The Wirecutter Show

Tech Prices Are Skyrocketing. Nintendo's Switch 2 Might Be Next.

April 24, 2026·12 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

The Nintendo Switch 2 was released in June 2025. In just four months, it sold over 10 million units, making it the fastest selling console of all time in the U.S. But at $450, is it really worth the hype?    Arthur Gies, supervising editor on the tech team at Wirecutter, has spent nearly a year testing the system, playing the new games, and weighing the pros and cons. In this episode, he gives us his verdict. He also talks about why if you’ve been thinking about buying one, now might be the best time.   This episode covers:  Why the Switch 2 is worth the splurge: Arthur says the new console is like getting the latest phone compared to having one that’s six or seven years old. It comes with impressive software updates and exclusive games that make for an incredible upgrade if you have the budget. Why you should consider buying sooner rather than later: With Nintendo’s fiscal year ending, AI data centers raising memory card prices, and shipping and oil prices increasing, Arthur suspects that the Switch 2 will get more expensive very soon.   Products we recommend:  A more powerful Switch experience: Nintendo Switch 2   Additional reading: The Nintendo Switch 2 Is the Best Nintendo Switch The Death of the Cheap Laptop Is Coming   We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› Wirecutter Social and WebsiteInstagram: /wirecutterThreads: /@wirecutterTwitter: /wirecutterFacebook: /thewirecutterTikTok: /wirecutterLinkedIn: /nyt-wirecutterWebsite: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/Newsletter: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/newsletters/ The Wirecutter Show is executive produced by Rosie Guerin and produced by Abigail Keel.Engineering support from Maddy Masiello and Nick Pitman. Episodes are mixed by Catherine Anderson, Efim Shapiro, Rowan Niemisto, Sophia Lanman, and Sonia Herrero. Original music by Dan Powell, Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Diane Wong. Wirecutter’s deputy publisher and general manager is Cliff Levy. Ben Frum

AI Summary coming soon

Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.

Get Free Summaries →

Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.

Listen to This Episode

Get summaries like this every morning.

Free AI-powered recaps of The Wirecutter Show and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.

Get Free Summaries →

Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.