Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers

Nintendo has exciting news for gamers: preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will go live on April 24, ahead of the console's much-anticipated launch on June 5. Major retailers have shared their plans, ensuring fans know exactly when and how to secure their next-gen console. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for the big day.

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 short on time, the above list provides quick links and times for when Switch 2 preorders will go live online at major retailers. For a more detailed breakdown of each retailer's process, 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 online at midnight Eastern Time as Wednesday turns into Thursday, April 24. While no information has been provided about in-store preorders, Walmart stands out by offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5.

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 taking online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, games, and accessories at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. Additionally, most Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing customers to pick up their preorders if selected as an option during the preorder process.

Target: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Target

$449.99 at Target

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

Preorders at Target for the console, games, and accessories will go live at midnight on April 24. These will be available online, with no mention of in-store preorders.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders

See at GameStop

$449.99 at GameStop

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

GameStop will start taking preorders later than other major retailers, with online preorders beginning at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. In-person preorders will be available at brick-and-mortar GameStop locations when stores open on April 24. For pickup, all GameStop stores will be open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to be among the first to get your hands on the new console.

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 dedicated page, log into your Nintendo account, and register your interest by selecting either the console alone or in a bundle 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 upon receiving the invitation.

However, there are specific eligibility requirements: this option is only available to customers who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months paid and at least 50 total gameplay hours as of April 2, 2025. If you don't meet these criteria, you'll need to preorder from another retailer.

Be sure to check out additional tips on how to increase your chances of securing a Switch 2 preorder.