Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers

Excitement is building as Nintendo has officially announced that preorders for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24. This next-generation console is set to launch on June 5, and major retailers are gearing up to help you secure your unit. Below, you'll find everything you need to know about locking in your Nintendo Switch 2 preorders. Let's dive into the details.

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

For those in a rush, the above list provides quick links and times for when Switch 2 preorders will go live online at major retailers. For a more detailed breakdown of what each retailer offers, 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 begin taking Switch 2 preorders online at midnight Eastern Time, marking the transition from Wednesday to Thursday, April 24. While there's no information on in-store preorders, Walmart stands out by offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5.

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 games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those who choose in-store pickup, most Best Buy locations will open at midnight on June 5.

Target: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Target

• $449.99 at Target
• Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET, April 24

Target will kick off online preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24. There's no word yet on 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 will start accepting preorders online at 11 a.m. ET on April 24, which is later than the other major retailers. You can also preorder in person when GameStop stores open on April 24. On launch day, all GameStop stores will open at midnight, allowing you to pick up your new console right away.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Nintendo Store

• $449.99 at Nintendo Store

Preordering from the official Nintendo Store is a bit more involved. First, you need to visit their designated page, log into your Nintendo account, and express your interest by choosing either the console alone or a bundle with Mario Kart World. After registering, Nintendo will send you an email when it's your turn to complete the purchase, with the first batch of invitations going out on May 8. You'll have 72 hours to finalize your purchase once you receive your invitation.

However, there are specific eligibility requirements: Only customers who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with at least 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours as of April 2, 2025, are eligible. If you don't meet these criteria, you'll need to look elsewhere to preorder your Switch 2.

For more tips on securing your preorder, be sure to check out how to increase your chances of preordering a Switch 2.