Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Open April 24 at $449.99: Price Maintained Despite Tariff Pressures
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Guide: Latest Updates on Availability at Major Retailers
Table of Contents
Current Pre-order Status
The Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order window is technically open, but securing a console before its June 5 release date has become increasingly challenging. Following an extended delay from the original April 9 pre-order date, Nintendo initiated pre-orders in the US and Canada on April 24, with most major retailers quickly selling out their initial allocation.
Pre-order Timeline
- Original Pre-order Date: April 9, 2025
- Revised Launch: April 24, 2025
- Release Date: June 5, 2025
- Nintendo Store Invites: Starting May 8, 2025
How to Pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2
With initial pre-orders at major retailers sold out, consumers now have limited options for securing a Nintendo Switch 2. The most reliable path forward is through Nintendo’s official channels, though this requires patience and potentially meeting specific criteria.
Pre-order Best Practices
- Create accounts with all major retailers
- Keep shipping and billing information updated
- Download retailer mobile apps for notifications
- Register for Nintendo’s invite system
- Check retailer stock regularly
Major Retailer Updates
Major retailers launched their pre-orders at different times on April 24, with varying levels of availability. While initial stock sold out quickly, some retailers may receive additional allocation before the launch date.
Retailer Status Overview
- Best Buy: Sold Out (Launched at 12:00 AM ET)
- Walmart: Limited availability reported through April 26
- Target: Sold Out (Launched at 12:00 AM ET)
- GameStop: Sold Out (Launched at 11:00 AM ET)
- Amazon: Listing not yet available
- Costco/Sam’s Club: Listings posted, pre-orders not confirmed
Nintendo Store Pre-order System
Nintendo’s official store is implementing an invite-based system for pre-orders, with the first wave of invites scheduled for May 8. However, the company has warned that some customers may not receive their pre-order invitation until after the June 5 launch date.
Nintendo Store Priority System
- First-come, first-served basis for invites
- Priority for Switch Online subscribers (12+ months)
- Minimum 50 hours of Switch gameplay required
- Must opt into sharing gameplay data
Accessories and Games Availability
While the console itself may be difficult to secure, various accessories and launch titles remain available for pre-order. Nintendo has recently adjusted pricing for several accessories, reflecting current market conditions.
Updated Accessory Pricing
- Switch 2 Camera: $55 (was $50)
- Pro Controller: $85 (was $80)
- Joy-Con 2 Controllers: $95 (was $90)
- Joy-Con Charging Grip: $40 (was $35)
Key Console Features
The Nintendo Switch 2 brings significant upgrades over its predecessor, featuring improved hardware specifications and new functionality that justify its position as Nintendo’s next-generation console.
Technical Specifications
- 7.9-inch LCD screen with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10
- 1080p handheld resolution, 4K output when docked
- 256GB internal storage
- Built-in microphone for GameChat
- Magnetic Joy-Con attachment system
- Improved internal speakers
- Dual USB-C ports for charging
The Nintendo Switch 2 launch represents a significant evolution in Nintendo’s hardware lineup, with enhanced features and capabilities that cater to both casual and hardcore gamers. While securing a pre-order may be challenging, Nintendo’s staged release approach through their invite system ensures a fair distribution process, even if it means some customers may need to wait until after the initial launch date.
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