From Storage to Compatibility: 6 Reasons to Keep Your Original Nintendo Switch
Thinking of Selling Your Old Nintendo Switch? Here’s Why You Might Want to Wait
The Nintendo Switch 2 is here — with its bigger screen, upgraded performance, and modern features like DLSS and 4K output, it's no surprise that gamers are eager to get their hands on it. But if you're thinking of trading in or selling your older Nintendo Switch to make the upgrade more affordable, you might want to hit pause.
Despite the exciting advancements, there are a number of reasons why holding onto your original Switch might be the smarter move — especially if you’re concerned about game compatibility, storage, and nostalgia.
🧠 1. Backward Compatibility Isn’t Perfect
While Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be compatible with most physical and digital Switch games, it’s not 100%. Some games may not run as smoothly, and a few titles might not be supported at all due to hardware differences. Nintendo has even stated that the Switch 2's architecture is different, and compatibility may vary by title.
Here are a few known limitations:
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Joy-Con 2 Compatibility Issues: Joy-Con 2 lacks the IR Motion Camera and does not fit into accessories like the Ring-Con, leg strap, or Nintendo Labo kits.
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Games affected include:
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Ring Fit Adventure
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1-2-Switch
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Everybody 1-2-Switch!
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Game Builder Garage
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Nintendo Switch Sports (Soccer mode)
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WarioWare: Move It!
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Nintendo Labo (Toy-Con 01, 02, and 03)
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You can still play these games on Switch 2 using original Joy-Con controllers, but you’ll need to connect them wirelessly and may need additional accessories like charging grips.
💾 2. Storage: Not as Generous as It Seems
Yes, the Switch 2 boasts 256GB of internal storage — a big step up from the 32GB or 64GB on the original Switch. But here's the catch:
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A portion of that space is reserved for system software
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Game sizes have increased significantly — due to improved textures, higher resolutions, and larger assets
For example:
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Super Mario Party Jamboree takes up 7.7GB
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Kirby and the Forgotten Land is 5.7GB
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Many Switch 2 titles are expected to exceed 10–15GB or more
If you're a fan of digital downloads, you'll quickly find yourself needing a large microSD card — or managing your storage constantly.
🔁 3. Data Transfers Are One-Way
Transferring your profile and game data to the Switch 2 is a smooth process — but once done, you can’t transfer it back to your original Switch. If your new console runs low on space or you want to switch back for any reason, you’re out of luck.
Keeping your original Switch gives you flexibility — you can:
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Keep playing your older games with no compatibility concerns
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Use it as a travel console or a multiplayer setup for guests
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Avoid switching game saves between systems
🌟 4. Potential for Enhanced Versions
Some classic Switch games may get enhanced editions for Switch 2 — better graphics, smoother performance, or faster load times. By holding onto your original Switch, you can compare both versions and enjoy the game however you prefer.
💰 5. Resale Value Might Hold Up
While it’s true the value of the original Switch may dip with the Switch 2’s launch, early models — especially Day One editions or limited versions — may retain decent value. Keeping it a while longer lets you:
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Evaluate the secondhand market
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Sell it later for a possibly better price
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Or simply keep it as a collector's item
❤️ 6. Nostalgia is Priceless
For many players, the Nintendo Switch wasn’t just a console — it was the start of something new. Whether it was your first Zelda adventure on Breath of the Wild, countless Joy-Con battles with friends, or building cardboard creations with Labo, the memories matter.
If you’re not in urgent need of cash, why not keep your Switch as a backup or display piece? You never know when nostalgia will call.
🧩 Final Thought
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a powerful upgrade — no question about that. But in terms of storage limitations, game compatibility, and personal value, your original Nintendo Switch still holds a strong place in your gaming setup.
If you're someone who's considering buying the Switch 2 and thinking about trading in or selling your older model, our advice is this:
🎯 Go ahead with buying the Switch 2 — but keep your older Switch console.
Sometimes, having both consoles gives you the best of both worlds — the power of next-gen gaming and the flexibility of a reliable classic.
Don’t be too quick to trade it away. It still has plenty of life left — and might just save the day when you least expect it.
💬 What about you? Are you planning to keep your original Switch, or trade it in for the Switch 2?
We’d love to hear your thoughts — share them in the comments below!
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