According to Engadget, the original Nintendo Switch's value in 2026 depends almost entirely on how you buy it. The publication says a used unit still makes plenty of sense, while a new one is much harder to justify.

The reasoning is straightforward: the console is older, and paying full price for a new unit means spending a lot on aging hardware. A used purchase lowers the financial risk and makes the console a more reasonable entry point.

Because this is a single source, there is no contrasting view to compare. The article simply offers a practical verdict for shoppers weighing the original Switch against other options.