Nintendo has exciting news for gaming enthusiasts: preorders for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will go live on April 24, ahead of its launch on June 5. Major retailers have provided all the necessary details to ensure you don't miss out on securing your next-gen console. Below, we've gathered comprehensive information to help you prepare for the Switch 2 preorders. Let's dive into the specifics.
Switch 2 Preorder Times at a Glance
- Walmart - 12 a.m. ET April 24
- Best Buy - 12 a.m. ET April 24
- Target - 12 a.m. ET April 24
- GameStop - 11 a.m. ET April 24
If you're short on time and need the essentials, the list above includes links and times when Switch 2 preorders will be available at major retailers. For a more detailed breakdown of what to expect at each retailer, continue reading.
Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Walmart
$449.00 at Walmart
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Walmart will kick off Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. They have not announced plans for in-store preorders. However, Walmart stands out as it offers free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5, ensuring you get your hands on it as soon as possible.
Best Buy: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Best Buy
$449.99 at Best Buy
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Best Buy will start accepting online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those who prefer in-person pickup, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5 for customers to collect their preorders.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Target
$449.99 at Target
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Target will open preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24, available online. There's no mention of in-store preorders at this time.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
See at GameStop
$449.99 at GameStop
Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET April 24
GameStop will begin preorders later than other major retailers, starting at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. You can also secure your preorder in person at GameStop locations when they open on April 24. For launch day pickup, all GameStop stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to be among the first to own the new console.
Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Nintendo Store
$449.99 at Nintendo Store
Preorders from the official Nintendo Store come with a unique process. First, visit this page, log into your Nintendo account, and express your interest by choosing either the console alone or in a bundle with Mario Kart World. Nintendo will then send you an email invitation to complete your purchase, with the first batch of invitations scheduled for May 8. You'll have 72 hours to finalize your order once you receive the email.
However, there are specific eligibility criteria: this option is only available to customers "who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025." If you don't meet these requirements, you'll need to preorder from another retailer.
Be sure to check out additional tips on how to increase your chances of securing a Switch 2 preorder.