The Nintendo 3DS, a handheld console that was discontinued several years ago, has recently been rising in price on the used market. Many people are surprised to see used systems selling for much more than they did in the past, with some models costing as much as a modern console. This change has caught the attention of gamers and collectors alike.
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Released in 2011, the Nintendo 3DS would set you back $249.99. However this price was soon reduced to $169.99 after flopping in sales. Later on, Nintendo would then go on to release the 3DS XL for $199.99. The console was success selling over 75.94 million units as of 2025. Nintendo would discontinue production of the 3DS in 2020 and close down the Nintendo eShop services in 2023.
According to Tom’s Hardware the 3DS has risen up to 76% higher than its original MSRP. Handheld consoles that once sold used for under $100 are now commonly listed for $200 to $350 or more, and some rare editions approach prices near those of brand-new modern systems like the Nintendo Switch 2. This trend goes well beyond what is typical for most electronics, which normally depreciate as they age and are replaced by newer hardware. Instead, the 3DS is bucking that pattern, becoming a collector and nostalgic item with rising market value.
Nintendo officially stopped manufacturing the 3DS and its variants years ago. Since no new units are being made, the remaining working systems all come from used and resale markets. Over time, many of these consoles break, are lost, or are locked away in private collections, slowly reducing the supply of quality units available for sale.
The 3DS has one of the largest libraries of beloved Nintendo titles, including games that haven’t been ported to newer systems. This makes the original hardware the only way to play certain favorites the way they were meant to be played. Nostalgia is a strong force in today’s gaming market, with many players now adults returning to the system they grew up with.
Nintendo closed the 3DS eShop in March 2023 and eventually ended most online services for the console. Without the ability to buy or download digital games, physical cartridges and the consoles that play them have become more essential. This change pushed more players and collectors toward buying complete systems and games, increasing hardware demand.
Retro gaming has grown into a strong cultural trend. Limited-edition 3DS models and consoles in excellent condition are especially desirable among collectors, and prices for these variants often far exceed those of ordinary units.
For buyers today, the market looks very different than just a few years ago. A 3DS in good condition is harder to find and often commands premium prices. Even standard used units can cost as much as they originally sold for at launch or more. For gamers who already own a 3DS, this trend brings a silver lining: their devices may now be worth significantly more than they paid, especially if they have kept them in good condition or have rare editions.