Nintendo has officially announced that preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24, ahead of its launch on June 5. Major retailers have released detailed schedules and instructions for securing your next-gen console early. Below, you'll find all the essential information to ensure you don't miss out on your chance to lock in your Switch 2 preorder. 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 need a quick reference, the list above provides links and times when Switch 2 preorders will be available online at major retailers. For a more detailed look at each retailer's process, continue reading.
Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Walmart
$449.00 at WalmartPreorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Walmart will kick off Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time as Wednesday turns into 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 BuyPreorder 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. Additionally, most Best Buy locations will open at midnight on June 5 for customers to pick up their preorders, should you choose that option at checkout.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Target
$449.99 at TargetPreorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Target will open preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24. Online preorders are available, but there's no word on in-store preorders.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
See at GameStop
$449.99 at GameStopPreorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET April 24
GameStop's preorders begin later than other retailers, starting at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. You can also preorder in person when GameStop stores open on April 24. For pickup, all GameStop locations will be open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to be among the first to get your hands on the new console.
Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Nintendo Store
Preordering from the official Nintendo Store involves a few more steps than at other retailers. You'll need to visit the dedicated page, log into your Nintendo account, and register your interest for either the console alone or a bundle with Mario Kart World. Nintendo will then 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 criteria: this option is only available to customers who have 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. If you don't meet these requirements, you'll need to look elsewhere for your preorder.
For more tips on increasing your chances of securing a Switch 2, be sure to check out additional resources.