Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers

Exciting news for gaming enthusiasts: Nintendo has officially announced that preorders for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24. As we edge closer to the console's launch date on June 5, major retailers have provided detailed information on when and how you can secure your preorder. Below, you'll find everything you need to know to ensure you don't miss out on getting your hands on the next-generation console. Let's get 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 facts, the above list offers direct links and times when Switch 2 preorders go live at these major retailers. For those who want a deeper dive into what each retailer offers, 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 start accepting Switch 2 preorders online at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. While they haven't shared details about in-store preorders, Walmart stands out by offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. This perk ensures you can start playing 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 also open online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those eager to get their console as soon as possible, many Best Buy stores will be open at midnight on June 5 for in-store pickups. Make sure to select this option when you preorder.

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 be available online starting at midnight on April 24. Target has not yet confirmed whether in-store preorders will be an option.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders

See at GameStop

$449.99 at GameStop

Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET April 24

GameStop will begin accepting Switch 2 preorders online at 11 a.m. ET on April 24, which is later than the other retailers mentioned. You can also place your preorder in person at GameStop stores when they open on April 24. For those eager to pick up their console as soon as possible, all GameStop locations will be open at midnight on June 5 for preorder pickups.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Nintendo Store

$449.99 at Nintendo Store

Preorders from the official Nintendo Store involve a few extra steps. You'll need to visit the designated page, log into your Nintendo account, and express interest in either the console alone or in a bundle with Mario Kart World. Following this, Nintendo will email you when it's your turn to finalize the purchase, with the first invitations being sent out on May 8. You'll have 72 hours from receiving the email to complete your purchase.

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

Make sure to explore strategies on how to increase your chances of securing a Switch 2 preorder to enhance your gaming experience with this next-gen console.