Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers Revealed

Nintendo has exciting news for fans eagerly awaiting the next generation of gaming: preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are set to open on April 24. With the console's official launch date scheduled for June 5, major retailers are gearing up to help you secure your new gaming system. Below, you'll find comprehensive details to ensure you're fully prepared to preorder your Switch 2. Let's dive in and explore your options.

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 hurry and need the essentials, the above list includes direct links and times for when Switch 2 preorders will go live online at major retailers. For those who want a more detailed breakdown of 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 begin accepting Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time, marking the transition from Wednesday to Thursday, April 24. While there's no information on in-store preorders, Walmart offers an enticing perk: free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. This makes it a great option for those looking to dive into gaming 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 start taking online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those who prefer in-person pickup, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to collect your preorder if you've selected that option during your purchase.

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. While online preorders will be available, there's no word yet on 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 is launching preorders later than other major retailers, with online preorders starting at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. If you prefer the in-store experience, you can also preorder at brick-and-mortar GameStop locations when they open on April 24. For those eager to get their hands on the console immediately, all GameStop stores will be open at midnight on June 5 for preorder pickup.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Nintendo Store

• $449.99 at Nintendo Store

Preordering from the official Nintendo Store comes with a few extra steps compared to other retailers. First, visit this page, log into your Nintendo account, and register your interest by choosing between the console alone or bundled with Mario Kart World. After registration, 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 criteria for this option: it's open only 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 requirements, you'll need to look elsewhere to preorder your Switch 2.

Be sure to check out additional tips on how to increase your chances of successfully preordering a Switch 2 and securing your spot in the next generation of gaming.