How to Buy the Nintendo Switch 2: Retail Availability, Launch Plans, and What to Expect
The wait is finally over—Nintendo’s next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, officially launches in the United States on June 5, 2025. For many fans, this marks one of the most anticipated gaming hardware releases of the decade. Whether you’re eager to upgrade from the original Switch or diving into the Nintendo ecosystem for the first time, knowing where and how to buy the new console is essential—especially with limited supply and high demand.
This guide offers the latest and most reliable information on how to purchase the Nintendo Switch 2 at launch, which retailers are participating, and what strategies you can use to improve your chances of getting one.
What to Know Before You Buy
Nintendo opened pre-orders for the Switch 2 at the end of April 2025. However, those pre-orders were snapped up almost immediately. Since then, restocks have been scarce or nonexistent online. Many hopeful buyers who missed out on pre-orders are now turning their attention to launch-day retail availability.
With June 5 just around the corner, several retailers have confirmed launch plans and stock details—both for in-store and online sales.
Let’s break down what each major U.S. retailer is doing for launch day.
Retailer Breakdown: Where to Buy the Nintendo Switch 2 on Launch Day
GameStop is one of the few retailers holding midnight launch events on June 4 going into June 5. If you live near a participating location, this could be your best shot at securing a Switch 2 early.
- In-store availability: Yes, limited quantities are available starting at midnight.
- Online availability: Not guaranteed; check local listings.
- Tips: Arrive early. Lines may begin forming well before midnight. Bring your ID and payment method.
GameStop has a history of offering console bundles, so check to see if they’re offering Switch 2 packages with games or accessories that might not sell out as quickly.
Best Buy will also hold midnight launch events at select locations nationwide. As one of the largest electronics retailers in the U.S., Best Buy is expected to have a fairly substantial amount of in-store stock—though supplies will still be limited.
- In-store availability: Limited, begins at midnight local time.
- Online availability: May go live just after midnight (June 5).
- Tips: Use the Best Buy app to check local inventory and turn on notifications.
Best Buy has also hinted that customers may receive launch-day bonuses or commemorative items, though these are likely to be limited and first-come, first-served.
Walmart is combining both online and in-store sales efforts. Online sales are expected to begin at midnight on June 5, and many supercenters—especially in the Pacific, Mountain, Hawaii, and Alaska time zones—will be open at midnight for in-store shoppers.
- In-store availability: Yes, at 24-hour or extended-hours stores.
- Online availability: Scheduled for midnight ET/PT on Walmart.com.
- Tips: Online traffic will be high—make sure your account and payment info are updated.
Walmart often restocks in waves, so if you miss the midnight drop, check again during the early morning hours.
Unlike GameStop or Best Buy, Target is not holding midnight launches. However, they have confirmed that Switch 2 consoles will be available in-store starting the morning of June 5.
- In-store availability: Yes, on June 5 during regular store hours.
- Online restock: Begins early morning on June 6.
- Tips: Use the Target app to track local inventory. Some locations allow you to reserve in-store pickup online.
If you’re unable to shop in person, be prepared to act quickly on June 6 when online restocks go live.
Costco is taking a different approach by offering a bundle deal. According to the retailer’s website, Costco will sell a Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle that includes a 12-month Nintendo Switch Online membership. However, it’s currently unclear whether consoles will be available in-store or strictly online.
- In-store availability: Unknown; call ahead to verify.
- Online availability: Likely live on June 5.
- Membership required: Yes, you must have an active Costco membership.
The Costco bundle may offer better value than standalone consoles and could be easier to grab due to the membership requirement narrowing the buyer pool.
As of now, Amazon is the only major U.S. retailer that has not listed the Nintendo Switch 2 for sale. The company did not participate in the initial pre-order wave and has provided no updates about future restocks.
- In-store availability: N/A
- Online availability: No listings as of June 4.
- Tips: Keep an eye on Amazon’s product pages. Occasionally, “surprise” restocks happen.
Amazon may eventually stock the console post-launch, but as of now, they remain an unreliable option for day-one buyers.
Additional Tips for Buying the Switch 2
1. Use Stock Tracking Tools
There are multiple websites and browser extensions like NowInStock, HotStock, and ZooLert that track console availability across major retailers. Set up alerts to be notified the moment stock goes live.
2. Have an Account Ready
Sign into your accounts at Walmart, Target, Best Buy, etc. ahead of time. Save your shipping address and payment info to speed through checkout.
3. Be Open to Bundles
While everyone wants the base console, bundles may be less competitive. A console with an extra controller or a game might cost more but can be easier to find.
4. Follow Retailers on Social Media
Retailers often post surprise drops or availability updates on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram. Following these accounts can give you a valuable heads-up.
5. Don’t Trust Scalpers
Avoid third-party resellers or auction sites, especially during launch week. Prices can be inflated 2–3x over retail, and scams are common. It’s safer to wait for official restocks.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2’s launch is shaping up to be just as hectic as its predecessor’s. With limited stock and high demand, preparation is key. If you’re planning to buy one on June 5, your best bets are to either line up early at a midnight launch location or stay up for online restocks.
Whichever route you choose, stay patient. Even if you miss the console on launch day, retailers will restock over the coming weeks and months. Nintendo is expected to ship millions of units globally, so persistence will pay off.
