The Switch just surpassed the DS as Nintendo's best-selling console ever - Engadget

The Nintendo Switch has officially surpassed the Nintendo DS to become the company's best-selling console of all time. As of December 31, 2025, the Switch has sold 155.37 million units since its launch in 2017, compared to the DS's lifetime sales of 154.02 million units, which were recorded between 2004 and 2011. This milestone was achieved during a significant sales surge, particularly during the holiday season, when 7.01 million units of the newly released Switch 2 were sold. Overall, the Switch recorded total sales of 17.37 million units in the third quarter of the fiscal year. The Switch's ongoing success is attributed to its affordability and the ability to maintain strong sales even after the introduction of newer models. In the third quarter of fiscal 2026, the Switch continued to perform well, with 1.36 million units sold. This trend reflects a historical pattern in the gaming industry, where legacy systems often retain a loyal customer base despite the release of new consoles. The Switch's achievement underscores Nintendo's resilience in a competitive market. Additionally, the Switch is now positioned just 5.27 million units behind the all-time best-selling console, Sony's PlayStation 2. This ongoing competition highlights the dynamic nature of consumer preferences in the gaming market and the potential longevity of successful gaming platforms. The Switch's ascent to the top of Nintendo's sales charts marks a transformative period for the company, showcasing its ability to adapt and thrive in the competitive gaming industry.