Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S. are set to open officially on April 24. This follows a delay from the original April 9 date due to concerns over “potential impact of tariffs.” Fortunately, the console’s price remains unchanged from the initial announcement: $449.99 for the standard console, and $499.99 for a version bundled with Mario Kart World. However, be prepared to pay a bit more for some optional accessories.
While it would be ideal to simply click “buy” and secure a Switch 2 upon release on June 5, the reality is more complex. A massive number of people are expected to attempt pre-ordering simultaneously, which could overwhelm servers and exhaust available stock. Therefore, a bit of luck will be necessary to successfully reserve a pre-order.
To increase your chances on April 24, consider signing up to be notified when pre-orders go live at retailers like Best Buy and GameStop. If you’re a veteran Nintendo Switch user, you might find these tips helpful in bypassing the usual online competition.
How to Reserve a Switch 2 Pre-order with Nintendo
Nintendo has opened sign-ups for those looking to pre-order a Switch 2, but certain criteria must be met to help limit reseller activity. To express your interest in a pre-order through Nintendo, you need to have completed specific requirements by April 2:
If you meet these requirements, you can submit your interest form. However, this does not guarantee that you’ll receive an invite. If selected, expect an email from Nintendo on or after May 8 to purchase either the $449.99 model or the $499.99 bundle with Mario Kart World. Should you receive an invitation, you will have 72 hours to complete the purchase. General pre-orders might also be available starting April 24, but this exclusive opportunity is for Switch Online subscribers.
How to Pre-order a Switch 2 at Best Buy
Regardless of your eligibility for Nintendo’s pre-order process, it’s wise to sign up for email alerts at Best Buy through their website to receive specific pre-order timing details for the Switch 2. This will also subscribe you to a newsletter focused solely on the Switch 2, its games, and related content. Keep in mind that having a Best Buy account is necessary for the purchase, so create one in advance if needed.
How to Pre-order a Switch 2 at GameStop
GameStop offers a product page for the Switch 2 and suggests entering your email address to get pre-order details. Pre-orders are expected to start in stores on April 24 and will be available online from 11:00 a.m. EDT, as confirmed by a GameStop spokesperson.
For those planning to pre-order at GameStop, a promotion is available offering up to $175 in trade-in credit for your current Switch console when reserving a Switch 2. The trade-in credit amount will vary based on the model, its condition, and whether all components are present.
