Strong December Switch 2 sales keep console on record pace, topping PS4's 1st 7 months by 35%
Mario standing under Switch 2 in winter backdrop (Image source: Nintendo of America with edits)
The Switch 2 rebounded in time to close 2025 with an impressive performance. Circana U.S. data highlights how, in December, the console brushed aside hints of declining sales. The Switch 2 is the fastest-selling console over its first 7 months, still ranking higher than the original Switch and PS4.
After signs of a slowdown, Switch 2 sales recovered, finishing 2025 as the dominant gaming system. December Circana U.S. data shows that the handheld remained the fastest-selling console in history. After 7 months on the market, Nintendo’s hardware is comfortably ahead of the pace set by the Switch and PS4.
Better late than never for Switch 2 sales
There was concern that after a successful June launch, the Switch 2 was struggling to attract buyers. The Game Business reported that it trailed the November/December 2017 performance of the original Switch by 35%. Nevertheless, Mat Picatella explains that buyers waited until late in the holiday season to make purchases.
When comparing their first 7 months, the newer handheld still has a significant lead on its predecessor. Its 4.4 million-unit installed base in the U.S. is roughly twice that of the Switch over the same period. It exceeded the forecast of the market research firm, which had predicted an installed base of 4.3 million units.
Circana December 2025 Switch 2 sales are shown (Image source: screenshot, Mat Piscatella Bluesky account)
Switch 2 sales continue to accumulate at a faster rate than PlayStation consoles like the PS4. The Sony system will have to make up a 35% difference from what it posted during November 2013 to June 2014.
Console sales didn't slow as much as predicted
Despite difficult economic conditions, U.S. buyers rallied in December. Hardware revenue was up by 6% in the month relative to 2024, even with retailers moving fewer units. As some systems became less affordable, the average unit sale price rose by 18%. Gamers also accepted a considerably higher Switch 2 price than the previous handheld.
As the year progressed, the PS5 leapfrogged its Nintendo rival in several European countries, including the UK and Spain. Piscatella believes that discounts on the PlayStation hardware contributed to the comeback. Even so, in the U.S., the Sony console sits in second place again for December and 2025.
The latest Circana report may give investors more confidence about the Switch 2 going forward. Nintendo stock recently hit its lowest level since August 2025. That said, bolstered by a cheaper region-free version, sales in Japan never showed much vulnerability.
Adam Corsetti - Tech Writer - 954 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2025
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I'm anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
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