Where to Buy Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a gaming enthusiast looking to get your hands on the popular Nintendo Switch console? With its ability to switch between handheld and home gaming modes, it’s no surprise that the Nintendo Switch has been a hit among gamers of all ages. However, with so many options available online and offline, finding a reliable store to purchase the console can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, our comprehensive guide is here to help. We’ve done the research for you and put together a list of the best places to buy the Nintendo Switch. Whether you prefer shopping online or in-store, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax and let us guide you through the process of purchasing your very own Nintendo Switch!

Introduction

If you’re looking to purchase a Nintendo Switch, you’ve come to the right place. As a console that has gained immense popularity over the years, it’s no surprise why so many people want to get their hands on one. But with so many retailers and third-party sellers out there, finding the best deal can be overwhelming. That’s where this buying guide comes in – we’ve done the research for you and compiled a comprehensive list of the best places to buy a Nintendo Switch.

But before we dive into the specifics, let’s go over some basic information about the Nintendo Switch. Released in 2017, it’s a hybrid console that allows players to switch between playing on a TV and playing on the go. With its innovative design and impressive library of games, it quickly became a fan favorite among gamers of all ages.

Now, when it comes to purchasing a Nintendo Switch, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide if you want the standard model or the Switch Lite. While the standard model is more expensive, it comes with detachable Joy-Con controllers and can be played on a TV. The Switch Lite, on the other hand, is smaller, cheaper, and designed solely for handheld play.

In addition to the type of console, you’ll also want to consider the price, availability, and reputation of the retailer or seller. Some may offer free shipping, while others may have exclusive bundles or deals. It’s important to do your research beforehand to ensure that you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

With that said, let’s take a closer look at where to buy a Nintendo Switch.

Online Retailers

Amazon

Amazon is one of the most popular online retailers for purchasing a Nintendo Switch. With their vast selection of products, competitive pricing, and reliable shipping options, it’s no wonder why many buyers turn to Amazon for their console needs.

One of the biggest benefits of shopping for a Nintendo Switch on Amazon is their Prime membership program. If you’re a Prime member, you’ll gain access to free two-day shipping on thousands of eligible items, including the Nintendo Switch. This means that you can have your new console delivered directly to your doorstep in just a couple of days, without having to pay any extra shipping fees.

Not only does Amazon offer free shipping to Prime members, but they also provide a variety of other perks that can make your shopping experience even more enjoyable. For instance, Prime members can take advantage of exclusive deals and discounts on select products, as well as access to streaming services like Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Music. Plus, if you’re not satisfied with your purchase, Amazon has a hassle-free return policy that allows you to easily return or exchange your item within a certain time frame.

Overall, Amazon is a great option for those looking to purchase a Nintendo Switch, especially for those who are already Prime members. With fast and free shipping, competitive pricing, and a plethora of additional benefits, it’s no surprise why Amazon remains a top choice for online shoppers.

Best Buy

Online Orders and Curbside Pickup at Best Buy

Best Buy is one of the most popular electronics retailers in the United States, and it’s also a great place to buy a Nintendo Switch. In recent years, Best Buy has made some significant changes to its business model, offering more options for online shopping and contactless pickup.

One of the most convenient features of Best Buy’s online ordering process is the ability to choose curbside pickup. You can browse the store’s inventory online, select the items you want to purchase, and then choose the “Curbside Pickup” option during checkout. Once you arrive at the store, simply park in the designated area and follow the instructions on your confirmation email or text message. A Best Buy employee will bring your order out to your car and load it up for you – no need to enter the store!

Curbside pickup is a great option for those who want to avoid shopping in-store due to health concerns, or for those who simply prefer the convenience of not having to get out of their car. It’s also a good choice if you need an item quickly and don’t want to wait for shipping.

But what about returns? Best Buy has streamlined its return policy to make it easier than ever to send back unwanted items. Customers have up to 15 days to return most products (30 days for My Best Buy Elite members), and the company is also accepting returns at select drop-off points in stores.

Overall, Best Buy is a top choice for buying a Nintendo Switch thanks to its easy online ordering process and convenient curbside pickup option.

GameStop

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to buy the Nintendo Switch, GameStop is the perfect place to start. The store offers pre-owned consoles that are in excellent condition at a discounted price. Buying a pre-owned console not only saves you money but also allows you to get more bang for your buck.

One of the best features of buying from GameStop is their in-store pickup option. This service allows you to buy online and pick up your order at the nearest GameStop location without paying any extra fees. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid shipping delays and receive your product as soon as possible.

Another benefit of shopping with GameStop is their trade-in program. If you have an old console or video game lying around, you can bring it in and trade it in for credit towards your purchase of a Nintendo Switch. This is an excellent way to save big on your purchase while also decluttering your home.

GameStop also frequently offers limited edition bundles, which include the Nintendo Switch console along with exclusive games and accessories for a discounted price. These bundles are a great way to get the most value for your money while also having the opportunity to own unique items.

Overall, GameStop is a fantastic option for anyone looking to buy a Nintendo Switch. With pre-owned consoles, in-store pickup, a trade-in program, and limited edition bundles, they offer plenty of ways to save money and get the best deal possible.

Nintendo eShop

Nintendo eShop is the official digital storefront for purchasing and downloading games, demos, and other content for Nintendo consoles. With the Nintendo Switch, the eShop has become an even more integral part of the gaming experience, offering a huge range of titles from both major publishers and independent developers. Here are some key benefits of using the Nintendo eShop:

Digital Downloads

One of the main advantages of using the Nintendo eShop is that you can purchase and download games directly to your console without having to go to a physical store or wait for shipping. This means you can start playing your new game immediately after it’s released, and there’s no need to worry about lost or damaged physical media.

Additionally, many games on the eShop are available exclusively as digital downloads, so if you’re looking for something unique or hard to find, this is often the best place to look.

Exclusive Games

Another benefit of using the Nintendo eShop is that it offers exclusive games that can’t be found anywhere else. For example, “Celeste” and “Hollow Knight” are two critically acclaimed indie games that were released exclusively on the eShop before being made available on other platforms.

Furthermore, the eShop also features classic games from older Nintendo consoles, such as the Super Nintendo and Game Boy Advance, which are not available through other online stores. This means fans of retro gaming can relive their favorite childhood memories on their Nintendo Switch.

In summary, the Nintendo eShop is a valuable resource for gamers who want to access a wide range of titles, including digital-only releases and classic games from older Nintendo consoles. By using the eShop, players can quickly and easily download games directly to their Switch and enjoy them at any time.

Brick and Mortar Stores

Walmart

Walmart is one of the biggest retailers in the world, and they are a great option if you’re looking to buy a Nintendo Switch. They offer competitive pricing and have a variety of options for purchasing the console.

One of the advantages of buying from Walmart is their in-store pickup option. This means that you can place your order online and then pick it up at your local store, which can save you both time and money on shipping costs. Plus, you don’t have to worry about your package getting lost or stolen during shipping.

Walmart also offers some of the best prices on Nintendo Switch consoles. They frequently have sales and discounts, so make sure to keep an eye on their website for the latest deals.

In addition to the standard Nintendo Switch, Walmart also offers special bundles that include games and accessories. These bundles can be a great way to save even more money and get everything you need in one purchase.

Overall, Walmart is a reliable and affordable option when it comes to buying a Nintendo Switch. Their in-store pickup option and competitive pricing make them stand out from other retailers, so be sure to check them out when you’re ready to make your purchase.

Target

When it comes to buying a Nintendo Switch, Target is one of the top retailers to consider. Known for its wide selection of products and competitive pricing, Target offers several benefits that make it an attractive option for gamers.

One of the biggest advantages of shopping at Target is their price match guarantee. If you find a lower price on the same item at a competitor’s store or on their website, Target will match the price. This means that you can be sure you’re getting the best deal possible when you shop at Target.

In addition to their price match guarantee, Target also offers RedCard discounts. The Target RedCard is a credit or debit card that gives you 5% off your purchases both in-store and online. This discount applies to everything in the store, including electronics like the Nintendo Switch.

But that’s not all. The RedCard also comes with free shipping on most items and an extended return policy. And if you use the RedCard to buy a Nintendo Switch, you can save even more money on this popular gaming console.

So if you’re looking to buy a Nintendo Switch, be sure to check out Target. With their price match guarantee and RedCard discounts, you can get the console you want at a price you’ll love.

Best Buy

Best Buy is a popular electronics retailer that offers a wide selection of products, including the Nintendo Switch. If you’re looking to buy a Switch, Best Buy offers a few perks that might make it the right place for you.

One of the benefits of shopping at Best Buy is the ability to pre-order games and consoles. This can be especially useful if you’re anticipating the release of a highly anticipated game or limited edition console. By pre-ordering, you secure your purchase ahead of time and ensure that you’ll receive it on or shortly after the release date.

In addition to pre-orders, Best Buy also offers open-box deals. These are products that have been returned by customers but are still in good condition. Best Buy inspects and tests these products to ensure they are in working order and then sells them at a discounted price. Open-box deals can be a great way to save money on a Nintendo Switch, especially if you don’t mind minor cosmetic damage.

Overall, Best Buy is a solid choice for buying a Nintendo Switch. In addition to pre-orders and open-box deals, Best Buy also offers free shipping on orders over $35 and the option to pick up in-store or curbside. Keep an eye out for holiday sales and promotions, as well as Best Buy’s Gamers Club Unlocked program, which offers discounts on games and accessories.

GameStop

GameStop is one of the most popular video game retailers in the world. With over 5,000 stores across 14 countries, it’s a go-to destination for gaming enthusiasts. If you’re looking to buy a Nintendo Switch, GameStop has a lot to offer. Here are some details about the company’s trade-in program and limited edition bundles.

Trade-In Program

One of the unique features of GameStop is its trade-in program. This program allows you to trade in your old games, consoles and accessories for store credit or cash. You can then use this credit to offset the cost of purchasing a new Nintendo Switch. The amount you receive for your trade-in will depend on the condition of your item and its popularity. For example, a popular game like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will fetch a higher trade-in value than a less popular game. The trade-in program is a great way to get rid of unwanted items while saving money on your new console.

Limited Edition Bundles

GameStop frequently offers limited edition bundles that include exclusive content. These bundles can include things like custom controllers, carrying cases, and themed accessories. For example, GameStop recently offered a limited edition Animal Crossing: New Horizons bundle that featured an exclusive carrying case with Tom Nook and his nephews on it. These limited edition bundles can be a great way to show off your love for your favorite games and characters.

In conclusion, GameStop is a great option for those looking to purchase a Nintendo Switch. With a trade-in program that allows you to offset the cost of a new console and limited edition bundles that feature exclusive content, there’s something for everyone at GameStop.

Third-Party Sellers

Things to Consider

When buying a Nintendo Switch from third-party sellers, there are a few things to consider to ensure a smooth and safe transaction. First and foremost, it’s crucial to research the seller’s reputation before making a purchase. Check their ratings and reviews on websites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Look for feedback from other buyers who have purchased similar items from the seller in the past. This can help you determine if the seller is trustworthy and reliable.

Another thing to watch out for when buying from third-party sellers is price gouging. Some sellers may try to take advantage of the high demand for the Nintendo Switch by listing it at an inflated price. It’s essential to compare prices across different sellers and platforms to avoid overpaying. Keep in mind that some sellers may also charge additional fees for shipping or handling, so be sure to factor those into the final cost.

To protect yourself from scams or fraudulent activity, always use secure payment methods like PayPal or credit cards. These payment options offer buyer protection policies that can help you get your money back in case of a dispute with the seller. Avoid using cash or wire transfers, as these methods offer little to no protection.

In summary, when buying a Nintendo Switch from third-party sellers, it’s important to consider the seller’s reputation and avoid price gouging. Use secure payment methods to protect yourself from scams and always compare prices across different sellers to ensure a fair deal. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your new console without any worries.

eBay

eBay is a popular online marketplace that offers a variety of buying options for those looking to purchase a Nintendo Switch. One of the most unique aspects of eBay is the ability to bid on items through auctions, allowing buyers to potentially get a great deal on a console.

In addition to auctions, eBay also offers Buy It Now options, which allow buyers to purchase a Nintendo Switch at a set price without having to wait for an auction to end. This can be particularly useful for those who are in a hurry to purchase a console and don’t want to risk losing out to another bidder.

When purchasing from eBay, it’s important to consider the reputation of the seller before making a purchase. Look for sellers with high ratings and positive feedback from previous buyers. It’s also important to read the item description carefully to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you want.

One potential downside of purchasing a Nintendo Switch from eBay is the possibility of encountering price gouging. Some sellers may try to take advantage of high demand for the console by listing it at an inflated price. To avoid overpaying, do your research on current market prices and compare them to the prices listed on eBay.

Overall, eBay can be a great option for those looking to purchase a Nintendo Switch. With auctions and Buy It Now options, buyers have the flexibility to choose the purchasing method that works best for them. However, it’s important to be cautious when purchasing from third-party sellers and to do your research beforehand to ensure a safe and satisfying buying experience.

Craigslist

If you’re looking to buy a Nintendo Switch and want to save some money, Craigslist can be a great option. However, there are some things to consider when using this platform.

Firstly, many sellers on Craigslist will require a local pickup only. This means that you’ll need to be in the same area as the seller to pick up your console. While this may limit your options, it can also help you avoid shipping fees and ensure that you get your console quickly.

Another aspect to keep in mind is that Craigslist transactions often involve bargaining. While this can be an advantage for savvy negotiators, it’s important to approach these negotiations with caution. Be sure to research the going rate for Nintendo Switch consoles and don’t be afraid to walk away if the seller won’t budge on their price.

It’s also worth noting that Craigslist transactions can sometimes be risky. Since there’s no guarantee of quality or authenticity, it’s important to thoroughly inspect the console before buying it. You should also be prepared to meet the seller in a public place and bring a friend or family member along for added security.

Despite these potential drawbacks, Craigslist can still be a valuable resource for finding a cheap Nintendo Switch. Just be sure to do your research, negotiate cautiously and take appropriate safety measures.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a popular avenue for buying and selling items, including the Nintendo Switch. One of the unique features of this platform is its focus on social media transactions, allowing buyers and sellers to connect based on their Facebook profiles.

One benefit of using Facebook Marketplace to purchase a Nintendo Switch is the ability to see user reviews. Unlike third-party sellers on other platforms, Facebook Marketplace sellers have their profile attached to their listing. This means that potential buyers can read the seller’s reviews from past transactions before making a purchase. This transparency helps build trust between buyers and sellers, making transactions safer and easier.

Another advantage of using Facebook Marketplace is the option for in-person transactions. Buyers can choose to meet the seller in person to exchange the console for cash, which eliminates shipping fees and wait times. However, buyers should exercise caution when meeting strangers in person and always prioritize personal safety.

Additionally, Facebook Marketplace offers a wider range of local options. Since the platform is connected to a user’s location, searching for a Nintendo Switch on Facebook Marketplace will provide listings from nearby sellers. This not only allows for faster transactions but also reduces shipping costs.

In conclusion, Facebook Marketplace provides a convenient and safe platform for purchasing a Nintendo Switch. With social media transactions and user reviews, buyers can feel confident in their purchases while enjoying the benefits of local options and in-person transactions.

Mercari

If you’re looking to buy a Nintendo Switch, one platform worth considering is Mercari. Mercari is a mobile marketplace where people can buy and sell items. Although it may not be as well-known as eBay or Craigslist, it has some distinct advantages.

One of the biggest benefits of using Mercari is its buyer protection policy. When you make a purchase through Mercari, your payment is held in escrow until you receive the item and confirm that it’s as described. This means that if there are any issues with the item, you can file a claim and get your money back. Mercari also has a rating system for sellers, so you can check out their feedback and ensure that they have a good track record.

Another advantage of using Mercari is its shipping options. Sellers can choose to ship using Mercari’s prepaid labels, which offer discounted rates for USPS and FedEx. This means that you can potentially save money on shipping costs compared to buying from a seller who uses their own shipping methods. Additionally, Mercari provides tracking information for all shipments, so you can keep tabs on your package as it makes its way to you.

Of course, as with any platform, there are some downsides to using Mercari. One potential issue is that the selection may be more limited compared to larger marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. Additionally, since Mercari is a mobile app, it may not be as convenient to use as a desktop website.

Overall, Mercari is a solid option for buying a Nintendo Switch, especially if you’re looking for a little extra protection as a buyer. Just be sure to do your due diligence when selecting a seller and remember that there may be some limitations compared to larger e-commerce platforms.
In conclusion, buying a Nintendo Switch is not a difficult task if you know where to look. Online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy offer convenience and competitive pricing, while brick and mortar stores like Walmart and Target provide in-store pickup and exclusive deals. Third-party sellers like eBay and Facebook Marketplace can also serve as options, but buyer beware of price gouging and seller reputation. No matter your preference, there is a seller out there that can help you get your hands on this popular gaming console. With our comprehensive guide, we hope that we have helped you find the best place to buy a Nintendo Switch. Happy gaming!