Nintendo has confirmed that preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24, ahead of the console’s June 5 release. Major retailers have shared specific times and methods for securing your preorder for the next-generation console. Below is everything you need to know to prepare for Switch 2 preorders. Read on for details.

Switch 2 Preorder Schedule Overview

For quick reference, the list above includes links and times for when Switch 2 preorders will be available online at major retailers. For a deeper look at each retailer’s process, continue reading.

Walmart: Switch 2 Preorder Details

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Walmart will start Switch 2 preorders at midnight ET, as Wednesday transitions to Thursday, April 24. No details have been provided about in-store preorder options at Walmart’s physical locations.

Notably, Walmart is the only retailer guaranteeing free delivery of your Switch 2 console by 9 a.m. on launch day, June 5, making it a standout choice for online orders.

Best Buy: Switch 2 Preorder Information

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Best Buy will open online preorders for the Nintendo Switch 2, along with games and accessories, at 12 a.m. ET on April 24. For those opting for in-store pickup, most Best Buy locations will open at midnight on June 5 to fulfill preorders.

Target: Switch 2 Preorder Details

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Target will launch preorders for the console, games, and accessories at midnight ET on April 24. Online preorders are confirmed, but in-store preorder availability remains unannounced.

GameStop: Switch 2 Preorder Information

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GameStop will start preorders later than other major retailers, with online orders opening at 11 a.m. ET on April 24, 11 hours after competitors.

In-store preorders will also be available at GameStop’s physical locations when they open on April 24. For launch day, all GameStop stores will open at midnight on June 5, allowing early pickup of preordered consoles.

Nintendo Store: Switch 2 Preorder Process

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Preordering through the official Nintendo Store involves a unique process. Visit the designated page, sign into your Nintendo account, and express interest in either the standalone console or a bundle with Mario Kart World.

After registering, Nintendo will email you when it’s time to finalize your purchase, with the first invitations sent on May 8. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your order upon receiving the email.

However, this option is restricted to customers with a Nintendo Switch Online membership of at least 12 months and 50 hours of gameplay logged by April 2, 2025. If you don’t meet these criteria, you’ll need to preorder through other retailers.

Explore additional tips to improve your chances of securing a Switch 2 preorder.