Buying guides

Plain answers before you spend — which Switch to get, which card fits, and what actually works on Switch 2.

Five consoles, one name. Screen, battery, weight, TV play and storage side by side, the Japan-only Switch 2 to avoid, and which one fits who.

What to ask the seller, how to inspect the console, live-test the Joy-Con and make sure the account and software are clean before you pay.

Which games, game cards, controllers, docks and memory cards work across both consoles.

Games with assist modes, no harsh fail states and controls that click within minutes.

Co-op and versus games for two on one console, with what each needs in controllers.

What to buy first, in order — and the one compatibility check for each.

Resale value, storage, convenience — and what Switch 2 game-key cards change.

Switch 1 and Switch 2 need different cards. Here is what to look for on the packet.

Joy-Con, Pro Controllers and third-party pads — and which ones work on Switch 2.

What you gain, what it costs beyond the console, and who should wait.