Nintendo has exciting news for fans eagerly awaiting the next generation of gaming: preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will officially open on April 24. With the console's launch set for June 5, major retailers are gearing up to help you secure your new gaming system. Below, we've compiled all the essential information you need to ensure you're ready to lock in your Switch 2 preorder. Let's get started.
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 provides the times and links for Switch 2 preorders at major retailers. For a more in-depth look at what to expect at each retailer, 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 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. This is a fantastic perk for eager gamers.
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 begin accepting online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. If you choose in-store pickup, most Best Buy locations will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to get your hands on your new console as soon as possible.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Target
$449.99 at Target
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET, April 24
Target will open preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24. Preorders will be available online, though Target has not yet confirmed if they'll also be available in-store.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
See at GameStop
$449.99 at GameStop
Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET, April 24
GameStop's preorders will start later than other major retailers, beginning at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. You can also place your preorder in person at GameStop stores when they open on April 24. For those opting for in-store pickup, all GameStop locations will open at midnight on June 5, giving you a chance to be among the first to own the new console.
Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Nintendo Store
$449.99 at Nintendo Store
Preordering through the official Nintendo Store involves a few more steps than at other retailers. First, visit this page, log into your Nintendo account, and express your interest by choosing either the console alone or bundled 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 some eligibility criteria: you must have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with at least 12 months of paid membership and accumulated at least 50 hours of gameplay by April 2, 2025. If you don't meet these requirements, you'll need to look elsewhere to secure your Switch 2.
For those looking to increase their chances of successfully preordering a Nintendo Switch 2, be sure to check out additional tips and strategies.
