How many years will a Nintendo Switch last?

Ever since it came out in 2017, the Nintendo Switch® has been one of the best handheld gaming systems for playing at home, on the go, and everywhere in between.

But what's the lifespan of the Switch? Is it still worth buying a new one?

At Asurion, we show you how to get the most out of your tech. Here's how long you can expect a Nintendo Switch to last.

How long does a Nintendo Switch last?

The lifespan of your Nintendo Switch is 6–10 years if you take good care of it. You shouldn't have any wear and tear or issues with internal components before then.

Is a Nintendo Switch still worth it in 2023?

Since it first released the Switch, Nintendo® has come out with two new versions—the Nintendo Switch OLED and Nintendo Switch Lite.

But depending on your needs, the original version is still worth buying—whether you want to buy a new one or a refurbished one.

A good sign of a console's longevity is the games slated to come out for it. Nintendo recently released Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and Metroid Prime: Remastered. And with Super Mario: Wonder coming soon, you can take these releases as a great sign that owning this console will be worth it for years to come.

How do I keep my Switch in good condition?

Just because your Switch is portable doesn't mean it's unbreakable. Accidents happen, especially when it comes to cracked or broken screens, but you can help prevent them by buying a good case—and a protection plan to protect your Switch from the unexpected.

It’s not game over—yet

If your console stops working, we’ll handle the repairs. Make an appointment, or visit your nearest store today.

Schedule a repair

If your system's screen has already broken or you're dealing with Joy-Con™ drift, we've got guides to quick fixes. Want to learn more about how to help your Nintendo Switch last longer? We've got a guide for that too.

Can my Nintendo Switch overheat?

As much as we love this console, overheating is a common problem, especially if you're blocking the air vents or playing a graphics-heavy game for hours on end. Don't worry though. If you need help with an overheating Nintendo Switch, we've got some practical tips for you.

Will the cold ruin a Nintendo Switch?

Yes, the cold can harm your system's internal components. If you leave it in temperatures of 14°F or below, for instance, the screen may start having issues.

Is the Switch easily damaged?

The Switch is very sturdy, especially if you buy a case, making it perfect for kids. As with any device, however, drops, spills, and extreme temperatures can harm your console, so having a protection plan to protect it from the unexpected is recommended.

Can a Switch battery be replaced?

Just like any device that runs on a battery, there's a chance that yours will need to be replaced at some point. The good news: If your battery dies, it’s a relatively easy fix that a Nintendo Switch expert can help with. 

Can I leave my Switch in the dock?

Please do. Keeping your Nintendo Switch in its dock is definitely safer than throwing it in that pile of clothes in the corner. Plus, it'll be fully charged when you need it.

If you're worried about what overcharging can do to your battery, don't be. Leaving the console docked or charging won't harm it.

How can you tell if a Switch is broken?

Is your Switch sluggish? Frozen? Crashing? Or it just won't charge? Sadly, that means your Nintendo Switch is in need of repair. Reach out to a Nintendo Switch repair expert at your