Nintendo Switch Surpasses DS as Top-Selling Console Ever

Taylor Keatsman

Published: February 3, 2026 6:46 PM ET

Nintendo Switch Surpasses DS as Top-Selling Console Ever

Nintendo has reached a significant milestone, with the Switch becoming the best-selling console of all time. As of December 31, 2025, it has sold 155.37 million units, surpassing the previous record held by the Nintendo DS, which sold 154.02 million units from 2004 to 2011. This achievement comes amid a holiday sales boom.

Nintendo Switch Surpasses DS: Key Sales Highlights

During the holiday season, Nintendo sold 7.01 million Switch 2 consoles, contributing to a total of 17.37 million sales through the third quarter of their fiscal year. The Switch 2 has become the fastest-selling dedicated video platform in Nintendo’s history, according to a recent earnings report.

Ongoing Sales for the Original Switch

Even with the launch of the Switch 2, the original Switch continues to perform well, selling 1.36 million units in the third quarter of fiscal 2026. Its affordability keeps it attractive to consumers. Currently, the Switch is just 4.63 million units shy of Sony’s PS2, the all-time best-selling console.

Sales Projections and Financial Performance

Nintendo expects to reach its sales goal of 19 million Switch 2 units for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. The company has already exceeded its initial forecast of 15 million units set earlier in 2025.

Game Sales Insights

Mario Kart World has sold 14 million units.
Donkey Kong Bananza reached 4.25 million units since the Switch 2’s launch.

These strong game sales have contributed to Nintendo’s impressive financial performance. In the third quarter, Nintendo reported sales of 803.32 billion yen (approximately $5.2 billion), up 86% from the previous year, and a profit of 159.93 billion yen (around $1.03 billion), marking a 20% increase year-over-year.