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Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Retailers

Author:Kristen Update:May 16,2025

Nintendo has exciting news for gaming enthusiasts: preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 are set to begin on April 24. Major retailers have shared detailed information about the preorder process, ensuring you're well-prepared for the console's launch on June 5. Here's everything you need to know to secure your Nintendo Switch 2 preorder.

Switch 2 Preorder Times at a Glance

  • Walmart - 12 a.m. ET on April 24
  • Best Buy - 12 a.m. ET on April 24
  • Target - 12 a.m. ET on April 24
  • GameStop - 11 a.m. ET on April 24

If you're in a rush and need the essentials, the above list provides direct links and times for when Switch 2 preorders go live at major retailers. For a more in-depth look at 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 on April 24

Walmart will open Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time, transitioning from Wednesday to Thursday, April 24. While there's no information on in-store preorders, Walmart uniquely offers free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. This is 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 on 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, many Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to collect your preorder right at launch.

Are you going to pick up your Switch 2 at midnight?

Target: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Target

$449.99 at Target

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

Target will initiate preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight on April 24. Online preorders are available, but there's no word yet on whether in-store preorders will be offered.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders

See at GameStop

$449.99 at GameStop

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

GameStop's preorders will start later than other major retailers, opening online at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. If you prefer to preorder in person, you can do so at GameStop locations once they open on April 24. GameStop stores will also open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to pick up your new console immediately upon launch.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorders

See at Nintendo Store

$449.99 at Nintendo Store

Preordering from the official Nintendo Store involves a few more steps. First, visit the designated page, log into your Nintendo account, and express your interest by choosing either the console alone or bundled with Mario Kart World. Nintendo will then send you an email when it's your turn to complete the purchase, with the first invitations going out on May 8. You'll have 72 hours to finalize your order upon receiving the invitation.

However, there are specific eligibility criteria: only customers with a Nintendo Switch Online membership of at least 12 months and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours by April 2, 2025, can participate. If you don't meet these requirements, you'll need to look elsewhere to preorder.

For additional tips on increasing your chances of securing a Switch 2 preorder, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide.