The Switch is Nintendo’s best-selling console — and its most transformative

The Nintendo Switch has officially become Nintendo's best-selling console of all time, surpassing the previous record held by the Nintendo DS. As of December 31, 2025, the Switch has sold 155.37 million units since its launch in 2017, compared to the DS's 154.02 million units sold between 2004 and 2011. This milestone reflects a significant achievement for Nintendo, especially considering the company's history of fluctuating success with its consoles. The sales surge of the Switch was notably bolstered by the holiday season, during which 7.01 million units of the newly released Switch 2 were sold. Overall, a total of 17.37 million units of the Switch were sold in the third quarter of the fiscal year. The Switch continues to maintain strong sales, with 1.36 million units sold in the third quarter of fiscal 2026, attributed largely to its affordability. This trend highlights the ability of consoles to remain popular even after newer models are introduced. The Switch's ascent to the top of Nintendo's sales charts not only underscores the brand's resilience but also positions it just 5.27 million units behind the all-time best-selling console, Sony's PlayStation 2. This ongoing competition in the gaming market illustrates the dynamic nature of consumer preferences and the potential longevity of successful gaming platforms. The Switch's success marks a transformative period for Nintendo, showcasing its ability to adapt and thrive in the competitive gaming industry.