Good news, gamers: the hottest new console is finally here.

Eight years after the initial release of the original Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 has landed with a bigger display, faster refresh speeds and more storage than the previous model.

Pre-orders launched online on April 24 and quickly sold out. And IRL, we spotted customers camped outside of the Nintendo flagship store in New York days before the launch. But for shoppers who missed their shot at a pre-order with no plans of queueing at a physical store, it’s not yet game over.

We got a sneak peek at the new console and rounded up everything you need to know, including where to shop the hot commodity. While the device is currently sold out at most retailers online (read below about finding them in-person), we suggest coming back here as we’ll keep you updated on when they restock.

When is the Nintendo Switch 2 coming out?

According to Nintendo, the Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, 2025. The new gaming console arrives eight years after its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch, was officially introduced on March 3, 2017.

Where can you get the Nintendo Switch 2?

The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available for purchase at select major retailers. If you’re hoping to shop in person, limited units are expected to be stocked at select Target, Walmart, GameStop and Nintendo stores nationwide starting today, June 5. Online shoppers will see the Nintendo Switch 2 listed online at Best Buy and Target on June 6, but we’re seeing that GameStop, Costco, Verizon and Walmart may have stock earlier.

What is different about the Nintendo Switch 2?

The Nintendo Switch 2 differs from the original model in performance, screen size, storage capacity, special features, new games and more. The updated console also boasts a 7.9-inch screen, which is 1.7 inches wider than its predecessor.

Senior editor Jess Bender got a sneak peek at the new console and games and noticed a few key differences in her play-through.

“The graphics and resolution are enhanced (up to 4K resolution and up to 120 frames per second),” Bender reports. This is thanks to improved CPU and GPU performance, which means gamers can expect faster processing speeds and load times. “The titles launching exclusively on Switch 2 are some of the crispest I’ve seen on a video game platform, and you have the option to upgrade some existing bestselling Switch games to Switch 2 to take advantage of this (as well as unlocking some new areas of game play).”

The Joy-Cons also got an upgrade, according to Bender. “Instead of having to be inserted via slide tracks, the Joy-Cons are now magnetic and easily (and firmly) connect to the system,” she says. “Each Joy-Con can also be used as a mouse on flat surfaces, which just adds another layer to overall gameplay for several titles.”

“The system features a 150-degree stand where you can play in tabletop mode, which is a nice feature for those who are into that,” Bender adds. “The USB-C port is also at the top and bottom of the system so you don’t have to awkwardly maneuver around plugs or wires to play.”

The most controversial addition, in Bender’s opinion? The inclusion of the “C” button which allows you to play and chat with your friends through voice control and a camera (which is sold separately). Bender is hopeful that improvements to the user experience of this function are already in the works.

Nintendo Switch 2 games

As an avid Nintendo Switch player, Bender reports that she was thoroughly impressed by this new game.

“Out of all the Mario Karts I’ve played ever since my Nintendo 64 games, this iteration is the most expansive in terms of course exploration (it’s the first time where you could drive outside of the race course to get to your next destination — or just cruise at your own leisure),” Bender says.

Though it’s launching on July 17, you can pre-load this highly-anticipated game now to get first access when it officially releases later this summer, which Bender’s partner is “extremely excited about.”

“He’s really excited about the option to smash and destroy and retrieve bananas from underground,” Bender adds. “The graphics are also beyond captivating.”

Nintendo Switch accessories

Looking for extra storage for your games? This hard shell case makes it easy to keep your games secure and easy to reach. Store up to 24 cards here or 48 SD cards.

Wanting to play on the go? A case is just the thing you need to make sure you’re set up for success. With space for chargers, extra controllers and games, you can be ready for any gaming emergency. While this case is specifically made for the Switch, the brand also has one for the Switch 2.

Enter the wizarding world about 200 years before Harry Potter’s time in this game compatible with both models of the Switch. This open-world action role-playing game takes place in and around Hogwarts in the 1800s and allows players to become the wizards they want to be, discovering magical beasts, customizing their character, mastering spell casting and more along the way.

In this game, which is playable on both the Nintendo Switch and the new Nintendo Switch 2, you’re tasked with helping Mario on a 3D adventure far from the Mushroom Kingdom. Make use of his incredible new abilities and his ship called The Odyssey to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser’s wedding plans!

What’s fun about the Switch console is its versatility and how you can swap out the controllers to match your mood or style. This set comes in a few vibrant colorways and is OLED Nintendo compatible, according to the brand.

While this is the more affordable option, don’t write it off as basic. The “Lite” version of the Nintendo Switch is a handheld device with online and local wireless multiplayer capabilities and the ability to fit in your pocket for on-the-go fun. It was previously a top pick in our Gifts We Love awards due to its versatility as a game console for all.

The Switch that started it all, the original version of the portable console is still a top contender for gifting whether it’s for somebody else, or yourself! It has two Joy-Con controllers that make playing a game easy in whichever mode they’re in. One verified Amazon shopper called it the “Best Thing I ever bought and don’t regret it.”

“My friends and I have game nights every few months and it’s never complete without firing up the Switch to play a round of Mario Party or, if we’re feeling real crazy, Just Dance,” says associate editor Kamari Stewart. “Now that I’m finally in a space that’s large enough to host, I’m excited to finally host game nights at my place so we can use my Switch! Also, the game Kung-Fu Kickball is a crowdpleaser that’s worth every penny.”

How we chose

The Shop TODAY editors and writers searched the internet to find the best Nintendo Switch 2 products out there. For this story, we attended a Nintendo press event to preview the new Nintendo Switch 2 console and play through some of the new games. We also combed through customer reviews, reviewed past award-winning gaming consoles and used our own experience with other Nintendo products to make shopping easier for our readers.