Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are set to begin on April 24: How to order, cost, what’s new and all you need to know

TOI Tech Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Apr 22, 2025, 13:09 IST

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Nintendo has announced that pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24 in the U.S., with the console launching on June 5, 2025. It will be available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and GameStop. The standalone console is priced at $449, while a bundle with Mario Kart World costs $499.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are set to begin on April 24: How to order, cost, what’s new and all you need to know

Image source: Nintendo

Nintendo has officially confirmed that pre-orders for the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 24, 2025, in the United States, with the console set to launch on June 5, 2025. The pre-order date was initially set for April 9 but was delayed due to uncertainty caused by new U.S. tariffs. With the new pre-order date now confirmed, anticipation is at an all-time high as gamers eagerly await the release of the upgraded console. Fans are excited to experience the new features and enhancements promised by the Nintendo Switch 2, making this launch one of the year's biggest events.

How and where to pre-order Nintendo Switch 2

Pre-orders will become available at major U.S. retailers, including Walmart, Target, GameStop, Best Buy, and the Nintendo Store. While exact launch times vary across platforms
Here are the key details:

Walmart & Target (Online): April 23 at 9 PM PT / April 24 at 12 AM ET
GameStop (Online & In-store): April 24 at 8 AM PT / 11 AM ET
Best Buy: April 24, exact time TBA (midnight launch events expected in some stores)

Amazon has yet to list the Nintendo Switch 2 or its first-party games and accessories, and is not expected to participate in this pre-order round.

Nintendo Switch 2 cost and bundle options

Nintendo is keeping prices steady despite speculation about increases.
Here’s what you’ll pay:

Switch 2 Console (Standalone): $449
Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle: $499 (a $30 savings over buying separately

The bundle includes the full Switch 2 console plus the upcoming exclusive Mario Kart World, and will be available in limited quantities through Fall 2025, though high demand may lead to earlier sell-outs.

What’s inside the Nintendo Switch 2 box

Each Nintendo Switch 2 package will include:

The Switch 2 console with a 7.9-inch HDR LCD display
Two Joy-Con 2 controllers with magnetic attachment
Joy-Con grip and straps
A Switch 2 Dock for TV mode
AC adapter with USB-C cable and a high-speed HDMI cable

What’s new in the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 boasts several major upgrades over its predecessor:

4K resolution support at 60fps (docked)
120fps support in 1080p mode (docked)
HDR and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for smooth visuals
Joy-Con 2 controllers that magnetically attach and function like computer mice
Built-in GameChat feature via a new C button
Backward compatibility with GameCube titles for Switch Online + Expansion Pack members

First-party games and accessories

In addition to Mario Kart World ($80), Nintendo will launch Donkey Kong Bonanza ($70) as part of the initial game lineup. First-party accessories are also seeing a slight price increase due to U.S. tariffs:

Switch 2 Pro Controller: $85
Joy-Con 2-Pack: $95
Switch 2 Camera: $55

All accessories will be available to pre-order alongside the console on April 24.

Nintendo Switch 2 launch day and delivery

Nintendo has confirmed that consoles will start shipping on June 5, and Walmart has gone a step further, promising delivery by 9 AM local time on launch day. Best Buy is planning midnight launches at select stores is ideal for those who want their console as early as possible.
With enhanced graphics, innovative controllers, and long-awaited exclusives, the Nintendo Switch 2 looks to be a major upgrade and a strong contender in the next-gen console market. Whether you’re a long-time Nintendo fan or a curious newcomer, this might just be the perfect time to jump in.
So set your alarms and bookmark your favourite retailer, pre-orders start April 24, and if history is any guide, they won’t last long.

About the Author

TOI Tech Desk

The TOI Tech Desk is a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant news from the world of technology to readers of The Times of India. TOI Tech Desk’s news coverage spans a wide spectrum across gadget launches, gadget reviews, trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact technology and the digital universe. Be it how-tos or the latest happenings in AI, cybersecurity, personal gadgets, platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and more; TOI Tech Desk brings the news with accuracy and authenticity.

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