Dragonimages/Getty Images In 2026, the gaming industry’s big three brands, Microsoft Xbox, Nintendo and Sony, will have a finger in the pie when it comes to the consumer’s decision to purchase a console. Unfortunately, economic changes occur; As a result, gaming has become a luxury that not everyone can afford. On paper, Nintendo ties with Xbox as the cheapest console to date among the three in the US, but it’s also the weakest (in terms of hardware), and owning one of its systems comes with hidden costs. For example, Nintendo’s first-party titles aren’t typically on sale, so you’re probably paying full price. Second, software updates aren’t always free, as most were with the Xbox Series This isn’t very expensive, but you can start cutting costs if you want the most technically advanced experience with popular Nintendo Switch titles like the “Xenoblade Chronicles” franchise. Compared to the current generation, the Nintendo Switch 2 costs $500 without a bundle, while the Xbox Series S is similarly priced for the 512GB edition. The difference is that the Xbox Series S, while still current-gen, is older and digital-only (Microsoft will likely encourage you to pay for Xbox Game Pass for a more complete experience). The Nintendo Switch 1 would be a fairer comparison; It’s still selling and will be priced at $230 in 2026. By today’s standards, that’s the cheapest anyone can get a new one, even if it’s considered state-of-the-art. Upfront Console Gaming Costs Aren’t Everything Nwz/Shutterstock The console itself, the games, subscriptions, and accessories can add up to costs more than you’d like. Both Sony and Microsoft charge for expensive online services, which can make Nintendo’s $20 a year seem pretty attractive. But part of that value is hidden. For example, Sony and Microsoft let you play modern AAA games in their catalogs, and both libraries are extensive. If you take advantage of this, you can save between $60 and $80 per game, which adds up over time. Nintendo’s online membership has a library of retro games, but none are from the current-gen console. Accessories are another matter. Nintendo may have cheaper consoles, but it doesn’t include a premium controller, which arguably offers similar quality to what you’d get from Microsoft and Sony. There are also storage space limitations. The Nintendo Switch 2 uses microSD Express to expand its meager 512 GB storage. The 256GB licensed option costs $60. It’s also the only realistic way to expand storage unless you buy only cartridges (not Game-Key cards) to conserve internal memory. Xbox Series S and X offer models ranging from 512GB to 2TB (Xbox Series The difference is that both Xbox and PlayStation 5 offer two ways to expand storage: an external hard drive or a (much more expensive) SSD. Finally, unlike cartridges, game discs in either console need to transfer and store data internally (in the system) to function. Retro console games aren’t as expensive as you might think Artmarie/Getty Images Retro games can be expensive if you’re a select collector. Unfortunately, that means limited editions and unopened console systems can command sky-high prices. For example, the Nintendo GameCube (regular edition) is quite affordable, around $100, but the Japan-exclusive Panasonic Q GameCube costs over $1,000 ($1,654 for the main console). You can also find used consoles on online marketplaces. A PlayStation 2 on eBay can cost anywhere from just under $100 to just over $200, depending on the condition and what it comes with. The tricky part is finding games, since retro games predate the era of digital stores, so you’ll need a working disc or cartridge to play them. Some games are harder to find than others; A copy of “Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness” can cost more than the console itself. It may seem daunting, but the second-hand market is still huge, and if you’re lucky to be near one, GameStop Retro specializes in selling retro hardware.
