PlayStation 5 continues to outsell Switch 2 in the United States
PS5 continues to outsell Switch 2 in the US as pricing, games, and market factors shape console demand in early 2026.
The PlayStation 5 continues to outperform Nintendo’s Switch 2 in the United States, despite being a much older console. The latest sales data suggests Sony’s console remains the top-selling gaming system, even as overall hardware sales patterns shift and newer devices enter the market.
Table Of Content
The Switch 2, which launched nine months ago after years of anticipation, has been selling strongly, but it has not yet overtaken the PS5. Analysts say a mix of pricing, software availability and consumer expectations could be shaping the current sales landscape.
PS5 leads US hardware sales despite year-on-year decline
According to Circana Senior Director Mat Piscatella, the PlayStation 5 was the best-selling console in the United States in January 2026. The Switch 2 ranked second, followed by the Xbox Series X and Series S consoles and a growing category of PC gaming handhelds. The data shows that Sony’s console continues to hold a strong position in the market, even though it has been available for five years.
Hardware – Despite sales falling compared to a year ago, PlayStation 5 led the hardware market in both unit and dollar sales during January 2026. Nintendo Switch 2 ranked 2nd across both measures.
— Mat Piscatella (@matpiscatella.bsky.social) February 20, 2026 at 10:00 PM
Overall spending on gaming hardware in January 2026 increased by 16% compared with the same period in 2025. This growth comes despite declines in sales of older hardware. The PS5 recorded a 17% drop in unit sales year-on-year, while Xbox Series X and Series S sales declined by 27%. The original Nintendo Switch experienced a sharp 79% decline, reflecting its ageing status and the shift towards newer devices.
The Switch 2 has performed better than its predecessor did during its launch period, when comparing aligned timelines. However, it still trails the PS5, which is a notable outcome given its age. Recent earnings reports also indicate that Sony outperformed Nintendo during the global holiday season, highlighting the PS5’s continued appeal.
Pricing, software and consumer expectations shape demand
Several factors may explain why the PS5 continues to lead. One key element is pricing. During the holiday period, Sony offered significant discounts, including Black Friday deals that reduced the PS5’s price to below that of the Switch 2. This pricing gap may have influenced consumers who were choosing between the two consoles.
Anticipation of major upcoming games could also be driving PS5 sales. Some consumers may be purchasing the console in preparation for high-profile releases expected in 2026, such as the next Grand Theft Auto title. Big-name releases often act as system sellers, encouraging players to invest in hardware ahead of launch.
Nintendo’s software lineup may also be affecting Switch 2 adoption. The company has not yet announced a new 3D Mario game or a major Zelda title for the new system. These franchises have historically driven strong console sales. Meanwhile, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, one of Nintendo’s biggest titles in 2025, was available on the original Switch, reducing the urgency for existing users to upgrade.
Future challenges and economic factors for Nintendo
Looking ahead, analysts suggest the Switch 2 could face additional challenges in 2026. Ongoing shortages of memory components could force Nintendo to increase the console’s price, which would likely affect demand. Some industry observers believe a price rise is increasingly likely, which could make it harder for the Switch 2 to compete with discounted PS5 bundles.
At the same time, changes in trade policy could influence Nintendo’s pricing strategy. Recent legal developments have struck down certain US tariffs, potentially reducing import costs for hardware manufacturers. This could give Nintendo more flexibility to maintain the Switch 2’s current US$450 price for longer, depending on how refunds or adjustments are handled.
Despite these challenges, the Switch 2 is still performing well for a new console, and its long-term success will depend on upcoming exclusive titles, pricing decisions and broader market conditions. The competition between Sony and Nintendo remains intense, and 2026 is likely to be a pivotal year for both platforms as new games and hardware strategies unfold.
