Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) offers a wealth of benefits for gamers, from access to classic games from past console generations to expansions for some of their biggest releases. If you're browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, the right NSO subscription can enhance your gaming experience significantly. With the confirmation that NSO will transition to the upcoming Switch 2, you can rest assured that these memberships will continue to provide the same perks, including access to retro game libraries, on the new console. When choosing between the two available membership plans, consider what benefits you seek from a Nintendo Switch Online membership and the best deals you can get when signing up.

Whether you're eager to dive into classics like "Ocarina of Time" and "Super Mario 64" or just want to join friends for some "Mario Kart" online, understanding the full range of Nintendo Switch Online membership plans is crucial to making an informed decision.

### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

Nintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial of its basic membership, which provides access to online play in your existing Switch games, as well as a comprehensive selection of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. You can start your free trial directly on your Switch or through the Nintendo Online website by logging into your Nintendo account and following the prompts in the eShop. Remember, after the trial, your subscription will automatically renew at a monthly rate of $3.99. Each Nintendo account is entitled to only 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. Each plan is available in individual or family packages, which determines how many accounts can access the plan's benefits. Let's explore the details, advantages, and costs of each option.

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

This plan provides one account with a Nintendo Switch Online pass, granting access to online play, full libraries of Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. Additionally, members receive unique offers and discounts. You can purchase a 12-month individual membership for $19.99, which can also be found as a gift card at Amazon.

12-Month Individual Membership

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

Similar to the Individual plan, the Family plan extends its benefits to up to eight accounts. This option requires a one-year upfront payment but offers significant savings compared to purchasing individual memberships for multiple users. You'll enjoy online play, access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive deals.

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

This premium plan includes all features from the standard Nintendo Switch Online plan for one account, plus additional perks. You get access to the N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, along with major expansions for "Mario Kart 8," "Animal Crossing: New Horizons," and "Splatoon 2." Note that this plan requires a yearly subscription and cannot be purchased monthly.

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. It includes everything from the standard plan plus the additional emulators and expansions. This option is ideal for households looking to enjoy all the perks of Nintendo Switch Online and the Expansion Pack's bonuses.

Additional Subscription Details

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

This is the perfect plan for solo Switch users mainly interested in online multiplayer. It grants full access to Nintendo’s online services and a curated library of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, which you can play offline if you've logged in within the last seven days. However, it does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries. Additional perks include cloud saving, exclusive deals, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. The flexibility of monthly or shorter-term subscriptions makes it ideal for those who don't play consistently.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

This plan mirrors the Individual tier but extends its benefits to up to eight accounts. It's tailored for households where multiple users want to enjoy online play and access to the NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, alongside cloud saving and the mobile app. The requirement of a year-long commitment is offset by the cost savings compared to individual memberships for each user.

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

Designed for avid Switch players, this plan adds value by including access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, as well as major expansions for popular games. It's ideal for those who want to relive classics without needing old consoles. If multiplayer is your main focus, the standard plan might suffice, as these expansions can also be purchased separately.

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

This plan is perfect for families or groups where all members want to access the enhanced features of the Expansion Pack, including the additional emulators and game expansions. It includes all benefits from the standard plan but at a higher cost. Consider whether the expansions are worth the price, as they can be bought individually if needed.