Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Open April 24 at $449.99: Price Maintained Despite Tariff Pressures
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-orders Sold Out: Where to Buy and Latest Updates
Pre-order Launch Update
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders have officially opened in the US and Canada on April 24, following a brief delay due to tariff considerations. While the June 5 release date remains unchanged, major retailers are reporting sold-out status for both the standard console and Mario Kart World bundle.
Current Retailer Status
As of April 24, major retailers have either sold out or listed the console as “coming soon”. Here’s the current status at major retailers:
- GameStop: Pre-orders started at 11am (sold out)
- Walmart: Midnight launch (sold out)
- Target: Midnight launch (sold out)
- Best Buy: Midnight launch (sold out)
- Amazon: Links not yet live
How to Secure Your Pre-order
For those who haven’t secured a pre-order yet, Nintendo’s website remains the best option. While some pre-order email invitations may arrive after the June 5 launch date, signing up through Nintendo’s official channel ensures you’ll eventually have access to purchase the console.
Updated Accessory Pricing
- Joy-Con 2 Bundle: $95 (↑$5)
- Switch 2 Pro Controller: $85 (↑$5)
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip: $40 (↑$5)
- Joy-Con 2 Wheels (2): $25
- Switch 2 Camera: $55 (↑$5)
- Piranha Plant Camera: $60
- All-in-one Carrying Case: $85
- 256GB microSD Express Card: $60
Technical Specifications
- 7.9-inch LCD screen
- 120Hz refresh rate
- HDR support
- 1080p handheld resolution
- 4K output when docked
- Built-in microphone for Game Chat
- 256GB base storage
- microSD Express expansion support
- Dual USB-C ports
- Enhanced internal speakers
Tariff Impact and Manufacturing
Price Stability and Production Strategy
Despite recent tariff announcements, Nintendo has maintained the $450 base price for the US and Canadian markets. The company has strategically expanded its manufacturing to Vietnam, potentially helping to mitigate the impact of China’s increased tariffs (currently at 245%). During the 90-day tariff pause period, Vietnam’s reduced 10% tariff rate may provide some relief for production costs.
Demand and Availability
The Switch 2’s popularity has exceeded expectations, with 2.2 million pre-order lottery entries in Japan alone. Nintendo is working to increase production capacity, particularly in Vietnam, to meet the unprecedented demand while maintaining the current price point, even if it means initially selling the console at a loss in some markets.
Stay Updated
For the latest availability updates and pre-order opportunities, we recommend:
- Registering on Nintendo’s official website
- Setting up stock alerts at major retailers
- Following Nintendo’s social media channels
- Checking retailer websites regularly, especially Amazon’s upcoming listing