The OLED Nintendo Switch was released on October 8, introducing a colorful OLED screen, upgraded Joy-Cons, and improved battery and storage to the Switch's original, adaptive design. While slightly more expensive than the original Switch Console, the upgrades are a big improvement, especially for those who play using the tabletop or in hand-held mode. However, it appears that the OLED Switch will suffer the same shortages that plagued last year's release of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox X/S, as most stores are already out of stock.
In November 2020, both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox X/S Consoles were released amidst manufacturing shortages, resulting in a massive console shortage that has persisted through fall of this year. The combination of online-only purchases and limited in-store stock created massive wait lines that were often plagued with scalpers looking to resell consoles far above MSRP. To add to this, information about when restocks can be expected has been largely unavailable, requiring fans to regularly sit on major retail websites in hopes of a sudden restock.
Unfortunately, the OLED Nintendo Switch shortage isn't a surprise for many, with news of Switch OLED stock shortages and delays before the console's release date. Like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox X/S, the OLED Switch is sold out at almost every major retail store, with little information on when restocks might be expected. Players can quickly check on restock updates using a resource put together by Tom's Guide, but for those who were unable to pre-order their console, it could be a long wait before restocks are available. This could be especially bad news for Nintendo fans hoping to snag a console during the holiday season this year, as it is likely the shortages and limited stock will continue for the foreseeable future.
The OLED Nintendo Switch Is Being Marked Up By Scalpers Online
While they are not currently selling for as much as the PS5 and XSX, the OLED Nintendo Switch is still being sold by third-party retail websites for well above the original price of $349.99 USD. Despite the temptation to snatch an OLED console from sites like Ebay, Nintendo fans will want to wait for legitimate retail restocks to avoid purchasing defective devices, paying escalated prices, or being scammed by scalpers. Instead, calling local box stores like Target, Walmart, and Fred Meyer could be the best way to find consoles, as these locations tend to get restocks randomly, and may require in-store pick-up to help mitigate scalping.
The other complication players may face during restocks are color choices. The OLED Nintendo Switch has two versions: White, and dual-colored red and blue. Currently, the red and blue model appears to be easier to find than the white model, adding to the frustrations of those wanting the sleekness of the more understated option. However, for those planning to put hard cases or vinyl covers on their new OLED Nintendo Switch, finding either option during a restock will be exciting, and hopefully, won't require too long a wait.
Source: Tom's Guide