Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers

Nintendo has just announced that preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will open on April 24. All major retailers are ready with detailed information on how and when you can secure your preorder before the console's official launch on June 5. Below is everything you need to know to ensure you don't miss out on getting your hands on the next-gen console. 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 rush and need the essentials, the list above provides quick links and times for when Switch 2 preorders go live online at major retailers. For more in-depth information on what to expect at each store, keep reading.

Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Walmart

$449.00 at Walmart

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

Walmart will start taking Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time as April 23 turns into April 24. They haven't mentioned anything about in-store preorders at their retail locations yet. However, Walmart is the only retailer offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. That’s 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 open online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. If you prefer picking up your console in person, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, giving you the chance to be one of the first to get your hands on the Switch 2.

Target: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Target

$449.99 at Target

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

Target will begin accepting preorders for the console, games, and accessories online at midnight on April 24. They haven't indicated whether in-store preorders will be available, so keep an eye on their website for the latest updates.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders

See at GameStop

$449.99 at GameStop

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

GameStop will open preorders later than other major retailers, starting at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. If you prefer to preorder in person, you can do so at GameStop's brick-and-mortar locations when they open on April 24. For those eager to pick up their console on launch day, all GameStop stores will open at midnight on June 5.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Nintendo Store

$449.99 at Nintendo Store

Preordering from the official Nintendo Store involves a few extra steps. First, visit their designated page, log into your Nintendo account, and express your interest by choosing either the standalone console or a bundle with Mario Kart World. After registering, Nintendo will send you an email when it's your turn to finalize the purchase. The first invitations will be sent out on May 8, and you'll have 72 hours to complete your purchase upon receiving the email.

However, there are specific requirements for this option. It's only available 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 preorder from another retailer.

Make sure to explore strategies to increase your chances of securing a Nintendo Switch 2 preorder.