The Nintendo Switch has officially etched its name into the history books, becoming Nintendo's best-selling console of all time. As of December 31, 2025, the hybrid console reached an astounding 155.37 million units sold, decisively overtaking the beloved Nintendo DS, which previously held the record with 154.02 million units. This monumental achievement underscores the platform's incredible appeal and Nintendo's continued dominance in the portable gaming space.
The Journey to the Top
The Nintendo DS, launched in 2004, held the top spot for years, defining a generation of portable gaming with its dual screens and innovative touch controls. Its success paved the way for future handhelds, but the Switch, released in 2017, introduced a unique proposition: a console that could seamlessly transition between a home system and a portable device. This versatility, combined with a stellar lineup of first-party titles, quickly propelled it into record-breaking territory.
What most players miss is how quickly the Switch climbed these ranks. Despite the arrival of the Switch 2, the original model continues to sell well, adding 1.36 million units in Q3 fiscal 2026 alone. This sustained demand, even with a successor on the market, speaks volumes about the console's value proposition and its broad appeal across different player demographics.
A Legacy of Innovation
Nintendo has a long history of pushing boundaries in the gaming hardware space, from the original Game Boy to the Wii's motion controls. The Switch continues this tradition by offering a unique play experience that caters to both casual and dedicated gamers. Its ability to be docked for TV play or taken on the go means players can enjoy titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or Super Mario Odyssey wherever they are.
Pro tip: Even with the Switch 2 now available, the extensive library of games on the original Switch makes it a fantastic console, especially at its more accessible price point. You'll find a wealth of experiences to dive into.
This latest sales milestone positions the Switch as a significant contender for the best-selling console across all manufacturers. It now sits just 5.27 million units behind Sony's PlayStation 2, which remains the best-selling console of all time. Whether the Switch can close that gap will depend on its continued sales performance in the coming years.
What This Means for Players
For players, this record-breaking success solidifies the Switch's place in gaming history. It ensures continued support for the platform, even as Nintendo introduces new hardware. The robust sales figures demonstrate a healthy ecosystem, which often translates to more game development and ongoing content for existing consoles. The key here is that Nintendo sees the value in supporting its successful platforms for extended periods.
The ongoing success also reflects a broader trend in gaming, where portability and versatility are highly valued. As gaming continues to evolve, the Switch's pioneering hybrid design may influence future console development across the industry.
Background: Nintendo's Console Dominance
Nintendo has consistently been a major player in the console market, often introducing innovative hardware that redefines gaming. The DS's success was built on its unique two-screen setup and touch capabilities, making it a household name. When the Switch launched, many wondered if it could replicate that success, especially coming after the Wii U.
Here's the thing: the Switch not only replicated it but surpassed it. Its launch lineup, combined with a clear marketing message about its hybrid nature, resonated deeply with consumers. The console's ability to attract both core gamers and a wider audience, including families and casual players, has been instrumental in its unprecedented sales trajectory.
Sources: Sg News Yahoo
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new sales record for the Nintendo Switch? The Nintendo Switch has sold 155.37 million units as of December 31, 2025.
Which console did the Nintendo Switch surpass to become Nintendo's best-seller? The Nintendo Switch surpassed the Nintendo DS, which had 154.02 million units sold.
How far is the Nintendo Switch from becoming the best-selling console of all time? The Nintendo Switch is currently 5.27 million units behind Sony's PlayStation 2, which holds the record for the best-selling console ever.
