Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers

Nintendo has exciting news for gamers: preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 are set to go live on April 24. Major retailers have provided detailed information on how and when you can secure your preorders, in preparation for the console's launch on June 5. Below, you'll find all the essential details to ensure you're ready to lock in your Nintendo 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're in a hurry and need the quick rundown, the above list provides direct links and times for when Switch 2 preorders go live online at major retailers. For those interested in 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 open Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. While there's no information on in-store preorders, Walmart stands out as the only retailer offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. This is a fantastic perk for those eager to start playing right away.

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. For those who prefer in-person pickup, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to collect your preorder immediately.

Target: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Target

$449.99 at Target

Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24

Target will start accepting preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24. Preorders will be available online, but there's no mention of in-store availability.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders

See at GameStop

$449.99 at GameStop

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

GameStop will begin taking preorders later than other major retailers, with online preorders starting 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 eager to get their hands on the console as soon as possible, 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

Preorders from the official Nintendo Store are a bit more involved than at other retailers. You'll need to visit the designated page, log into your Nintendo account, and register your interest by choosing either the console alone or a bundle with Mario Kart World. Once registered, 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 upon receiving the invitation.

However, there are specific eligibility requirements for purchasing through the Nintendo Store. It's only open 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 criteria, you'll need to look elsewhere to secure your Switch 2.

Be sure to check out additional tips on how to increase your chances of successfully preordering a Nintendo Switch 2.