Nintendo has officially announced that preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24. Major retailers have already provided detailed information about when and how you can secure your preorders before the next-gen console hits the market on June 5. Below, you’ll find comprehensive details to ensure you're fully prepared to get your hands on the Switch 2. 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 in a rush and need the quick details, the above list includes links and times for when Switch 2 preorders go live online at major retailers. For a more in-depth look at what to expect from each retailer, keep 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, transitioning from Wednesday to Thursday, April 24. While there's no information available about in-store preorders at Walmart locations, they stand out by offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. This is a unique perk that could make your decision a bit easier.
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 also start accepting online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with its games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those who opt for in-store pickup, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to grab your console as soon as it's available.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Target
$449.99 at Target Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Preorders at Target for the console, games, and accessories will begin at midnight on April 24. You can place your order online, although Target has not specified whether in-store preorders will be available.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
See at GameStop
$449.99 at GameStop Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET April 24
GameStop is starting preorders later than other major retailers, with online preorders beginning at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. You can also secure your console in person at GameStop stores when they open on April 24. For those eager to pick up their preorders, all GameStop stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to be among the first to get your new console.
Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Nintendo Store
$449.99 at Nintendo Store
Preordering from the official Nintendo Store involves a few extra steps compared to other retailers. You'll need to visit this page, log into your Nintendo account, and express interest by selecting either the console alone or in a bundle with Mario Kart World. Once you've done that, Nintendo will email you when it's your turn to complete the purchase. The first batch of invitations will be sent out on May 8, and you'll have 72 hours to finalize your purchase upon receiving your email.
However, there are specific requirements for this method. It's 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 criteria, you'll need to look elsewhere to preorder your Switch 2.
Be sure to check out how to increase your chances of preordering a Switch 2 to stay ahead of the game.