the values of Nintendo 3DS Consoles have skyrocketed in 2025, with some versions of the popular handheld going for less than $400. The running rate of some used Nintendo 3DS consoles has surpassed the Nintendo Switch.
Originally released in early 2011, the Nintendo 3DS was the successor to the Nintendo DS family of systems, and includes backward compatibility with the latter's vast game library. True to its name, the 3DS had stereoscopic 3D as one of its main features, which could be adjusted to different depths using a slider on the right side of the top screen. The 3DS also included a new circle pad that functioned like an analog joystick in most games. The 3DS was initially priced at $250, however poor sales and initial criticism about its features led Nintendo to cut its MSRP to $170. The 3DS received a few revisions throughout its lifetime, including the $199 New Nintendo 3DS XL. The 3DS eventually went on to sell approximately 75.9 million units worldwide in its various iterations.
Used Nintendo 3DS prices are rising rapidly
Although the 3DS was discontinued in 2021 after a decade of support, the resale market for Nintendo's handheld has grown rapidly since its initial MSRP. Twitter user Pirat Nation said that the New Nintendo 3DS XL console in particular could cost between $200 and $350 depending on system condition. While this puts the 3DS system lineup within striking distance of the Switch 2, the 3DS is still the cheapest console overall. Access to the Nintendo eShop and other online features was removed from the 3DS in April 2024, but it can still play physical games and maintains its backwards compatibility with Nintendo DS titles.
To put the 3DS price increase into perspective, the current price of the new Nintendo Switch console is currently $340. In August 2025, Nintendo raised the MSRP of the original Switch console from $299 to $340 after the US government imposed tariffs on various goods from countries such as China and Vietnam. As of this writing, GameStop's stock of refurbished New Nintendo 3DS XL systems is going for $379. The price also applies to special New 3DS XL kits that were sold with special exterior formats like the games. Pokemon Sun and Moon, The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3Dand Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate Each console getting a skin. While that makes some versions of the 3DS cost more than the new Nintendo Switch system, it's still less than the Switch 2's $450 price tag.
What makes the Nintendo 3DS so popular among fans?
The main reason the 3DS is still popular is because of its extensive library of high-quality exclusive games, but there are other reasons as well. Although Nintendo has long since pulled support for the 3DS, the system continues to be a popular tool for modders to get some extra use out of it. For example, modded 3DS consoles can be used to run games and apps that wouldn't normally be possible. Earlier in 2025, a gamer demonstrated how the Moonlight game streaming app can be used to play. Assassin's Creed Shadows On the 3DS, however, the actual gameplay itself is handled via a separate console or PC. While it comes with some compromises, the potential for a modified 3DS console will only grow with time.
Additionally, some 3DS titles have gained value over time due to their rarity, with dual-packs Pokemon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire fetching an estimated price of $1,169, more than three times the current price of the New Nintendo 3DS XL system. While the Switch 2 will still be Nintendo's most popular item going into 2026, the 3DS still holds much sway in the hearts and wallets of many gamers.
Sources: Time Dilation, Tom's Hardware
