Tag: Nintendo Switch 2
How to Preorder the Nintendo Switch 2: A Complete Guide – Preorder Times & Tips
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The long-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is finally becoming a reality, with preorders officially opening in the United States on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Demand for the Switch 2 is expected to be extremely high – early reports from Japan show over 2 million pre-order signups within the first week alone, indicating that the competition to secure a unit on day one will be intense. For those hoping to avoid inflated third-party resale prices and long waiting lists, being prepared ahead of time is absolutely crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get ahead of the crowd – from exact preorder launch times for major U.S. retailers to practical tips that give you a better shot at checkout success. Let’s make sure you don’t miss out!
Where can I preorder the Switch 2 and when do they go live?
You’ll be able to preorder the Nintendo Switch 2 from several major U.S. retailers, each with its own specific start time. Walmart, Target, and Best Buy will all open pre-orders online starting at 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time on April 24, 2025 – so it’s worth staying up late if you want to secure your spot early. GameStop is offering both online and in-store preorders, beginning a bit later at 11:00 a.m. ET, and they’re also accepting trade-ins for credit toward the new system. Meanwhile, Nintendo’s official website is offering invitation-only pre-orders, giving priority access to selected Nintendo Switch Online members who receive invites on May 8. Amazon hasn’t confirmed a specific preorder time yet, so if you’re eyeing that option, keep an eye on updates and enable alerts. With each retailer handling pre-orders differently, it’s smart to pick your top choices now and be ready the moment listings go live.
U.S. Retailer Preorder Times (April 24)
Retailer | Preorder Time (ET) | Notes |
---|---|---|
Best Buy | 12:00 a.m. | Online. |
GameStop | 11:00 a.m. | Online and in-store; trade-in credit up to $175 for older Switch models. |
Nintendo.com | Invitation only | Priority preorders for select Nintendo Switch Online members; invitations sent May 8. |
Target | 12:00 a.m. | Online. |
Walmart | 12:00 a.m. | Early orders may qualify for launch-day delivery before 9 a.m. local time. |
Amazon | TBD | No confirmed preorder time as of April 23. |
Pricing & Bundles
- Standard Console: $449
- Mario Kart World Bundle: $499
Preorder Tips
- Create Accounts in Advance: Ensure you have active accounts with your preferred retailers and are logged in before preorder times.
- Use Multiple Devices: Increase your chances by accessing retailer sites through different devices or browsers.
- Enable Notifications: Sign up for email or app alerts from retailers for real-time updates.
- Prepare Payment Details: Save your payment and shipping information to expedite the checkout process.
- Consider Trade-Ins: GameStop offers up to $175 credit for qualifying older Switch models, which can be applied toward your Switch 2 purchase.
Key Features
- Display: 7.9-inch 1080p (up to 120fps) HDR LCD
- Performance: Enhanced Nvidia graphics with ray tracing and AI upscaling
- Storage: 256GB internal, expandable via microSD Express
- Docked Output: 4K HDR (60fps)
- Controllers: Improved Joy-Con 2 with better ergonomics
- Online Features: GameChat and other social features (Until March 31, 2026, GameChat can be used without a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Afterwards, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required to use GameChat.)
- Backward Compatibility: Supports existing Switch games; some titles receive performance boosts
- Exclusive Titles: GameCube games available via Nintendo Switch Online: Expansion Pack
High Demand Alert
In Japan, over 2.2 million preorder applications have already been submitted, far exceeding available launch supply. Nintendo has acknowledged that many customers will miss out on the initial release, indicating a similar scenario could unfold in the U.S. Act swiftly to secure your pre-order.
Mark Your Calendar
- Preorders Open: Thursday, April 24, 2025
- Console Launch: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Given the anticipated demand, it’s advisable to prepare ahead of time and be ready when preorders go live. Good luck!