Nintendo has exciting news for gaming enthusiasts: preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24. Leading retailers have already shared detailed information on how and when you can secure your next-gen console ahead of its launch on June 5. Below, we've compiled all the essential information to ensure you're well-prepared to lock in your Switch 2 preorder. Let's dive in and explore your options.
Switch 2 Preorder Times at a Glance
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- 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 quick facts, the above list provides the times and links where Switch 2 preorders will go live at major retailers. For a deeper dive into what to expect at each retailer, keep reading.
Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders
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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, as Wednesday transitions into Thursday, April 24. While there's no information yet 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. That's an unbeatable perk for eager gamers.
Best Buy: Switch 2 Preorders
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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, including games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those who prefer to pick up their console in person, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to grab your preorder as soon as possible.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
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See at Target
- $449.99 at Target
- Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET, April 24
Target will begin accepting preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24. You'll be able to place your order online, though there's no word yet on in-store preorders.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
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See at GameStop
- $449.99 at GameStop
- Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET, April 24
GameStop will start Switch 2 preorders later than other major retailers, with online preorders opening at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. If you prefer to preorder in person, you can do so at GameStop stores when they open on April 24. For launch day, all GameStop stores will open at midnight on June 5, ensuring you can be among the first to get your hands on the new console.
Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders
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See at Nintendo Store
- $449.99 at Nintendo Store
Preordering from the official Nintendo Store involves a few more steps than at other retailers. First, visit this page, log into your Nintendo account, and register your interest by choosing either the console alone or bundled with Mario Kart World. Once registered, Nintendo will send you an email 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 order upon receiving your invitation.
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 for your preorder.
Be sure to also check out tips on how to increase your chances of securing a Switch 2 preorder.
