Sony and Nintendo Compete for Console Supremacy in Japan: January 2026 Sales Report
Summary:
- The Nintendo Switch 2 leads the Japanese console market with over 310,000 units sold in early January 2026.
- The introduction of a region-locked, budget-friendly Sony PS5 model contributes to a steady sales increase for Sony’s gaming console.
- Overall, the gaming landscape in Japan shows fluctuating preferences among consumers as they respond to new pricing strategies and console offerings.
In an exciting start to 2026 for the gaming industry, early sales figures have revealed the current standings of multiple gaming consoles in Japan. According to the latest report, the Nintendo Switch 2 has emerged as the frontrunner, selling a remarkable 313,838 units between December 29, 2025, and January 11, 2026. This impressive figure brings its total sales to over 4 million units since its launch, reflecting strong consumer interest and excitement for the latest model.
On the other hand, the Sony PlayStation 5 is also enjoying a resurgence in sales, largely attributed to the recent introduction of a more affordable, region-locked model. This strategic move appears to be resonating well with Japanese gamers, who are increasingly opting for this budget-friendly version, helping to rejuvenate Sony’s presence in the market.
Sales Breakdown and Comparisons
The following are the specific sales figures for various gaming consoles, which provide a clear picture of the current market dynamics:
- Nintendo Switch 2: 313,838 units (total: 4,097,905 units)
- Nintendo Switch: 10,984 units (total: 20,224,740 units)
- Nintendo Switch Lite: 18,460 units (total: 6,822,925 units)
- Nintendo Switch OLED: 16,916 units (total: 9,414,838 units)
- Sony PS5: 6,033 units (total: 5,875,458 units)
- Sony PS5 Digitally Locked Version: 36,856 units (total: 1,154,384 units)
- Sony PS5 Pro: 3,864 units (total: 315,121 units)
- Microsoft Xbox Series X: 29 units (total: 323,884 units)
- Microsoft Xbox Series X Digital Edition: 149 units (total: 24,860 units)
- Microsoft Xbox Series S: 103 units (total: 34,464 units)
- Sony PS4: 25 units (total: 793,176 units)
Market Implications
While the Nintendo Switch 2 holds the top position in sales, the success of the PS5 in the region-locked model indicates that there is a significant demand for more economical options among Japanese consumers. Sony’s agile response to market needs has evidently paid off, as sales of the newly released model continue to climb. The dip in sales for the PS5’s regular version belies the renewed interest in the budget variant, demonstrating a strategic pivot that aligns well with current consumer sentiment.
Moreover, the overall performance of the Nintendo Switch family of consoles suggests that Nintendo’s offerings remain highly regarded among gamers in Japan. With the original Switch selling nearly 11,000 units in the same timeframe, and the Switch Lite and OLED versions contributing positively, it is clear that Nintendo has cultivated a loyal customer base that appreciates variety and value.
Conclusion
As the gaming landscape evolves, the competition between console manufacturers intensifies. Both Nintendo and Sony are responding dynamically to market demands, showcasing unique offerings that cater to different segments of gamers. With the Nintendo Switch 2 and the new economical PS5 model leading their respective sales, 2026 promises to be a vibrant year for the gaming industry in Japan. As consumer preferences shift, it will be intriguing to see how these companies adapt their strategies to maintain or enhance their positions in an increasingly competitive environment.
Ultimately, the early sales report from January 2026 serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and strategic marketing in the gaming console sector. As companies continue to refine their approaches, gamers can expect more exciting developments and product offerings in the years to come.
