Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Retailer Availability Dates

Nintendo has officially announced that preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will go live on April 24. Leading retailers across the globe are preparing to unveil their pre-sale schedules, ensuring fans can secure their units well ahead of the console’s release on June 5. Below, we’ve compiled all the essential details to help you stay ahead of the curve.

Switch 2 Preorder Times at a Glance

For those short on time, the table above provides quick links and exact times when preorders go live at major retailers. For a comprehensive breakdown, continue reading.

Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Walmart

• Price: $449.00
• Preorder Start Time: 12 a.m. ET April 24

Walmart will kick off Switch 2 preorders promptly at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. While the retailer has yet to confirm whether in-person preorders will be available at physical locations, Walmart is setting itself apart by offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. That’s a pretty sweet perk!

Best Buy: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Best Buy

• Price: $449.99
• Preorder Start Time: 12 a.m. ET April 24

Best Buy will also open its online preorders at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. In addition to online options, most Best Buy stores will remain open until midnight on June 5, allowing customers to collect their preorders instantly.

Pro Tip: If you're eager to be among the first to get your hands on the console, consider opting for in-store pickup.

Target: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Target

• Price: $449.99
• Preorder Start Time: 12 a.m. ET April 24

Like Walmart and Best Buy, Target will begin accepting Switch 2 preorders online at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. In-store preorders have not been confirmed yet, so online shopping seems to be the safest bet.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders

See at GameStop

• Price: $449.99
• Preorder Start Time: 11 a.m. ET April 24

GameStop is slightly behind the pack, launching its preorders nearly 11 hours after the other major retailers. Online preorders will begin at 11 a.m. ET on April 24, while in-store preorders will be available when stores open on the same day. On launch day, June 5, all GameStop locations will be open at midnight to facilitate instant pickup.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Nintendo Store

• Price: $449.99
• Preorder Start Time: Email Invitations Begin May 8

The official Nintendo Store offers a unique approach to preorders. To participate, you’ll need to create or log into your Nintendo account and express your interest on the dedicated preorder page. Nintendo will then send email invitations to qualified buyers, starting May 8.

To qualify:

• You must have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with at least 12 months of active subscription.
• You must have logged at least 50 total gameplay hours as of April 2, 2025.

When you receive your invitation, you’ll have 72 hours to complete your purchase. Keep in mind, this method is restricted to eligible members only, and bundles are limited to the console alone or paired with Mario Kart World.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the Switch 2 release date!