A lighted crossbow nock with an external switch preferably includes a crossbow nock body, a light unit, a compression spring and a power source. The crossbow nock body preferably includes a crossbow string portion and a shank portion. A crossbow string receiver is formed in the crossbow nock body. A battery bore is formed through the shank portion. A switch opening is formed through a wall of the crossbow nock body and into battery bore. The light unit preferably includes a modified top hat LED, an LED housing, an LED housing insert and a switch. The LED housing includes an insert notch for insertion of the LED housing insert. The LED housing insert includes a switch notch. The switch includes a switch base and a pair of snap legs. The LED, LED housing and a LED housing insert are assembled and inserted into the battery bore.