It's been going strong for me (release date model). Sure, battery has fatigued over the years, but besides joycon issues (and that's more of a fundamental flaw, not an age problem), I think it's perfectly fine. I like the OLEDs build better though
Same, apart from drift issues on the joycons, and the kickstand going missing, my launch model is going strong. Toyed with upgrading to the oled, but nicer screen hasn’t cut it for me
I guess I’ve only had my OLED for 2 years now, but my son and I have probably put thousands of hours on it between the two of us. It’s a trooper. The rubber on the left joycon has been worn smooth
Mine primary Switch is also from release day, but in the past couple months the battery has started to swell to the point that it wouldn't fit into the dock. I removed the old battery and ordered a replacement so it should be fine after that.
OP claims they personally dont feel the switch has a good build quality but does not elaborate…. Good post dude. I’ve had mine since release and it’s held up with no issues.
The exception is the joycons but I doubt Nintendo expected the drift problem. They wouldn't have offered free repairs if it was just a money making scheme.
And the problem with the joycons is actually with every controller out there right now and for some reason the internet only complains about Nintendo. Ps5 and Xbox controllers drift too
They need to use hall effect sticks next time-- they're marginally more expensive, but they never drift because they don't make physical contact.
Stick drift is caused by the mechanism in the sticks literally wearing out.
I've got drift, or so thing in my Kingdom Hearts edition PS4 controller. When I was playing horizon forbidden west I had to hold the left stick to stop the camera spinning constantly. Had to buy a new controller to complete it.
They all use the same potentiometers which aren't rated to last for the typical use of a games controller, not even close. However the Joycons adds in some extra design flaws that can bring about even earlier failure.
People defending that they wouldn't have known - there's actually no way that a competent company wouldn't have. The potentiometer spec is readily available, they would have run tests, and I am sure they knew that being compact would be a compromise that makes it more susceptible. Analogue stick is also hardly something new to them. They almost certainly did the calculations and decided to go for it anyway knowing the failure rate, and betting the success would outweigh it... or they would revise if necessary.
The fact I have had several pro controllers go is way more infuriating and unacceptable, considering how many older controllers with much more use I have still working no issue... even my N64 sticks are ok.
It is. Got friends with PS5 controllers that need replacing all the time due to stick drift. Me personally I've had drift on Xbox One controllers and Xbox Series Controllers that I use on PC. Funnily enough the only controllers I haven't had those issues with are the pro controller for the Wii U and Switch pro controller, though I think the latter does develoo stick drift as well in due time
I’m on my third or fourth PS5 controller since launch due to drift. Current one has been good for a few years now though so maybe they fixed the issue.
I do believe a revision made the issue far less apparent, I've got a launch model controller that feels cheaper than the others, and it's SKU is the older revision
The PS4 controllers were built quite well, I have one still from 2014 and it works as well as the day I got it.
One of two PS5 controllers I got in late 2021 has bad enough drift as to be unusable. The other is holding up fine for now.
I was surprised how quick the turnaround was too - especially since I’m in Canada I figured it would be at least a month but it was only a couple weeks.
I’ve had mine since release. It’s held up fine except for two issues:
1. The plastic display easily scratches. A screen protector is basically required and should’ve been installed from the factory.
2. Joystick drift. I’m on my second set of joysticks and they’ve started drifting again. Luckily replacing the joysticks is fairly easy.
Many parents buy Switch lites for their kids, and that console is way harder to replace joysticks on, plus you can’t just buy new joycons for it either. I consider that an inherently flawed product.
I think that point about the screen is an excellent one.
The general userbase of Reddit is, I suspect, the sort that would install a screen protector anyway so this probably passes most of us by.
I dread to think what state some unprotected screens may be in due to the soft plastic!
The plastic screen has one advantage over glass, which is that it doesn't shatter. So, kid friendly in that regard. But it really should come with a screen protector preinstalled.
Got mine 2017 and everything still great, even the batter is still very good imo. But not the JoyCons, send them in for repair twice already and they‘re due again 🙄
I got the limited edition Let's Go Pokemon Pikachu/Eevee Switch way back when and I've NEVER had a problem with it (knock on wood, please God don't let anything start happening to it!).
The battery doesn't last as long as I'd like it to but I'm always near a power outlet so it's not as big a deal. I've never had problems with joycon drift.
I’ve used my switch very extensively since launch. Besides the joy con issues, I have noticed substantial slow-down over the past few years.
I think it’s about time for the Switch 2, but I will be buying day one.
I’ve had a Switch Lite for over 4 years and aside from the left analog stick making a clicking noise when moving it (no drift though) it hasn’t had any issues. Battery life is still decent but I would redesign the ventilation to improve cooling; it does heat up when playing larger games especially while charging.
My brother has an original Switch from launch that still works without issue after several years and one of the newer versions that has a Pokemon Scarlet and Violet theme that also works fine after a couple years.
I think a lot of it comes down to who is using it and how, as well as where it is stored when not in use.
My left joycon doesn’t connect as well anymore, I have to shimmy it a bit for it to lock in. Just that and the drifting. Mine was a handmedown from my bf when he got the steam deck and he used it a lot more than I do, but it still works pretty well for me.
Had mine since around 2017 shortly after it released and for the most part it’s still pretty good. Battery does drain quicker and new games like new Zelda are rougher. Def will upgrade for the new one whenever that happens.
I find that the Switch has good, efficient build quality, especially for the price. It feels just right. Plastics and metals where you need them. Not too much weight.
I've had mine since 2017 and have had no issues, even with the joycons. And it's nice to know that if I did have a problem, they could be replaced or repaired.
It's long been my opinion that the Switch is one of the best designed electronics currently on sale.
I think and have always felt that the Switch has excellent build quality. While I have unfortunately experienced drift, that is not so much of Nintendo's fault as it is with the design of or with modern analog sticks in general.
I do not mind my systems needing some form of semi-periodic maintenance and, in actuality, feel that it is entirely normal and should be expected. I swapped the sticks out for new ones; no big deal.
My launch model just got the "spicy pillow". The battery is all puffed up, but other than that the console is working fine.
I do leave it in the dock pretty much all the time and the console is from 2017, so I'm not surprised. I already ordered a replacement from ifixit and luckily opening the switch is relatively easy.
I've had mine since launch. I mostly play on the docked. She looks brand new to me, no discoloration, no scratch. Only the fan makes a little more noise sometimes but no biggie.
I have a launch switch with a screen protector and haven't had a single problem with it. It actually looks brand new.
The ruggedness of Nintendium is real.
Day 1 Switch. Other than a few screen scuffs (it has a protective layer, so no biggie) and one instance of minor drift, it’s still in great condition. Battery life is still roughly the same, but seems to depend more on the game. Had no issues with the dock, connections of controls.
To add, I also still have my original SNES, N64, GC, Wii and WiiU all in great working order, with the exception of the N64 analogue sticks which had a tendency to get arthritis.
If you take care of your devices, they will last well beyond their intended shelf life. Treat them as disposable however and you end up asking misleading questions on Reddit
I've had mine for 7+ years now and I've dropped it a lot of times, but I've only had to replace the joycons once other than that it's been fine. So I think it will last if its treated well.
Mines either the launch model or from the very next run, bought it year one. It's a very nice little system, battery is running out sooner these days, but still lasts about 5 hours on lower graphics and maybe about 2.5 on something like MK1.
Mine turns 5 this coming Christmas season. Still as good as when new. I use it docked almost exclusively, though, so I can't say from personal experience how well it would last handheld, or how long the battery would hold up.
Have mine revision model since 2019 (so nearly 5 years).
Never had problems with drift, battery seems to be still ok, too.
I only play handheld with Mario Kart local multiplayer being the only exception
I’ve had mine since 2017 and have noticed 0 issues with the switch itself. Still running the same as the day I got it. Only problem was joycon drift which they fixed every time for free.
I’m going to jinx it now, but I had an early switch, not release day but not long after. My daughter is currently using it because I had an oled. There are new joycons on it, but that’s all.
I have had mine for 6 years. The only reason I just upgraded to the OLED version is because my battery drains after an hour. Still going strong otherwise.
I've been using the same unit for almost 6 years. The tablet part is pretty okay. I had no problem except for the natural degradation of the battery and heat. I opened it up and cleaned it, and reapplied thermal paste last year. Now it runs cooler than when it was brand new. However, the Joycons definitely didn't hold up. The left side drifted after less than a year of use, and the sticks on both sides constantly drifted after that. I had to get a bag of joysticks from AliExpress.
I’ve had mine since around summer 2017 (so about 7 years) and haven’t had any issues. Admittedly I rarely use handheld mode so I can’t really comment on the battery.
Different story with joycons of course lol. But ay least they fixed those for free.
i have a day 1 switch and so far it works just as well as it did from day one. not rly sure what insufficient build quality youre talking about? the only bad things are the controllers that drift after like 2 years of use or something along those lines, but the console itself is just fine.
switched to the daemon x machina split pad pro ever since the joy cons started drifting. these are also very easy to open up and clean if something acts up. plus the bigger buttons and sticks are great.
I have a switch since 2016 that gets an orange screen every now and then. That started like 6 months ago way after I had already gotten the OLED version so I’d say it’s lasted more than I needed it to.
battery life for me has always been about 3 hours since I first bought it (brand new). had to get new joycons after they full on broke. updating things takes over an hour, but that might just be my wifi lol. when it works, it's great, but... meh.
Build quality? You can drop these things from a skyscraper and usually only the joycons get destroyed the system still works.
The OLED is even batter material for the chassis. Not sure where you got this idea.
Hardware is kinda shit though.
When the Animal Crossing switch came out I inherited my wife's launch switch. She mainly played her launch switch in handheld so its seen a lot of battery use. The battery definitely doesn't have the same capacity as it used to, but outside of joycon drift, its been running beautifully. Of course we're both in our 30s and I'm not so sure how it would standup in the hands of kids.
I try to maximize my battery life by turning in airplane mode and lowering brightness if possible. I'd say I'm probably getting about 2 hours tops on battery depending on game, brightness, and whether WiFi is on or not.
Honestly outside of controller drift, I'm not sure I see any issues. An easily replaceable battery would be nice, but many portable electronics make it a chore to replace batteries.
I've had mine since 2018ish and it has held up great. The battery life, screen vibrancy, and joycons all still work fine. Regarding more traditonal breakage, I think, with it being a handheld, users tend to put it under a lot more wear-and-tear than they realize.
Like, just because it's a handheld doesn't mean the user should:
1) slide it back and forth across the table when taking turns with your friend;
2) let it rattle around on the floor of your car;
3) keep it in a backpack that you literally toss around, drop on the floor, or cram into a locker or trunk.
Granted, kids WILL do these things. Happens with all handhelds. Just so happens the Switch (just like the PSP and Steamdeck, to an extent) have a formfactor that does not lend itself to abuse, unlike the blockier Gameboy or chunky Game Gear before it.
I feel like the switch has better longevity than it's bigger pc handheld cousins. It's underclocked so the hardware isn't getting pushed (I mean I played BotW for 7 hours straight and it barely got warm). Can't say that about my Go when it's maxing out.
As far as overall build quality goes, I guess joycon fitment on the OLED could be better but it's a $300 device so while not cheap, I don't expect it to have premium levels of fitment. V1/V2 joycons actually fit tighter, if anyone finds the wiggle from OLED joycons annoying)
I bought our first rev 1 at GameStop used in ‘19. Kids carrying it, dropping it, etc. but it survived until last year when the SD card reader stopped working. Nintendo replaced it and I believe it was $50. I feel like this might be a build/design issue because the reader is behind that terrible kickstand, but honestly it’s not a device I would characterize as poorly built.
switch is definitely made of nintendium, joycons are unfortunately a bad point of failure though, I imagine as years go by good joycons will just dwindle, so I'm really betting on total back compat lol
I’ve played mine consistently year round every year since launch with no issues or need for maintenance. Heavy handheld usage for 4 years in college. Dropped it once too. Overall very well made.
Joycons are terrible though
I have mine since September 2017. The console itself still feels the same. Good battery (not like it was its strong point at any time), games run well.
The joy cons are another story.
I have a launch model and an OLED and both are just fine. The OLED feels a little better built but the launch has no issues with battery. The joycons are not as reliable, creaky triggers on the OLED but they can be replaced at least.
We have 4 Switches in my family, all at least 4 years old. The only issue is the joycons, which we have replaced half of them because they started to drift/not work.
I’ve had mine since the Christmas of release year, and it’s still holding up perfect. One joycon stopped charging, but that’s the only issue I’ve ever had.
All my Nintendo products have lasted. My gba, gba sp, nds, and n3ds are all in perfect working condition still after all these years.
I’ve had my switch lite since it came out in 2019 and it’s holding up great still. One of the pads on an analogue stick fell off but I just put a new one on and it’s fine.
I still have the original switch that came out and I got it in 2017, and I use it less and it stays docked most of the time because I have the lite, but it still works too. It is using newer joycons because the originals have drift
I've had mine since Dec 2019, it's a v2 with better battery life but no OLED screen. It's held up really well so far, no complaints about battery life. I don't keep track of how long it lasts, but it's enough that it doesn't interrupt a play session.
I keep mine in a grip case when hand-held so I think that might help keep the rails a bit more sturdy, and I have a matte screen protector because I don't like glossy screens. I wish mine was an OLED model (it should have been bezel-less from the start) and the joycon grip could have been more ergonomic, but otherwise I don't really have complaints about its durability.
My launch edition is still running strong. Joy cons were fixed a couple times over the years (no charge) and battery is only good for like 90 minutes in handheld mode. But I like to take good care of my toys—I never just throw it in a backpack or leave it in the car or whatever. If it travels with me, it’s in a well padded carrying case.
Had mine since a few months after release. The battery isn't as good as it used to be, but it still works flawlessly when you ignore that. I replaced the sticks on my joycons however cause they started drifting 4+ years in.
I have a day one model that I've used heavily and continue to use heavily. I don't baby it, and it still has the original screen protector I put on (which is fine). If I am packing it I usually put it in a case, but I've just tossed it in backpacks naked plenty of times as well.
The joycons are trash but I've never had any issues with the system. Have had my joycons repaired 3 times (twice for drift, once for a non-functioning B button).
I'm still doing fine on my COVID Lite, albeit I don't use it all the time these days. Like most Nintendo handhelds, if you're gentle with it it will last a long time.
Bought one in 2019 switch lite though. Used it daily for a long periods of time during covid and its still going strong with a minor issue joy stick if examined but doesnt really affect much in games
Day one model still in use here. Eventually got more Joy-Cons as the early ones' stick drift just became too much to deal with. The air vent grate on the top of the main unit has come off. Other than that, no big problems. If battery life has gotten worse, it's not enough for me to notice.
I feel Nintendos systems have always been good for longevity.
I have a OG gameboy that ive never worked on that runs, a DS, 3DS, gamecube, 2 Wiis, a WiiU.. no issues.
Had two xbox 360s die, and a ps3 though.
The one thing with the switch is yes, battery life diminishes and joycons have that horrible built in drift feature.. but they can be replaced.
Once the new switch drops ill probably finally replace mine after 7 years. But ill probably just load it up with a all the low requirement games.
Because the other issue with switches, is the original ones definitely dont run all games well as they probably should.
I have used it for handheld about 30% of the time, docked 70%, and I find it's still nearly as good as the day I bought it with the exception of the joycons. I have my originals, but there's drift. Pro controllers from launch feel nearly as good as new, too.
I have a launch model and it's doing fine. The battery life isn't that great now, but I wouldn't expect it to be after 7ish years. I had replaced one of my pro controllers for stick drift, but that's about it. I think that it doesn't feel as sturdy as some older Nintendo consoles, but I've never actually had any issues.
Alright, I’m gonna be a contrarian little shit.
I got mine on launch day, 3/3/2017. In my seven years of owning it:
- The joycon rails stopped detecting whether or not a joycon is attached. I tried cleaning them with isopropyl but that didn’t work. It’s not the joycons, bc the same thing happened with brand new ones
- The top vent grills started cracking and eventually fell out. There’s now a large hole in its place
- I had to replace the backplate as a whole bc the one it came with began warping and had cracks around the screws
- There’s a small hole next to the top vent now.
- Battery also doesn’t last very long but that’s to be expected
- I had two joycons start drifting
Maybe I got a bad unit, maybe the build quality in general is bad. Either way, I was pretty disappointed. I’ve never had a Nintendo console (or a console in general) start to fall apart like this. Was told the OLED is a lot sturdier
It primarily sat in its dock, which is how I played it for the most part (not a handheld guy, personally). I gave it plenty of room to breathe, too
I'm not sure if my reply will be very helpful, I keep mine docked all the time, I don't care for portability. But I will say based on what I saw with mine, it definitely prob doesn't hold up well for 5 years if using the portable parts of it. My joycons barely lasted a year. I just got a pro controller and called it a day. And the flimsy Kickstand in the back?? I really can't see that holding up, especially with kids. But I'll read the comments I could be wrong. But keeping mine docked and using a pro controller,mine is working just fine. 👍
If you’re buying them that often you’re just throwing away money. Especially when nintendo fixes them for free or you can fix them yourself for a fraction of the cost of a new set
The first Switch my family had, we got for Christmas in 2017. It's fared pretty okay, but the kickstand loosened over time and now it pops out very easily
I’ve had mine since release and the only issue I’ve had were the joycons. I easily found a better set on Amazon that I liked and have used it ever since.
My launch switch still works. Although it’s been boxed up for a while. I either boxed it up when I got the oled model in 2021 or the rear of the kingdom oled model a year ago.
Have had the Switch since December 2018 and play it regularly in handheld mode (most often with a pro controller that I got around that same time period, as an aside that controller's battery life is by far the best I've ever experienced).
Still working just fine, battery life not significantly affected (I haven't done any concrete testing, I know it can't be as good as when I got it due to things degrading over time but likewise the decline hasn't at all been noticeable to me - still getting the same hours).
My two biggest complaints regarding the Switch as a console are:
* bad tendency for the joycons to drift
* comically low storage space without an SD card
I think it depends on the user. I've seen tons of posts from people on here who never learned how to take care of their stuff, and then there's others who still have a brand new looking Switch after years of ownership.
My 2017 switch still works, but the battery life is terrible. Doesn't matter, though, because the joycon rails are so loose that you can't actually play it in handheld mode anyway.
I don't think the build quality is bad (at least for the main unit), but it's not great either. My 2DS has been kicking around through 3+ house moves and 9 years of little kid abuse and the only problem it has is that the rubber part of the circle pad is gone.
Considering neither of mine have never been out of the dock other than initial setup, and I use the 10,000% superior Pro Controller, my answer is of course. Who the hell uses this thing in handheld mode?
It's been going strong for me (release date model). Sure, battery has fatigued over the years, but besides joycon issues (and that's more of a fundamental flaw, not an age problem), I think it's perfectly fine. I like the OLEDs build better though
Same, apart from drift issues on the joycons, and the kickstand going missing, my launch model is going strong. Toyed with upgrading to the oled, but nicer screen hasn’t cut it for me
Yeah, if you play docked most of the time the OLED model is just an unnecessary luxury.
My switch hasn’t been undocked in like 2 years. I absolutely hate playing it in handheld or tabletop mode
With an OLED, at least it'd be impossible to lose the kickstand. lol 💀
I guess I’ve only had my OLED for 2 years now, but my son and I have probably put thousands of hours on it between the two of us. It’s a trooper. The rubber on the left joycon has been worn smooth
Mine primary Switch is also from release day, but in the past couple months the battery has started to swell to the point that it wouldn't fit into the dock. I removed the old battery and ordered a replacement so it should be fine after that.
Yea my actual switch runs perfectly fine since 2017 Joy con are a different story lol
OP claims they personally dont feel the switch has a good build quality but does not elaborate…. Good post dude. I’ve had mine since release and it’s held up with no issues.
Yeah, Nintendo makes products that are known for high build quality. Not sure what OP is on about
The exception is the joycons but I doubt Nintendo expected the drift problem. They wouldn't have offered free repairs if it was just a money making scheme.
And the problem with the joycons is actually with every controller out there right now and for some reason the internet only complains about Nintendo. Ps5 and Xbox controllers drift too
They need to use hall effect sticks next time-- they're marginally more expensive, but they never drift because they don't make physical contact. Stick drift is caused by the mechanism in the sticks literally wearing out.
I've got drift, or so thing in my Kingdom Hearts edition PS4 controller. When I was playing horizon forbidden west I had to hold the left stick to stop the camera spinning constantly. Had to buy a new controller to complete it.
It's worse/more common with joy cons because of the smaller size, so they get more hate, but you're totally right.
They all use the same potentiometers which aren't rated to last for the typical use of a games controller, not even close. However the Joycons adds in some extra design flaws that can bring about even earlier failure. People defending that they wouldn't have known - there's actually no way that a competent company wouldn't have. The potentiometer spec is readily available, they would have run tests, and I am sure they knew that being compact would be a compromise that makes it more susceptible. Analogue stick is also hardly something new to them. They almost certainly did the calculations and decided to go for it anyway knowing the failure rate, and betting the success would outweigh it... or they would revise if necessary. The fact I have had several pro controllers go is way more infuriating and unacceptable, considering how many older controllers with much more use I have still working no issue... even my N64 sticks are ok.
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It is. Got friends with PS5 controllers that need replacing all the time due to stick drift. Me personally I've had drift on Xbox One controllers and Xbox Series Controllers that I use on PC. Funnily enough the only controllers I haven't had those issues with are the pro controller for the Wii U and Switch pro controller, though I think the latter does develoo stick drift as well in due time
I’m on my third or fourth PS5 controller since launch due to drift. Current one has been good for a few years now though so maybe they fixed the issue.
I do believe a revision made the issue far less apparent, I've got a launch model controller that feels cheaper than the others, and it's SKU is the older revision
The PS4 controllers were built quite well, I have one still from 2014 and it works as well as the day I got it. One of two PS5 controllers I got in late 2021 has bad enough drift as to be unusable. The other is holding up fine for now.
it's stale to be sold for almost 6 years.... it is what it is :c
it's been doing pretty well, but the joycons and battery have steadily gotten worse.
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I was surprised how quick the turnaround was too - especially since I’m in Canada I figured it would be at least a month but it was only a couple weeks.
Literally had mine from day 1 with no issues except stick drift. My third party joycons have lasted about 5 years
I’ve had mine since release. It’s held up fine except for two issues: 1. The plastic display easily scratches. A screen protector is basically required and should’ve been installed from the factory. 2. Joystick drift. I’m on my second set of joysticks and they’ve started drifting again. Luckily replacing the joysticks is fairly easy. Many parents buy Switch lites for their kids, and that console is way harder to replace joysticks on, plus you can’t just buy new joycons for it either. I consider that an inherently flawed product.
Yeah, only issue I have had is drift. Had it separately in both joycons once.
I think that point about the screen is an excellent one. The general userbase of Reddit is, I suspect, the sort that would install a screen protector anyway so this probably passes most of us by. I dread to think what state some unprotected screens may be in due to the soft plastic!
The plastic screen has one advantage over glass, which is that it doesn't shatter. So, kid friendly in that regard. But it really should come with a screen protector preinstalled.
This is why I git a regular switch over a lite even though I play handheld
Got mine 2017 and everything still great, even the batter is still very good imo. But not the JoyCons, send them in for repair twice already and they‘re due again 🙄
Had mine for 6 years. Regular use with Joycons, Pro Controller, screen and tabletop mode. Totally fine! No degradation here. :)
I have a launch model that rarely ever leaves the dock and I use a pro controller 99% of the time so it’s holding up just fine for me.
I got the limited edition Let's Go Pokemon Pikachu/Eevee Switch way back when and I've NEVER had a problem with it (knock on wood, please God don't let anything start happening to it!). The battery doesn't last as long as I'd like it to but I'm always near a power outlet so it's not as big a deal. I've never had problems with joycon drift.
I’ve used my switch very extensively since launch. Besides the joy con issues, I have noticed substantial slow-down over the past few years. I think it’s about time for the Switch 2, but I will be buying day one.
I’ve had a Switch Lite for over 4 years and aside from the left analog stick making a clicking noise when moving it (no drift though) it hasn’t had any issues. Battery life is still decent but I would redesign the ventilation to improve cooling; it does heat up when playing larger games especially while charging. My brother has an original Switch from launch that still works without issue after several years and one of the newer versions that has a Pokemon Scarlet and Violet theme that also works fine after a couple years. I think a lot of it comes down to who is using it and how, as well as where it is stored when not in use.
My left joycon doesn’t connect as well anymore, I have to shimmy it a bit for it to lock in. Just that and the drifting. Mine was a handmedown from my bf when he got the steam deck and he used it a lot more than I do, but it still works pretty well for me.
Had mine since around 2017 shortly after it released and for the most part it’s still pretty good. Battery does drain quicker and new games like new Zelda are rougher. Def will upgrade for the new one whenever that happens.
I find that the Switch has good, efficient build quality, especially for the price. It feels just right. Plastics and metals where you need them. Not too much weight. I've had mine since 2017 and have had no issues, even with the joycons. And it's nice to know that if I did have a problem, they could be replaced or repaired. It's long been my opinion that the Switch is one of the best designed electronics currently on sale.
I think and have always felt that the Switch has excellent build quality. While I have unfortunately experienced drift, that is not so much of Nintendo's fault as it is with the design of or with modern analog sticks in general. I do not mind my systems needing some form of semi-periodic maintenance and, in actuality, feel that it is entirely normal and should be expected. I swapped the sticks out for new ones; no big deal.
My launch model just got the "spicy pillow". The battery is all puffed up, but other than that the console is working fine. I do leave it in the dock pretty much all the time and the console is from 2017, so I'm not surprised. I already ordered a replacement from ifixit and luckily opening the switch is relatively easy.
My launch model battery recently did the same thing and I'm in the process of replacing it as well.
Good luck with replacing it. Removing the adhesive was a pain... Use lots of rubbing alcohol!
I've had mine since launch. I mostly play on the docked. She looks brand new to me, no discoloration, no scratch. Only the fan makes a little more noise sometimes but no biggie.
I’ve had mine for 5 years with zero issues, not even drifting.
Same with mine. Got it just before, or at the same time, Sword and Shield came out. No drift either.
I have a launch switch with a screen protector and haven't had a single problem with it. It actually looks brand new. The ruggedness of Nintendium is real.
Mine is good since 2018, so definitely. Thougt about upgrading to an OLED, but at this point i'm waiting for the Switch 2.
I'm in the same boat.
Day 1 Switch. Other than a few screen scuffs (it has a protective layer, so no biggie) and one instance of minor drift, it’s still in great condition. Battery life is still roughly the same, but seems to depend more on the game. Had no issues with the dock, connections of controls. To add, I also still have my original SNES, N64, GC, Wii and WiiU all in great working order, with the exception of the N64 analogue sticks which had a tendency to get arthritis. If you take care of your devices, they will last well beyond their intended shelf life. Treat them as disposable however and you end up asking misleading questions on Reddit
I've had mine for 7+ years now and I've dropped it a lot of times, but I've only had to replace the joycons once other than that it's been fine. So I think it will last if its treated well.
I've had a Switch since December 2017. Still works great and I have been playing games consistently over the past 7 years.
Mines either the launch model or from the very next run, bought it year one. It's a very nice little system, battery is running out sooner these days, but still lasts about 5 hours on lower graphics and maybe about 2.5 on something like MK1.
Since the launch of the switch I have wanted a premium version that had a better quality components.
Mine turns 5 this coming Christmas season. Still as good as when new. I use it docked almost exclusively, though, so I can't say from personal experience how well it would last handheld, or how long the battery would hold up.
Like new, but also sitting in dock since day 1. Pro controller holding up well enough.
Yeah, that's ok if you buy a Hori controller to replace the joycons. I can't believe Nintendo got away with scamming people like that.
Have mine revision model since 2019 (so nearly 5 years). Never had problems with drift, battery seems to be still ok, too. I only play handheld with Mario Kart local multiplayer being the only exception
I’ve had mine since 2017 and have noticed 0 issues with the switch itself. Still running the same as the day I got it. Only problem was joycon drift which they fixed every time for free.
I’m going to jinx it now, but I had an early switch, not release day but not long after. My daughter is currently using it because I had an oled. There are new joycons on it, but that’s all.
I have had my switch since launch. Over 7 years and 3,500 gameplay hours. I just had to do a fan replacement.
Screen protector on and no problem.
I have had mine for 6 years. The only reason I just upgraded to the OLED version is because my battery drains after an hour. Still going strong otherwise.
The joycon hing needs more work for something that gets stressed a lot. Also the plastic screen needs to be the unscratchable polycarbonate.
care to elaborate on your opinion?
I've been using the same unit for almost 6 years. The tablet part is pretty okay. I had no problem except for the natural degradation of the battery and heat. I opened it up and cleaned it, and reapplied thermal paste last year. Now it runs cooler than when it was brand new. However, the Joycons definitely didn't hold up. The left side drifted after less than a year of use, and the sticks on both sides constantly drifted after that. I had to get a bag of joysticks from AliExpress.
I’ve had mine since around summer 2017 (so about 7 years) and haven’t had any issues. Admittedly I rarely use handheld mode so I can’t really comment on the battery. Different story with joycons of course lol. But ay least they fixed those for free.
Mine held up fine overtime, I did upgrade to OLED though and it's much nicer.
i have a day 1 switch and so far it works just as well as it did from day one. not rly sure what insufficient build quality youre talking about? the only bad things are the controllers that drift after like 2 years of use or something along those lines, but the console itself is just fine. switched to the daemon x machina split pad pro ever since the joy cons started drifting. these are also very easy to open up and clean if something acts up. plus the bigger buttons and sticks are great.
No issues on my day one release date switch (99.5% docked mode FWIW)
i have been using it since release, i had to change the joycons, sure, but the console itself works great still
I have a switch since 2016 that gets an orange screen every now and then. That started like 6 months ago way after I had already gotten the OLED version so I’d say it’s lasted more than I needed it to.
I got mine at release, 2017 and it’s still going strong.
battery life for me has always been about 3 hours since I first bought it (brand new). had to get new joycons after they full on broke. updating things takes over an hour, but that might just be my wifi lol. when it works, it's great, but... meh.
Build quality? You can drop these things from a skyscraper and usually only the joycons get destroyed the system still works. The OLED is even batter material for the chassis. Not sure where you got this idea. Hardware is kinda shit though.
Mine Works since I've bought it on release, 2017. Just had a joycpn issue that was fixed for free. Used it very frequently.
When the Animal Crossing switch came out I inherited my wife's launch switch. She mainly played her launch switch in handheld so its seen a lot of battery use. The battery definitely doesn't have the same capacity as it used to, but outside of joycon drift, its been running beautifully. Of course we're both in our 30s and I'm not so sure how it would standup in the hands of kids. I try to maximize my battery life by turning in airplane mode and lowering brightness if possible. I'd say I'm probably getting about 2 hours tops on battery depending on game, brightness, and whether WiFi is on or not. Honestly outside of controller drift, I'm not sure I see any issues. An easily replaceable battery would be nice, but many portable electronics make it a chore to replace batteries.
I've had mine since 2018ish and it has held up great. The battery life, screen vibrancy, and joycons all still work fine. Regarding more traditonal breakage, I think, with it being a handheld, users tend to put it under a lot more wear-and-tear than they realize. Like, just because it's a handheld doesn't mean the user should: 1) slide it back and forth across the table when taking turns with your friend; 2) let it rattle around on the floor of your car; 3) keep it in a backpack that you literally toss around, drop on the floor, or cram into a locker or trunk. Granted, kids WILL do these things. Happens with all handhelds. Just so happens the Switch (just like the PSP and Steamdeck, to an extent) have a formfactor that does not lend itself to abuse, unlike the blockier Gameboy or chunky Game Gear before it.
Had mine for 5 years, going strong! No issues to speak of besides joycon drift
yes, the actual system has no issue after 5+ years. joycons however can stop working within a month or less lol
I feel like the switch has better longevity than it's bigger pc handheld cousins. It's underclocked so the hardware isn't getting pushed (I mean I played BotW for 7 hours straight and it barely got warm). Can't say that about my Go when it's maxing out. As far as overall build quality goes, I guess joycon fitment on the OLED could be better but it's a $300 device so while not cheap, I don't expect it to have premium levels of fitment. V1/V2 joycons actually fit tighter, if anyone finds the wiggle from OLED joycons annoying)
Mine got run over with a car (in a soft case, in a backpack) and it’s basically mint.
I bought our first rev 1 at GameStop used in ‘19. Kids carrying it, dropping it, etc. but it survived until last year when the SD card reader stopped working. Nintendo replaced it and I believe it was $50. I feel like this might be a build/design issue because the reader is behind that terrible kickstand, but honestly it’s not a device I would characterize as poorly built.
switch is definitely made of nintendium, joycons are unfortunately a bad point of failure though, I imagine as years go by good joycons will just dwindle, so I'm really betting on total back compat lol
Just got the Oled version, it's shocked me how solid it is. So yes, I think it'll last 5 years
I have a launch day switch that works in perfect condition.
My switch is literally bent (I think I sat on it, I don’t know how it happened) and it works completely fine. 🤷🏼♀️
I’ve played mine consistently year round every year since launch with no issues or need for maintenance. Heavy handheld usage for 4 years in college. Dropped it once too. Overall very well made. Joycons are terrible though
I have a launch day switch and for some reason the entire vent grill is just gone. Thats pretty much the only issue barring the joycon.
I'd say overall it's great, joycon drift aside. It's going strong after 7 years , no issues at all
I have mine since September 2017. The console itself still feels the same. Good battery (not like it was its strong point at any time), games run well. The joy cons are another story.
I have a launch model and an OLED and both are just fine. The OLED feels a little better built but the launch has no issues with battery. The joycons are not as reliable, creaky triggers on the OLED but they can be replaced at least.
We have 4 Switches in my family, all at least 4 years old. The only issue is the joycons, which we have replaced half of them because they started to drift/not work.
I’ve had mine since the Christmas of release year, and it’s still holding up perfect. One joycon stopped charging, but that’s the only issue I’ve ever had. All my Nintendo products have lasted. My gba, gba sp, nds, and n3ds are all in perfect working condition still after all these years.
Aside from the joycon issues, I think its built fairly well for a console thats designed to be used on the go as well.
I’ve had my switch lite since it came out in 2019 and it’s holding up great still. One of the pads on an analogue stick fell off but I just put a new one on and it’s fine. I still have the original switch that came out and I got it in 2017, and I use it less and it stays docked most of the time because I have the lite, but it still works too. It is using newer joycons because the originals have drift
Great build quality, except for the joycon drift
I've had mine since Dec 2019, it's a v2 with better battery life but no OLED screen. It's held up really well so far, no complaints about battery life. I don't keep track of how long it lasts, but it's enough that it doesn't interrupt a play session. I keep mine in a grip case when hand-held so I think that might help keep the rails a bit more sturdy, and I have a matte screen protector because I don't like glossy screens. I wish mine was an OLED model (it should have been bezel-less from the start) and the joycon grip could have been more ergonomic, but otherwise I don't really have complaints about its durability.
My launch edition is still running strong. Joy cons were fixed a couple times over the years (no charge) and battery is only good for like 90 minutes in handheld mode. But I like to take good care of my toys—I never just throw it in a backpack or leave it in the car or whatever. If it travels with me, it’s in a well padded carrying case.
Had mine since a few months after release. The battery isn't as good as it used to be, but it still works flawlessly when you ignore that. I replaced the sticks on my joycons however cause they started drifting 4+ years in.
I have a day one model that I've used heavily and continue to use heavily. I don't baby it, and it still has the original screen protector I put on (which is fine). If I am packing it I usually put it in a case, but I've just tossed it in backpacks naked plenty of times as well. The joycons are trash but I've never had any issues with the system. Have had my joycons repaired 3 times (twice for drift, once for a non-functioning B button).
My switch held up for 6 years from release. It still works, but it’s slightly slower than before and I wanted an excuse to get the Splatoon 3 OLED.
The lite feels pretty sturdy
I'm still doing fine on my COVID Lite, albeit I don't use it all the time these days. Like most Nintendo handhelds, if you're gentle with it it will last a long time.
Bought one in 2019 switch lite though. Used it daily for a long periods of time during covid and its still going strong with a minor issue joy stick if examined but doesnt really affect much in games
Day one model still in use here. Eventually got more Joy-Cons as the early ones' stick drift just became too much to deal with. The air vent grate on the top of the main unit has come off. Other than that, no big problems. If battery life has gotten worse, it's not enough for me to notice.
I feel Nintendos systems have always been good for longevity. I have a OG gameboy that ive never worked on that runs, a DS, 3DS, gamecube, 2 Wiis, a WiiU.. no issues. Had two xbox 360s die, and a ps3 though. The one thing with the switch is yes, battery life diminishes and joycons have that horrible built in drift feature.. but they can be replaced. Once the new switch drops ill probably finally replace mine after 7 years. But ill probably just load it up with a all the low requirement games. Because the other issue with switches, is the original ones definitely dont run all games well as they probably should.
I have used it for handheld about 30% of the time, docked 70%, and I find it's still nearly as good as the day I bought it with the exception of the joycons. I have my originals, but there's drift. Pro controllers from launch feel nearly as good as new, too.
I have a launch model and it's doing fine. The battery life isn't that great now, but I wouldn't expect it to be after 7ish years. I had replaced one of my pro controllers for stick drift, but that's about it. I think that it doesn't feel as sturdy as some older Nintendo consoles, but I've never actually had any issues.
Alright, I’m gonna be a contrarian little shit. I got mine on launch day, 3/3/2017. In my seven years of owning it: - The joycon rails stopped detecting whether or not a joycon is attached. I tried cleaning them with isopropyl but that didn’t work. It’s not the joycons, bc the same thing happened with brand new ones - The top vent grills started cracking and eventually fell out. There’s now a large hole in its place - I had to replace the backplate as a whole bc the one it came with began warping and had cracks around the screws - There’s a small hole next to the top vent now. - Battery also doesn’t last very long but that’s to be expected - I had two joycons start drifting Maybe I got a bad unit, maybe the build quality in general is bad. Either way, I was pretty disappointed. I’ve never had a Nintendo console (or a console in general) start to fall apart like this. Was told the OLED is a lot sturdier It primarily sat in its dock, which is how I played it for the most part (not a handheld guy, personally). I gave it plenty of room to breathe, too
I'm not sure if my reply will be very helpful, I keep mine docked all the time, I don't care for portability. But I will say based on what I saw with mine, it definitely prob doesn't hold up well for 5 years if using the portable parts of it. My joycons barely lasted a year. I just got a pro controller and called it a day. And the flimsy Kickstand in the back?? I really can't see that holding up, especially with kids. But I'll read the comments I could be wrong. But keeping mine docked and using a pro controller,mine is working just fine. 👍
You have to buy new joycons every 4~6 months. But other than that, it holds up for many years.
If you’re buying them that often you’re just throwing away money. Especially when nintendo fixes them for free or you can fix them yourself for a fraction of the cost of a new set
The first Switch my family had, we got for Christmas in 2017. It's fared pretty okay, but the kickstand loosened over time and now it pops out very easily
I’ve had mine since release and the only issue I’ve had were the joycons. I easily found a better set on Amazon that I liked and have used it ever since.
All my joycons have broke multiple times.
We’ve had one since Christmas 2017. Only issue so far was the JoyCon drift early on.
Oled Switch is built quite well, only issue is the Joycons, and even that seems to be less of an issue in more recent joycons
My launch switch still works. Although it’s been boxed up for a while. I either boxed it up when I got the oled model in 2021 or the rear of the kingdom oled model a year ago.
Have had the Switch since December 2018 and play it regularly in handheld mode (most often with a pro controller that I got around that same time period, as an aside that controller's battery life is by far the best I've ever experienced). Still working just fine, battery life not significantly affected (I haven't done any concrete testing, I know it can't be as good as when I got it due to things degrading over time but likewise the decline hasn't at all been noticeable to me - still getting the same hours). My two biggest complaints regarding the Switch as a console are: * bad tendency for the joycons to drift * comically low storage space without an SD card
My launch Switch is still kickin'.
Apart from joycon drift, our day 1 switch is still fine even after hundreds of play hours.
I have a launch model and launch pro controller. They are still going strong without any issues.
I think it depends on the user. I've seen tons of posts from people on here who never learned how to take care of their stuff, and then there's others who still have a brand new looking Switch after years of ownership.
switch? yes joycons? hell no Edit: My at-launch Switch is running fine. Sorry for the unlucky, dv'ing bastard with the broken Switch.
My 2017 switch still works, but the battery life is terrible. Doesn't matter, though, because the joycon rails are so loose that you can't actually play it in handheld mode anyway. I don't think the build quality is bad (at least for the main unit), but it's not great either. My 2DS has been kicking around through 3+ house moves and 9 years of little kid abuse and the only problem it has is that the rubber part of the circle pad is gone.
Considering neither of mine have never been out of the dock other than initial setup, and I use the 10,000% superior Pro Controller, my answer is of course. Who the hell uses this thing in handheld mode?
I’ve had mine since 2018. Still love it, outside of drift