Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders: Live Dates at Major Retailers
Excitement is building as Nintendo has officially announced that preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24. Major retailers are gearing up to offer preorders ahead of the console's launch on June 5. Whether you're eager to secure your next-gen gaming experience or curious about the specifics, we've got all the details you need to ensure you're ready to place your order.
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 just the essentials, the above list provides quick links and times for when Switch 2 preorders go live at major retailers. For those interested in a deeper dive into each retailer's process, keep reading for more detailed information.
Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders
See at Walmart
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET, April 24
Walmart will kick off Switch 2 preorders at midnight Eastern Time on April 24. While there's no word on in-store preorders, Walmart stands out by offering free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5. This perk makes it an attractive option for those eager to start gaming as soon as possible.
Best Buy: Switch 2 Preorders
See 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. For those who prefer to pick up their console in person, many Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing you to get your hands on your preorder right away.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
See 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. These preorders will be available online, though no details have been shared regarding in-store availability.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
See at GameStop
Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET, April 24
GameStop will begin Switch 2 preorders later than other major retailers, starting at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. Preorders can be placed both online and in person at GameStop locations once 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
Preordering through the official Nintendo Store involves a few more steps. You'll need to visit the designated page, log into your Nintendo account, and register your interest, choosing either the console alone or bundled with Mario Kart World. Following registration, Nintendo will email you when it's your turn to complete the purchase, with the first batch of invitations sent out on May 8. You'll have 72 hours to finalize your order once you receive the invitation.
However, this option is exclusive to customers who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with at least 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.
Make sure to check out additional tips on how to increase your chances of successfully preordering a Nintendo Switch 2. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to dive into the next generation of gaming with Nintendo!





