Get ready, gaming enthusiasts! Nintendo has just revealed that preorders for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will commence on April 24. Major retailers are all set with their schedules and guidelines on how you can secure your next-gen console ahead of its grand launch on June 5. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, you'll want to be prepared to lock in your Nintendo Switch 2 preorder. Let's dive into the details.
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 quick information, the list above provides the times and links for Switch 2 preorders at major retailers. For those who want to dive deeper into the specifics of each retailer's preorder process, continue reading below.
Walmart: Switch 2 Preorders
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Walmart is set to launch Switch 2 preorders online at midnight Eastern Time, as April 23 turns into April 24. While there's no word yet on in-store preorders, Walmart is uniquely 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 looking to jump into the action as soon as possible.
Best Buy: Switch 2 Preorders
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Best Buy will start accepting online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. Excitingly, many Best Buy stores will open at midnight on June 5, giving customers the chance to pick up their preorders right at launch. This option is available if you select it during your preorder process.
Target: Switch 2 Preorders
Preorder here starting at 12 a.m. ET April 24
Target will open preorders for the console, games, and accessories online at midnight on April 24. As of now, Target hasn't provided information on whether in-store preorders will be available. Keep an eye on their updates if you prefer the in-person experience.
GameStop: Switch 2 Preorders
Preorder here starting at 11 a.m. ET April 24
GameStop's preorders for the Switch 2 will begin later than other major retailers, starting at 11 a.m. ET on April 24. You can also place your preorder in person at any GameStop store 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
Preorder here
Preordering from the official Nintendo Store involves a few extra steps. 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. After registering, Nintendo will send you an email invitation to complete your purchase, with the first batch of invites going out on May 8. You'll have 72 hours to finalize your order once you receive the email.
There are specific requirements for this method, though. Only customers who have had 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, are eligible. If you don't meet these criteria, you'll need to look elsewhere to preorder your Switch 2.
Don't miss out on securing your Nintendo Switch 2. Be sure to check out additional tips on how to increase your chances of successfully preordering this next-gen console!
