TV mode.<ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> Nintendo's Wii LAN adapter accessory is also compatible with the Switch via USB ports on the Switch dock.<ref name="NOA Store confirms LAN adapter for NS">{{Cite web | url = https://store.nintendo.com/ng3/browse/productDetailColorSizePicker.jsp?productId=prod10279 | title = LAN Adapter (Nintendo Switch, Wii U, Wii) | access-date = July 21, 2017 | website = Official NOA Nintendo Store | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170621043236/https://store.nintendo.com/ng3/browse/productDetailColorSizePicker.jsp?productId=prod10279 | archive-date = June 21, 2017 }}</ref>

==== Power/battery ====
The Switch is primarily powered in Handheld mode by a non-removable 4310 [[Ampere hour|mAh]], 3.7 [[Volt|V]] [[Engineering:Lithium-ion battery|Lithium-ion]] rechargeable battery.<ref name="anandtech specs" /><ref name="fixit">{{Cite web|title=Nintendo Switch Teardown|url=https://d3nevzfk7ii3be.cloudfront.net/igi/dwQNOROQBb6VLJas.huge|website=IiFixit.com|access-date=March 5, 2017|archive-date=March 5, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305114939/https://d3nevzfk7ii3be.cloudfront.net/igi/dwQNOROQBb6VLJas.huge|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/12/27/you-wont-be-able-to-upgrade-the-nintendo-switchs-battery/|title=You won't be able to upgrade the Nintendo Switch's battery|work=Engadget|access-date=November 21, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=November 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181121120141/https://www.engadget.com/2016/12/27/you-wont-be-able-to-upgrade-the-nintendo-switchs-battery/|url-status=live}}</ref> The battery life is estimated to be between 2.5 and 6.5 hours, depending on the software being used. Nintendo gives the example of ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'' supporting approximately three hours of battery life.<ref name="shacknews specs" /> The battery can be charged either while in the dock, or through a standard USB-C connector on the console.<ref name="eurogamer jan17" /> The estimated recharge time while the unit is in sleep mode is about 3 hours.<ref name="ign ui" /> Nintendo offers the means for replacing batteries through its customer support.<ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> Each Joy-Con has its own non-removable 525 [[Ampere hour|mAh]], 3.7 [[Volt|V]] [[Engineering:Lithium-ion battery|Lithium-ion]] battery separate from the console, with an estimated twenty-hour lifespan.<ref name="poly detail specs" /> These batteries are automatically charged if they are attached to the console while it is charging itself. Additional accessories have other means to charge the Joy-Con.<ref name="polygon joycon charge">{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14269692/nintendo-switch-controller-charger | title = Here's how to charge the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controller | first = Allegra | last = Frank | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170115160007/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14269692/nintendo-switch-controller-charger | archive-date = January 15, 2017 }}</ref> While the basic Joy-Con grip that ships with the Switch does not offer charging capabilities, a separate premium Joy-Con grip includes a USB-C connector port that can be used to charge the Joy-Con batteries while they are connected to this grip.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-01-16-nintendo-switchs-basic-joy-con-grip-doesnt-charge-controllers | title = Nintendo Switch's bundled Joy-Con grip doesn't charge controllers | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = January 16, 2017 | access-date = January 16, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170117134016/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-01-16-nintendo-switchs-basic-joy-con-grip-doesnt-charge-controllers | archive-date = January 17, 2017 }}</ref>

==== Storage ====
The Switch includes 32 [[Gigabyte|GB]] of internal storage,<ref name="shacknews specs" /><ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> 25.9 GB of which is user-accessible.<ref name="Eurogamer storage" /> This can be expanded up to 2&nbsp;TB using a [[Engineering:MicroSD|microSD]], a microSDHC or a [[Engineering:MicroSDXC|microSDXC]] card.<ref>{{Cite magazine | url = http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2017/01/14/the-nintendo-switch-supports-up-to-256-gigabyte-micro-sd-cards.aspx | title = Nintendo Switch Supports Micro SDXC Memory Cards Up To 2&nbsp;TB | first = Jeff | last = Marchiafava | date = January 14, 2017 | access-date = January 15, 2017 | magazine = Game Informer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170115134534/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2017/01/14/the-nintendo-switch-supports-up-to-256-gigabyte-micro-sd-cards.aspx | archive-date = January 15, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> A microSD card slot is located under the Switch's kickstand, where a microSD card can be inserted.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22404/~/how-to-insert/remove-microsd-cards|title=How to Insert/Remove microSD Cards {{!}} Nintendo Support|website=en-americas-support.nintendo.com|language=en-US|access-date=September 15, 2018|archive-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121031909/https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22404/~/how-to-insert/remove-microsd-cards|url-status=live}}</ref> If the [[Secure Digital|microSD card]] is used, the Switch will only store game save data on the internal memory, leaving data that can be re-acquired on the microSD card.<ref name="kotaku questions" /> Save data will always be stored on the console, regardless if the source is a physical game card or a digital download copy. At launch, there was no way to transfer save files to another Switch console.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-03-03-finally-we-have-answers-to-nintendo-switchs-digital-game-sharing-questions | title = Finally, we have answers to Nintendo Switch's digital game sharing questions | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = March 3, 2017 | access-date = March 3, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170303132847/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-03-03-finally-we-have-answers-to-nintendo-switchs-digital-game-sharing-questions | archive-date = March 3, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Support/Nintendo-Switch/Storage/microSD-Cards/Supported-microSD-cards/Supported-microSD-cards-1200156.html|title=Supported microSD cards|website=Nintendo of Europe GmbH}}</ref> Save game and profile transfers between Switch consoles were added in the 4.0.0 system update in October 2017,<ref name="eg 4.0">{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-10-19-nintendo-switch-system-update-4-0-adds-video-capture | title = Nintendo Switch system update 4.0 adds video capture | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = October 18, 2017 | access-date = October 18, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | archive-date = October 19, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171019220844/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-10-19-nintendo-switch-system-update-4-0-adds-video-capture | url-status = live }}</ref> while the 10.0.0 system update in April 2020 allowed most update data, digital games (i.e., downloaded from eShop), and other downloaded content to be swapped between the internal memory and a microSD card.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2020/04/14/nintendo-switch-sd-card-transfer-remap-controls/ | title = Nintendo Switch firmware adds SD card transfer, the ability to remap controls | first = Sherif | last = Saed | date = April 14, 2020 | access-date = April 14, 2020 | work = VG247 | archive-date = April 21, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200421143611/https://www.vg247.com/2020/04/14/nintendo-switch-sd-card-transfer-remap-controls/ | url-status = live }}</ref> MicroSD and microSDHC were supported initially, and microSDXC card support was later added to the Switch's software via a system update.<ref name="ign ui" /><ref name="vg247 updated specs" /> SD cards and miniSD cards do not fit the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22481/p/897|title=microSD Card FAQ {{!}} Nintendo Switch {{!}} Nintendo Support|website=en-americas-support.nintendo.com|language=en-US|access-date=November 10, 2018|archive-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121031510/https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/22481/p/897|url-status=live}}</ref> The Switch did not support external storage units at launch, but Nintendo stated that they were looking into adding this feature in the future.<ref name="kotaku questions" />

==== Connectivity ====
The Switch console has a 3.5&nbsp;mm headphone jack. At launch, the Switch did not support Bluetooth wireless headphones, though they can also be connected if a Bluetooth adaptor is connected to the headphone jack.<ref name="polygon-noheadphones">{{Cite web|title=Bluetooth, wireless headphones will not work with the Nintendo Switch|url=http://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2017/3/2/14792436/nintendo-switch-wireless-headphones-bluetooth|website=Polygon|access-date=March 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302201249/http://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2017/3/2/14792436/nintendo-switch-wireless-headphones-bluetooth|archive-date=March 2, 2017|date=March 2, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/05/you_can_use_bluetooth_headphones_on_your_switch_but_theres_a_catch|title=You Can Use Bluetooth Headphones On Your Switch, But There's A Catch|last=McFerran|first=Damien|date=May 16, 2017|work=Nintendo Life|access-date=May 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170516210757/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/05/you_can_use_bluetooth_headphones_on_your_switch_but_theres_a_catch|archive-date=May 16, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> A system update in October 2017 partially resolved this issue by enabling support for wireless USB headphones when the receiver is connected to the USB port on the console when docked.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/10/20/16507816/nintendo-wireless-usb-headphones-switch-update-firmware|title=Nintendo quietly added wireless USB headphone support in the last Switch update|last=Gartenberg|first=Chaim|date=October 20, 2017|work=The Verge|access-date=October 24, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024100437/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/10/20/16507816/nintendo-wireless-usb-headphones-switch-update-firmware|archive-date=October 24, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2017/10/20/nintendo-switch-usb-headphones-support/|title=Nintendo Switch now supports wireless USB headphones|work=Engadget|access-date=October 8, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=October 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181009052739/https://www.engadget.com/2017/10/20/nintendo-switch-usb-headphones-support/|url-status=live}}</ref> This was later fully resolved in a system update in September 2021 when it enabled support for Bluetooth Wireless headphone devices without the need for a USB adapter.<ref>{{Cite web|first1=Mitchell|last1=Clark|first2=Jay|last2=Peters|first3=Sean|last3=Hollister|title=Nintendo finally adds Bluetooth audio to the Switch in new software update|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/14/22674704/nintendo-switch-bluetooth-audio-software-update|work=[[The Verge]]|date=September 14, 2021|access-date=September 14, 2021|archive-date=September 15, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915004006/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/14/22674704/nintendo-switch-bluetooth-audio-software-update|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Later revisions ====
Around July 2018, Nintendo quietly released Switch units with minor hardware changes and updated firmware to block exploits in the original Switch models that led to the ability to extract ROM images from game cards and software.<ref>{{cite web |work=arstechnica.com |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/07/nintendo-reportedly-rolling-out-new-more-hack-proof-switch-hardware/ |first=Kyle |last=Orland |access-date=April 18, 2023 |title=Nintendo reportedly rolling out new, more hack-resistant Switch hardware |date=July 11, 2018 |archive-date=April 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407144445/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/07/nintendo-reportedly-rolling-out-new-more-hack-proof-switch-hardware/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Nintendo claimed in its case against Team Xecuter and Gary Bowser in February that this hardware change was specifically the result of Team Xecuter's sales of modified Switch chips that used the exploit.<ref>{{cite web |work=videogameschronicle.com |access-date=April 18, 2023 |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-says-it-released-new-switch-hardware-to-combat-hacking-in-gary-bowser-case/ | title=Nintendo says it released new Switch hardware to combat hacking in Gary Bowser case | date=June 7, 2022 }}</ref>

An updated version of the Nintendo Switch under model number "HAC-001(-01)" was announced on July 17, 2019, and was released in Japan and North America in mid-August 2019, and in the United Kingdom in September 2019. This revision uses the Tegra X1+ [[System on a chip|SoC]], a more efficient chipset compared to the Tegra X1 used in the original model. Thus, the time-on-battery was effectively extended to 4.5–9 hours, depending on the game played. No other system component was updated in this revision.<ref name="theverge fcc lite" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/8/12/20802539/nintendo-switch-v2-new-updated-battery-console-how-to-buy|title=How to make sure you're buying the new Nintendo Switch with improved battery life|last=Welch|first=Chris|date=August 12, 2019|website=The Verge|language=en|access-date=February 14, 2020|archive-date=February 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200214032041/https://www.theverge.com/2019/8/12/20802539/nintendo-switch-v2-new-updated-battery-console-how-to-buy|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/nintendo-releasing-new-switch-model-with-a-better-batte-1836444569 |title=Nintendo Releasing New Switch Model With Better Battery Life |website=Kotaku |first=Brian |last=Ashcraft |date=July 17, 2019 |access-date=July 17, 2019 |archive-date=July 17, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717130713/https://kotaku.com/nintendo-releasing-new-switch-model-with-a-better-batte-1836444569 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-07-17-new-nintendo-switch-version-will-have-longer-battery-life | title = New Nintendo Switch announced, will have longer battery life | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = July 17, 2019 | access-date = July 17, 2019 | work = Eurogamer | archive-date = February 17, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210217142619/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-07-17-new-nintendo-switch-version-will-have-longer-battery-life | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="ign new model">{{cite web | url = https://www.ign.com/articles/the-new-switch-model-is-now-available-at-amazon-plus-other-switch-buying-options | title = New-Model Nintendo Switch With Better Battery Life In Neon Red/Blue Is Now Available | first = Chris | last = Reed | date = August 30, 2019 | access-date = January 1, 2020 | work = IGN | archive-date = January 1, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200101002815/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-new-switch-model-is-now-available-at-amazon-plus-other-switch-buying-options | url-status = live }}</ref>

=== Production ===
The Nintendo Switch is produced between Taiwan-based [[Company:Foxconn|Foxconn]] and Japan-based Hosiden, with Foxconn accounting for the largest volume.<ref name="digitimes oct2017" /> Nintendo did not plan to sell the Switch [[Finance:Loss leader|below manufacturing cost]] at launch,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.technobuffalo.com/2017/01/31/nintendo-switch-sold-at-profit/|title=Every Nintendo Switch will be sold at a profit from day one|date=January 31, 2017|work=TechnoBuffalo|access-date=September 6, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=September 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180906052741/https://www.technobuffalo.com/2017/01/31/nintendo-switch-sold-at-profit/|url-status=dead}}</ref> as they had done for both the 3DS and Wii U at their respective launches;<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2012/10/25/3552686/nintendo-wii-u-loss-leader-launch | title = Nintendo will sell Wii U 'below cost' at launch | first = Vlad | last = Savov | date = October 25, 2012 | access-date = December 9, 2016 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161220082449/http://www.theverge.com/2012/10/25/3552686/nintendo-wii-u-loss-leader-launch | archive-date = December 20, 2016 }}</ref> Nintendo affirmed that the Switch would be profitable from launch during its 2016 fiscal year earnings report, as the company saw the console as a key earnings driver for 2017 and beyond.<ref name="bloomberg fy16">{{Cite news | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-31/nintendo-beats-profit-lifts-forecast-on-pokemon-ahead-of-switch | title = Nintendo Beats Profit, Lifts Forecast on Pokemon Ahead of Switch | first1 = Yuji | last1 = Nakamura | first2 = Takashi | last2 = Amano | date = January 31, 2017 | access-date = January 31, 2017 | newspaper = {{wipe|Bloomberg News}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170131084504/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-31/nintendo-beats-profit-lifts-forecast-on-pokemon-ahead-of-switch | archive-date = January 31, 2017 }}</ref> Fomalhaut Techno Solutions, a Japanese product teardown firm, estimated that the Switch cost $257 to make compared to its $299 MSRP, with the console and dock at $167 while each Joy-Con costs $45.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/4/5/15195638/nintendo-switch-component-cost-estimate | title = Japanese site estimates Nintendo spends $257 to make one Switch | first = Charlie | last = Hall | date = April 5, 2017 | access-date = April 5, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170405215009/http://www.polygon.com/2017/4/5/15195638/nintendo-switch-component-cost-estimate | archive-date = April 5, 2017 }}</ref> Kimishima said that they may be able to see further profitability on the Switch when they can achieve volume discounts on components once they reach a level of about 10 million Switch units.<ref name="gamasutra fy2016 qa">{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/4-interesting-comments-from-nintendo-s-q-a-session |title=4 interesting comments from Nintendo's Q&A session |first=Alissa |last=McAloon |date=May 3, 2017 |access-date=May 3, 2017 |website=Game Developer |url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827071104/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/4-interesting-comments-from-nintendo-s-q-a-session |archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref>

Prior to launch, Nintendo anticipated shipping two million Nintendo Switch units by the end of the console's first month, and assured that its supply chain would be able to meet demand following the launch period to avoid the shortage situation with the [[Engineering:NES Classic Edition|NES Classic Edition]] in late 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-expects-switch-to-initially-ship-2-million-units |title=Nintendo expects Switch to initially ship 2 million units |first=Chris |last=Kerr |date=October 26, 2016 |access-date=October 26, 2016 |website=Game Developer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221208025537/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-expects-switch-to-initially-ship-2-million-units |archive-date=December 8, 2022 }}</ref><ref name="wired filsamie" /><ref name="vb 2017-01-31">{{cite web |last1=Takahasi |first1=Dean |title=Nintendo still aims to ship 2 million Switch consoles by March |url=https://venturebeat.com/2017/01/31/nintendo-still-aims-to-ship-2-million-switch-consoles-by-march/ |website=VentureBeat |access-date=August 3, 2019 |date=January 31, 2017 |archive-date=August 3, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190803212045/https://venturebeat.com/2017/01/31/nintendo-still-aims-to-ship-2-million-switch-consoles-by-march/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Kimishima anticipated that the Switch will have lifetime sales numbers similar to the Wii, which sold 101 million units by 2016.<ref name="gamasutra 100m">{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-president-expects-switch-sales-to-match-the-wii |title=Nintendo president expects Switch sales to match the Wii |first=Chris |last=Kerr |date = February 2, 2017 |access-date=February 2, 2017 |website=Game Developer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827192242/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-president-expects-switch-sales-to-match-the-wii |archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref>

Following the initial sales report numbers in April 2017, the ''[[Social:Financial Times|Financial Times]]'' reported that the company was seeking to produce 18 million Switch units in its 2017 financial year as to avoid "customer tantrums" with poor supply levels, particularly near the 2017 holiday season and the release of ''[[Software:Super Mario Odyssey|Super Mario Odyssey]]'' on October 27, 2017.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.ft.com/content/7edcebea-4207-11e7-82b6-896b95f30f58 | title = Nintendo to ramp up production of Switch as demand soars | first1 = Leo | last1 = Lewis | first2 = Kana | last2 = Inagaki | date = May 28, 2017 | access-date = May 29, 2017 | website = [[Social:Financial Times|Financial Times]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170604072346/https://www.ft.com/content/7edcebea-4207-11e7-82b6-896b95f30f58 | archive-date = June 4, 2017 }}</ref> Fils-Aimé said in September 2017 that their 2017 production target for the Switch could be hampered by bottlenecks in individual components.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-battles-apple-for-parts-as-switch-demand-rises-1496136603 | title = Nintendo Battles Apple for Parts as Switch Demand Rises | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = May 30, 2017 | access-date = May 30, 2017 | website = {{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170530112354/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-battles-apple-for-parts-as-switch-demand-rises-1496136603 | archive-date = May 30, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.ft.com/content/7bafad44-95cd-11e7-a652-cde3f882dd7b | title = Component bottlenecks hit Nintendo's Switch | first1 = Tim | last1 = Bradshaw | first2 = Leo | last2 = Lewis | date = September 9, 2017 | access-date = September 9, 2017 | website = [[Social:Financial Times|Financial Times]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170910034903/https://www.ft.com/content/7bafad44-95cd-11e7-a652-cde3f882dd7b | archive-date = September 10, 2017 }}</ref> ''DigiTimes'' reported in October 2017 that Nintendo had further shifted the production rate for the Switch up to 2 million per month, with plans to ship 20 million units by the end of the year; the newspaper also stated that the production rate was limited by component availability, and not by other factors of Nintendo's production process.<ref name="digitimes oct2017">{{Cite web | url = https://www.digitimes.com/news/a20171005PD202.html | title = Nintendo ups Switch supply to 2 million a month | first1 = Aaron | last1 = Lee | first2 = Joseph | last2 = Tsai | date = October 5, 2017 | access-date = October 9, 2017 | website = DigiTimes | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171007080112/http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20171005PD202.html | archive-date = October 7, 2017 }}</ref>

On the presentation of the 2017 fiscal year results to investors, Nintendo's newly named president Shuntaro Furukawa stated that they anticipate producing 20&nbsp;million Switch consoles over the 2018 fiscal year keeping the momentum of its sales in that year.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-chips-tsmc/smartphone-slowdown-tests-new-leadership-at-taiwans-chip-champion-idUKKCN1LL0TL | title = Nintendo switches president after forecasting best annual profit in nine years | date = April 26, 2018 | access-date = September 5, 2018 | publisher = {{wipe|Reuters}} | archive-date = September 5, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180905135413/https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-chips-tsmc/smartphone-slowdown-tests-new-leadership-at-taiwans-chip-champion-idUKKCN1LL0TL | url-status = live }}</ref>

In June 2019, ''{{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}}'' reported that Nintendo was starting to move some of its production of the Switch and two hardware revisions of the Switch outside of China and into [[Place:Southeast Asia|Southeast Asia]] to limit the impact of new United States tariffs on electronics made in China.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-moves-some-switch-production-out-of-china-adapting-to-tariff-threat-11560328484|title=Nintendo Moves Some Switch Production Out of China, Adapting to Tariff Threat|last=Mochizuki|first=Takashi|date=June 12, 2019|work={{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}}|access-date=June 12, 2019|language=en-US|issn=0099-9660|archive-date=June 12, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612112002/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-moves-some-switch-production-out-of-china-adapting-to-tariff-threat-11560328484|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":7">{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/6/12/18662508/nintendo-switch-new-models-china-manufacturing-trade-war|title=Nintendo starts producing new Switch models outside China to fend off trade war|last=Porter|first=Jon|date=June 12, 2019|website=The Verge|access-date=June 12, 2019|archive-date=June 12, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190612122115/https://www.theverge.com/2019/6/12/18662508/nintendo-switch-new-models-china-manufacturing-trade-war|url-status=live}}</ref>

In November 2020, {{wipe|Bloomberg News}} reported that Nintendo asked its assembly partners to boost production of the Switch by 20% and raised its target goal of Switch sales for the 2020 fiscal year from 25 million units sold to 30 million units, having previously reportedly raised their target for the fiscal year from 22 million units sold to 25 million units in August 2020.<ref name=":6">{{Cite news|last=Mochizuki|first=Takashi|date=September 9, 2020|title=Nintendo Boosts Switch Production by Another 20%|work={{wipe|Bloomberg News}}|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-09-09/nintendo-said-to-boost-switch-production-by-another-20|access-date=January 5, 2020|archive-date=September 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200909072735/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-09-09/nintendo-said-to-boost-switch-production-by-another-20|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":9">{{Cite news|last=Mochizuki|first=Takashi|date=August 5, 2020|title=Nintendo Is Said to Hike Switch Target Again to Sate Gaming Boom|website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}}|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-06/nintendo-is-said-to-hike-switch-target-again-to-sate-gaming-boom|access-date=January 5, 2020|archive-date=August 9, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809232211/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-06/nintendo-is-said-to-hike-switch-target-again-to-sate-gaming-boom|url-status=live}}</ref> These boosts in production have been attributed to more demand mainly due to the success of ''[[Software:Animal Crossing: New Horizons|Animal Crossing]]'' during the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":9" />

=== Other models ===

==== Nintendo Switch Lite ====
[[File:NintendoSwitchLiteConsole.png|thumb|The Nintendo Switch Lite integrates the Joy-Con into the main body.]]
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a revision of the Switch designed for [[Handheld game console|handheld play]] released worldwide on September 20, 2019, with an MSRP of {{USD|199.99}}.<ref name="wsj lite"/> First announced in July 2019, the Switch Lite is a single unit, integrating the Joy-Con as part of the main unit's hardware, and uses a smaller screen measuring {{convert|5.5|in|cm}} diagonally. Additionally, a regular directional pad replaces the four directional buttons on the integrated left Joy-Con. While using a smaller battery than the original Switch, the Switch Lite uses a more power-efficient chipset, the 16-nanometer Tegra X1+, to extend the estimated use time from 2.5 to 6.5 hours to 3–7 hours on a single battery charge.<ref name="theverge fcc lite">{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/8/5/20755253/nintendo-switch-lite-smaller-battery-new-processor-fcc-filings | title = Nintendo Switch Lite FCC filings confirm a smaller battery, new processor, and Odin fixation | first = Cameron | last = Faulkner | date = August 5, 2019 | access-date = August 5, 2019 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = August 5, 2019 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190805222523/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/8/5/20755253/nintendo-switch-lite-smaller-battery-new-processor-fcc-filings | url-status = live }}</ref>

According to ''{{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}}'', Nintendo's goal with the Switch Lite was to produce a sub {{USD|200}} unit, aimed at [[Software:Gamer#Dedication spectrum|casual gamers]], to compete with gaming services that do not require a dedicated device. To achieve this, Nintendo negotiated on reduced prices from its component suppliers. Further, the ''Journal'' stated that Nintendo had gained Murata Manufacturing as a battery supplier in addition to [[Company:TDK|TDK]], to lower costs by causing competition between the two companies.<ref name="wsj lite">{{cite news | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-seeks-to-sustain-switch-sales-with-stripped-down-console-11568975330 | title = Nintendo Seeks to Sustain Switch Sales With Stripped-Down Console | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = September 20, 2019 | access-date = September 20, 2019 | work = {{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} | archive-date = September 21, 2019 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190921214420/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-seeks-to-sustain-switch-sales-with-stripped-down-console-11568975330 | url-status = live }}</ref>

The Switch Lite normally only supports games that can be played in handheld mode, retaining features like the Switch's [[Physics:Accelerometer#Consumer electronics|gyroscopic sensors]], Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and [[Near-field communication|NFC]] compatibility. Some tabletop games that require the HD Rumble or IR camera features, such as ''[[Software:1-2-Switch|1-2-Switch]]'', require players to use separate Joy-Con controllers with the Switch Lite. The system does not support any docking or connectivity to a television and is thus incompatible with games that require television mode. Players who attempt to purchase games that require television or tabletop mode via the eShop on the Switch Lite will be notified of the incompatibility. Though not included with the system, the Switch Lite does support external controllers otherwise compatible with standard Switch models, such as standalone Joy-Con controllers, though they cannot be docked to the system.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/the-nintendo-switch-lite-will-be-released-on-september-1836239070|title=The Nintendo Switch Lite Will Be Released On September 20|work=Kotaku|last=Ashcraft|first=Brian|date=10 July 2019|access-date=10 July 2019|archive-date=February 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210217142913/https://kotaku.com/the-nintendo-switch-lite-will-be-released-on-september-1836239070|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/7/10/20687801/nintendo-switch-lite-price-release-date-size-battery-life-motion-control-games|title=Nintendo Switch Lite is a smaller, cheaper Switch built exclusively for handheld play|work=[[The Verge]]|last=Webster|first=Andrew|date=10 July 2019|access-date=10 July 2019|archive-date=February 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210217142853/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/7/10/20687801/nintendo-switch-lite-price-release-date-size-battery-life-motion-control-games|url-status=live}}</ref> Some controllers, such as [[Engineering:GameCube controller|GameCube controller]]s, work with the system, but require extra adapters, as the normal GameCube to Switch adapter uses the USB ports on the full-size Switch's dock.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/42816/~/how-to-use-the-gamecube-controller-with-nintendo-switch|title=Nintendo Support: How to Use the GameCube Controller With Nintendo Switch|website=en-americas-support.nintendo.com|access-date=2020-04-15|archive-date=May 22, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230522150641/https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/42816/~/how-to-use-the-gamecube-controller-with-nintendo-switch|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nintendosoup.com/how-to-connect-your-gamecube-controller-to-the-nintendo-switch-lite/|title=How To Connect Your GameCube Controller To The Nintendo Switch Lite|last=Wortiz|date=2019-09-21|website=NintendoSoup|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-15|archive-date=April 23, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230423143418/https://nintendosoup.com/how-to-connect-your-gamecube-controller-to-the-nintendo-switch-lite/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== OLED model ====

[[File:Nintendo Switch – OLED-Modell, Konsole und Dock 20230506.png|thumb|The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model features a larger OLED display, a metal body and a redesigned kickstand.]]

On July 6, 2021, Nintendo officially announced a new model called the '''Nintendo Switch – OLED Model'''. The OLED model features a {{convert|7|in|mm|adj=on}} 720p [[Chemistry:OLED|OLED]] display, and when docked, output to 1080p resolution similar to the original model. Additionally, it features 64GB of internal storage, enhanced audio functions, a [[Chemistry:Magnesium alloy|magnesium alloy]] body and a wider adjustable stand for use in tabletop mode. The unit ships with a new dock that includes a wired LAN port.<ref name="polygon oled announce" /> It features similar technical specifications as the base Switch model, and is compatible with all Switch games and existing accessories.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-confirms-switch-oled-has-no-major-internal-changes/ | title = Nintendo confirms Switch OLED has 'no major internal changes' | first = Andy | last = Robinson | date = July 6, 2021 | access-date = July 6, 2021 | work = Video Games Chronicle | archive-date = July 6, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210706153931/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-confirms-switch-oled-has-no-major-internal-changes/ | url-status = live }}</ref> The unit ships in two bundles: one that includes a black dock and red and blue Joy-Con (similar to the base model's default color scheme), and one that includes a white dock and white Joy-Con. It was released on October 8, 2021, alongside the release of ''[[Software:Metroid Dread|Metroid Dread]]'', with a retail price of {{USD|349.99|long=no}}.<ref name="polygon oled announce">{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/22166494/nintendo-switch-pro-4k-release-date-price-specs | title = Nintendo announces new Nintendo Switch model with OLED screen | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = July 6, 2021 | access-date = July 6, 2021 | work = Polygon | archive-date = October 29, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211029205207/https://www.polygon.com/22166494/nintendo-switch-pro-4k-release-date-price-specs | url-status = live }}</ref>
Ahead of the release of the OLED version on September 13, 2021, Nintendo reduced the base price of the original Switch model in Europe from {{Euro|329.99}} to {{Euro|299.99}}, and in the UK from {{GBP|279.99}} to {{GBP|259.99}}, which Nintendo said also reflected changes in currency exchange rates.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/13/22671208/nintendo-switch-pricing-lowered-europe-uk | title = Nintendo lowers Switch price across Europe ahead of OLED model | first = Tom | last = Warren | date = September 13, 2021 | accessdate = September 13, 2021 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = September 13, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210913095615/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/13/22671208/nintendo-switch-pricing-lowered-europe-uk | url-status = live }}</ref> All other regions – including North America and Australia – did not receive a price cut.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-09-15-nintendo-has-no-plans-for-switch-price-drop-outside-europe | title = Nintendo has no plans for Switch price drop outside Europe | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = September 15, 2021 | accessdate = October 15, 2021 | work = Eurogamer | archive-date = October 28, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211028171231/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-09-15-nintendo-has-no-plans-for-switch-price-drop-outside-europe | url-status = live }}</ref> Four special-edition models were released: those for ''[[Software:Splatoon 3|Splatoon 3]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Switch – OLED Model Inspired by Splatoon 3 Coming to Stores on Aug. 26 – News – Nintendo Official Site |url=https://www.nintendo.com/en-ca/whatsnew/nintendo-switch-oled-model-inspired-by-splatoon-3-coming-to-stores-on-aug-26/ |access-date=July 20, 2022 |website=www.nintendo.com |language=en-ca |archive-date=October 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221021164609/https://www.nintendo.com/en-ca/whatsnew/nintendo-switch-oled-model-inspired-by-splatoon-3-coming-to-stores-on-aug-26/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Software:Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|''Pokémon Scarlet'' and ''Violet'']],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leston |first=Ryan |date=September 7, 2022 |title=Pokémon Scarlet & Violet are Getting a Special Edition Switch OLED |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/pokemon-scarlet-violet-special-edition-switch-oled |access-date=September 9, 2022 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=September 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220909194507/https://www.ign.com/articles/pokemon-scarlet-violet-special-edition-switch-oled |url-status=live }}</ref> ''The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom'',<ref name="Anderson 2023">{{cite web | last=Anderson | first=Robert | title=The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch OLED is Now Available to Preorder in the UK | website=IGN | date=2023-03-29 | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-switch-oled-is-now-available-to-preorder-in-the-uk | access-date=2023-04-27 | archive-date=April 27, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230427205609/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-switch-oled-is-now-available-to-preorder-in-the-uk | url-status=live }}</ref> and a "Mario Red Edition" to tie into ''[[Software:Super Mario Bros. Wonder|Super Mario Bros. Wonder]]''.<ref name="Humphries 2023 k284">{{cite web | last=Humphries | first=Matthew | title=Nintendo Reveals Limited-Edition 'Mario Red Edition' OLED Switch | website=PCMAG | date=2023-08-31 | url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/nintendo-reveals-limited-edition-mario-red-edition-oled-switch | access-date=2023-08-31 | archive-date=August 31, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230831165110/https://www.pcmag.com/news/nintendo-reveals-limited-edition-mario-red-edition-oled-switch | url-status=live }}</ref>

==== Rumored high-end model ====
In early 2019, reports from ''{{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}}'' and ''[[Social:The Nikkei|The Nikkei]]'' claimed that Nintendo had plans for two new models of the Nintendo Switch. One new model was a lightweight revision, later revealed as the Nintendo Switch Lite; the other was to be a more powerful console to be released in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |last=Mochizuki |first=Takashi |date=March 25, 2019 |title=Nintendo to Launch Two New Switch Models |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-to-launch-two-new-switch-models-11553494773 |access-date=April 24, 2019 |work={{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} |archive-date=April 29, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190429084348/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-to-launch-two-new-switch-models-11553494773 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=April 18, 2019 |title=Nintendo, the kingdom of mogul originality creeping black ship |url=https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXMZO43574890Q9A410C1000000/ |access-date=April 24, 2019 |work=[[Social:The Nikkei|The Nikkei]] |archive-date=April 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428231523/https://www.nikkei.com/article/DGXMZO43574890Q9A410C1000000/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A notification from Nintendo alerting the Federal Communications Commission of changes to the Switch's hardware in July 2019 were used as further evidence for a new model.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=July 10, 2019 |title=Nintendo is updating the original Switch with a new CPU and storage |url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/7/10/20689379/nintendo-switch-update-fcc-change-cpu-nvidia-tegra-soc-nand |access-date=July 10, 2019 |work=[[The Verge]] |archive-date=July 10, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190710210844/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2019/7/10/20689379/nintendo-switch-update-fcc-change-cpu-nvidia-tegra-soc-nand |url-status=live }}</ref> ''DigiTimes'' later corroborated previous reports, claiming Nintendo planned to release a model with an improved CPU and [[Chemistry:Magnesium alloy|magnesium alloy]] body in the second half of 2020<ref name=":0" />—in December 2019, Nintendo denied any intent to release a new model in 2020,<ref>{{cite web |last=Byford |first=Sam |date=January 30, 2020 |title=Nintendo says it has no plans for a new Switch this year |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/1/30/21116200/new-nintendo-switch-model-not-happening-2020 |access-date=February 3, 2020 |work=[[The Verge]] |archive-date=February 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200201222553/https://www.theverge.com/2020/1/30/21116200/new-nintendo-switch-model-not-happening-2020 |url-status=live }}</ref> and the global chip shortage beginning in 2020 impacted console production regardless.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ivan |first=Tom |date=May 7, 2021 |title=Nintendo's president confirms chip shortages are hampering Switch production |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-president-confirms-chip-shortage-is-hampering-switch-production/ |accessdate=October 1, 2021 |work=Video Games Chronicle}}</ref> ''{{wipe|Bloomberg News}}'' continued to state Nintendo was preparing to release a higher-end Nintendo Switch model with an OLED screen and the ability to output a [[4K resolution|4K resolution]], and the model would release in late 2021.<ref>{{cite web |last=Mochizuki |first=Takashi |date=August 25, 2020 |title=Nintendo Plans Upgraded Switch Console and Major Games for 2021 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-25/nintendo-plans-upgraded-switch-console-and-major-games-for-2021 |access-date=August 25, 2020 |website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}}}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Mochizuki |first1=Takashi |last2=Kim |first2=Sohee |date=March 3, 2021 |title=Nintendo Plans Switch Model With Bigger Samsung OLED Display |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-04/nintendo-plans-switch-model-with-bigger-samsung-oled-display |accessdate=March 3, 2021 |website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}} |archive-date=March 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304005827/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-04/nintendo-plans-switch-model-with-bigger-samsung-oled-display |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Mochizuki |first1=Takashi |last2=King |first2=Ian |date=March 23, 2021 |title=Nintendo to Use New Nvidia Graphics Chip in 2021 Switch Upgrade |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-23/nintendo-to-use-new-nvidia-graphics-chip-in-2021-switch-upgrade |accessdate=March 23, 2021 |website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}} |archive-date=March 23, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210323070235/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-23/nintendo-to-use-new-nvidia-graphics-chip-in-2021-switch-upgrade |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Mochizuki |first=Takashi |date=September 9, 2020 |title=Nintendo Boosts Switch Production by Another 20% |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-09-09/nintendo-said-to-boost-switch-production-by-another-20 |access-date=September 9, 2020 |website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}} |archive-date=September 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200909072735/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-09-09/nintendo-said-to-boost-switch-production-by-another-20 |url-status=live }}</ref> However, Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch OLED model in July 2021.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mochizuki |first1=Takashi |last2=Wu |first2=Debby |date=May 26, 2021 |title=Nintendo Plans Upgraded Switch Replacement as Soon as September |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-05-27/nintendo-plans-upgraded-switch-replacement-as-soon-as-september |accessdate=May 26, 2021 |website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}} |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527043933/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-05-27/nintendo-plans-upgraded-switch-replacement-as-soon-as-september |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="polygon oled announce" /> Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser said that Nintendo aims to use technology to enhance gameplay, and does not create "technology for technology's sake".<ref>{{cite news |last=Park |first=Gene |date=June 18, 2021 |title=Nintendo president Doug Bowser: Switch is 'redefining what a console life cycle can look like' |newspaper={{wipe|The Washington Post}} |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2021/06/18/nintendo-doug-bowser-switch-interview/ |accessdate=June 18, 2021 |archive-date=July 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709171810/https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2021/06/18/nintendo-doug-bowser-switch-interview/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Bloomberg'' again stated that a higher-end Switch was in development, and other upgrades were scrapped in favor of only the OLED screen in light of the chip shortage.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mochizuki |first1=Takashi |last2=Kharif |first2=Olga |date=September 29, 2021 |title=Developers Are Making Games for a Nintendo 4K Console That Doesn't Exist |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-09-29/nintendo-switch-4k-developers-make-games-for-nonexistent-console |accessdate=September 29, 2021 |website={{wipe|Bloomberg News}} |archive-date=September 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929222350/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-09-29/nintendo-switch-4k-developers-make-games-for-nonexistent-console |url-status=live }}</ref> In response, Nintendo said that the report was "not true" and made false claims about the company.<ref name="verge nintendo denial sept21">{{cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=September 30, 2021 |title=Nintendo categorically denies that a 4K Switch Pro is in development |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/29/22701435/nintendo-categorically-denies-4k-switch-pro-development |accessdate=October 1, 2021 |work=[[The Verge]] |archive-date=September 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210930173942/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/29/22701435/nintendo-categorically-denies-4k-switch-pro-development |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Company:Zynga|Zynga]]—one company named by ''Bloomberg'' as having received a development kit of an upgraded Nintendo Switch model—also denied the factuality of the report.<ref name="verge nintendo denial sept21" /> Continued rumors of a high-end model were fueled by a leak of Nvidia's [[Source code|source code]] showing a custom chip with [[Deep learning super sampling|DLSS]] support made for Nintendo.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Gerblick |first1=Jordan |date=March 1, 2022 |title=Massive Nvidia leak reignites Nintendo Switch Pro speculation |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/massive-nvidia-leak-reignites-nintendo-switch-pro-speculation/ |access-date=March 2, 2022 |website=GamesRadar |language=en |archive-date=March 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220301230515/https://www.gamesradar.com/massive-nvidia-leak-reignites-nintendo-switch-pro-speculation/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In December 2022, ''Digital Foundry'' claimed that any upgraded Nintendo Switch model was no longer in development, and that Nintendo instead is focusing on the system's successor.<ref>{{cite web |last=Bahri |first=Syazwan |date=December 28, 2022 |title='Switch Pro' Reportedly Cancelled As Nintendo Shifts Focus To Next-Gen Console |url=https://sea.ign.com/nintendo-switch/193861/news/switch-pro-reportedly-cancelled-as-nintendo-shifts-focus-to-next-gen-console |accessdate=December 31, 2022 |work=IGN |archive-date=December 31, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221231193827/https://sea.ign.com/nintendo-switch/193861/news/switch-pro-reportedly-cancelled-as-nintendo-shifts-focus-to-next-gen-console |url-status=live }}</ref>

====Rumored successor console====

Industry rumors of a new console emerged in July 2023, as several of Nintendo's development partners reported on receiving development kits for this new system.<ref name="vgc nextgen"/> Nintendo has alluded to a successor console, such as retaining the use of Nintendo Accounts, but has avoided affirming any details on a new console.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Will Keep The Same Account System On Next Console For Ease Of Use, Apparently |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-will-keep-the-same-account-system-on-next-console-for-ease-of-use-apparently/1100-6515509/ |access-date=2024-01-15 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US}}</ref>

''Eurogamer'', among other sources, learned from insiders that Nintendo demonstrated features of the new console at Gamescom 2023 behind closed doors to developers.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-demoed-switch-2-to-developers-at-gamescom | title = Nintendo demoed Switch 2 to developers at Gamescom | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = September 7, 2023 | accessdate = September 7, 2023 | work = Eurogamer | archive-date = September 7, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230907115626/https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-demoed-switch-2-to-developers-at-gamescom | url-status = live }}</ref> In mid-2023, document discovery in the ''FTC v. Microsoft'' case revealed that Activision was briefed about the "Switch NG" (NG for next generation) in late 2022, with its performance stated to be similar to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/18/23878412/nintendo-switch-2-activision-briefing-next-gen-switch | title=Activision was briefed on Nintendo's Switch 2 last year | date=September 18, 2023 | access-date=September 18, 2023 | archive-date=September 18, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918145357/https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/18/23878412/nintendo-switch-2-activision-briefing-next-gen-switch | url-status=live }}</ref> 

The new console's alleged [[System on a chip|system on a chip]], the Nvidia [[Engineering:Tegra|Tegra]] T239 (codenamed "Drake") was leaked in the 2022 Nvidia ransomware attack by Lapsus$, and features 1536 [[Software:CUDA|CUDA]] cores, 8 [[Engineering:ARM Cortex-A78|ARM Cortex-A78C]] CPU cores, and a [[128-bit computing|128-bit]] LPDDR5 memory interface.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-03 |title=Inside Nvidia's new hardware for Switch 2: what is the T239 processor? |language=en |work=Eurogamer.net |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2023-inside-nvidias-latest-hardware-for-nintendo-what-is-the-t239-processor |access-date=2023-11-09 |archive-date=November 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231109203335/https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2023-inside-nvidias-latest-hardware-for-nintendo-what-is-the-t239-processor |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Company:Sharp Corporation|Sharp Corporation]] stated they had been providing Nintendo LCD screens for the new console since mid-2023, and technology analysis firm Omdia stated these were likely to be 8-inch screens.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-01-26/switch-2-nintendo-s-next-gen-console-to-have-8-inch-lcd-screen-omdia-says| title = Nintendo’s Next Switch Coming This Year With LCD, Omdia Says | first1 = Takashi | last1 = Mochizuki | first2 = Yuki | last2 = Furukawa | date = January 25, 2024 |accessdate = January 27, 2024 | work = {{wipe|Bloomberg News}} }}</ref> Other reports stated the new console will have [[Deep learning super sampling|DLSS]] and [[Ray tracing (graphics)|ray tracing]] integration, and that developers have been shown tech demos running on targeted hardware, namely ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'' at [[4K resolution|4K resolution]] and a [[Frame rate|frame rate]] of sixty frames per second, as well as [[Company:Epic Games|Epic Games]]' ''[[Software:The Matrix Awakens|The Matrix Awakens]]'' tech demo for Unreal Engine 5.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-07 |title=Sources: Nintendo showed Switch 2 demos at Gamescom |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sources-nintendo-showed-switch-2-demos-at-gamescom/ |access-date=2023-09-11 |website=VGC |language=en-GB |archive-date=September 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230911174106/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sources-nintendo-showed-switch-2-demos-at-gamescom/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Based on many of these rumors, the new system is planned to be released in late 2024, with Nintendo working with its partners to assure high volumes of product at launch.<ref name="vgc nextgen">{{Cite web |date=2023-07-31 |title=Sources: Nintendo targets 2024 with next-gen console |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sources-nintendo-switch-2-targets-2024-with-next-gen-console/ |access-date=2023-08-01 |website=VGC |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 31, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230731143714/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sources-nintendo-switch-2-targets-2024-with-next-gen-console/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Company:Altec Lansing|Altec Lansing]] had issued a press release in January 2024 that claimed the Switch successor would be out in September 2024, which their social media later claimed was just a guess.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/audio-firm-publishes-pr-claiming-switch-2-will-release-in-september-later-claims-it-guessed/ | title=Audio firm publishes PR claiming Switch 2 will release in September, later claims it 'guessed' | date=January 11, 2024 }}</ref> An analyst for Japan-based Kantan Games stated in January 2024 that the "pro" model of the Switch should be seen as an iteration of the Switch console rather than a revolution from it, and likely would be priced at $400 with new games costing $70.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/switch-2-likely-to-be-iteration-rather-than-revolution-predicts-analyst/ | title=Switch 2 'likely to be iteration rather than revolution', predicts analyst | date=January 3, 2024 | access-date=January 4, 2024 | archive-date=January 4, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104231333/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/switch-2-likely-to-be-iteration-rather-than-revolution-predicts-analyst/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

== Software ==
{{Main|Software:Nintendo Switch system software}}

[[File:Nintendo Switch Menu screenshot.png|thumb|upright=1|The main menu screen of the Switch console|alt=The Nintendo Switch main menu.]]

The Nintendo Switch runs on a custom-made [[Operating system|operating system]] named Horizon, built on a [[Microkernel|microkernel]] architecture.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Roussel-Tarbouriec|first1=Gauvain|last2=Menard|first2=Noel|last3=True|first3=Tyler|first4=Vi|last4=Tini|author5=Reisyukaku|date=July 6, 2019|title=Methodically Defeating Nintendo Switch Security|journal=Cornell University|volume=arXiv:1905.07643|pages=12|arxiv=1905.07643}}</ref> The Switch's [[User interface|user interface]] features tile-based access to games that are either present in the game card slot or stored within the unit's storage devices. It includes quick access buttons for a News feed from Nintendo, eShop access, and a photo album for screenshots captured during gameplay;<ref name="ign ui" /> the 4.0 update to the software in October 2017 also enabled capturing and sharing video from select games.<ref name="eg 4.0" /> A single Switch console supports up to eight user profiles, which each can be tied to a [[Nintendo Account]] user ID.<ref name="kotaku questions" /> Profiles can be represented by either a pre-made [[Avatar (computing)|avatar]] from an internal gallery, or using a Mii. The Mii creator was upgraded with increased color options for aspects such as hair styles; however, it is integrated into the system settings, rather than being an independent application.<ref name="eurogamer-miiswitch">{{Cite web|title=Nintendo Switch's updated Mii creator lets you turn your hair blue|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-02-23-nintendo-switchs-updated-mii-creator-lets-you-turn-your-hair-blue|website=Eurogamer|date=February 23, 2017|access-date=March 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170303123827/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-02-23-nintendo-switchs-updated-mii-creator-lets-you-turn-your-hair-blue|archive-date=March 3, 2017}}</ref><ref name="kotaku questions">{{Cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/nintendo-answers-and-avoids-our-switch-questions-1791402953 | title = Nintendo Answers (And Avoids) Our Switch Questions | first = Jason | last = Schreier | date = January 19, 2017 | access-date = January 19, 2017 | website = Kotaku | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170120065652/http://kotaku.com/nintendo-answers-and-avoids-our-switch-questions-1791402953 | archive-date = January 20, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="polygon-miicolors">{{Cite web|title=Nintendo Switch's Mii editor gets colorful|url=http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/23/14717198/nintendo-switch-mii-editor-color-options|website=Polygon|date=February 23, 2017|access-date=March 2, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170303123125/http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/23/14717198/nintendo-switch-mii-editor-color-options|archive-date=March 3, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/23/14704686/nintendo-switch-day-one-patch | title = Nintendo Switch's day-one patch adds online features | first = Allegra | last = Frank | date = February 23, 2017 | access-date = February 23, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170223160211/http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/23/14704686/nintendo-switch-day-one-patch | archive-date = February 23, 2017 }}</ref>

Prior to the 4.0 update, players discovered that the Switch's firmware included an [[Easter egg (media)|Easter egg]] allowing players to play the NES ''[[Software:Golf (1984 video game)|Golf]]'' title via a built-in emulator. While Nintendo has not confirmed its presence<!--update if necessary-->, journalists and players believed this to be a tribute to Nintendo's former president Satoru Iwata; ''Golf'' was programmed by Iwata, and the game could only be accessed if the system clock was set to July 11 – the day when Iwata died in 2015 – and the Joy-Con are moved similarly to how Iwata would move his hands in his Nintendo Direct presentations. Some Japanese users referred to this as an ''[[Religion:Omamori|omamori]]'' (charm) left by Iwata himself.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/09/20/the-golf-game-on-every-nintendo-switch-is-actually-a-tribute-to-late-satoru-iwata/ | title = The Golf game on every Nintendo Switch is actually a tribute to late Satoru Iwata | first = Sherif | last = Saed | date = September 20, 2017 | access-date = September 20, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170921002202/https://www.vg247.com/2017/09/20/the-golf-game-on-every-nintendo-switch-is-actually-a-tribute-to-late-satoru-iwata/ | archive-date = September 21, 2017 }}</ref> With the 4.0 update, the executable code for this Easter egg appears to have been wiped by Nintendo.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2017/12/27/16822340/nintendo-switch-golf-game-hidden-removed | title = Switch's hidden Iwata tribute removed in latest update | first = Allegra | last = Frank | date = December 27, 2017 | access-date = December 27, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171228054142/https://www.polygon.com/2017/12/27/16822340/nintendo-switch-golf-game-hidden-removed | archive-date = December 28, 2017 }}</ref>

In August 2018, a Twitter user found files on the Switch's firmware while [[Reverse engineering|reverse-engineering]] the console, which suggested that Nintendo was possibly testing VR functionality for the Switch. The Twitter user was able to activate the hidden "VR Mode", which split the screen into two displays.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://metro.co.uk/2018/08/13/nintendo-switch-may-secret-vr-support-7832965/|title=Nintendo Switch may have secret VR support|date=August 13, 2018|work=Metro|access-date=August 13, 2018|language=en-GB|archive-date=August 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813135416/https://metro.co.uk/2018/08/13/nintendo-switch-may-secret-vr-support-7832965/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite news|url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/08/hackers-discover-buried-vrmode-support-in-switch-firmware/|title=Nintendo's Switch has been hiding a buried "VrMode" for over a year|work=Ars Technica|access-date=August 17, 2018|language=en-us|archive-date=August 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180817010549/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/08/hackers-discover-buried-vrmode-support-in-switch-firmware/|url-status=live}}</ref> Hackers found that the code related to possible VR functionality had been hidden in the Switch firmware for over a year.<ref name=":3" />

=== Security ===
Nintendo continued its [[White hat (computer security)|white hat]] security program that it had with the Nintendo 3DS. With help of third-party website HackerOne, Nintendo will award up to $20,000 to the first user to identify any vulnerability that impacts piracy, cheating, or potential sending of inappropriate content to younger users, the amount based on the severity of the security flaw.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-04-12-nintendo-posts-usd20k-bounty-for-info-on-switch-security-vulnerabilities | title = Nintendo posts $20k bounty for info on Switch security vulnerabilities | first = Tom | last = Phillips | date = April 12, 2017 | access-date = April 12, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170413071330/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-04-12-nintendo-posts-usd20k-bounty-for-info-on-switch-security-vulnerabilities | archive-date = April 13, 2017 }}</ref>

In April 2018, two separate groups discovered a method to use an exploit chain in the Tegra chip system that can be used to boot other software on the Switch. The exploit could not be patched through a software update, as the BootROM of the Tegra X1 can not be modified after the chip leaves the factory. Both groups had notified Nvidia and Nintendo of the exploit before publicly announcing their findings.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/04/the-unpatchable-exploit-that-makes-every-current-nintendo-switch-hackable/ | title = The "unpatchable" exploit that makes every current Nintendo Switch hackable | first = Kyle | last = Orland | date = April 23, 2018 | access-date = April 23, 2018 | website = [[Ars Technica]] | archive-date = April 23, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180423210059/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/04/the-unpatchable-exploit-that-makes-every-current-nintendo-switch-hackable/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Users studying the hardware determined that Nintendo has the capacity to permanently ban specific Switch consoles used to obtain software via this exploit from the Nintendo Network, as the Switch console includes a unique device identification code used as part of the validation to the Network. As games downloaded from the Nintendo Network include encrypted information that ties the Nintendo ID to the console, which is transmitted to Nintendo when users start playing games, Nintendo can track unapproved software downloads and take action.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/following-hardware-exploit-nintendo-bans-switch-consoles-with-pirated-games | title = Following hardware exploit, Nintendo bans Switch consoles with pirated games | first = Emma | last = Kidwell | date = June 20, 2018 | access-date = June 20, 2018 | website = Game Developer | archive-date = August 28, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210828073950/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/following-hardware-exploit-nintendo-bans-switch-consoles-with-pirated-games | url-status = live }}</ref> Nintendo has reportedly fixed the vulnerability in newer Switch units as of July 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-switch-reportedly-removes-homebrew-bug/|title=New Nintendo Switch consoles reportedly tweaked to remove homebrew bug|date=July 11, 2018|work=Digital Trends|access-date=July 13, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=July 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713165709/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-switch-reportedly-removes-homebrew-bug/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In June 2018, two hackers found a way to run the Switch system's developer software menu on non-developer Switch units, allowing users to directly load games onto SD cards or create custom avatars for their user profile, including pornographic and [[Social:Not safe for work|NSFW]] pictures, which violate Nintendo's terms of service. A Nintendo spokesperson responded to ''Kotaku''{{'}}s article on the topic, saying that "Modified Nintendo Switch systems have been banned".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://kotaku.com/the-fight-between-switch-hackers-and-nintendo-is-rampin-1827113537|title=The Fight Between Switch Hackers And Nintendo Is Ramping Up|last=Gach|first=Ethan|work=Kotaku|date=June 25, 2018|access-date=August 11, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=July 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704192341/https://kotaku.com/the-fight-between-switch-hackers-and-nintendo-is-rampin-1827113537|url-status=live}}</ref>

Shortly after the release of Nintendo Switch Online in September 2018, hackers and modders were able to figure out how to run unauthorized [[Read-only memory|ROMs]] on the Nintendo Switch NES emulator. A Switch hacker who goes by the name DevRin, was the first to discover the hack and posted his findings on [[Company:YouTube|YouTube]], which prompted a modder who goes by the name KapuccinoHeck to investigate the matter with two others and their findings were later posted on KapuccinoHeck's Twitter account.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/19/17879042/nintendo-switch-onlines-nes-emulator-hacked|title=Nintendo Switch Online's NES emulator already hacked to allow more games|work=Polygon|access-date=September 20, 2018|archive-date=September 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919210039/https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/19/17879042/nintendo-switch-onlines-nes-emulator-hacked|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://kotaku.com/hackers-have-already-cracked-open-the-switch-onlines-ne-1829181894|title=Hackers Have Already Cracked Open The Switch Online's NES Library|last=Gach|first=Ethan|work=Kotaku|access-date=September 20, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=September 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180919224712/https://kotaku.com/hackers-have-already-cracked-open-the-switch-onlines-ne-1829181894|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Online services ===

[[File:Nintendo Switch Online logo.svg|thumb|Nintendo Switch Online logo|alt=The Nintendo Switch Online logo. It is composed of the same two stylized white Joy-Con controllers on a red background as the main Nintendo Switch logo. Next to them is the text "ONLINE" in white.]]

Nintendo Switch user profiles can be linked to a [[Nintendo Account]], which enables access to online features and the ability to download and purchase software from Nintendo eShop. A Nintendo Account can be [[Social:Social login|created]] with an account from a third-party [[Social:Social networking service|social networking service]] or an existing Nintendo Network ID from a 3DS or Wii U. Nintendo does not plan to offer first-party social networking services on Switch, such as Miiverse or StreetPass, the latter owing to Nintendo's promotion of Switch as primarily being a home console. Instead, profiles can be linked to existing social networks such as [[Company:Facebook|Facebook]] and [[Company:Twitter|Twitter]] for social and sharing features.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://venturebeat.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-wont-have-miiverse-or-streetpass/ | title = Nintendo Switch won't have Miiverse or StreetPass | first = Willie | last = Clark | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Venture Beat | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114021140/http://venturebeat.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-wont-have-miiverse-or-streetpass/ | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="polygon-switchids">{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/2/21/14687274/nintendo-accounts-switch|title=All the Nintendo accounts you need for your Switch|work=Polygon|access-date=December 1, 2018|archive-date=December 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181201135125/https://www.polygon.com/2017/2/21/14687274/nintendo-accounts-switch|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/2/20/14671310/nintendo-account-id-register|title=Nintendo Account IDs now up for grabs|work=Polygon|access-date=December 1, 2018|archive-date=December 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181201135057/https://www.polygon.com/2017/2/20/14671310/nintendo-account-id-register|url-status=live}}</ref>

Players can register friends through Friend Codes as with previous Nintendo systems, searching for friends in the local network, through past multiplayer interactions, or through [[Nintendo Account]] profiles registered as friends on Nintendo mobile apps such as ''Mario Kart Tour'' and ''[[Software:Super Mario Run|Super Mario Run]]''.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/03/02/nintendo-switch-day-one-update-reintroduces-friend-codes/ | title = Nintendo Switch day one update reintroduces friend codes | first = Sharif | last = Saed | date = March 2, 2017 | access-date = March 2, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170302230039/http://www.vg247.com/2017/03/02/nintendo-switch-day-one-update-reintroduces-friend-codes/ | archive-date = March 2, 2017 }}</ref> In March 2017, Nintendo said that they had plans to provide other methods for registering friends, including through third-party social media and via Nintendo Network IDs.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/2/14792066/nintendo-switch-friend-code-response | title = Nintendo adding new friending methods for the Switch, post launch | first = Brian | last = Crecente | date = March 2, 2017 | access-date = March 2, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170302190532/http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/2/14792066/nintendo-switch-friend-code-response | archive-date = March 2, 2017 }}</ref> Support for registering friends on the Switch via Facebook and Twitter was added on March 13, 2018, as part of the 5.0.0 system update.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-switch-update-add-friends-social-media/|title=Add Friends Through Social Media With Latest Nintendo Switch Update {{!}} Digital Trends|date=March 13, 2018|work=Digital Trends|access-date=October 15, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=October 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181015080226/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-switch-update-add-friends-social-media/|url-status=live}}</ref> The Switch has no native support for Nintendo Network IDs, but users can link their Nintendo Network ID credentials to a Nintendo Account profile, which enables the ability to add friends that they had already registered on their 3DS or Wii U, and share an eShop balance between all three platforms.<ref name="eurogamer link" />

In line with Microsoft and Sony consoles, a subscription is required to access online multiplayer in most games.<ref name="polygon-paidonline" /><ref name="cnet filsaime">{{Cite web | url = https://www.cnet.com/news/nintendo-switch-reggie-fils-aime-3ds-tablet-launch/ | title = Nintendo's Fils-Aime: The Switch won't oust the 3DS | first1 = Alfred | last1 = Ng | first2 = Scott | last2 = Stein | date = January 15, 2017 | access-date = January 15, 2017 | website = CNET | publisher = CBS Interactive | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170115171654/https://www.cnet.com/news/nintendo-switch-reggie-fils-aime-3ds-tablet-launch/ | archive-date = January 15, 2017 }}</ref> The Nintendo Switch Online subscription includes access to online play, voice chat, access to an ongoing library of [[Engineering:Nintendo Entertainment System|Nintendo Entertainment System]] (NES), [[Engineering:Super Nintendo Entertainment System|Super Nintendo Entertainment System]] (SNES), and [[Engineering:Game Boy|Game Boy]] games, [[Cloud storage|cloud storage]] for save data on supported games, as well as other special offers and promotions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/09/13/nintendo-switch-online-launch-date-revealed|title=Update: Nintendo Switch 6.0.0 System Update Coming Alongside Online Service|last=Bankhurst|first=Adam|date=September 13, 2018|website=IGN|language=en-US|access-date=September 13, 2018|archive-date=September 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180913134530/http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/09/13/nintendo-switch-online-launch-date-revealed|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.vg247.com/2018/09/05/mario-bros-online-co-op-support-nintendo-switch-online/|title=Original Mario Bros. will support online co-op through Nintendo Switch Online|date=September 5, 2018|work=VG247|access-date=September 6, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=September 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180905192648/https://www.vg247.com/2018/09/05/mario-bros-online-co-op-support-nintendo-switch-online/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/nintendo/2018/5/7/17329728/nintendo-switch-online-classic-nes-games-lineup|title=Nintendo Switch Online service will launch with 20 NES games|work=Polygon|access-date=September 9, 2018|archive-date=September 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180909073944/https://www.polygon.com/nintendo/2018/5/7/17329728/nintendo-switch-online-classic-nes-games-lineup|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/super-nintendo-games-are-coming-to-switch-for-online-su-1837883647 | title = Super Nintendo Games Are Coming To Switch For Online Subscribers | first = Luke | last = Plunkett | date = September 4, 2019 | access-date = September 4, 2019 | work = Kotaku | archive-date = September 4, 2019 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20190904224226/https://kotaku.com/super-nintendo-games-are-coming-to-switch-for-online-su-1837883647 | url-status = live }}</ref> A paid expansion pack released in October 2021 added support for an expanding library of [[Engineering:Nintendo 64|Nintendo 64]] and [[Engineering:Sega Genesis|Sega Genesis]] games,<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/23/22688780/nintendo-switch-online-expansion-pack-64-sega-genesis-controllers | title = Nintendo Switch Online is getting an 'expansion pack' with N64 and Genesis games | first = Jay | last = Peters | date = September 23, 2021 | accessdate = September 23, 2021 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = September 24, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210924083217/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/23/22688780/nintendo-switch-online-expansion-pack-64-sega-genesis-controllers | url-status = live }}</ref> and in February 2023, Nintendo added Game Boy Advance (GBA) games to the expansion pass.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Plante |first=Chris |date=February 8, 2023 |title=Every Game Boy and GBA game now on Nintendo Switch |url=https://www.polygon.com/23591771/nintendo-switch-online-game-boy-gba-games-list |access-date=April 12, 2023 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=April 12, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412035545/https://www.polygon.com/23591771/nintendo-switch-online-game-boy-gba-games-list |url-status=live }}</ref> The expansion pack also includes access to some paid [[Software:Downloadable content|downloadable content]], including the ''[[Software:Mario Kart 8|Mario Kart 8]]'' Booster Course Pack, ''[[Software:Splatoon 2: Octo Expansion|Splatoon 2]]'', and ''[[Software:Animal Crossing: New Horizons|Animal Crossing]] Happy Home Paradise''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Good |first=Owen S. |date=October 27, 2021 |title=Should I buy Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack? |url=https://www.polygon.com/22747408/nintendo-switch-online-expansion-pack-faq-price-cancel-guide |access-date=April 12, 2023 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027131452/https://www.polygon.com/22747408/nintendo-switch-online-expansion-pack-faq-price-cancel-guide |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Finance:Free-to-play|Free-to-play]] games such as ''[[Software:Fortnite Battle Royale|Fortnite Battle Royale]]'' and ''[[Software:Warframe|Warframe]]'' are exempt from the subscription requirement for online play.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/14/17861300/fortnite-nintendo-switch-online|title=Fortnite for Switch won't require Nintendo's premium online service for play|work=Polygon|access-date=September 15, 2018|archive-date=December 20, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201220024040/https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/14/17861300/fortnite-nintendo-switch-online|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/talkingtech/2018/11/08/google-brings-youtube-app-nintendo-switch/1932898002/|title=Nintendo Switch finally has a YouTube app, but Amazon and Netflix remain MIA|work=USA TODAY|access-date=November 12, 2018|language=en|archive-date=November 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109211918/https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/talkingtech/2018/11/08/google-brings-youtube-app-nintendo-switch/1932898002/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/warframe-out-now-on-nintendo-switch-an-impressive-/1100-6463299/|title=Warframe Out Now On Nintendo Switch -- An Impressive Port That Surprised Us|last=Fillari|first=Alessandro|date=November 20, 2018|website=GameSpot|language=en-US|access-date=December 1, 2018|archive-date=March 8, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308042933/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/warframe-out-now-on-nintendo-switch-an-impressive-/1100-6463299/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="gamespot online may2018">{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-online-service-introduces-cloud-sa/1100-6458785/ | title = Nintendo Switch Online Service Introduces Cloud Saves, 20 Free NES Games For Subscribers | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = May 7, 2018 | access-date = May 7, 2018 | website = GameSpot | archive-date = May 8, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180508121734/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-online-service-introduces-cloud-sa/1100-6458785/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

The Nintendo Switch Online [[Mobile app|mobile app]] allows access to voice chat for Switch Online subscribers, as well as access to game-specific microsites. Unlike its competitors, voice chat is not supported via the console itself, requiring use of the app on a [[Engineering:Smartphone|smartphone]] instead.<ref name="time kimishima" /><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/07/19/the-nintendo-switch-online-app-has-launched-on-ios-android/ | title = The Nintendo Switch Online app has launched on iOS & Android | first = Sharif | last = Saed | date = July 19, 2017 | access-date = July 19, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170802143259/https://www.vg247.com/2017/07/19/the-nintendo-switch-online-app-has-launched-on-ios-android/ | archive-date = August 2, 2017 }}</ref> A separate app provides access to [[Parental controls|parental controls]] for the console.<ref name="polygon-paidonline">{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/12/14057166/nintendo-switch-paid-online-service | title = Nintendo Switch will have a paid online service starting this fall | first = Christopher | last = Grant | date = January 12, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170113123404/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/12/14057166/nintendo-switch-paid-online-service | archive-date = January 13, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/nintendo-reveals-parental-controls-for-switch | title = Nintendo Reveals Parental Controls for Switch | first = Terri | last = Schwartz | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170113212048/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/nintendo-reveals-parental-controls-for-switch | archive-date = January 13, 2017 }}</ref>

=== Media support ===
The Switch did not launch with any multimedia-oriented features, such as a [[Software:Web browser|web browser]],{{Efn|The Switch does include a fully functioning web browser, however it is only used for network login pages, the eShop, displaying built in user manuals, and for sharing video and screenshots from the album. It is not accessible otherwise and lacks many features such as browser history and favorites.}} messaging system or support for video streaming services.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/3/2/14792262/nintendo-switch-internet-browse-public-hotspots | title = The Nintendo Switch has a secret browser, but you can't use it for much | first = Ross | last = Miller | date = March 2, 2017 | access-date = March 2, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170302185957/http://www.theverge.com/2017/3/2/14792262/nintendo-switch-internet-browse-public-hotspots | archive-date = March 2, 2017 }}</ref>{{Failed verification |reason=The source only talks about a limited internet browser on the Switch, not about lack of any other features |date=May 2020}} Fils-Aimé said that because the Switch is geared as a gaming console that is far different from what their competitors offer, they had focused on achieving that goal first and foremost, and did not see media support as a differentiator from their competitors.<ref name="wapost filsamie mar2017">{{Cite news | url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2017/03/08/nintendos-u-s-ceo-responds-to-our-biggest-gripes-with-the-switch/ | title = Nintendo's U.S. chief responds to our biggest gripes about the company's new console | first = Hayley | last = Tsukayama | date = March 8, 2017 | access-date = March 8, 2017 | newspaper = {{wipe|The Washington Post}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170308125719/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2017/03/08/nintendos-u-s-ceo-responds-to-our-biggest-gripes-with-the-switch/ | archive-date = March 8, 2017 }}</ref>

[[Niconico]], a popular Japanese video service, launched for the Switch in Japan on July 13, 2017, and was the Switch's first third-party media app in any market.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/7/12/15958314/nintendo-switch-video-streaming-app-niconico|title=Nintendo Switch is getting its first streaming app|last=Frank|first=Allegra|date=July 12, 2017|website=Polygon|access-date=July 12, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170716055925/https://www.polygon.com/2017/7/12/15958314/nintendo-switch-video-streaming-app-niconico|archive-date=July 16, 2017}}</ref> [[Software:Hulu|Hulu]] was the first video streaming application released for the Switch in the United States on November 9, 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2017/11/9/16628108/nintendo-switch-hulu-app-release-date | title = Hulu coming to Nintendo Switch | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = November 9, 2017 | access-date = November 9, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171109180309/https://www.polygon.com/2017/11/9/16628108/nintendo-switch-hulu-app-release-date | archive-date = November 9, 2017 }}</ref> A YouTube application was released on November 8, 2018.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/8/18064958/youtube-app-nintendo-switch-now-available-features | title = YouTube arrives on Nintendo Switch today | first = Chris | last = Welch | date = November 8, 2018 | access-date = November 8, 2018 | work = [[The Verge]] | archive-date = November 8, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181108211507/https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/8/18064958/youtube-app-nintendo-switch-now-available-features | url-status = live }}</ref> Fils-Aimé said in June 2018 that conversations to bring [[Company:Netflix|Netflix]] to the Switch were "on-going".<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/06/conversations_to_bring_youtube_and_netflix_to_switch_are_on-going|title=Conversations To Bring YouTube And Netflix To Switch Are "On-Going"|last=Craddock|first=Ryan|date=June 14, 2018|work=Nintendo Life|access-date=September 1, 2018|language=en-GB|archive-date=September 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180906142339/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/06/conversations_to_bring_youtube_and_netflix_to_switch_are_on-going|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 4, 2020, a trial version app of the [[Tencent Video]] streaming service was launched exclusively for Nintendo Switch consoles officially distributed by Tencent in mainland China. An official version app will be launched at a later date.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://cntechpost.com/2020/11/04/tencent-video-comes-to-nintendo-eshop-for-chinese-version-of-switch/ |title=Tencent Video comes to Nintendo eShop for Chinese version of Switch |date=November 4, 2020 |website=cnTechPost |language=en |access-date=December 6, 2020 |archive-date=November 28, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128134109/https://cntechpost.com/2020/11/04/tencent-video-comes-to-nintendo-eshop-for-chinese-version-of-switch/ |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Company:Funimation|Funimation]] launched their own streaming app for the Nintendo Switch, featuring a reworked layout and new functions. The app became available via eShop in the United States and Canada on December 15, 2020, and will launch in various other countries at a later date,<ref name="NL cites FunimationSwitch">{{Cite news |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2020/12/its_official_funimation_is_releasing_its_anime_app_on_switch_this_week |title=It's Official, Funimation Is Releasing Its Anime App On Switch This Week |last=Doolan |first=Liam |date=December 14, 2020 |work=Nintendo Life |access-date=December 15, 2020 |language=en-GB |archive-date=December 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201215021522/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2020/12/its_official_funimation_is_releasing_its_anime_app_on_switch_this_week |url-status=live }}</ref> such as the United Kingdom and Ireland on March 22, 2021.<ref name="NL cites Funimation UK/IRE launch">{{Cite news |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/03/anime_app_funimation_launches_on_nintendo_switch_in_the_uk_and_ireland_today |title=Anime App Funimation Launches On Nintendo Switch In The UK And Ireland Today |last=Craddock |first=Ryan |date=March 22, 2021 |work=Nintendo Life |access-date=March 27, 2021 |language=en-GB |archive-date=March 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210324012942/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/03/anime_app_funimation_launches_on_nintendo_switch_in_the_uk_and_ireland_today |url-status=live }}</ref> A version of the [[Company:Twitch (service)|Twitch]] app launched for the Nintendo Switch on November 11, 2021, in most regions worldwide. The eShop version of the app allows users to watch or follow any live or recorded content on Twitch, but does not support any native ability for Switch players to contribute content.<ref name="Twitch cites Switch app launch">{{Cite news |url=https://blog.twitch.tv/en/2021/11/11/twitch-on-switch-download-the-new-twitch-app-for-nintendo-switch/ |title=Twitch on Switch: Download the New Twitch App for Nintendo Switch |date=November 11, 2021 |publisher=Official [[Company:Twitch (service)|Twitch]] blog |access-date=February 3, 2022 |language=en-US |archive-date=January 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125214411/https://blog.twitch.tv/en/2021/11/11/twitch-on-switch-download-the-new-twitch-app-for-nintendo-switch/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Korg Gadget, a music production app, was released for the Nintendo Switch on April 26, 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2018/4/26/17285050/nintendo-switch-eshop-update-games-list|title=Nintendo Switch eShop gets beloved music studio — but with some key changes|work=Polygon|access-date=November 8, 2018|archive-date=November 9, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109024825/https://www.polygon.com/2018/4/26/17285050/nintendo-switch-eshop-update-games-list|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Software:InkyPen|InkyPen]], a comics and manga subscription app, launched exclusively on the Switch worldwide on December 17, 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.techradar.com/news/inkypen-lets-you-read-comic-books-on-nintendo-switch-launches-today|title=InkyPen lets you read comic books on Nintendo Switch – and the app's gone live|last1=H|first1=Henry St Leger 2018-12-17T10:08:21Z|last2=helds|website=TechRadar|date=December 17, 2018|language=en|access-date=December 17, 2018|archive-date=December 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181217134442/https://www.techradar.com/news/inkypen-lets-you-read-comic-books-on-nintendo-switch-launches-today|url-status=live}}</ref> Izneo, another comics and manga subscription service, was released for the Switch on February 28, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2019/gaming/news/comic-book-graphic-novel-reader-izneo-hits-nintendo-switch-1203151509/|title=Comic Book, Graphic Novel Reader Izneo Hits Nintendo Switch|last=T. Wright|first=Steven|date=February 28, 2019|website=Variety|language=en|access-date=March 1, 2019|archive-date=February 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228173533/https://variety.com/2019/gaming/news/comic-book-graphic-novel-reader-izneo-hits-nintendo-switch-1203151509/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''FUZE4'', a text-based programming language app, was released in August 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/fuze4-nintendo-switch/|title=FUZE4 Nintendo Switch|website=Nintendo of America|access-date=September 7, 2019|archive-date=August 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823202746/https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/fuze4-nintendo-switch/|url-status=dead}}</ref>{{Non-primary source needed |date=October 2023}}

== Games ==

=== Distribution ===
[[File:Nintendo-Switch-Cartridge.jpg|thumb|upright=1|The Nintendo Switch's game cartridge|alt=On the left, the front of a Nintendo Switch Game Card is seen. To the right, the bottom of a Nintendo Game Card is seen.]]

Games for the Nintendo Switch can be obtained through either retail channels or digitally through the Nintendo eShop. Games distributed at retail are stored on proprietary [[ROM cartridge|cartridges]], similar in design to the game cards used for Nintendo 3DS games, albeit smaller and thinner.<ref name="polygon-gamecards2">{{Cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13344618/nintendo-switch-nx-games-cartridges|title=Nintendo Switch will use cartridges|website=Polygon|date=October 20, 2016|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020142412/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13344618/nintendo-switch-nx-games-cartridges|archive-date=October 20, 2016}}</ref> As the world's first major hybrid console, the console is the first major home-playable video game system to make use of cartridges since the [[Engineering:Nintendo 64|Nintendo 64]]. Due to their small size at {{convert|31|x|21|x|3|mm|in}},<ref>{{cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2017/02/nintendo-switch-retail-boxes-are-an-ocean-of-wasted-space | title = Nintendo Switch retail boxes are an ocean of wasted space | first = Kyle | last = Orland | date = February 20, 2017 | accessdate = May 27, 2021 | work = [[Ars Technica]] | archive-date = January 19, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210119100022/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2017/02/nintendo-switch-retail-boxes-are-an-ocean-of-wasted-space/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Nintendo coats each cartridge with [[Chemistry:Denatonium|denatonium]] benzoate, a non-toxic [[Chemistry:Bitterant|bitterant]] used to discourage children from ingesting them.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2017/3/1/14784140/nintendo-switch-cartridges-taste-awful-psa | title = Nintendo Switch game cartridges taste offensively bad, trust us (update) | first1 = Samit | last1 = Sarkar | first2 = Julia | last2 = Alexander | date = March 1, 2017 | access-date = October 10, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170805000210/https://www.polygon.com/2017/3/1/14784140/nintendo-switch-cartridges-taste-awful-psa | archive-date = August 5, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo offered a [[Social:List price|suggested retail price]] for Switch games at the console's launch of {{USD|60}}, equivalent to the price for new games on either the Xbox One and PlayStation 4.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14057130/nintendo-switch-launch-titles-prices-cases | title = Nintendo Switch games are $60, here's what the boxes look like | first = Christopher | last = Grant | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114042830/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14057130/nintendo-switch-launch-titles-prices-cases | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo otherwise allows publishers to set the price for a game, only requiring the list price be the same for physical and digital releases, if a physical release is made. This has caused some games also available on other consoles to be priced higher on the Switch due to the costs of manufacturing the game card for the Switch version.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/03/heres_why_nintendo_switch_games_cost_more_than_those_for_other_consoles|title=Here's Why Nintendo Switch Games Cost More Than Those For Other Consoles|last=McFarren|first=Damien|date=March 13, 2017|website=Nintendo Life|access-date=May 25, 2019|archive-date=May 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190525041733/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/03/heres_why_nintendo_switch_games_cost_more_than_those_for_other_consoles|url-status=live}}</ref> Online media outlets have colloquially referred to this price hike as the "Switch tax".<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.usgamer.net/articles/nintendo-rules-and-cart-prices-making-switch-games-more-expensive-report | title = Nintendo Rules and Cart Prices Making Switch Games More Expensive | first = Mike | last = Williams | date = March 13, 2017 | access-date = March 13, 2017 | website = US Gamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170314063009/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/nintendo-rules-and-cart-prices-making-switch-games-more-expensive-report | archive-date = March 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/l-a-noire-will-have-the-switch-tax-that-makes-it-10-more-expensive-on-nintendo-s-platform-459912.phtml | title = L.A. Noire will have the 'Switch tax' that makes it $10 more expensive on Nintendo's platform | first = Chris | last = Carter | date = September 8, 2017 | access-date = September 8, 2017 | website = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171217123919/https://www.destructoid.com/l-a-noire-will-have-the-switch-tax-that-makes-it-10-more-expensive-on-nintendo-s-platform-459912.phtml | archive-date = December 17, 2017 }}</ref> The "Switch tax" also applies to many games that had been previously released on other platforms ported later to the Switch, where the Switch game price reflects the original price of the game when it was first released rather than its current price. {{As of|2018|08}}, it is estimated that the cost of Switch games is an average of 10% over other formats.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/08/quantifying-the-switch-tax-or-how-much-for-that-pc-port/ | title = Examining why Switch games cost more than their PC counterparts | first = Kyle | last = Orland | date = August 24, 2018 | access-date = August 24, 2018 | website = [[Ars Technica]] | archive-date = August 24, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180824171536/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/08/quantifying-the-switch-tax-or-how-much-for-that-pc-port/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

Game cards at the time of the Switch's release had a 32&nbsp;GB capacity; Nintendo had planned to introduce 64&nbsp;GB game cards by the second half of 2018, but had to push this back.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-delays-rollout-of-64-gigabyte-switch-game-cards-until-2019-1514360941?mod=e2twd | title = Nintendo Delays Rollout of 64-Gigabyte Switch Game Cards Until 2019 | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = December 27, 2017 | access-date = December 27, 2017 | website = {{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171227164426/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-delays-rollout-of-64-gigabyte-switch-game-cards-until-2019-1514360941?mod=e2twd | archive-date = December 27, 2017 }}</ref> Some physical games may still require content to be installed to internal storage, with some games using a significant portion of the internal memory if a microSD card is not available.<ref name="polygon-legocityinstall">{{Cite web|title=Another third-party Switch game causes uproar|url=http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/27/15078334/lego-city-undercover-download-size-nintendo-switch|first=Allegra|last=Frank|website=Polygon|date=March 27, 2017|access-date=March 27, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170327235925/http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/27/15078334/lego-city-undercover-download-size-nintendo-switch|archive-date=March 27, 2017}}</ref> Other physical games which have a large amount of content may require a microSD card to be present in the Switch, such as ''[[Software:NBA 2K18|NBA 2K18]]''; such games are clearly marked on the cover to show these requirements.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/09/01/some-nintendo-switch-games-will-require-memory-cards | title = Some Nintendo Switch Games Will Require Memory Cards | first = Jonathon | last = Dornbush | date = September 5, 2017 | access-date = September 5, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170904185935/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/09/01/some-nintendo-switch-games-will-require-memory-cards | archive-date = September 4, 2017 }}</ref>

The Switch supports the ability for [[Software:Cloud gaming|cloud gaming]] to run games that require more hardware capabilities than the Switch allows, running these games over a network with the game computations performed on server hardware. These games may be tied to specific regions due to purchasing options. Early examples of such games on the Switch include ''[[Software:Resident Evil 7: Biohazard|Resident Evil 7]]'', ''[[Software:Phantasy Star Online 2|Phantasy Star Online 2]]'' and ''Assassin's Creed: Odyssey'' which were primarily limited to Japanese releases,<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/16/17866542/assassins-creed-odyssey-nintendo-switch-streaming-japan | title = Assassin's Creed: Odyssey is the second game to stream to Nintendo Switch | first = Owen | last = Good | date = September 16, 2018 | access-date = September 16, 2018 | work = Polygon | archive-date = September 16, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180916161420/https://www.polygon.com/2018/9/16/17866542/assassins-creed-odyssey-nintendo-switch-streaming-japan | url-status = live }}</ref> while more recently ''[[Software:Control (video game)|Control]]'' and ''[[Software:Hitman 3|Hitman 3]]'' will be offered through cloud gaming worldwide in 2020 and beyond.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.engadget.com/control-hitman-3-switch-cloud-streaming-155306591.html | title = 'Control' and 'Hitman 3' head to Switch via cloud streaming | first = Devindra | last = Hardawar | date = October 28, 2020 | access-date = November 2, 2020 | work = [[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] | archive-date = November 1, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201101115404/https://www.engadget.com/control-hitman-3-switch-cloud-streaming-155306591.html | url-status = live }}</ref>

Unlike previous Nintendo home consoles<!-- Handhelds prior to the Nintendo DSi are region-free. -->, the Switch is [[Social:Regional lockout|region-free]]. This allows players to use cartridges or downloaded content from any part of the world, with the exception of Chinese game content which can only be played on Switch units manufactured for that country.<ref>{{cite news |last=Wong |first=Alistair |date=January 11, 2020 |title=Tencent Nintendo Switch Games Will Not Work on International Nintendo Switches |work=Siliconera |url=https://www.siliconera.com/tencent-nintendo-switch-games-will-not-work-on-international-nintendo-switches/ |access-date=January 14, 2020 |archive-date=January 14, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200114113112/https://www.siliconera.com/tencent-nintendo-switch-games-will-not-work-on-international-nintendo-switches/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Nintendo recommends using the appropriate regional eShop for digital purposes for obtaining the best post-purchase support if needed.<ref name="polygon specs" /><ref name="kotaku questions" /> Nintendo opted to go region-free to reduce the amount of workload and cost to both themselves and developers in having to manage two or more regional certification processes and different [[ROM cartridge]] production pathways for those regions.<ref name="kotaku baker mar2018">{{Cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/switchs-success-means-a-changing-nintendo-1823969115 | title = Switch's Success Means A Changing Nintendo | first = Chris | last = Kohler | date = March 22, 2018 | access-date = March 22, 2018 | website = Kotaku | archive-date = March 22, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180322193931/https://kotaku.com/switchs-success-means-a-changing-nintendo-1823969115 | url-status = live }}</ref> Further, eShop purchases, while still tied to the Nintendo Account, are not tied to the specific Switch console, as was the case for previous Nintendo hardware. Once the user re-registers their account to a Switch, they have access to download all previous purchases; however, a user can only have their account registered on one console at a time, and downloaded software tied to an account cannot be used if that account is not registered to the device.<ref name="eurogamer link">{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-02-17-nintendo-switch-eshop-will-finally-link-purchases-to-accounts-not-consoles | title = Nintendo Switch eShop will finally link purchases to accounts, not consoles | first = Jeffrey | last = Matulef | date = February 17, 2017 | access-date = February 17, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170217220652/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-02-17-nintendo-switch-eshop-will-finally-link-purchases-to-accounts-not-consoles | archive-date = February 17, 2017 }}</ref> With the console's 6.0.0 system update, alongside the launch of the Online service in September 2018, a user can play games that they have purchased from the eShop on a second Switch console, though requiring continuous online connection and other restrictions.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/the-latest-switch-update-will-allow-you-to-play-your-games-on-a-second-console-523368.phtml | title = The latest Switch update will allow you to play your games on a second console | first = CJ | last = Andriessen | date = September 19, 2018 | access-date = September 19, 2018 | work = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | archive-date = September 19, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180919193040/https://www.destructoid.com/the-latest-switch-update-will-allow-you-to-play-your-games-on-a-second-console-523368.phtml | url-status = live }}</ref>

The Switch does not use optical discs, and as such does not have native [[Backward compatibility|backward compatibility]] with software from any previous Nintendo console.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-switch-not-compatible-with-physical-3ds-or-wii-u-games-394759.phtml|title=Nintendo Switch not compatible with physical 3DS or Wii U games|last=Arnold|first=Cory|date=October 21, 2016|access-date=October 21, 2016|website=[[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]]|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022022938/https://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-switch-not-compatible-with-physical-3ds-or-wii-u-games-394759.phtml|archive-date=October 22, 2016}}</ref> The Switch is also not backward compatible with other digital titles from previous consoles.<ref name="kotaku questions" />

Emulated versions of games from previous Nintendo systems are offered through eShop and the Nintendo Switch Online service, although the blanket Virtual Console brand used for these releases on Wii, Wii U, and 3DS has been dropped.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/no-virtual-console-for-nintendo-switch-at-launch/1100-6448142/ | title = No Virtual Console For Nintendo Switch At Launch | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = February 23, 2017 | access-date = February 23, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170224070513/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/no-virtual-console-for-nintendo-switch-at-launch/1100-6448142/ | archive-date = February 24, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/virtual-console-is-not-coming-to-switch-nintendo-says-1825848253 | title = Virtual Console Is Not Coming To Switch, Nintendo Says | first = Jason | last = Schreier | date = May 8, 2018 | access-date = May 8, 2018 | website = Kotaku | archive-date = January 9, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220109163850/https://kotaku.com/virtual-console-is-not-coming-to-switch-nintendo-says-1825848253 | url-status = live }}</ref> In February 2017, Kimishima said that the Switch is powerful enough to emulate titles from previous Nintendo consoles.<ref name="time kimishima" />

=== Third-party support ===
One of the generally perceived failures of the Wii U was a lack of support from third-party developers, leading to a weak library of games.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/feb/03/rip-wii-u-nintendos-glorious-quirky-failure | title = RIP Wii U: Nintendo's glorious, quirky failure | first = Keith | last = Stewart | date = February 3, 2017 | access-date = February 5, 2017 | website = {{wipe|The Guardian}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170205030444/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/feb/03/rip-wii-u-nintendos-glorious-quirky-failure | archive-date = February 5, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo was more aggressive in trying to bring on third-party developers, early in the Switch's development, to ensure a stronger lineup of games. Takahashi and Koizumi reached out to many of the third-parties directly to help gain their support early on.<ref name="time feb2017" /> Electronic Arts' executive Patrick Söderlund said that Nintendo had taken a different track with attracting third-party developers to the Switch and have engaged Electronic Arts and other major developers throughout the development of the Switch, listening to their input, to help make the Switch more successful.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/ea-claims-nintendo-is-making-a-bigger-effort-for-third-parties-with-the-switch-414184.phtml | title = EA claims Nintendo is making a bigger effort for third parties with the Switch | first = Chris | last = Carter | date = January 23, 2017 | access-date = January 23, 2017 | website = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170126082836/https://www.destructoid.com/ea-claims-nintendo-is-making-a-bigger-effort-for-third-parties-with-the-switch-414184.phtml | archive-date = January 26, 2017 }}</ref>

Nintendo also began gaining support of [[Software:Independent video game development|independent video game developers]] in the middle of 2016 to provide assistance to help them bring games to the Switch, led by Nintendo's head of partner management Damon Baker.<ref name="gameinformer indies">{{Cite magazine | url = http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/12/28/how-nintendo-is-changing-its-approach-to-indie-developers.aspx | title = How Nintendo Is Changing Its Approach To Indie Developers | first = Brian | last = Shae | date = December 29, 2017 | access-date = December 29, 2017 | magazine = Game Informer | archive-date = December 30, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171230060246/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2017/12/28/how-nintendo-is-changing-its-approach-to-indie-developers.aspx | url-status = live }}</ref> They had tried to draw in indie developers near the end of the Wii U's lifetime, providing indie game demos that were highlighted during E3 2015, but by this point, the Wii U had already been considered a failure.<ref name="gameinformer indies" /> Nintendo sees games such as ''[[Software:Snipperclips|Snipperclips]]'' as a model of their target for indie games, in which they worked to help provide Switch implementation support and software tools to these parties early in the console's lifecycle, according to Takahashi and Koizumi.<ref name="time feb2017" /> Some, like [[Company:Yacht Club Games|Yacht Club Games]], who have ported ''[[Software:Shovel Knight|Shovel Knight]]'' to the Switch, noted that some of the major innovations in the Switch, such as the Joy-Con, were not revealed to them until just prior to the January 2017 announcement.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.usgamer.net/articles/switch-ing-on-indie-support-for-nintendos-new-platform | title = Switch-ing On Indie Support For Nintendo's New Platform | first = Mike | last = Williams | date = February 2, 2017 | access-date = February 3, 2017 | website = US Gamer | url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170203191002/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/switch-ing-on-indie-support-for-nintendos-new-platform | archive-date = February 3, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo of America reached out to many independent developers and publishers, including [[Company:Chucklefish|Chucklefish]], [[Company:Team17|Team17]], and [[Company:Devolver Digital|Devolver Digital]], to gain titles for the platform and make the process of publishing easier. Nintendo still curates which titles they allow on the system, using the company's past portfolio for evaluation, and still carefully time releases to keep a steady stream of new content. However, once a game is greenlit, pushing out patches and updates can be done rapidly and at no further cost to the developer.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/3/1/14777672/nintendo-switch-indie-games-releases | title = The Nintendo Switch indie strategy: release new games every week | first = Chris | last = Plante | date = March 1, 2017 | access-date = March 1, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170302030332/http://www.theverge.com/2017/3/1/14777672/nintendo-switch-indie-games-releases | archive-date = March 2, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/becoming-a-nintendo-switch-indie-dev-will-be-tough-early-on |title = Becoming a Nintendo Switch indie dev will be tough early on | first = Kris | last = Graft | date = March 2, 2017 | access-date = March 2, 2017 | website=Game Developer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210827113443/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/becoming-a-nintendo-switch-indie-dev-will-be-tough-early-on | archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref> Nintendo also offers the Switch's [[Game development kit|dev kit]] at 50,000 yen, or about $450, far under the cost of a comparable dev kit for other consoles, making it more amenable for smaller developers to afford and build for the unit.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/article/99120/nintendo-switch-development-kits-low-price-might-entice-indie-developers | title = Nintendo Switch Development Kits Low Price Might Entice Indie Developers | first = Jason | last = Faulkner | date = February 21, 2017 | access-date = February 21, 2017 | website = Shacknews | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170222110537/http://www.shacknews.com/article/99120/nintendo-switch-development-kits-low-price-might-entice-indie-developers | archive-date = February 22, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo offers several of these indie games as "Nindies" through the eShop. Nintendo had anticipated that they would have at least sixty indie games released for the Switch through 2017, but ended up with over 320 titles by the end of 2017 as a result of the console's popularity.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/eshop-will-be-ready-at-switch-launch-with-nindies-including-timed-exclusive-shovel-knight-dlc-420414.phtml | title = eShop will be ready at Switch launch with 'Nindies' including timed exclusive Shovel Knight DLC | first = Cory | last = Arnold | date = February 23, 2017 | access-date = February 23, 2017 | website = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170224212008/https://www.destructoid.com/eshop-will-be-ready-at-switch-launch-with-nindies-including-timed-exclusive-shovel-knight-dlc-420414.phtml |archive-date = February 24, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/more-than-60-games-make-up-the-switch-s-year-one-indie-offerings |title=More than 60 games make up the Switch's year one indie offerings |first=Alissa |last=McAloon |date=February 28, 2017 |access-date=February 28, 2017 | website=Game Developer |url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827095704/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/more-than-60-games-make-up-the-switch-s-year-one-indie-offerings |archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref><ref name="glixel gdc 2018">{{Cite web | url = https://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/nintendo-indies-helped-power-switchs-success-w518421 | title = Nintendo: Indies Helped Power Switch's Success | first = Brian | last = Crecente | date = March 27, 2018 | access-date = March 27, 2018 | website = Glixel | archive-date = March 27, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180327175218/https://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/features/nintendo-indies-helped-power-switchs-success-w518421 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Indie developers have found that Nintendo has also had a significant role in the promotion and marketing of their games, including using the games to help promote the Switch itself, in contrast to Microsoft or Sony. These developers also found Nintendo tries to keep a better rapport with fans of Nintendo's products, and help these fans identify Switch indie games they feel they will like the most, including those games that build on Nintendo's classic games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras that can draw in a more global audience.<ref name="gameinformer indies" /> Baker says that while they do try to encourage indie developers to release their games as a Switch console exclusive, they do not force developers towards this, knowing that the developers must have a good business case for doing so.<ref name="gameinformer indies" />

While many independent developers have praised Nintendo for better support for the Switch, others, speaking anonymously through ''Nintendo Life'', noted that Nintendo seemed to have a "walled garden" approach with independent developers, a remnant from the WiiWare program that allowed a great deal of [[Shovelware|shovelware]] to be pushed onto it. These anonymous developers found that Nintendo was either eschewing some developers completely, or requiring them to have a well-known publishing partner or an inside person within Nintendo to be able to gain the rights to publish for the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/04/feature_the_growing_pains_of_curation_on_the_nintendo_switch_eshop | title = Feature: The Growing Pains of Curation on the Nintendo Switch eShop | first = Thomas | last = Whitehead | date = April 26, 2017 | access-date = April 26, 2017 | website = Nintendo Life | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170426170900/http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/04/feature_the_growing_pains_of_curation_on_the_nintendo_switch_eshop | archive-date = April 26, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/according-to-some-indie-developers-nintendo-hasn-t-changed-all-that-much-433090.phtml | title = According to some indie developers, Nintendo hasn't changed all that much | first = Chris | last = Carter | date = April 26, 2017 | website = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170427192605/https://www.destructoid.com/according-to-some-indie-developers-nintendo-hasn-t-changed-all-that-much-433090.phtml | archive-date = April 27, 2017 }}</ref> Baker said that they encourage self-publishing, but do also place value on trust of established partners for their recommendations of what games would be best for the Switch.<ref name="kotaku baker mar2018" /> Another factor limiting Nintendo is the availability of dev kits and other hardware at the start of the console's life. However, Baker does anticipate that Nintendo will be much more open in the future, once they have addressed the necessary issues for curation and discovery of titles via the eShop.<ref name="glixel gdc 2018" />

During its official unveiling in October 2016, Nintendo deliberately opted not to provide a list of games for the system, as they "want people to touch the device in January [2017] and experience the software for themselves", according to Kimishima.<ref name="bloomberg oct2016" /> Instead, Nintendo announced some of the partners that had committed to supporting the Switch; contrasting Nintendo's struggles to gain third-party support on-launch for previous platforms, the company initially listed 48 third-party publishers, studios, and [[Middleware|middleware]] developers.<ref name="engadget-nxreveal2" /> Among these partners, Nintendo listed major publishers such as [[Company:Activision|Activision]], [[Company:Bethesda Softworks|Bethesda]], [[Company:Electronic Arts|Electronic Arts]], [[Company:Sega|Sega]], [[Company:Square Enix|Square Enix]], Take-Two, and [[Company:Ubisoft|Ubisoft]].<ref name="engadget-nxreveal2" /><ref name="vg247-nxpartners">{{Cite web|title=Nintendo announces publishers and developers for the Switch&nbsp;– including Bethesda, EA, 2K and more|url=https://www.vg247.com/2016/10/20/nintendo-announces-publishers-and-developers-for-the-switch-including-bethesda-ea-2k-and-more/|website=VG24/7|date=October 20, 2016|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021031359/https://www.vg247.com/2016/10/20/nintendo-announces-publishers-and-developers-for-the-switch-including-bethesda-ea-2k-and-more/|archive-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2016/10/20/13345640/nintendo-switch-third-party-support-bethesda-ea-activision/in/13110115 | title = Activision, EA, Bethesda, and more pledge support for Nintendo Switch | first = Ross | last = Miller | date = October 20, 2016 | access-date = October 20, 2016 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161021011436/http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/20/13345640/nintendo-switch-third-party-support-bethesda-ea-activision/in/13110115 | archive-date = October 21, 2016 }}</ref>

Nintendo had previously relied more on providing its own internally developed tools and libraries that third-party developers would use to develop games for earlier systems. With the Switch, the company went a different route. According to Takahashi, "we have been aiming to realize an environment in which a variety of different third-party developers are able to easily develop compatible software", taking advantage of the Nvidia chipset's support for many standard libraries that allows for ease of transition from other platforms to the Switch.<ref name="vb apis">{{Cite web | url = https://venturebeat.com/2017/02/07/miyamoto-nintendos-internal-studios-have-mastered-state-of-the-art-technologies-such-as-unreal-engine/ | title = Miyamoto: Nintendo's internal studios have 'mastered' the Unreal Engine | first = Jeff | last = Grubb | date = February 7, 2017 | access-date = February 7, 2017 | website = Venture Beat | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170207092229/http://venturebeat.com/2017/02/07/miyamoto-nintendos-internal-studios-have-mastered-state-of-the-art-technologies-such-as-unreal-engine/ | archive-date = February 7, 2017 }}</ref> [[Company:Unity Technologies|Unity Technologies]], [[Company:Epic Games|Epic Games]], and the [[Company:Khronos Group|Khronos Group]] pledged support to help developers bring games to the Switch using their game engines and middleware, [[Software:Unity (game engine)|Unity]], Unreal Engine 4, and the [[Software:Vulkan (API)|Vulkan]] and [[Software:OpenGL|OpenGL]] graphical APIs, respectively;<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13345516/nintendo-switch-activision-ea-bethesda | title = Activision, Bethesda and dozens of other companies will support Nintendo Switch | first = Julia | last = Alexander | date = October 20, 2016 | access-date = October 21, 2016 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161020200932/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/20/13345516/nintendo-switch-activision-ea-bethesda | archive-date = October 20, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/10/21/nintendo-switch-will-support-unreal-engine-4 | title = Nintendo Switch will Support Unreal Engine 4 | first = Joe | last = Skrebels | date = October 21, 2016 | access-date = October 21, 2016 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161128111222/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/10/21/nintendo-switch-will-support-unreal-engine-4 | archive-date = November 28, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/article/98265/nintendo-switch-added-to-hardware-supporting-vulkan-opengl-45-and-opengl-es | title = Nintendo Switch Added to Hardware Supporting Vulkan, OpenGL 4.5, and OpenGL ES | first = Cassidee | last = Moser | date = December 20, 2016 | access-date = December 20, 2016 | website = Shacknews | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161221093537/http://www.shacknews.com/article/98265/nintendo-switch-added-to-hardware-supporting-vulkan-opengl-45-and-opengl-es | archive-date = December 21, 2016 }}</ref> for instance, the Unreal Engine toolkit was updated in February 2017 to provide beta testing for native support for Switch games, with full support added by May 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://venturebeat.com/2017/02/15/unreal-engine-gets-native-nintendo-switch-support/ | title = Unreal Engine gets native Nintendo Switch support | first = Jeff | last = Grubb | date = February 15, 2017 | access-date = February 15, 2017 | website = Venture Beat | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170215232615/http://venturebeat.com/2017/02/15/unreal-engine-gets-native-nintendo-switch-support/ | archive-date = February 15, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-now-fully-compatible-with-unreal-e/1100-6450316/ | title = Nintendo Switch Now Fully Compatible With Unreal Engine 4 | first = Alex | last = Newhouse | date = May 24, 2017 | access-date = May 24, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170728175409/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-now-fully-compatible-with-unreal-e/1100-6450316/ | archive-date = July 28, 2017 }}</ref> In March 2018, Nintendo announced it had also gained support of [[Company:YoYo Games|YoYo Games]]' [[Software:GameMaker Studio|GameMaker Studio]] 2 engine for the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-inks-deal-with-yoyo-to-bring-gamemaker-studio-2-games-to-switch |title=Nintendo inks deal with YoYo to bring GameMaker Studio 2 games to Switch |first=Alex |last=Wawro |date=March 8, 2018 |access-date=March 8, 2018 |website=Game Developer |archive-date=August 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827110048/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-inks-deal-with-yoyo-to-bring-gamemaker-studio-2-games-to-switch |url-status=live }}</ref> Miyamoto said that Nintendo's own developers have "mastered" engines like Unreal, so that while it would be unlikely that Nintendo would release a first-party title using such software, they can help support developers using these tools on the Switch.<ref name="vb apis" /> Several indie developers who have previously worked on Nintendo's consoles said that the Switch was "the least demanding Nintendo console" they have developed.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/what-s-it-like-developing-for-the-switch-9-indie-studios-weigh-in |title=What's it like developing for the Switch? 9 indie studios weigh in | first = Chris | last = Priestman | date = March 10, 2017 | access-date = March 10, 2017 | website=Game Developer | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827095704/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/more-than-60-games-make-up-the-switch-s-year-one-indie-offerings |archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref><ref name="gameinformer indies" />

In addition to these third-party middleware solutions, Nintendo developed its own NintendoWare Bezel Engine for first- and third-party developers, first announced in 2018, aimed "to provide an environment that can create interesting games in a short period of time while keeping development costs as low as possible". Games like ''[[Software:Tetris 99|Tetris 99]]'' and ''[[Software:Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics|Clubhouse Games]]'' were developed in this engine.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://wccftech.com/nintendo-creates-bezel-engine/ | title = Nintendo Creates Bezel Engine For Third Party Switch Developers | first = Fransesco | last = de Mao | date = April 4, 2018 | accessdate = April 15, 2021 | work = WCCTech | archive-date = April 15, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210415195606/https://wccftech.com/nintendo-creates-bezel-engine/ | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2021/04/nintendo-switch-continues-the-retro-battle-royale-trend-with-pac-man-99/ | title = 99 Pac-Men enter, one Pac-Man leaves in new Switch freebie Pac-Man 99 | first = Sam | last = Mackovich | date = April 7, 2021 | accessdate = April 15, 2021 | work = [[Ars Technica]] | archive-date = April 15, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210415082005/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2021/04/nintendo-switch-continues-the-retro-battle-royale-trend-with-pac-man-99/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

By 2022, the Switch was generally considered to have reversed the trend of flagging third party support for Nintendo consoles and game platforms, something that was attributed to Nintendo having made concerted outreach efforts towards third parties to bring them on board.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-third-party-game-developer/ | title = Switch Third Party Developer Support: Has Nintendo Learned Its Lesson? | first = Cameron | last = Corliss | date = September 26, 2019 | accessdate = September 25, 2022 | work = Game Rant | archive-date = September 25, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220925204309/https://gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-third-party-game-developer/ | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="Parijat">{{cite web | url = https://gamingbolt.com/how-the-nintendo-switch-undoes-25-years-of-damage-and-frostiness-between-nintendo-and-third-parties | title = How the Nintendo Switch Undoes 25 Years of Damage and Frostiness Between Nintendo and Third Parties | first = Pramath | last = Parijat | date = September 1, 2022 | accessdate = September 25, 2022 | work = Gaming Bolt | archive-date = September 25, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220925204310/https://gamingbolt.com/how-the-nintendo-switch-undoes-25-years-of-damage-and-frostiness-between-nintendo-and-third-parties | url-status = live }}</ref> Positive analyses of the Switch's impact on Nintendo's third party relations were, however, frequently laced with the caveat that Nintendo would have to work to transition their third party support from the Switch to the Switch's successor properly, something they had routinely failed at in the past.<ref name="Parijat" />

=== Library ===

''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', originally announced as a Wii U exclusive, was released for the Switch as a launch title.<ref name="geekcom-wontreplace">{{Cite web|title=Nintendo NX launches March 2017, won't simply replace Wii U and 3DS|url=http://www.geek.com/games/nintendo-nx-launches-march-2017-wont-simply-replace-wii-u-and-3ds-1653398/|first=Matthew|last=Humphreys|website=[[Geek.com]]|date=April 27, 2016|access-date=May 3, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160501211459/http://www.geek.com/games/nintendo-nx-launches-march-2017-wont-simply-replace-wii-u-and-3ds-1653398/|archive-date=May 1, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Reilly|first1=Luke|title=Nintendo NX Will Launch In March 2017|url=http://ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/nintendo-nx-will-launch-in-march-2017/|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|access-date=April 27, 2016|date=April 27, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160428095149/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/nintendo-nx-will-launch-in-march-2017|archive-date=April 28, 2016}}</ref><ref name="ign-zelda17">{{Cite web|title=Zelda Wii U Delayed to 2017, Also Coming to NX|url=http://ca.ign.com/articles/2016/04/27/zelda-wii-u-delayed-to-2017-also-coming-to-nx|website=IGN|date=April 27, 2016|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|access-date=May 3, 2016}}</ref> The console's reveal trailer showcased footage from new titles in Nintendo franchises, including ''Super Mario Odyssey'', ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe'', and ''Splatoon 2'', as well as footage from ''[[Software:NBA 2K18|NBA 2K18]]'' and ''[[Software:The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim|The Elder Scrolls V]]''.<ref name="verge-trailergames">{{Cite web|title=The 6 games Nintendo showed for the Switch|url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/10/20/13345548/nintendo-switch-games-mario-skyrim|website=The Verge|date=October 20, 2016|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=October 20, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021011326/http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/20/13345548/nintendo-switch-games-mario-skyrim|archive-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> Although Nintendo and third-parties stated at that time that these were not necessarily representative of Switch titles,<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-10-24-behind-the-scenes-of-nintendos-switch-reveal-video | title = Nintendo fans pick apart Switch reveal video | first = Tom | last = Philips | date = October 24, 2016 | access-date = October 24, 2016 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161024180850/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-10-24-behind-the-scenes-of-nintendos-switch-reveal-video | archive-date = October 24, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/skyrim-not-confirmed-for-nintendo-switch-despite-a/1100-6444660/ | title = Skyrim Not Confirmed for Nintendo Switch, Despite Appearing in Video Reveal | first = Chris | last = Pereira | date = October 20, 2016 | access-date = October 20, 2016 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161020223512/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/skyrim-not-confirmed-for-nintendo-switch-despite-a/1100-6444660/ | archive-date = October 20, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-10-24-nintendo-switch-video-does-not-represent-actual-game-footage | title = Nintendo: Switch video does not represent actual game footage | first = James | last = Brightman | date = October 24, 2016 | access-date = October 24, 2016 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161025062151/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-10-24-nintendo-switch-video-does-not-represent-actual-game-footage | archive-date = October 25, 2016 }}</ref> all five titles were confirmed as Switch releases during the January 2017 press events.<ref name="eurogamer jan17">{{Cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-01-13-nintendo-switch-games-confirmed-list-launch-titles | title = Nintendo Switch&nbsp;— games list confirmed so far, launch titles and everything we know about the hardware | first = Matthew | last = Reynolds | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Eurogamer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114002711/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-01-13-nintendo-switch-games-confirmed-list-launch-titles | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref>

The Switch did not launch with any bundled games or have any pre-loaded games or game demos; Fils-Aimé stated that once they had decided on the price point and evaluated the forthcoming game lineup, they opted to allow consumers to choose which games to get rather than include one in the bundle and increase its price.<ref name="gamespot price">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/why-switch-doesnt-include-any-bundled-games/1100-6446940/ | title = Why Switch Doesn't Include Any Bundled Games | first = Chris | last = Pereaia | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170114023431/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/why-switch-doesnt-include-any-bundled-games/1100-6446940/ | archive-date = January 14, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/the-nintendo-switch-doesn-t-come-with-any-software-even-demos-pre-installed-415779.phtml | title = The Nintendo Switch doesn't come with any software, even demos, pre-installed | first = Chris | last = Carter | date = January 31, 2017 | access-date = January 31, 2017 | website = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170202081225/https://www.destructoid.com/the-nintendo-switch-doesn-t-come-with-any-software-even-demos-pre-installed-415779.phtml | archive-date = February 2, 2017 }}</ref> At least ten games were shipped or digitally available alongside the Switch in time for its North American launch, including Nintendo's first-party titles ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'' and ''1-2-Switch''.

Fils-Aimé said that Nintendo planned a "steady cadence of content" for the Switch after launch, avoiding the perceived situation with gaps between major releases for Wii U software.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-exec-on-the-two-reasons-why-switch-wont-s/1100-6446987/ | title = Nintendo Exec on the Two Reasons Why Switch Won't Struggle Like Wii U Did | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = January 17, 2017 | access-date = January 17, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170117222000/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-exec-on-the-two-reasons-why-switch-wont-s/1100-6446987/ | archive-date = January 17, 2017 }}</ref> Kimishima said that Nintendo scheduled its first-party releases "to continue to provide new titles regularly without long gaps", as this "encourages consumers to continue actively playing the system, maintains buzz, and spurs continued sales momentum for Nintendo Switch."<ref name="vb 2017-01-31" /> Journalists noted that Nintendo appeared to be pledged to this approach following their schedule of planned releases of first-party games for the Switch as announced during E3 2017, with a new title roughly every month into early 2018.<ref name="verge e3" />

2023 was a record-breaking year for the Nintendo Switch, with 2360 games released.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tu |first=Trumann |date=2024-01-14 |title=Nintendo Switch Set a Record for Game Releases in 2023 |url=https://gamerant.com/nintendo-switch-record-game-releases-2023/ |access-date=2024-01-17 |website=Game Rant |language=en}}</ref>

== Marketing ==
[[File:Wii U Console and Gamepad.png|thumb|upright=1|Nintendo sought to avoid the struggles it had with communicating the capabilities of the Switch's predecessor, the Wii U. Some have mistaken the Wii U GamePad (left) as an accessory for the original Wii console rather than a controller for the Wii U.|alt=A white Wii U console and gamepad.]]
A key part of marketing the Switch was to be "crystal clear in our communication of what the product was and what the product could do", according to Fils-Aimé, so as to avoid similar issues with how they presented the Wii U.<ref name="usatoday different" /><ref name="verge e3">{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/6/13/15784484/how-nintendo-is-avoiding-the-mistakes-of-the-wii-u-with-switch | title = How Nintendo is avoiding the mistakes of the Wii U with Switch | first = Andrew | last = Webster | date = June 13, 2017 | access-date = June 14, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170613192353/https://www.theverge.com/2017/6/13/15784484/how-nintendo-is-avoiding-the-mistakes-of-the-wii-u-with-switch | archive-date = June 13, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://money.cnn.com/2017/11/09/technology/nintendo-switch-wii-u/index.html | title = Nintendo exec: Failed Wii U is responsible for Switch's success | first = Kaya | last = Yuriff | date = November 9, 2017 | access-date = November 10, 2017 | website = CNN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171109233526/http://money.cnn.com/2017/11/09/technology/nintendo-switch-wii-u/index.html | archive-date = November 9, 2017 }}</ref> While the Wii U was designed as a home console unit, Nintendo's lack of clarity on this point led to a general assumption that the unit, principally the Wii U GamePad, was more like a tablet, overshadowing the Wii U's other features (such as dual-screen play modes). Nintendo also believed that some consumers had mistaken the Wii U GamePad as being an accessory for the existing Wii console, rather than being the flagship feature of an entirely new platform.<ref name=gamespot-messaging>{{Cite web|title=Nintendo believes Wii U messaging issues corrected|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-believes-wii-u-messaging-issues-corrected/1100-6396523/|website=GameSpot|access-date=December 23, 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519104652/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-believes-wii-u-messaging-issues-corrected/1100-6396523/|archive-date=May 19, 2014}}</ref> Instead, for the Switch, Fils-Aimé said the company was "very aggressive and clearly communicating the proposition that it's a home console you can take on the go wherever and whenever you want".<ref name="usatoday different">{{Cite web | url = https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/baig/2017/01/14/nintendos-reggie-fils-aime-why-switch-different-wii-u/96582926/ | title = Nintendo's Reggie Fils-Aime: Why Switch is different from Wii U | first = Edward | last = Baig | date = January 14, 2017 | access-date = January 18, 2017 | website = [[Software:USA Today|USA Today]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170117193139/http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/columnist/baig/2017/01/14/nintendos-reggie-fils-aime-why-switch-different-wii-u/96582926/ | archive-date = January 17, 2017 }}</ref>

For example, the October 2016 trailer (considered significantly unlike Nintendo's past marketing efforts, according to ''{{wipe|Bloomberg News}}''<ref name="bloomberg" />) was designed to show the various ways that the Switch can be used so that viewers would recognize that "each of its forms offer different play experiences for people to enjoy".<ref name="siliconera naming" /> Kimishima said that the intent of the trailer was to show that the device was aimed across all player demographics, showcasing features that core gamers would recognize and appreciate to carry this intent.<ref name="bloomberg" /> A large amount of Nintendo's launch marketing for the console focused heavily on the launch title ''Breath of the Wild''; Nintendo of America marketing executive, Nick Chavez, stated that the decision to showcase the new ''Zelda'' game was meant to promote it to both older viewers, who may have grown up with the franchise's earliest games and are accustomed to modern open world games, and to a new generation of players.<ref name="time superbowlad" />

Nintendo aired its first-ever Super Bowl ad during the United States broadcast of Super Bowl LI. Set to the Imagine Dragons song "Believer",<ref name="vb ads" /> the ad showcased the various play modes with the Switch and its launch titles, particularly ''Breath of the Wild'', and upcoming releases; while an ad to celebrate the 20th anniversary of ''Pokémon'' was broadcast the previous year during Super Bowl 50, this ad was paid for by [[Company:The Pokémon Company|The Pokémon Company]] and not by Nintendo.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/2/1/14470838/nintendo-switch-super-bowl-li-commercial | title = Nintendo's Super Bowl Switch commercial shows the many ways you can play Zelda | first = Andrew | last = Webster | date = February 1, 2017 | access-date = February 1, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170202003805/http://www.theverge.com/2017/2/1/14470838/nintendo-switch-super-bowl-li-commercial | archive-date = February 2, 2017 }}</ref><ref name=usatoday-nintendoad>{{Cite web|last=Molina|first=Brett|title=Nintendo devotes its first-ever Super Bowl ad to Switch|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2017/02/01/nintendo-devotes-its-first-ever-super-bowl-ad-switch/97331552/|website=USA Today|access-date=February 1, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170201155929/http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2017/02/01/nintendo-devotes-its-first-ever-super-bowl-ad-switch/97331552/|archive-date=February 1, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/1/14470720/when-does-nintendo-switch-super-bowl-ad-air |title=Nintendo's first Super Bowl ad is all about the Switch |last=Frank |first=Allegra |date=February 1, 2017 |work=Polygon |publisher=Vox Media |access-date=February 1, 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202073718/http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/1/14470720/when-does-nintendo-switch-super-bowl-ad-air |archive-date=February 2, 2017 }}</ref> Chavez said of the ad, "There's no bigger stage in the U.S. on which to showcase the platform. I think it speaks to our confidence in the system."<ref name="time superbowlad">{{Cite magazine | url = http://time.com/4653672/nintendo-switch-super-bowl-commercial/ | title = Watch Nintendo's First-Ever Super Bowl Commercial | first = Matt | last = Peckham | date = February 1, 2017 | access-date = February 1, 2017 | magazine = {{wipe|Time (magazine)}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170201160425/http://time.com/4653672/nintendo-switch-super-bowl-commercial/ | archive-date = February 1, 2017 }}</ref>

Additional television commercials followed the Super Bowl spot, which were to demonstrate Switch's use cases among different demographics, as well as "casual" and "core" gaming audiences.<ref name="time superbowlad" /> Such ad venues included the 2017 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, the 2017 Kids' Choice Awards, and on programming blocks for Nickelodeon, Adult Swim, and Comedy Central.<ref name="vb ads">{{Cite web | url = https://venturebeat.com/2017/05/01/nintendo-switches-up-the-console-ad-spending-charts/ | title = Nintendo 'Switches' up the console ad-spending charts | first = Eleanor | last = Semeraro | date = May 1, 2017 | access-date = May 3, 2017 | website = Venture Beat | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170502110641/https://venturebeat.com/2017/05/01/nintendo-switches-up-the-console-ad-spending-charts/ | archive-date = May 2, 2017 }}</ref> Chavez emphasized that Nintendo's overall marketing for Switch was not be "just a six to eight week launch campaign", but "really a 15-month campaign for us, to say nothing of our plans for 2018".<ref name="time superbowlad" />

[[File:Nintendo Switch event in Paris.jpg|thumb|upright=1|The Grand Palais in Paris during the Switch media event on January 15, 2017|alt=The Grand Palais of Paris is seen with a large Nintendo Switch banner advertisement hanging from it.]]

In addition to advertising, Nintendo had planned several ways for players to try the system before its release through various "sampling events". Kimishima felt that it was important, particularly for "career gamers", for Nintendo to get the Switch into players' hands, so that players could understand how the system differs from Nintendo's previous offerings. Kimishima also said that the company was "running a guerrilla marketing program where we're just dashing around and trying to have as many events as possible and get it in the hands of players so they can experience the difference."<ref name="time kimishima">{{Cite magazine | url = http://time.com/4662446/nintendo-president-switch-interview/ | title = 19 Things Nintendo's President Told Us About Switch and More | first = Matt | last = Peckham | date = February 7, 2017 | access-date = February 7, 2017 | magazine = {{wipe|Time (magazine)}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170207192823/http://time.com/4662446/nintendo-president-switch-interview/ | archive-date = February 7, 2017 }}</ref>

The North American and European press had special events on January 13, 2017, following the Tokyo presentation.<ref name="polygon handsonevents">{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2016/11/28/13769892/nintendo-switch-new-york-event | title = Nintendo holding Switch hands-on event in New York Jan. 13 | first = Chelsea | last = Shark | date = November 28, 2016 | access-date = November 28, 2016 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161129001715/http://www.polygon.com/2016/11/28/13769892/nintendo-switch-new-york-event | archive-date = November 29, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://nintendoeverything.com/nintendo-also-hosting-a-switch-press-event-in-paris-on-january-13/|title=Nintendo also hosting a Switch press event in Paris on January 13 – Nintendo Everything|date=November 30, 2016|access-date=December 30, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161202124006/http://nintendoeverything.com/nintendo-also-hosting-a-switch-press-event-in-paris-on-january-13/|archive-date=December 2, 2016}}</ref> Various Switch demonstration events were run in North America, Europe, and Japan during January and February 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.siliconera.com/2016/12/28/nintendo-switch-hands-event-japan-will-last-seven-hours-days/ | title = The Nintendo Switch Hands-On Event In Japan Will Last Seven Hours On Both Days | author = Sato | date = December 28, 2016 | access-date = December 28, 2016 | website = Siliconera | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161229033404/http://www.siliconera.com/2016/12/28/nintendo-switch-hands-event-japan-will-last-seven-hours-days/ | archive-date = December 29, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/12/14/select-fans-invited-to-see-nintendo-switch-early | title = Select Fans Invited to See Nintendo Switch Early | first = Joe | last = Skrebels | date = December 14, 2016 | access-date = December 14, 2016 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161214154654/http://www.ign.com/articles/2016/12/14/select-fans-invited-to-see-nintendo-switch-early | archive-date = December 14, 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.vg247.com/2017/02/03/nintendo-switch-hands-on-events-will-take-place-in-three-uk-cities-starting-next-weekend/ | title = Nintendo Switch hands on events will take place in three UK cities starting next weekend | first = Stephany | last = Nunneley | date = February 3, 2017 | access-date = February 3, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170203203419/http://www.vg247.com/2017/02/03/nintendo-switch-hands-on-events-will-take-place-in-three-uk-cities-starting-next-weekend/ | archive-date = February 3, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo offered demonstrations of the Switch at gaming conferences including PAX South, South by Southwest, and RTX.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/23/14360160/nintendo-switch-pax-south-playable | title = Get your hands on the Nintendo Switch at PAX South | first = Samit | last = Sarkar | date = January 23, 2017 | access-date = January 23, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170124131020/http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/23/14360160/nintendo-switch-pax-south-playable | archive-date = January 24, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="gamespot cena">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-john-cena-to-help-promote-the-cons/1100-6448055/ | title = Nintendo Switch: John Cena To Help Promote The Console, Here's How | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = February 21, 2017 | access-date = February 21, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170222234908/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-john-cena-to-help-promote-the-cons/1100-6448055/ | archive-date = February 22, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.destructoid.com/you-ll-be-able-to-try-out-the-nintendo-switch-at-rtx-sydney-in-february-405017.phtml | title = You'll be able to try out the Nintendo Switch at RTX Sydney in February | first = Dennis | last = Carden | date = December 14, 2016 | access-date = December 15, 2016 | website = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161216140205/https://www.destructoid.com/you-ll-be-able-to-try-out-the-nintendo-switch-at-rtx-sydney-in-february-405017.phtml | archive-date = December 16, 2016 }}</ref> Nintendo also promoted the Switch through an "Unexpected Places" campaign in February 2017, temporarily setting up living-room-style spaces in three United States locations and inviting fans and players, including John Cena, to try out the unit.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/21/14682742/nintendo-switch-john-cena | title = Nintendo tag teams with John Cena for living room-inspired Switch demos | first = Christopher | last = Grant | date = February 21, 2017 | access-date = February 24, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170224014003/http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/21/14682742/nintendo-switch-john-cena | archive-date = February 24, 2017 }}</ref>

In June 2018, Nintendo announced it was partnering with Disney Channel to help produce ''Nintendo Switch Family Showdown'', a televised competition where families competed in challenges around various Switch games in August 2018.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://variety.com/2018/gaming/news/disney-channel-nintendo-switch-family-showdown-1202849456/|title=Disney Channel's Nintendo Switch Family Showdown Casting Call|last=Lanier|first=Liz|date=June 18, 2018|website=Variety|access-date=June 20, 2018}}</ref>

== Reception ==

=== Pre-release ===
Market analysts had a mixed response to the October 2016 announcement of the Nintendo Switch.<ref name="nytimes" /><ref name="wsj" /> Some expressed concern that the Switch failed to address the issues that led to poor Wii U sales, and was aimed at a small audience.<ref name="nytimes" /> Others were more upbeat, believing the Switch approach would fit in well in the Japanese market, where space for dedicated consoles and televisions are limited, and transition into Western ones.<ref name="NYT new market" /><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/1/26/14396306/japanese-video-games-nintendo-switch | title = First Click: The future of Japanese games may rely on the Nintendo Switch | first = Sam | last = Byford | date = January 26, 2017 | access-date = January 26, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170126192207/http://www.theverge.com/2017/1/26/14396306/japanese-video-games-nintendo-switch | archive-date = January 26, 2017 }}</ref> Taylor also approved of the company's decision to introduce the console prior to the holiday season, when Microsoft and Sony would attempt to attract casual gamers to their consoles.<ref name="NYT new market" /><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-10-26-switch-targets-japans-tv-less-youth | title = Switch targets Japan's TV-less youth | first = Rob | last = Fahey | date = October 26, 2016 | access-date = October 28, 2016 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161028141753/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2016-10-26-switch-targets-japans-tv-less-youth | archive-date = October 28, 2016 }}</ref>

Following the January 2017 press conference revealing the unit's pricing and release date, journalists expressed concern at the apparently high system price, comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One consoles but lacking some of their capabilities, the cost of the paid-for Nintendo Switch Online service, and the small number of games that were confirmed for launch.<ref name="cnbc" /><ref name="vb jan2017">{{Cite web | url = https://venturebeat.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-draws-mixed-reactions-from-analysts/ | title = Nintendo Switch draws mixed reactions from analysts | first = Dean | last = Takahashi | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = Venture Beat | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170118055037/http://venturebeat.com/2017/01/13/nintendo-switch-draws-mixed-reactions-from-analysts/ | archive-date = January 18, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="wsj nov2017" /><ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.ft.com/content/38d0d9b0-d978-11e6-944b-e7eb37a6aa8e | title = Nintendo shares dive on pricing of Switch console | first1 = Leo | last1 = Lewis | first2 = Kana | last2 = Inagaki | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 17, 2017 | website = [[Social:Financial Times|Financial Times]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170115131448/https://www.ft.com/content/38d0d9b0-d978-11e6-944b-e7eb37a6aa8e | archive-date = January 15, 2017 }}</ref> However, other analysts found that the pricing factors indicated the Switch was a more robust console, and would likely sell better than the Wii U, with ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'' being a key sales driver.<ref name="vb jan2017" /> These analysts also figured the Switch fills an appropriate gap in hardware for those seeking more complex gameplay that is not offered in tablet and mobile gaming but who did not need to purchase a powerful "boxy" console.<ref name="gamasutra analysts">{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/handicapping-the-switch-s-chances-industry-analysts-weigh-in |title=Handicapping the Switch's chances: Industry analysts weigh in |first=Chris | last = Baker | date = January 17, 2017 | access-date = January 17, 2017 |website=Game Developer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827163112/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/handicapping-the-switch-s-chances-industry-analysts-weigh-in |archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref> Most analysts agreed that the success of the Switch depends on Nintendo's support and avoiding mistakes the company had made in marketing and promoting the Wii U.<ref name="gamasutra analysts" />

Nintendo investors showed wariness at the Switch, as its stock price dropped in the months from the system's announcement up until its release. Analysts believed investors felt the Switch was very risky and were unsure if the unit would draw new audiences to Nintendo.<ref name="polygon stock">{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/21/13359078/nintendo-switch-stock-price-drop | title = Nintendo stock drops 7 percent after Switch reveal | first = Julia | last = Alexander | date = October 21, 2016 | access-date = October 21, 2016 | website = Polygon | publisher = [[Company:Vox Media|Vox Media]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161022094728/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/21/13359078/nintendo-switch-stock-price-drop | archive-date = October 22, 2016 }}</ref><ref name="nytimes" /><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendos-new-switch-console-fails-to-turn-on-investors-1477034448 | title = Nintendo's New Switch Console Fails to Turn On Investors | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | website = Wall Street Journal | date = October 21, 2016 | access-date = February 3, 2017 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170204003509/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendos-new-switch-console-fails-to-turn-on-investors-1477034448 | archive-date = February 4, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-stock-price-drops-after-latest-switch-new/1100-6446912/ | title = Nintendo Stock Price Drops After Latest Switch News | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = January 13, 2017 | access-date = January 13, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170116215344/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-stock-price-drops-after-latest-switch-new/1100-6446912/ | archive-date = January 16, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="gibiz 20170203">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-02-03-risky-nintendo-spooks-the-markets | title = Risky Nintendo spooks the markets | first = Rob | last = Fahey | date = February 3, 2017 | access-date = February 3, 2017 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170203090052/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-02-03-risky-nintendo-spooks-the-markets | archive-date = February 3, 2017 }}</ref> Analysis firms estimated the Switch would have a slow start due to the risk of the system and high price, but could still clear up to 40 million units by 2020.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/01/21/nintendo-switch-to-sell-40-million-units-by-2020-according-to-market-analysis-forecast/ | title = Nintendo Switch to sell 40 million units by 2020, according to forecast by market research firm | first = Stephany | last = Nunneley | date = January 21, 2017 | access-date = January 21, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170124175716/http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/21/nintendo-switch-to-sell-40-million-units-by-2020-according-to-market-analysis-forecast/ | archive-date = January 24, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/03/02/nintendo-switch-predicted-to-sell-5-million-by-the-end-of-the-year-but-price-tag-could-make-for-a-slow-start/ | title = Nintendo Switch predicted to sell 5 million by the end of the year, but price tag could make for a slow start | first = Sharif | last = Saed | date = March 2, 2017 | access-date = March 2, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170302205945/http://www.vg247.com/2017/03/02/nintendo-switch-predicted-to-sell-5-million-by-the-end-of-the-year-but-price-tag-could-make-for-a-slow-start/ | archive-date = March 2, 2017 }}</ref>

Game and hardware developers were more positive towards the Switch, seeing the system as "a more unifying experience between their handheld and console divisions", but expressed concern on unanswered hardware specifications, and how Nintendo would market the unit to draw in developers.<ref name="devs react">{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/devs-react-nintendo-unveils-its-hybrid-handheld-console-switch |title=Devs React: Nintendo unveils its hybrid-handheld console Switch |last=Wawro |first=Alex |date=October 20, 2016 |website=Game Developer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827192741/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/console/devs-react-nintendo-unveils-its-hybrid-handheld-console-switch |archive-date=August 27, 2021 |url-status=live|access-date=October 20, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/gaming/2017/01/12/survey-game-developers-mixed-nintendo-switch/96491412/ | title = Survey: Game developers mixed about Nintendo Switch | first = Brett | last = Molina | date = January 12, 2017 | access-date = January 18, 2017 | website = [[Software:USA Today|USA Today]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170117095924/http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/gaming/2017/01/12/survey-game-developers-mixed-nintendo-switch/96491412/ | archive-date = January 17, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=The Nintendo Switch could unite the gaming audience, Ubisoft exec says|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/11/30/13794304/ubisoft-nintendo-switch-nintendo-casual-hardcore-evolution|website=Polygon|date=November 30, 2016|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=January 13, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170116145116/http://www.polygon.com/2016/11/30/13794304/ubisoft-nintendo-switch-nintendo-casual-hardcore-evolution|archive-date=January 16, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.videogamer.com/news/capcom-looking-into-ps4-xbox-one-and-nintendo-switch-multiplatform-games | title = Capcom looking into PS4, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch multiplatform games | first = James | last = Orrey | date = November 7, 2016 | access-date = November 7, 2016 | website = VideoGamer.com | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161108052244/https://www.videogamer.com/news/capcom-looking-into-ps4-xbox-one-and-nintendo-switch-multiplatform-games | archive-date = November 8, 2016 }}</ref> Developer Hideo Kojima compared the notion of the Switch to his idea of "transfarring" that he presented in 2011, allowing players to take a game from a home platform to a portable one, which became the basis of Sony's [[Cross-buy|cross-buy]] program. He said that the Switch was "an extension of that idea. The fact you can play something at home and take it outside, this is the gamer's dream. The Switch is an evolution of that."<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/02/04/hideo-kojima-shares-his-thoughts-on-nintendo-switch | title = Hideo Kojima Shares His Thoughts on Nintendo Switch | first = Lucy | last = O'Brein | date = February 3, 2017 | access-date = February 6, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170205124654/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/02/04/hideo-kojima-shares-his-thoughts-on-nintendo-switch | archive-date = February 5, 2017 }}</ref> Bethesda's Todd Howard stated, "I think Nintendo is the only company that could pull something like this off," commenting on the Nintendo Switch's design and functionality.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/02/23/dice-2017-fallout-4-director-todd-howard-on-bethesda-game-studios-creative-process|publisher=IGN|title=Fallout 4 director Todd Howard on Bethesda Game Studios' creative process|date=February 23, 2017|access-date=March 3, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305063229/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/02/23/dice-2017-fallout-4-director-todd-howard-on-bethesda-game-studios-creative-process|archive-date=March 5, 2017}}</ref> Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft's Xbox division, said he was impressed with Nintendo's ability to "state a bold vision and build a product that delivers on that vision".<ref name="digitalspy-msapproves">{{Cite web|title=Xbox boss gives the Nintendo Switch the thumbs up|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/gaming/nintendo-switch/news/a811728/xbox-boss-flatters-the-nintendo-switch/|website=Digital Spy|date=October 21, 2016|access-date=January 13, 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170116145414/http://www.digitalspy.com/gaming/nintendo-switch/news/a811728/xbox-boss-flatters-the-nintendo-switch/|archive-date=January 16, 2017}}</ref>

Retailers were also generally positive with the Switch; [[Company:GameStop|GameStop]] CEO Paul Reines stated the unit was transformative in the market and would be a "game-changer" that could "expand the audience for gaming".<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-could-be-a-game-changer-may-have-m/1100-6445671/ | title = Nintendo Switch Could Be a "Game-Changer," May Have Motion Controls, GameStop Says | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = November 23, 2016 | access-date = November 23, 2016 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161222012357/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-could-be-a-game-changer-may-have-m/1100-6445671/ | archive-date = December 22, 2016 }}</ref> Pre-orders were high, with Kimishima stating before launch that total pre-orders reached nearly the levels of units they had ready to ship for launch.<ref name="time kimishima" /><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2017/1/15/14280604/nintendo-switch-pre-order-gamestop-ebay-gray-market | title = Nintendo Switch sold out at GameStop; good luck finding it elsewhere | first = Owen | last = Good | date = January 15, 2017 | access-date = January 27, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170126164048/http://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2017/1/15/14280604/nintendo-switch-pre-order-gamestop-ebay-gray-market | archive-date = January 26, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/01/27/nintendo-switch-pre-orders-already-at-80-of-the-consoles-initial-shipment-in-japan/ | title = Nintendo Switch pre-orders already at 80% of the console's initial shipment in Japan | first = Sherif | last = Saed | date = January 27, 2017 | access-date = January 27, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170127132842/http://www.vg247.com/2017/01/27/nintendo-switch-pre-orders-already-at-80-of-the-consoles-initial-shipment-in-japan/ | archive-date = January 27, 2017 }}</ref>

The October 2016 reveal trailer became Nintendo of America's most-viewed video on YouTube within 24 hours, and was the top trending video on YouTube for about a day.<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Grant|first1=Christopher|title=The Nintendo Switch reveal is the most viewed video on Nintendo's YouTube page|url=http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/21/13362992/nintendo-switch-trailer-youtube|website=Polygon|publisher=[[Company:Vox Media|Vox Media]]|access-date=October 23, 2016|date=October 21, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161023042714/http://www.polygon.com/2016/10/21/13362992/nintendo-switch-trailer-youtube|archive-date=October 23, 2016}}</ref>

=== Release ===
Upon release, the Switch was praised by reviewers for having a lot of potential, but they were underwhelmed by the limited number of titles available at launch that did not show the full extent of the console's abilities. Reviewers also noted that the initial operating software and features were limited and included software bugs that, while likely to be fixed in time, marred the experience of the system.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2017/03/01/nintendo-switch-reviews-round-up-the-final-verdict/ | title = Nintendo Switch reviews round-up: the final verdict | first = Sharif | last = Saed | date = March 1, 2017 | access-date = March 1, 2017 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170301200346/http://www.vg247.com/2017/03/01/nintendo-switch-reviews-round-up-the-final-verdict/ | archive-date = March 1, 2017 }}</ref> Even with the day-one update, there were numerous reports of hardware problems, in particular the Bluetooth connectivity of the Switch console with the Joy-Con (L) controller, and ease with which the console screen could be scratched.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/3/14805574/nintendo-switch-hardware-issues-screen | title = Nintendo Switch users face hardware issues on launch day | first1 = Allegra | last1 = Frank | first2 = Samit | last2 = Sarkar | first3 = Julia | last3 = Alexander | date = March 3, 2017 | access-date = March 4, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170304013504/http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/3/14805574/nintendo-switch-hardware-issues-screen | archive-date = March 4, 2017 }}</ref> About a week after release, Fils-Aimé said the company is in "fact-finding mode" to try to diagnose these issues.<ref>{{Cite magazine | url = http://time.com/4696866/nintendo-switch-joy-con-issues/ | title = Nintendo America's Boss Answers Our Questions About Switch Concerns | first = Matt | last = Peckham | date = March 9, 2017 | access-date = March 10, 2017 | magazine = {{wipe|Time (magazine)}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170309233143/http://time.com/4696866/nintendo-switch-joy-con-issues/ | archive-date = March 9, 2017 }}</ref> In late March, Nintendo reported that the Joy-Con (L) desync issue was a "manufacturing variation" on a small number of the units, which could be easily fixed; as noted by CNET's Sean Hollister, Nintendo repaired affected controllers by placing a bit of conductive foam near the antenna within the unit to better shield it. Going forward, Nintendo said they do not anticipate any other problems with connectivity issues.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/03/22/nintendo-confirms-switch-joy-con-sync-issues-caused-by-manufacturing-error | title = Nintendo Confirms Source of Joy-Con Sync Issues | first = Jonathan | last = Dornbrush | date = March 22, 2017 | access-date = March 22, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170322194626/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/03/22/nintendo-confirms-switch-joy-con-sync-issues-caused-by-manufacturing-error | archive-date = March 22, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.cnet.com/au/news/nintendo-switch-joycon-desync-connectivity-issue-fix/ | title = Nintendo has an easy fix for the Switch Joy-Con desync issue | first = Sean | last = Hollister | date = March 22, 2017 | access-date = March 22, 2017 | website = CNet | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170322153018/https://www.cnet.com/au/news/nintendo-switch-joycon-desync-connectivity-issue-fix/ | archive-date = March 22, 2017 }}</ref> Many users also reported issues with [[Defective pixel|defective pixel]]s on the LCD screen of the console, which Nintendo has stated "are normal and should not be considered a defect".<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.pcmag.com/news/352213/nintendo-switch-screen-dead-pixels-are-not-a-defect | title = Nintendo: Switch Screen Dead Pixels Are Not a Defect | first = Matthew | last = Humphreys | date = March 7, 2017 | access-date = March 7, 2017 | website = PC Magazine | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170307131309/http://www.pcmag.com/news/352213/nintendo-switch-screen-dead-pixels-are-not-a-defect | archive-date = March 7, 2017 }}</ref> Other companies in the video game industry such as Sony, Microsoft, Sega, Bethesda, Ubisoft and Unity Technologies congratulated Nintendo on the Switch, along with [[Finance:Fast food|fast food]] companies such as Arby's and [[Company:Domino's Pizza|Domino's Pizza]], which made a practice of posting game-inspired artworks on social media.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/3/14806574/nintendo-switch-twitter-sony-microsoft-arbys | title = Sony, Microsoft, and of course Arby's congratulate Nintendo on the Switch | website = Polygon | date = March 3, 2017 | access-date = March 5, 2017 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170305200450/http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/3/14806574/nintendo-switch-twitter-sony-microsoft-arbys | archive-date = March 5, 2017 }}</ref>

About six months after release, Nintendo reported their usage statistics for the Switch. Using statistics collected by the system for the primary player on the console, they found that 30% of users operate the console in Handheld/Tabletop mode more than 80% of the time, slightly more than 50% of users operate the console in both TV mode and Handheld/Tabletop mode equally, with the remaining users preferring TV mode. Nintendo stated "We can clearly see that consumers are playing to suit their own play styles."<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/31/16580638/nintendo-switch-success-portable-console | title = One chart shows why the Nintendo Switch has become such a big hit | first = Ben | last = Kuchera | date = October 31, 2017 | access-date = October 31, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171031150757/https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/31/16580638/nintendo-switch-success-portable-console | archive-date = October 31, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo also found that the majority of people who purchased the Switch in the United States are male consumers in their 20s and early 30s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/171031_2e.pdf|title=Six Months Financial Results Briefing for Fiscal Year Ending March 2018}}</ref>

Following the implementation of firmware version 5.0.0, several Switch users began reporting that their consoles became unusable after having been docked within a third-party "portable" dock manufactured by Nyko. Nyko commented on the issue, stating that they were aware of the issue and thought it to be caused by the Switch's handling of A/V output, while Nintendo advised users against docking their systems inside unlicensed docking peripherals. After purchasing the dock at a [[Company:Walmart|Walmart]] store in Jacksonville, Florida, and losing usability of his console upon using the dock, Switch owner Michael Skiathitis filed a class action lawsuit against Nyko, alleging the dock to be "prone to causing numerous problems to the devices they are intended to support" against the knowledge of purchasers, as well as noting that Nyko had not put much effort into warning consumers about the issue. Other Switch owners reported having their consoles bricked upon using various other third-party docks, including models made by FastSnail and [[Company:Best Buy#House brands|Insignia]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/angry-over-bricked-switch-guy-files-class-action-suit-1825653185 |title=Angry Over Busted Switch, Guy Files Class-Action Suit Against Third-Party Dock Maker |first=Cecilia |last=D'Anastasio |date=April 30, 2018 |publisher=Kotaku |access-date=April 30, 2018}}</ref>

''[[The Verge]]'' rated the Nintendo Switch Lite 8 out of 10 points, praising its improved battery life over the standard Nintendo Switch, as well as the design and the D-pad, but criticizing the lack of a TV mode and the fact that some games are not compatible with the base model alone.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Nintendo Switch Lite review: a triumphant return to dedicated handhelds|url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/19/20873717/nintendo-switch-lite-review-price-specs-features-games-launch-date|access-date=2020-06-28|website=www.theverge.com|date=19 September 2019|language=en}}</ref> ''PC Magazine'' criticized the components used in the Switch Lite for their quality because just like the Joy-Con of the original Nintendo Switch, the analog sticks of the console are also susceptible to drifting.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Nintendo's Switch Lite Also Suffers From Joy-Con Drift|url=https://www.pcmag.com/news/nintendos-switch-lite-also-suffers-from-joy-con-drift?amp=true|access-date=2020-06-28|website=PCMAG|language=en}}</ref>

=== Sales ===

==== Initial launch ====
[[File:Switch, Wii U, and PS4 first-year sales in Japan.png|thumb|upright=2|First-year sales of the Switch (red line), Wii U (green), and PlayStation 4 (blue) in Japan]]

Initial sales of the Switch were strong, with Nintendo reporting that based on its first week's numbers, it was the company's fastest-selling console.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2017/03/07/nintendo-switch-fastest-selling-console-nintendos-history/ | title = Switch is 'fastest-selling console in Nintendo's history' | first = James | last = Titcomb | date = March 7, 2017 | access-date = March 7, 2017 | website = The Daily Telegraph | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170307100643/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2017/03/07/nintendo-switch-fastest-selling-console-nintendos-history/ | archive-date = March 7, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/3/6/14836170/nintendo-switch-broke-sales-records-americas-zelda-two-day|title=The Switch broke Nintendo's sales records (in the Americas, at least)|date=March 6, 2017|website=The Verge|access-date=March 6, 2017 | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307023109/http://www.theverge.com/2017/3/6/14836170/nintendo-switch-broke-sales-records-americas-zelda-two-day|archive-date=March 7, 2017}}</ref> In Japan, first weekend sales exceeded 330,000 units, which was on par with the [[Engineering:PlayStation 4|PlayStation 4]] during its launch period.<ref name="JP-twoday">{{Cite web | url = https://venturebeat.com/2017/03/06/nintendo-sells-313700-switch-consoles-in-japan-over-launch-weekend/ | title = Nintendo sells 313,700 Switch consoles in Japan over launch weekend | first = Jeff | last = Grubb | date = March 6, 2017 | access-date = March 6, 2017 | website = Venture Beat | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170307062319/http://venturebeat.com/2017/03/06/nintendo-sells-313700-switch-consoles-in-japan-over-launch-weekend/ | archive-date = March 7, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="JP-threeday">{{Cite web|last1=Frank|first1=Allegra|title=Nintendo Switch launch sales are good news&nbsp;— but not great news yet|url=http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/7/14844406/nintendo-switch-sales-numbers|website=Polygon|publisher=[[Company:Vox Media|Vox Media]]|access-date=March 9, 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170308040820/http://www.polygon.com/2017/3/7/14844406/nintendo-switch-sales-numbers|archive-date=March 8, 2017|date=March 7, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Sales during this initial period were strong in the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/nintendo-sells-nearly-a-million-switches-in-the-united-1794315215 | title = Nintendo Sells Nearly A Million Switches In The United States | first = Jason | last = Schreier | date = April 13, 2017 | access-date = April 13, 2017 | website = Kotaku | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170414081405/https://kotaku.com/nintendo-sells-nearly-a-million-switches-in-the-united-1794315215 | archive-date = April 14, 2017 }}</ref> [[Company:Media Create|Media Create]] estimated that more than 500,000 Switch units were sold in Japan within its first month, beating out the PlayStation 4 to this figure.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-03-30-nintendo-switch-reaches-500-000-sales-in-japan | title = Nintendo Switch reaches 500,000 sales in Japan | first = Matthew | last = Handrahan | date = March 30, 2017 | access-date = March 30, 2017 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170330101734/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-03-30-nintendo-switch-reaches-500-000-sales-in-japan | archive-date = March 30, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="UK-twoday">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-03-06-strong-start-for-nintendo-switch-in-the-uk|title=Nintendo Switch UK launch sales hit 80,000|last=Dring|first=Christopher|date=March 6, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170306104416/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-03-06-strong-start-for-nintendo-switch-in-the-uk|archive-date=March 6, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Spain-threeday">{{Cite web|last1=Monzón|first1=Alejandro Oramas|title=Nintendo Switch es el mejor lanzamiento de una consola en España|url=http://www.hobbyconsolas.com/noticias/nintendo-switch-es-mejor-lanzamiento-consola-espana-91846|website=Hobby Consolas|publisher=Axel Springer SE|access-date=March 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309163322/http://www.hobbyconsolas.com/noticias/nintendo-switch-es-mejor-lanzamiento-consola-espana-91846|archive-date=March 9, 2017|language=es|date=March 8, 2017}}</ref><ref name="lefigaro-fr-sales">{{Cite web|last1=Woitier|first1=Chloé|title=La Nintendo Switch bat tous les records de ventes en France|url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/secteur/high-tech/2017/03/07/32001-20170307ARTFIG00195-la-nintendo-switch-bat-tous-les-records-de-ventes-en-france.php|website=Le Figaro|date=March 7, 2017|publisher=Dassault Group|access-date=March 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170318141418/http://www.lefigaro.fr/secteur/high-tech/2017/03/07/32001-20170307ARTFIG00195-la-nintendo-switch-bat-tous-les-records-de-ventes-en-france.php|archive-date=March 18, 2017|language=fr}}</ref><ref name="gamespot-fr-sales">{{Cite web|last1=Makuch|first1=Eddie|title=Nintendo Switch Is Nintendo's Fastest-Selling Console Ever In The Americas, Europe, and Australia|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-is-nintendos-fastest-selling-conso/1100-6448486/|website=GameSpot|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=March 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170318141018/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-is-nintendos-fastest-selling-conso/1100-6448486/|archive-date=March 18, 2017|date=March 8, 2017}}</ref>

Nintendo issued the Switch's first month's performance in their 2016 fiscal year results (which ended March 31, 2017), reporting that more than 2.74&nbsp;million units had been sold worldwide, exceeding their target of two million.<ref name="NintendofirstofficialSwitchnumbers">{{cite news|last=Makuch|first=Eddie|title=Nintendo Switch Ships 2.74 Million Units Worldwide|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nintendo-switch-ships-274-million-units-worldwide/1100-6449626/|work=GameSpot|date=April 27, 2017|access-date=April 27, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.polygon.com/2017/4/27/15449380/nintendo-switch-worldwide-sales-march | title = Nintendo sold 2.74 million switch consoles worldwide in March | first = Chelsea | last = Stark | date = April 27, 2017 | access-date = April 27, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170428052300/http://www.polygon.com/2017/4/27/15449380/nintendo-switch-worldwide-sales-march | archive-date = April 28, 2017 }}</ref> Retailer GameStop reported that initial sales of the Switch were "phenomenal" and on track to surpass the Wii U based on their historical sales data, with merchandising director Eric Bright saying the Switch has had "one of the highest attach rates of software and accessories to a device that we've seen in a long time".<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/articles/gamestop-nintendo-switch-sales-phenomenal-could-ou/1100-6448845/ | title = GameStop: Nintendo Switch Sales "Phenomenal," Could Outpace Wii | first = Eddie | last = Makuch | date = March 20, 2017 | access-date = March 20, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170321171920/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/gamestop-nintendo-switch-sales-phenomenal-could-ou/1100-6448845/ | archive-date = March 21, 2017 }}</ref> Retailer GameStop reported significant growth in hardware sales in its first quarter of 2017 due primarily to the Switch,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/gamestop-s-sales-rise-on-the-back-of-nintendo-s-switch-even-as-profits-slip |title=GameStop's sales rise on the back of Nintendo's Switch, even as profits slip |first=Alex |last=Wawro |date=May 25, 2017 |access-date = May 26, 2017 |website=Game Developer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827103803/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/gamestop-s-sales-rise-on-the-back-of-nintendo-s-switch-even-as-profits-slip |archive-date=August 27, 2021 }}</ref> while [[Company:Best Buy|Best Buy]] saw an unexpected increase in their hardware sales in its first quarter of 2017 buoyed by the popularity of the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-05-25/best-buy-surges-after-nintendo-switch-console-helps-boost-sales | title = Best Buy Soars After Nintendo Switch Helps Bring Surprise Growth | first1 = Matthew | last1 = Boyle | first2 = Matthew | last2 = Townsend | date = May 25, 2017 | access-date = May 26, 2017 | website = [[Company:Bloomberg L.P.|Bloomberg]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170525175025/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-05-25/best-buy-surges-after-nintendo-switch-console-helps-boost-sales | archive-date = May 25, 2017 }}</ref> Console sales in Japan, which had been languishing due to the strength of the mobile game market, saw its first annual growth of 14.8% in 2017 due to the release of the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/japanese-console-market-grows-for-the-first-time-in-three-years |title=Japanese console market grows for the first time in three years |first=Chris |last=Kerr |date=July 4, 2017 |access-date=July 4, 2017 |website=Game Developer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170708131703/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/301064/Japanese_console_market_grows_for_the_first_time_in_three_years.php | archive-date = July 8, 2017 }}</ref> Physical sales for Switch games were at 5.46 million worldwide in its first month, with 2.76 million copies of ''Breath of the Wild'' for the Switch making up nearly half of those sales.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170427e.pdf|title=Consolidated Financial Statements Nintendo|date=April 27, 2017|website=nintendo.co.jp|page=3|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427225942/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170427e.pdf|archive-date=April 27, 2017|url-status=live|access-date=April 29, 2017}}</ref> On ''Breath of the Wild''{{'}}s nearly 1-to-1 sales with the Switch console, Nintendo's Kimishima said, "This high of an attach rate is more or less unprecedented".<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-04-28-switch-boasts-2-1-software-tie-ratio | title = Switch boasts 2:1 software tie ratio | first = Brendan | last = Sinclair | date = April 28, 2017 | access-date = April 28, 2017 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170428165506/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-04-28-switch-boasts-2-1-software-tie-ratio | archive-date = April 28, 2017 }}</ref>

The large sales within the first month forced Nintendo to increase their production capacity,<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-to-double-production-of-switch-console-1489728545 | title = Nintendo to Double Production of Switch Console | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = March 17, 2017 | access-date = March 17, 2017 | website = {{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170317080104/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-to-double-production-of-switch-console-1489728545 | archive-date = March 17, 2017 }}</ref> and to temporarily use air freight to ship Switch units instead of their usual overseas shipment, costing an estimated $45 per console, rather than the less-costly overseas shipment.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-shipped-switch-consoles-by-plane-to-quickly-meet-high-demand-1493619178 | title = Nintendo Shipped Switch Consoles by Plane to Quickly Meet High Demand | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = May 1, 2017 | access-date = May 1, 2017 | website = Wall Street Journal | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170501085301/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-shipped-switch-consoles-by-plane-to-quickly-meet-high-demand-1493619178 | archive-date = May 1, 2017 }}</ref> With these changes, Nintendo projected that it would sell at least 10 million Switch consoles during the 2017 fiscal year, alongside 35 million games.<ref name="NintendofirstofficialSwitchnumbers" /> Kimishima stated that having a Switch user base of 10 million "will give publishers and the rest of our business partners a sense that the future of Nintendo Switch is more promising" and spur further game development for the platform.<ref name="gibiz wii" /> Kimishima said that a key goal in their production ramp up would be to make sure they have enough Switch inventory near the end of 2017 for holiday sales, as to avoid the issue with Wii shortages that occurred during its first holiday-season period, while balancing the near-term high demand.<ref name="gamasutra fy2016 qa" /> According to Kimishima, Nintendo now believed that if they could reach 10 million in Switch sales in 2017, they expected the Switch would have lifetime sales comparable to the Wii, which had sold over 100 million units in its lifetime.<ref name="gibiz wii">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-05-02-nintendo-now-believes-switch-can-reach-wii-sales-levels | title = Nintendo now believes Switch can reach Wii sales levels | first = James | last = Brightman | date = May 2, 2017 | access-date = May 2, 2017 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170502194314/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-05-02-nintendo-now-believes-switch-can-reach-wii-sales-levels | archive-date = May 2, 2017 }}</ref><ref name="gamasutra fy2016 qa" />

The Switch continued to show strong sales throughout its first year of release. In its financial report released in October 2017 for the quarter ending September 30, 2017, Nintendo reported worldwide sales of the Switch at 7.63 million, with the expectation to sell more than 14 million by the end of its current financial year, exceeding the Wii U's lifetime 13.56 million sales. Five software titles had achieved at least one million in sales by this point: ''Breath of the Wild'' (4.7M), ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe'' (4.42M), ''Splatoon 2'' (3.61M), ''1-2 Switch'' (1.37M), and ''Arms'' (1.35M).<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/30/16570130/nintendo-switch-sales-quarterly-earnings | title = Nintendo says the Switch will outsell the Wii U after one year | first = Owen | last = Good | date = October 30, 2017 | access-date = October 30, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171030184411/https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/30/16570130/nintendo-switch-sales-quarterly-earnings | archive-date = October 30, 2017 }}</ref> Shortly after this financial report, Nintendo reported that ''[[Software:Super Mario Odyssey|Super Mario Odyssey]]'' for the Switch sold more than two million copies within three days of its release on October 27, 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/31/16580724/super-mario-odyssey-sales-snes-classic-sales-nintendo | title = Super Mario Odyssey sold 2 million copies already, says Nintendo | first = Owen | last = Good | date = October 31, 2017 | access-date = October 31, 2017 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171031180455/https://www.polygon.com/2017/10/31/16580724/super-mario-odyssey-sales-snes-classic-sales-nintendo | archive-date = October 31, 2017 }}</ref> Following this financial report, the ''Wall Street Journal'' asserted that Nintendo anticipated to continue ramping production of the Switch in its 2018 fiscal year, with plans to produce between 25 and 30 million units that year or more depending on the 2017 holiday sales.<ref name="wsj nov2017">{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendos-game-plan-to-level-up-switch-production-1510291065 | title = Nintendo's Game Plan to Level Up Switch Production | first = Takashi | last = Mochizuki | date = November 10, 2017 | access-date = November 10, 2017 | website = {{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171110052018/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendos-game-plan-to-level-up-switch-production-1510291065 | archive-date = November 10, 2017 }}</ref> During the November 2017 [[Finance:Black Friday (shopping)|Black Friday]], Small Business Saturday, and [[Finance:Cyber Monday|Cyber Monday]] sales that kicked off the holiday shopping season in North America, [[Software:Adobe Systems|Adobe Digital Insights]]' analysis showed the Switch was one of the top-five selling items, outpacing the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One. NPD Group adjusted their future performance of the Switch to follow more closely with the Wii's lifetime sales rather than the Wii U's.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.usgamer.net/articles/adobe-the-nintendo-switch-is-dominating-black-friday-cyber-monday | title = The Nintendo Switch Dominated Black Friday and Cyber Monday | first = Matt | last = Kim | date = November 27, 2017 | access-date = November 28, 2017 | website = US Gamer | url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171201031450/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/adobe-the-nintendo-switch-is-dominating-black-friday-cyber-monday | archive-date = December 1, 2017 }}</ref>

On December 12, 2017, the company announced the system had sold over 10 million units worldwide, having reached its sales goal for the 2017 fiscal year within nine months. Nintendo raised its Switch sales expectation to 14 million units for the fiscal year.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/nintendo-switch-worldwide-sales-top-10m-units |title=Nintendo Switch worldwide sales top 10M units |first=Chris |last=Kerr |date=December 12, 2017 | access-date = December 12, 2017 | website=Game Developer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171212193446/https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/311497/Nintendo_Switch_worldwide_sales_top_10M_units.php | archive-date = December 12, 2017 }}</ref> Shortly after this announcement, Kimishima said that Nintendo has a target of 20 million units sold within the console's second year, along with releasing new games that "enables new ways of playing" to continue the sales momentum.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/report-nintendo-expects-to-sell-20m-switch-consoles-in-the-next-fiscal-year |title=Report: Nintendo expects to sell 20M Switch consoles in the next fiscal year | first = Chris | last = Kerr | date = December 29, 2017 | access-date = December 29, 2017 | website=Game Developer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171229231903/https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/312378/Report_Nintendo_expects_to_sell_20M_Switch_consoles_in_the_next_fiscal_year.php | archive-date = December 29, 2017 }}</ref>

Based on its first year sales, the Switch was considered to be the fastest-selling game console in history in many regions. With 2017 year end Japanese sales data from Media Create, the Switch became the fastest-selling home console in Japan in first year sales, with its total sales of 3.2 million units exceeding the 3.0 million units of the [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]] during its first year of release,<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/12/28/nintendo-switch-sets-new-sales-milestones | title = Nintendo Switch Sets New Sales Milestone | first = Filip | last = Miucin | date = December 28, 2017 | access-date = December 28, 2017 | website = IGN | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171228201319/http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/12/28/nintendo-switch-sets-new-sales-milestones | archive-date = December 28, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://dotesports.com/the-op/news/nintendo-switch-sales-playstation-2-19777 | title = The Switch has officially sold more than the PlayStation 2 in its first year | first = Brittany | last = Vincent | date = December 28, 2017 | access-date = August 15, 2018 | website = Dot Esports | archive-date = March 14, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200314205422/https://www.gamepur.com/news/nintendo-switch-sales-playstation-2 | url-status = dead }}</ref> while ''Famitsu'' reported that these sales had eclipsed the lifetime sales of the Wii U in the country,<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/6/16857494/nintendo-switch-wii-u-lifetime-sales | title = Nintendo Switch eclipses Wii U lifetime sales in Japan | first = Owen | last = Good | date = January 6, 2018 | access-date = January 6, 2018 | website = Polygon | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180106193825/https://www.polygon.com/2018/1/6/16857494/nintendo-switch-wii-u-lifetime-sales | archive-date = January 6, 2018 }}</ref> and helped to support the first growth in sales within Japan's console market in eleven years.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/for-the-first-time-in-11-years-the-japanese-console-ga-1821941997 | title = For The First Time In 11 Years, The Japanese Console Game Market Has Grown | first = Brian | last = Ashcroft | date = January 10, 2018 | access-date = January 10, 2018 | website = Kotaku | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180110151642/https://kotaku.com/for-the-first-time-in-11-years-the-japanese-console-ga-1821941997 | archive-date = January 10, 2018 }}</ref> Nintendo of America also reported that with 4.8 million units sold in the United States by the end of 2017, 1.5 million units in December 2017 alone, the Switch was the fastest-selling console in the United States in its first 10 months, outpacing the Wii's performance of 4&nbsp;million units in the same time period.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/switch-becomes-fastest-selling-home-console-of-all-time-in-the-u-s- | title = Switch becomes fastest-selling home console of all time in the U.S | first = Chris | last = Kerr | date = January 4, 2018 | access-date = January 4, 2018 | website=Game Developer | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180105123101/https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/312528/Switch_becomes_fastestselling_home_console_of_all_time_in_the_US.php | archive-date = January 5, 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.vg247.com/2018/01/18/switch-moved-1-5-million-units-last-month-and-it-was-the-best-december-for-3ds-since-2014/ | title = Switch moved 1.5 million units last month, and it was the best December for 3DS since 2014 | first = Stephany | last = Nunneley | date = January 18, 2018 | access-date = January 18, 2018 | website = VG247 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180119002032/https://www.vg247.com/2018/01/18/switch-moved-1-5-million-units-last-month-and-it-was-the-best-december-for-3ds-since-2014/ | archive-date = January 19, 2018 }}</ref> Similarly, the Switch was the fastest-selling console in France, having sold 911,000 units through the end of 2017, according to Nintendo France.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2018-01-11-nintendo-switch-is-the-fastest-selling-games-console-in-france | title = Nintendo Switch is the fastest-selling games console in France | first = Christopher | last = Dring | date = January 11, 2018 | access-date = January 11, 2018 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180111115631/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2018-01-11-nintendo-switch-is-the-fastest-selling-games-console-in-france | archive-date = January 11, 2018 }}</ref> The Switch was also the fastest-selling console in Canada, having shipped 400,000 units in its first 10 months, narrowly outpacing the Wii's performance of 392,000 units in the same time period, according to TechVibes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://techvibes.com/2018/01/19/nintendo-switch-is-the-fastest-selling-canadian-console-ever-with-400000-shipped|title=Nintendo Switch is the Fastest Selling Canadian Console Ever with 400,000 Shipped|website=Techvibes|date=January 19, 2018|language=en-US|access-date=October 24, 2018}}</ref> According to analysis firm GBH Insights, the Nintendo Switch was the fifth-best-selling technology product in 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/talkingtech/2017/12/29/iphone-once-again-top-tech-best-selling-product-2017/987850001/ | title = iPhone maintains reign as top tech best-selling product in 2017 | first = Jefferson | last = Graham | date = December 29, 2017 | access-date = December 30, 2017 | website = [[Software:USA Today|USA Today]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171230014753/https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/talkingtech/2017/12/29/iphone-once-again-top-tech-best-selling-product-2017/987850001/ | archive-date = December 30, 2017 }}</ref> As of January 2018, the Switch has sold more than 300,000 units in Spain, surpassing the total lifetime sales of one of its competitors, the Xbox One, in the region.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2018/01/ole_sales_of_nintendo_switch_in_spain_have_now_surpassed_xbox_one|title=Olé! Sales Of Nintendo Switch In Spain Have Now Surpassed Xbox One|last=Reseigh-Lincoln|first=Dom|date=January 26, 2018|work=Nintendo Life|access-date=September 23, 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref> The Switch sold 8.7 million units in the United States in its first 21 months of availability, surpassing the sales of Xbox One and PlayStation 4 during their first 21 months in the same region.<ref name="variety ssbu">{{Cite web | url = https://variety.com/2018/gaming/news/super-smash-bros-ultimate-sales-1203092096/ | title = 'Super Smash Bros. Ultimate' Fastest Selling Nintendo Switch Game | first = Brian | last = Crecente | date = December 18, 2018 | access-date= December 18, 2018 | work = Variety }}</ref> By May 2019, the Switch had overtaken the PS4's lifetime sales in Japan.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/05/nintendo_switch_overtakes_ps4s_lifetime_sales_in_japan2|title=Nintendo Switch Overtakes PS4's Lifetime Sales In Japan|last=Craddock|first=Ryan|date=May 15, 2019|website=Nintendo Life|language=en-GB|access-date=May 18, 2019}}</ref>

==== Lifetime sales ====

{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed floatright"
|+ class="nowrap" | Life-to-date number of [[Engineering:List of best-selling game consoles|units shipped]], millions{{efn-ua|group="sales"|Numbers are total of Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch OLED units. See footnotes for quarters from September 2019 onward for partition of sales between the Switch and Switch Lite and footnotes for quarters from December 2021 onward for partition of sales between all units.}}
|-
! rowspan="2" scope="col" | Date
! colspan="2" scope="colgroup" | {{wipe|Japan}}
! colspan="2" scope="colgroup" | [[Earth:Americas|Americas]]
! colspan="2" scope="colgroup" | [[Earth:Europe|Europe]]{{efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"|European sales were counted under "Other" until the quarter ending June 30, 2019.}}
! colspan="2" scope="colgroup" | Other{{efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}
! colspan="2" scope="colgroup" | Total
! rowspan="2" scope="col" | [[Finance:Attach rate|Attach rate]]{{efn-ua|group="sales"|Given as the ratio of total software sales to total hardware sales}}
|-
! scope="col" | Hard{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Soft{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Hard{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Soft{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Hard{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Soft{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Hard{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Soft{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Hard{{shy}}ware
! scope="col" | Soft{{shy}}ware
|-
! scope="row" | 2017-03-31<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170427e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q4 FY2017 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = April 27, 2017 | access-date = April 26, 2018 }}</ref>
| 0.60
| 0.89
| 1.20
| 2.86
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 0.94
| 1.71
| style="text-align: center;" | '''2.74'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''5.46'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{steady}} 1.99
|-
! scope="row" | 2017-06-30<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/170726e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2018 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = July 26, 2017 | access-date = April 26, 2018 }}</ref>
| 1.12
| 2.45
| 1.95
| 6.49
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 1.63
| 4.66
| style="text-align: center;" | '''4.70'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''13.60'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 2.89
|-
! scope="row" | 2017-09-30<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2017/171030e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2018 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = October 30, 2017 | access-date = April 26, 2018 }}</ref>
| 1.95
| 5.26
| 3.11
| 12.25
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 2.56
| 9.97
| style="text-align: center;" | '''7.63'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''27.48'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 3.60
|-
! scope="row" | 2017-12-31<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2018/180131e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY2018 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = January 31, 2018 | access-date = April 26, 2018 }}</ref>
| 3.72
| 9.82
| 5.94
| 23.65
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 5.20
| 19.10
| style="text-align: center;" | '''14.86'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''52.57'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{decrease}} 3.53
|-
! scope="row" | 2018-03-31<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2018/180426e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Statements – Q4 FY2018 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = April 26, 2018 | access-date = August 14, 2018 }}</ref>
| 4.38
| 13.15
| 7.14
| 30.37
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 6.27
| 25.44
| style="text-align: center;" | '''17.79'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''68.97'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 3.87
|-
! scope="row" | 2018-06-30<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2018/180731e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2019 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = July 31, 2018 | access-date = August 14, 2018 }}</ref>
| 4.89
| 16.10
| 7.81
| 38.74
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 6.97
| 32.09
| style="text-align: center;" | '''19.67'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''86.93'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 4.41
|-
! scope="row" | 2018-09-30<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2018/181030e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2019 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = October 30, 2018 | access-date = October 30, 2018 }}</ref>
| 5.52
| 20.31
| 9.13
| 49.97
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 8.20
| 40.82
| style="text-align: center;" | '''22.86'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''111.10'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 4.86
|-
! scope="row" | 2018-12-31<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2019/190131e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY2019 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = January 31, 2019 | access-date = January 31, 2019 }}</ref>
| 7.74
| 30.33
| 12.94
| 73.85
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| 11.60
| 59.42
| style="text-align: center;" | '''32.27'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''163.61'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 5.07
|-
! scope="row" | 2019-03-31<ref name="fisc y18q4">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2019/190425e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q4 FY2019 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = April 25, 2019 | access-date = April 25, 2019 }}</ref>
|8.23
|34.64
|14.01
|84.31
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
| {{N/a|N/A{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|name="eu sales"}}}}
|12.50
|68.57
| style="text-align: center;" | '''34.74'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''187.25'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 5.39
|-
! scope="row" | 2019-06-30<ref name="fisc y20q1">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2019/190730e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2020 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = July 30, 2019 | access-date = July 30, 2019 }}</ref>
|8.76
|39.05
|14.83
|94.47
|9.60
|62.46
|3.69
|14.15
| style="text-align: center;" | '''36.87'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''210.13'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 5.69
|-
! scope="row" | 2019-09-30<ref name="fisc y20q2">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2019/191031e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2020 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = October 31, 2019 | access-date = October 31, 2019 }}</ref>
|10.00{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 9.61 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.39 million}}
|44.93
|16.64{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 15.84 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.80 million}}
|110.22
|10.86{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.33 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.54 million}}
|74.43
|4.17{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 3.94 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.22 million}}
|16.43
| style="text-align: center;" | '''41.67{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 39.72 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.95 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''246.01'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 5.90
|-
! scope="row" | 2019-12-31<ref name="fisc y20q3">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2020/200130e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY2020 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = January 30, 2020 | access-date = January 30, 2020 }}</ref>
|12.42{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 11.06 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.36 million}}
|57.34
|20.87{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 18.78 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.09 million}}
|138.63
|13.88{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 12.60 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.28 million}}
|94.01
|5.32{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 4.86 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.46 million}}
|20.68
| style="text-align: center;" | '''52.48{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 47.30 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.19 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''310.65'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 5.92
|-
! scope="row" | 2020-03-31<ref name="fisc y20q4">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2020/200507e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q4 FY2020 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = May 7, 2020 | access-date = May 7, 2020 }}</ref>
|13.44{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 11.44 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.00 million}}
|67.20
|22.12{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.79 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.33 million}}
|158.59
|14.43{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 13.09 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.34 million}}
|105.92
|5.78{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 5.25 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.53 million}}
|24.54
| style="text-align: center;" | '''55.77{{Efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 49.57 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 6.19 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''356.24'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 6.38
|-
! scope="row" | 2020-06-30<ref name="fisc y21q1">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2020/200806e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2021 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = August 6, 2020 | access-date = August 6, 2020 }}</ref>
|14.59{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 12.23 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.36 million}}
|77.21
|24.41{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 20.50 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.61 million}}
|180.07
|16.04{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 13.91 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.13 million}}
|120.22
|6.70{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 5.98 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.72 million}}
|29.16
| style="text-align: center;" | '''61.44{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 52.63 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 8.82 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''406.67'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 6.62
|-
! scope="row" | 2020-09-30<ref name="fisc y21q2">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2020/201105e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2021 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = November 5, 2020 | access-date = November 5, 2020 }}</ref>
|16.17{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 13.37 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.80 million}}
|84.98
|26.58{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 22.38 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.20 million}}
|204.18
|17.73{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 15.25 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 2.48 million}}
|134.44
|7.81{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 6.93 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.88 million}}
|32.88
| style="text-align: center;" | '''68.30{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 57.93 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 10.36 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''456.49'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 6.68
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2020-12-31<ref name="fisc y21q3">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2021/210201e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY2021 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = February 1, 2021 | access-date =February 1, 2021 }}</ref>
|18.88{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 15.46 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.42 million}}
|98.89
|31.17{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 25.40 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.78 million}}
|238.12
|20.70{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 17.35 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.36 million}}
|158.29
|9.11{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 8.14 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 0.97 million}}
|37.04
| style="text-align: center;" | '''79.87{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 66.34 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 13.53 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''532.34'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{decrease}} 6.67
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2021-03-31<ref name="fisc y21q4">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2021/210506e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q4 FY2021 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = May 6, 2021 | access-date = May 6, 2021 }}</ref>
|20.04{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 16.22 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.81 million}}
|112.22
|33.27{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 26.86 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 6.41 million}}
|261.00
|21.58{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 18.11 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.47 million}}
|172.15
|9.71{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 8.70 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.01 million}}
|41.74
| style="text-align: center;" | '''84.59{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 69.89 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 14.70 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''587.12'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 6.94
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2021-06-30<ref name="fisc y22q1">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2021/210805e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2022 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = August 5, 2021 | access-date = August 5, 2021 }}</ref>
|21.20{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 17.05 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.15 million}}
|120.35
|34.86{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 27.96 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 6.90 million}}
|283.35
|22.66{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 18.93 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.73 million}}
|183.51
|10.33{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 9.26 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.06 million}}
|45.20
| style="text-align: center;" | '''89.04{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 73.20 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 15.84 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''632.40'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 7.10
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2021-09-30<ref name="fisc y22q2">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2021/211104e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2022 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = November 4, 2021 | access-date = November 4, 2021 }}</ref>
|22.06{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 17.80 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.26 million}}
|128.35
|36.31{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 29.01 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 7.30 million}}
|306.13
|23.60{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.74 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 3.86 million}}
|197.78
|10.89{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 9.79 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.10 million}}
|48.74
| style="text-align: center;" | '''92.87{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 76.34 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 16.53 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''681.00'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 7.33
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2021-12-31<ref name="fisc y22q3">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2022/220203e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY2022 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = February 3, 2022 | access-date = February 3, 2022 }}</ref>
|24.36{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 18.57 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.72 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.07 million}}
|143.20
|40.12{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 30.96 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 7.74 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.41 million}}
|345.64
|26.98{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 21.86 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.21 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 0.91 million}}
|223.01
|12.09{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.28 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.19 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 0.61 million}}
|54.56
| style="text-align: center;" | '''103.54{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 81.68 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 17.87 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 3.99 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''766.41'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 7.40
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2022-03-31<ref name="fisc y22q4">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2022/220510e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q4 FY2022 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = May 10, 2022 | access-date = May 10, 2022 }}</ref>
|25.23{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 18.78 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.84 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.61 million}}
|154.36
|42.03{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 32.08 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 8.01 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.94 million}}
|369.27
|27.60{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 22.15 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.33 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.12 million}}
|237.93
|12.79{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.44 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.23 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.13 million}}
|60.62
| style="text-align: center;" | '''107.65{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 83.45 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 18.40 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 5.80 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''822.18'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 7.63
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2022-06-30<ref name="fisc y23q1">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2022/220803e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2023 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = August 3, 2022 | access-date = August 3, 2022 }}</ref>
|25.95{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.01 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.94 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 2.00 million}}
|162.43
|43.30{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 32.57 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 8.34 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 2.40 million}}
|386.42
|28.70{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 22.68 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.45 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.58 million}}
|249.45
|13.13{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.52 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.27 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.34 million}}
|65.29
| style="text-align: center;" | '''111.08{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 84.77 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 18.99 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 7.32 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''863.59'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 7.77
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2022-09-30<ref name="fisc y23q2">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2022/221108e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2023 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = November 8, 2022 | access-date = November 8, 2022 }}</ref>
|26.96{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.22 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.99 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 2.74 million}}
|175.09
|44.59{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 32.99 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 8.53 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 3.07 million}}
|407.97
|29.29{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 22.87 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.51 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.91 million}}
|266.39
|13.49{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.59 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.29 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 1.62 million}}
|69.15
| style="text-align: center;" | '''114.33{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 85.67 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 19.32 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 9.34 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''917.59'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 8.02
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2022-12-31<ref name="fisc y23q3">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2023/230207e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q3 FY2023 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = February 7, 2023 | access-date = February 7, 2023 }}</ref>
|29.05{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.67 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.29 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 4.09 million}}
|192.62
|47.66{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 34.29 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 9.10 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 4.26 million}}
|437.37
|31.71{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 23.96 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.67 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 3.08 million}}
|289.47
|14.15{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.75 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.33 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 2.06 million}}
|74.84
| style="text-align: center;" | '''122.55{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 88.67 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 20.40 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 13.49 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''994.30'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 8.11
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2023-03-31<ref name="fisc y23q4">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2023/230509e.pdf| title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q4 FY2023 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = May 9, 2023 | access-date = June 2, 2023 }}</ref>
|29.59{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.73 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.41 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 4.45 million}}
|200.15
|49.00{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 34.75 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 9.42 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 4.82 million}}
|456.27
|32.58{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 24.26 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.82 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 3.50 million}}
|300.91
|14.44{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.84 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.36 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 2.25 million}}
|78.82
| style="text-align: center;" | '''125.62{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 89.58 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 21.02 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 15.02 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''1036.15'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 8.24
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2023-06-30<ref name="fisc y24q1">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2023/230803e.pdf| title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q1 FY2024 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = August 3, 2023| access-date = August 3, 2023 }}</ref>
|30.79{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 19.89 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.57 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 5.33 million}}
|209.18
|50.18{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 34.91 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 9.58 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 5.70 million}}
|478.97
|33.53{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 24.47 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.89 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 4.16 million}}
|314.23
|15.02{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 10.96 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.40 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 2.66 million}}
|85.97
| style="text-align: center;" | '''129.53{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 90.23 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 21.45 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 17.85 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''1088.35'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 8.40
|-
! scope="row" class="nowrap" | 2023-09-30<ref name="fisc y24q2">{{Cite web | url = https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/pdf/2023/231107e.pdf | title = Consolidated Financial Highlights – Q2 FY2024 | publisher = [[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]] | date = November 7, 2023| access-date = November 7, 2023 }}</ref>
|31.77{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 20.03 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 5.71 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 6.04 million}}
|217.52
|51.03{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 20.03 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 9.80 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 6.11 million}}
|498.39
|34.15{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 24.67 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 4.96 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 4.52 million}}
|327.88
|15.51{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 11.02 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 1.45 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 3.04 million}}
|89.43
| style="text-align: center;" | '''132.46{{efn-ua|group="sales"|'''Nintendo Switch:''' 90.83 million, '''Nintendo Switch Lite:''' 21.92 million, '''Nintendo Switch OLED:''' 19.71 million}}'''
| style="text-align: center;" | '''1133.23'''
| style="text-align: center;" | {{increase}} 8.55
|-
|-
|colspan="12" | {{notelist-ua}}
|}

{{As of|2023|09|30|df=US}}, Nintendo has shipped 132.46 million Switch units, with over 90.83 million original Switch units, 21.92 million Switch Lite units, and 19.71 million Switch OLED units.<ref name="fisc y24q1" /> It is currently Nintendo's best-selling home video game console of all time.{{Efn|name="Home Console Note"}} With these numbers the Switch has surpassed lifetime sales of all but one Nintendo game console following the Nintendo DS. By this point, it also surpassed sales of all other game consoles, leaving it third behind the DS and the [[Engineering:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ign.com/articles/nintendo-switch-surpasses-ps4-and-game-boy-to-become-3rd-best-selling-console-of-all-time | title=Nintendo Switch Surpasses PS4 and Game Boy to Become 3rd Best Selling Console of All Time | date=February 7, 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2021-02-01-nintendo-switch-overtakes-3ds-as-nintendo-raises-forecasts-again | title = Nintendo Switch sales overtake 3DS as Nintendo raises forecasts again | first = Christopher | last = Dring | date = February 1, 2021 | access-date = February 1, 2021 | work = GamesIndustry.biz }}</ref> {{As of|since=y|2020|10|post=,}} the Switch had been the highest selling console in the United States for 22 consecutive months, starting from December 2018, taking the record from the [[Engineering:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]] which stood for 21 months ({{Start-date|August 2011}} – {{End-date|April 2013}}).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2020/10/switch_has_now_been_the_best-selling_console_in_the_us_for_22_consecutive_months_-_thats_a_new_record|title=Switch Has Now Been The Best-Selling Console In The US For 22 Consecutive Months – That's A New Record|last=Doolan|first=Liam|date=October 17, 2020|website=Nintendo Life|access-date=October 17, 2020}}</ref> In the United States, the Switch had remained the best-selling console on monthly sales based on NPD Group data for 33 months from November 2018 through August 2021, with the [[Engineering:PlayStation 5|PlayStation 5]] breaking its streak in September 2021.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesradar.com/ps5-ends-nintendo-switch-best-selling-streak-after-almost-three-years/ | title = PS5 ends Nintendo Switch best-selling streak after almost three years | first = Ali | last = Jones | date = October 18, 2021 | accessdate = October 18, 2021 | work = GamesRadar }}</ref>

Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, said in the company's Q4 fiscal earnings report, ending December 21, 2019, that about 30% of the sales of the Switch Lite were from existing owners of the full-size Switch console, making the Lite a backup console for them. Furukawa also said that, for those purchasing their first Switch console, there was a higher percentage of female consumers that purchased the Lite compared to the full-size Switch console, and that Nintendo would increase production of the Lite for that market.<ref>{{cite web | url =  https://www.destructoid.com/nintendo-opens-up-about-the-switch-lite-and-how-it-fits-in-their-ecosystem-580011.phtml | title = Nintendo opens up about the Switch Lite and how it fits in their ecosystem | first= Chris | last = Carter | date= February 7, 2020 | access-date = February 7, 2020 | work = [[Social:Destructoid|Destructoid]] }}</ref>

==== Software sales ====

{{As of|2023|September}}, total software sales for the Switch exceeded 1.32 billion.<ref name="fisc y24q2" /> According to Nintendo of America's Doug Bowser, the Switch has had an attach rate (games purchased per unit) of over 8 over its first four years.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2020/9/3/21213766/super-mario-3d-all-stars-64-galaxy-sunshine-remakes-nintendo-switch-release-date | title = Nintendo bringing Super Mario 64, Sunshine, and Galaxy to Switch | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = September 3, 2020 | access-date = September 3, 2020 | work = Polygon | archive-date = September 15, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200915160352/https://www.polygon.com/2020/9/3/21213766/super-mario-3d-all-stars-64-galaxy-sunshine-remakes-nintendo-switch-release-date | url-status = live }}</ref> Top sellers for the platform as of September 30, 2023, include:<ref name="switch top selling games current">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/software/index.html|title=Top Selling Title Sales Units|publisher=[[Company:Nintendo|Nintendo]]|date=August 3, 2023|access-date=August 3, 2023}}</ref>
* ''[[Software:Mario Kart 8 Deluxe|Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'' – 57.01 million
* ''[[Software:Animal Crossing: New Horizons|Animal Crossing]]'' – 43.38 million
* ''[[Software:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate|Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' – 32.44 million
* ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'' – 31.15 million
* ''[[Software:Super Mario Odyssey|Super Mario Odyssey]]'' – 26.95 million
* [[Software:Pokémon Sword and Shield|''Pokémon Sword'' and ''Shield'']] – 26.02 million
* [[Software:Pokémon Scarlet and Violet|''Pokémon Scarlet'' and ''Violet'']] – 23.23 million
* ''[[Software:Super Mario Party|Super Mario Party]]'' – 19.66 million
* ''The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom'' - 19.50 million
* ''New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe'' – 16.70 million

=== Financial impact ===
Nintendo's business performance, which had been struggling for several years, soared upon the release of the Switch. By May 23, 2017, the success of the Switch's launch raised Nintendo's stock price to its highest levels in seven years, and an increase in price of over 100% from the previous year. However, the price still trailed Nintendo's peak price by about half, back in 2007 when it had just released the [[Engineering:Wii|Wii]].<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/switch-helps-nintendos-stock-reach-its-highest-poi/1100-6450300/ | title = Switch Helps Nintendo's Stock Reach Its Highest Point Since Wii | first = Kevin | last = Knezevic | date = May 25, 2017 | access-date = May 25, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170921001839/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/switch-helps-nintendos-stock-reach-its-highest-poi/1100-6450300/ | archive-date = September 21, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo's stock was further boosted a few days later to meet its eight-year high following [[Company:Capcom|Capcom]]'s announcement of plans to release the popular ''[[Software:Monster Hunter Generations|Monster Hunter XX]]'' for the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/switchs-monster-hunter-xx-reveal-boosts-nintendos-/1100-6450372/ | title = Switch's Monster Hunter XX Reveal Boosts Nintendo's Rising Stock To 8-Year High | first = Kevin | last = Knezevic | date = May 26, 2017 | access-date = May 26, 2017 | website = GameSpot | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170921000706/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/switchs-monster-hunter-xx-reveal-boosts-nintendos-/1100-6450372/ | archive-date = September 21, 2017 }}</ref>

In September 2017, Nintendo announced a partnership with [[Company:Tencent|Tencent]], the leading publisher for mobile games in China, to bring their title ''[[Software:Arena of Valor|Arena of Valor]]'', the international version of their mainland Chinese game ''[[Software:Wangzhe Rongyao|Wangzhe Rongyao]]'', to the Switch following its December 2017 release in Western markets on mobile platforms. At the time, the game had an estimated 200 million players, most in China, and analysts anticipated that Nintendo would be releasing the Switch in China by 2019 as part of this deal. As a result, Nintendo's stock price rose overnight on the news by 7%, reaching a nine-year high.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/news/nintendo-eyes-china-with-tencent-partnership-wsj-w504209 | title = Nintendo's Tencent Partnership Could Open Door to Switch In China: WSJ | first = Blake | last = Hester | date = September 19, 2017 | access-date = September 20, 2017 | website = Glixel | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170919214531/http://www.rollingstone.com/glixel/news/nintendo-eyes-china-with-tencent-partnership-wsj-w504209 | archive-date = September 19, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-deal-with-tencent-paves-way-for-china-push-1505825294 | title = Nintendo Surges on Prospect of Greater Access to China | first1 = Takashi | last1 = Mochizuki | first2 = Alyssa | last2 = Abkowitz | date = September 19, 2017 | access-date = September 20, 2017 | website = {{wipe|The Wall Street Journal}} | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170919235720/https://www.wsj.com/articles/nintendo-deal-with-tencent-paves-way-for-china-push-1505825294 | archive-date = September 19, 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2017/12/18/16469736/tencent-arena-of-valor-honor-of-kings-north-america-launch | title = Tencent is bringing China's biggest game to the rest of the world | first = Andrew | last = Webster | date = December 18, 2017 | access-date = December 18, 2017 | website = [[The Verge]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171219081138/https://www.theverge.com/2017/12/18/16469736/tencent-arena-of-valor-honor-of-kings-north-america-launch | archive-date = December 19, 2017 }}</ref> Nintendo's stock reached its ten-year high shortly after the October 2017 expansion of Switch production to 2 million units per month and speculation that Nintendo would likely start selling the unit in China sooner than anticipated.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-10-09-switch-production-upped-to-two-million-per-month | title = Nintendo shares hit-ten year high | first = Haydn | last = Taylor | date = October 9, 2017 | access-date = October 9, 2017 | website = GamesIndustry.biz | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171029113552/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-10-09-switch-production-upped-to-two-million-per-month | archive-date = October 29, 2017 }}</ref>

Nintendo's quarterly reports, for the period ending September 30, 2017, showed a profit of $209&nbsp;million, the first profitable quarter in several years, due to both success of the Switch and its mobile gaming strategy.<ref name="nytimes dec 2017">{{Cite web | url =https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/29/technology/nintendo-switch.html| title = Nintendo's Switch Brings Some Magic Back | first = Simon | last = Parkin | date = December 29, 2017 | access-date = January 1, 2018 | website = {{wipe|The New York Times}} }}</ref> For similar reasons, its following quarter, ending December 31, 2017, was Nintendo's most profitable quarter since 2009, with year-to-year revenues increased by 177%.<ref name="bbc q3 2017">{{cite web | url = https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-42885803 | title = Nintendo Switch overtakes the Wii U | date = January 31, 2018 | access-date = January 31, 2018 | website = BBC News }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/31/nintendo-earnings-q3-2017.html | title = Nintendo ups its Switch sales expectations to 15 million units after profits rise 261% | first = Arjun | last = Kharpal | date = January 31, 2018 | access-date = January 31, 2018 | website = {{wipe|CNBC}} }}</ref>

Nintendo's quarterly profit jumped by 44% in the first fiscal quarter of 2018 and their net profit totalled $274.9 million during April–June 2018 due to new titles being released for the Switch such as ''[[Software:Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze|Donkey Kong Country]]''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/nintendo-reports-big-jump-in-2nd-quarter-earnings|title=Nintendo reports jump in earnings thanks to Switch|date=July 31, 2018|work=Financial Post|access-date=October 12, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Sales of the Switch and its games helped increase Nintendo's operating profit by 30% during July–September 2018 and helped Nintendo reach its highest quarterly result in 8 years.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/technology/nintendo-second-quarter-profit-hits-eight-year-high--powered-by-switch-sales-10879146|title=Nintendo second-quarter profit hits eight-year high, powered by Switch sales|work=Channel NewsAsia|access-date=November 14, 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=November 14, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114100413/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/technology/nintendo-second-quarter-profit-hits-eight-year-high--powered-by-switch-sales-10879146|url-status=dead}}</ref> Nintendo's quarterly profit jumped by 25% in the third fiscal quarter of 2018 due to the popularity of games on the Switch and their October–December profit totalled $956 million, while quarterly sales totalled $5.6 billion, which were up by 26%.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/nintendos-quarterly-profit-rises-on-hit-switch-games|title=Nintendo's quarterly profit rises on hit Switch games {{!}} Financial Post|last=Kageyama|first=Yuri|date=January 31, 2019|website=Financial Post|language=en-CA|access-date=February 14, 2019}}</ref>

Nintendo's yearly profit jumped by 39% during the April 2018–March 2019 fiscal year, and annual sales rose 14% to $10.7 billion due to "healthy" software sales for the Switch.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/nintendo-profit-jumps-39-switch-software-sales-62619942|title=Nintendo profit jumps 39% on Switch software sales|last=Kageyama|first=Yuri|date=April 25, 2019|website=ABC News|language=en|access-date=April 25, 2019}}</ref>

== Legal issues ==
In August 2017, Los Angeles-based tablet peripheral manufacturer [[Engineering:Gamevice|Gamevice]], Inc. filed a lawsuit against Nintendo in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, alleging that the design of the Switch conflicts with its patent on the design for the Wikipad, an [[Software:Android (operating system)|Android]]-based gaming device that also features a tablet with a detachable controller. The lawsuit sought damages on existing Switch sales and banning further sales of the console.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.engadget.com/2017-08-11-nintendo-faces-lawsuit-over-switch-controllers.html | title = Nintendo faces lawsuit over the Switch's detachable controllers | first = Jon | last = Fingas | date = August 11, 2017 | access-date = August 11, 2017 | website = [[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170811142824/https://www.engadget.com/2017/08/11/nintendo-faces-lawsuit-over-switch-controllers/?sr_source=Twitter | archive-date = August 11, 2017 }}</ref> The lawsuit was voluntarily dismissed by Gamevice in October 2017.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://insight.rpxcorp.com/lit/cacdce-686108-gamevice-v-nintendo | title = Gamevice, Inc. v. Nintendo Co., Ltd. et al | publisher = RPX Corporation | access-date = January 25, 2018 | url-status=live | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180614195357/https://insight.rpxcorp.com/lit/cacdce-686108-gamevice-v-nintendo | archive-date = June 14, 2018 }}</ref>

In March 2018, Gamevice initiated a second patent infringement lawsuit on Nintendo related to a different set of patents. Gamevice also sought action through the United States International Trade Commission related to patent infringement under Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930, and was seeking to block imports of the Switch into the United States.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.engadget.com/2018/05/01/nintendo-switch-wikipad-gamevice-import-investigation-patent/ | title = Nintendo faces Switch patent infringement investigation in the US | first = Jessica | last = Conduit | date = May 1, 2018 | access-date = May 1, 2018 | website = [[Software:Engadget|Engadget]] }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2018/5/6/17324594/nintendo-switch-sued-patent-infringement-gamevice | title = Nintendo sued by peripheral maker alleging Switch design infringes patents | first = Owen | last = Good | date = May 6, 2018 | access-date = May 6, 2018 | website = Polygon }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2018/er0501ll939.htm|title=USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Portable Gaming Console Systems with Attachable Handheld Controllers and Components Thereof {{!}} USITC|website=www.usitc.gov|language=en|access-date=September 1, 2018}}</ref> The lawsuit would be terminated on October 10, 2019, with no such violations being found.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2019/10/10/2019-22172/certain-portable-gaming-console-systems-with-attachable-handheld-controllers-and-components-thereof|title=Certain Portable Gaming Console Systems With Attachable Handheld Controllers and Components Thereof; Notice of a Commission Determination Finding No Violation of Section 337; Termination of the Investigation|website=US Federal Register|date=October 10, 2019|access-date=January 11, 2020}}</ref> By March 2020, the United States Patent and Trademark Office had reviewed Gamevice's patents and deemed all of its claims to be unpatentable, a ruling in favor of Nintendo. Gamevice stated they would be challenging the Office's decision.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-03-12-nintendo-wins-patent-dispute-against-gamevice | title = Nintendo wins patent dispute against Gamevice | first = James | last = Batchelor | date = March 12, 2020 | access-date = March 12, 2020 | work = GamesIndustry.biz }}</ref>

While appealing the Patent Office's determination on its patents, Gamevice initiated a third infringement claim against Nintendo in March 2020 against a newly published patent it had obtained in August based on a game controller that would wrap around a smart phone. Gamevice sought to block imports of the Switch from Japan while the lawsuit was in progress.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Gamevice Tries Again to Block U.S. Imports of Nintendo Switch|url=https://news.bloomberglaw.com/ip-law/gamevice-tries-again-to-block-u-s-imports-of-nintendo-switch|access-date=August 21, 2021|website=news.bloomberglaw.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-lawsuit-seeks-to-halt-nintendo-switch-sales-in/1100-6475561/ | title = New Lawsuit Seeks To Halt Nintendo Switch Sales In The US Again | first = Alessandro | last = Barbosa | date = April 2, 2020 | access-date = April 2, 2020 | work = GameSpot }}</ref> The lawsuit ended in favor of Nintendo.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usitc.gov/secretary/fed_reg_notices/337/337_1197_notice_04292020sgl.pdf |date=April 29, 2020 |title=Notice of Institution of Investigation |work=USITC.gov }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usitc.gov/secretary/fed_reg_notices/337/337_1197_notice01052021sgl.pdf |date=January 5, 2021 |access-date=April 18, 2023 |title=Notice of Commission Determination not to Review an Initial Determination Terminating the Investigation with Respect to a Patent Claim |work=USITC.gov }}</ref>

A class action lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington in July 2019 concerning a joystick defect in the console's Joy-Con controllers, commonly referred to as "drift". The suit alleges that Nintendo is aware of a defect that causes the controllers to register movements without the joysticks being touched, but does not "disclose the defect and routinely refuses to repair the joysticks without charge".<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-faces-lawsuit-over-drifting-joy-con-issue/ | title = Nintendo faces lawsuit over 'drifting' Switch Joy-Cons | first = Andy | last = Robinson | date = July 20, 2019 | access-date = July 20, 2019 | work = Video Games Chronicle }}</ref> Three days after the filing, an internal Nintendo company memo was leaked by ''Vice''; the memo instructed Nintendo's customer service employees in North America to begin offering repairs for drifting Joy-Con controllers free of charge regardless of warranty status.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/8xzzva/internal-nintendo-memo-instructs-customer-service-to-fix-joy-con-drift-for-free | title = Internal Nintendo Memo Instructs Customer Service to Fix 'Joy-Con Drift' for Free | first = Patrick | last = Klepek | date = July 23, 2019 | access-date = August 9, 2019 | work = Vice Games }}</ref> The lawsuit, however, continued, and following the release of the Nintendo Switch Lite where some on social media reported the Joy-Con drift problem after 20 hours of play, additional complaints related to the Lite were added to the lawsuit.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/nintendo-switch/2019/9/28/20888540/nintendo-switch-joy-con-drift-lawsuit-switch-lite-repairs | title = Joy-Con drift lawsuit adds Switch Lite to class-action complaint | first = Owen S. | last = Good | date = September 28, 2019 | access-date = September 28, 2019 | work = Polygon }}</ref> While the court refused to grant Nintendo a dismissal of the case, it did agree to send the case into arbitration as a first step as outlined in the EULA for the Switch in a ruling made in March 2020.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-03-11-joy-con-drift-lawsuit-denied-dismissal-but-referred-to-arbitration | title = Joy-Con drift lawsuit denied dismissal, but referred to arbitration | first = Rebekah | last = Valentine | date = March 11, 2020 | access-date = March 12, 2020 | work = GamesIndustry.biz }}</ref>

Nintendo successfully obtained an injunction in December 2019 against a distributor of a hack made by Team Xecuter that enabled Switch users to obtain and run copyright-violating copies of Switch games on the console.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2020-01-02-nintendo-wins-injunction-against-creator-of-switch-mod-that-allowed-large-scale-piracy | title = Nintendo wins injunction against creator of Switch mod that enabled piracy | first = Rebekah | last =Valentine | date =January 2, 2020 | access-date = January 2, 2020 | work = GamesIndustry.biz }}</ref> Afterwards Nintendo filed lawsuits initially against several resellers of Team Xecuter products in 2020, and in one case, settled with the reseller for {{USD|2 million|long=no}}.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2020/5/18/21262121/nintendo-switch-hacking-lawsuit-pirated-games | title = Nintendo files lawsuits in crackdown against Switch hackers | first = Nicole | last = Carpenter | date = May 18, 2020 | accessdate = April 17, 2021 | work =Polygon }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Nicole |last=Carpenter |url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/11/18/21574488/nintendo-rcm-loader-jailbreak-lawsuit-switch | title = Nintendo sues more hack sellers, 'a worsening international problem' | date = November 18, 2020 | accessdate = April 17, 2021 | work =Polygon }}</ref> After members of Team Xecuter were arrested and charged with eleven felony counts by the United States Department of Justice in October 2020, Nintendo filed another lawsuit against one of the arrested members, Gary Bowser; he faces two counts of trafficking and one count of copyright infringement.<ref>{{cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=April 17, 2021 |title=Nintendo suing Bowser over Switch hacks |url=https://www.polygon.com/22388720/nintendo-bowser-lawsuit-team-xecuter |accessdate=April 17, 2021 |work=Polygon}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Software:Yuzu (emulator)|Yuzu (emulator)]], a Nintendo Switch emulator

== Notes ==
{{Notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist|refs=
<ref name="Eurogamer performance modes">{{Cite web|last=Leadbetter|first=Richard|date=February 25, 2017|title=New performance mode boosts Switch mobile clocks by 25 per cent|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2017-new-performance-mode-boosts-handheld-switch-clocks-by-25-per-cent|access-date=June 2, 2020|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref>

<ref name="Eurogamer performace monitoring">{{Cite web|last=Morgan|first=Thomas|date=March 15, 2020|title=New Switch mod delivers real-time CPU, GPU and thermal monitoring – and the results are remarkable|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2020-riva-tuner-for-switch-system-overlay-analysis|access-date=June 2, 2020|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref>

<ref name="Eurogamer boost mode">{{Cite web|last=Leadbetter|first=Richard|date=May 9, 2019|title=Switch's 'boost mode' tested: what is it and how does it work?|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2019-nintendo-switch-boost-mode-analysis|access-date=June 2, 2020|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref>

<ref name="iFixit teardown">{{Cite web|date=March 3, 2017|title=Nintendo Switch Teardown|url=https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/Nintendo+Switch+Teardown/78263|access-date=June 2, 2020|website=iFixit|language=en}}</ref>

<ref name="Eurogamer storage">{{Cite web|last=Judd|first=Will|date=May 11, 2020|title=The best Micro SD cards for Nintendo Switch 2020|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-the-best-micro-sd-cards-for-nintendo-switch-7000|access-date=June 2, 2020|website=Eurogamer|language=en}}</ref>

}}

== External links ==

{{Eighth generation game consoles}}
{{Home video game consoles}}

[[Category:Home video game consoles]]

{{Sourceattribution|Nintendo Switch}}