Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: Price Explained

Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers a robust service that enhances your gaming experience with access to iconic games from previous console generations and exciting expansions for some of the biggest releases. If you're browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, consider the added value that comes with an NSO subscription.

With the confirmation that NSO will carry over to the upcoming Switch 2, you can rest assured that these memberships will continue to deliver the same great perks, including access to retro game libraries, on the new console. But which plan is right for you? With two options available, it's essential to weigh the benefits and take advantage of the best offers when signing up.

Whether you're eager to relive classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64, or you simply want to enjoy some Mario Kart online with friends, understanding the full scope of Nintendo Switch Online's membership plans will help you make an informed decision tailored to your gaming needs.

### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial for its basic membership, allowing you to explore online play in your existing Switch games and dive into a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. You can sign up for the free trial directly on your Switch or through the Nintendo Online website by signing into your Nintendo account and following the prompts on the eShop. Remember, after the trial, your subscription will automatically renew at a monthly rate of $3.99, and each account is limited to one free trial period.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

### Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo offers two Nintendo Switch Online membership plans: the standard Nintendo Switch Online and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both plans come in individual or family packages, impacting the number of accounts that can access the benefits. Let's break down what each plan offers, their pros and cons, and the pricing structure.

Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99

The individual plan grants access to one account and includes online play, full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. Additionally, members enjoy unique offers and discounts. This plan is ideal for solo gamers who mainly want to engage in online multiplayer and enjoy classic games on the go, as offline play is available if you've logged in within the last seven days.

12-Month Individual Membership### Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card

For those preferring a one-time purchase, a 12-month individual membership gift card is available for $19.99 at Amazon.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The family plan extends the benefits to up to eight accounts, providing the same features as the individual plan but at a more cost-effective rate for larger households. This plan is perfect for families or groups of friends who all want to play online and enjoy the classic game libraries, member-exclusive offers, cloud saving, and the mobile app.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99

The Expansion Pack adds value with additional emulators and major game expansions for dedicated Switch players. Alongside the standard NSO features for one account, you'll gain access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, as well as expansions for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Splatoon 2. This plan is suited for avid gamers looking to explore a broader range of classics and enjoy premium DLC without needing to purchase them separately.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

The family version of the Expansion Pack offers the same benefits to up to eight accounts, making it an excellent choice for households where everyone wants to access the expanded game libraries and premium expansions. It includes everything from the standard NSO plan plus the added value of the Expansion Pack, ensuring that all family members can enjoy a comprehensive gaming experience.

Additional Subscription Details

Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99

The base NSO package is perfect for the solo player who primarily uses their Switch for online multiplayer. In addition to online play, you'll have access to a curated selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, including classics like Super Mario Bros. 3 and Donkey Kong Country. You can play these games offline if you've logged in recently, but this tier does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis games. The plan also offers cloud saving, exclusive deals, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. The flexibility of monthly and quarterly options allows you to subscribe without a long-term commitment, although a yearly subscription saves you $27.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The family plan mirrors the individual plan but extends the benefits to up to eight accounts, making it a cost-effective choice for households. It includes online play, access to NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers. This plan requires a yearly payment but is significantly cheaper than purchasing multiple individual plans.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99

Designed for the dedicated Switch gamer, this plan includes everything from the standard NSO plan, plus additional emulators for N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis games, and major expansions for popular titles. While you must commit to a yearly subscription, this plan offers a rich selection of classic and modern content, making it a valuable investment for those who enjoy a diverse gaming experience.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

This plan extends the benefits of the individual Expansion Pack to up to eight accounts, making it ideal for families where everyone wants to dive into the expanded game libraries and enjoy the premium expansions. While it's a more significant investment than the standard NSO family plan, it provides comprehensive access to all the NSO offerings, ensuring a top-tier gaming experience for all household members.