Nintendo Switch 2 is available for pre-order but faces a delay in the U.S.
Nintendo says it will “update timing at a later date.”
As a gamer, I was thrilled when Nintendo revealed the Switch 2 in January, 8 years after the launch of the original Nintendo Switch. I wasn't alone - the reveal trailer has garnered over 22 million views on YouTube, highlighting strong interest in the gaming community.
With upgrades like a larger 7.9-inch 1080p LCD display (up to 120fps), a sturdier adjustable kickstand, redesigned magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers, and a new GameChat feature for real-time in-game voice chats, the Switch 2 brought meaningful improvements over the original, setting it up for a strong debut.
Henry Chikwem
But just as excitement was building for the April 9th preorder date, Nintendo announced a delay in the U.S., citing President Donald Trump's newly announced tariffs. The new tariffs include a 10% base rate on all imports effective April 5 and higher rates of 46% on Vietnam and 49% on Cambodia starting April 9. These countries account for over half of Nintendo's hardware imports into the U.S., making the potential cost increase significantly.
Nintendo says the pause is to assess the tariffs' impact and evolving market conditions. The Switch 2 is already priced at $449—$60 more than the inflation-adjusted cost of the original Switch ($389). With tariffs possibly driving prices higher, analysts warn that the company could lose its price advantage over rivals like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, both currently selling at $499.
Ironically, Nintendo shifted to Vietnam and Cambodia from China for production in 2018 to avoid earlier Trump-era tariffs. In 2024, Nintendo's U.S. imports from China reduced significantly from over 90% to below 40%, with Vietnam becoming the primary hub, producing about 60% of Switch hardware, and Cambodia contributing a growing share. Now, the new tariffs have undone much of that progress, hitting the company just as it prepares to launch the Switch 2.
Given Nintendo's historical emphasis on affordability in the U.S. market, any price increase risks alienating eager fans awaiting the June 5th launch. The impact could extend globally; If Nintendo raises the global MSRP of the Switch 2 (e.g., to offset higher U.S. costs, other consumers are likely to experience higher prices. The delay also fuels concerns regarding supply chain stability and potential product scarcity.
Regardless, fans remain on edge, as online forums buzz with speculation about whether the Switch 2 could go beyond $500 if tariffs are fully passed on. Meanwhile, pre-orders will continue as planned in other countries.
