The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived in the US market, but securing one may prove challenging due to limited stock. Launched on June 5 for a retail price of $450, the console has quickly become a hot item. Although many fans have successfully purchased their units, the online inventory has significantly dwindled since its release. Various retailers have offered the console both online and in-store, but the demand has far outstripped the supply.
Retail giants like Target and Best Buy have experienced brief restocks, but these opportunities often vanish within minutes. If you’re a Costco member, you might find a bundle deal available, but it’s generally easier to locate one in-store rather than online. For the best chance of purchasing a Nintendo Switch 2, visiting local stores may be your best bet. Check out your nearest Best Buy, Target, Walmart, or GameStop—all of which are official Nintendo retailers— to see if they have any inventory left.
Best Buy started selling the Switch 2 in-store on June 5, and although it initially limited online sales, more units became available on June 11 around noon ET. Unfortunately, these quickly sold out again. Walmart also launched its online sales on June 5 at midnight ET. Currently, the Mario Kart World bundle is sold out, and the standalone console is listed at higher than the standard price, so it’s advisable to wait for a restock at the regular MSRP.
Target had its initial stock on June 5 and restocked online on June 6, but that inventory lasted only a couple of hours. They had another restock on June 12, which was also sold out in less than an hour. While they are currently out of stock, checking local Target stores could yield better results.
GameStop has advertised in-store availability, but stock levels vary by location. Online, the Switch 2 has been unavailable for a week. While some bundles have appeared, such as a $625 package including Mario Kart and accessories, these offers are often overpriced and not recommended.
Membership-based retailers like Costco have seen a Mario Kart World bundle with a 12-month Switch Online subscription go in and out of stock since launch. Sam's Club has also offered bundles, though they are currently sold out. Other retailers, such as BJ's and Verizon, had limited availability on launch day, but both options are now out of stock.
Interestingly, Amazon has yet to list the Switch 2 or its first-party games, leaving many wondering if they will offer the console in the future. Newegg has had the console listed for weeks but has not provided a clear timeline for sales. While online availability for the Mario Kart bundle has been more frequent than for the base console, it’s crucial to keep an eye on restocking opportunities.
Nintendo is currently offering the Switch 2 through an invite-only system, which requires users to have been a Switch Online member for at least 12 months and logged 50 hours of gameplay on the original Switch. While signing up may be beneficial, many users are still waiting for their invites weeks after registration.
Nintendo has released several accessories for the Switch 2, including the Pro Controller, cases, and cameras for the new GameChat feature, all available since June 5. Popular titles like Mario Kart World and the Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom are also widely available for purchase. However, some accessories, particularly official carrying cases, may have limited availability.
As the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to be a sought-after item, staying updated on stock availability and exploring local purchasing options may increase your chances of securing one. For avid Nintendo fans, patience and persistence will be key in navigating this high-demand market.