Securing a nintendo switch 2 console has been a challenge for many gamers since its highly anticipated launch in June 2025. High demand consistently outstrips supply, making stock drops at major retailers quick to vanish. This guide serves as your essential resource for tracking the latest availability in both the US and UK, helping you navigate the search for Nintendo’s newest gaming handheld. Drawing on expertise from tracking previous console launches, we provide current insights and practical tips to increase your chances of finding stock at retail price.
The Global Nintendo Switch 2 Stock Situation
The Nintendo Switch 2 arrived with massive consumer interest, quickly achieving record sales in its initial days. However, this success has led to ongoing stock scarcity, particularly in the United States. While supply is gradually improving, securing a console often requires persistence and knowing exactly where and when to look. Don’t be tempted by wildly inflated prices from third-party sellers; legitimate restocks at the standard manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) do happen.
Finding a standalone Nintendo Switch 2 is generally more difficult than finding console bundles, especially the popular pack featuring the launch title, Mario Kart World. Retailers frequently prioritize stocking these bundles, offering a slightly higher entry point but often the most reliable path to purchase.
Where to Buy Nintendo Switch 2 in the US
The market for Nintendo Switch 2 stock in the United States remains significantly tighter compared to the UK. Online availability is often fleeting or non-existent, with recent trends favoring in-store drops at some major retailers. Here’s a breakdown of key US retailers and their recent status:
Best Buy
Recent restocks, like the one on July 1, have been exclusively in-store at physical Best Buy locations. This means checking local store inventory online or by phone is crucial. While past drops included both the standalone console ($449 MSRP) and the Mario Kart World bundle ($499 MSRP), future patterns could alternate between online and in-store availability. Be prepared to potentially visit a store early, especially after announced restocks.
GameStop
GameStop is primarily focusing on in-store availability for the Switch 2. Check your local store’s inventory directly. While online stock is generally sold out, finding a console physically might be possible. GameStop subscribers could also find exclusive offers or discounts, making it worth checking if you’re a member.
Target
Target has seen brief online stock drops that disappear quickly. While checking their website remains necessary, don’t expect stock to last long when it appears. In-store availability at Target is also possible but varies widely by location.
Walmart
Walmart recently had a significant online restock, offering both the standard console and the Mario Kart World bundle. This drop included a one-hour early access window for Walmart+ members, highlighting the potential benefit of retailer memberships for securing high-demand items. Stock during these events sells out almost instantly. Crucially, avoid purchasing from third-party sellers on Walmart’s marketplace who list the console at drastically inflated prices, sometimes exceeding $800. Always verify you are buying directly from Walmart or Nintendo at MSRP.
Antonline
Antonline has been more active recently, offering Nintendo Switch 2 bundles. While these packages require buying extra accessories or games upfront (starting around $609.95), they offer the console at MSRP within the bundle price. Antonline is a reliable retailer that has consistently had stock when others don’t, making it worth monitoring, especially if you’re interested in starting with more than just the console.
Nintendo Store (US)
Purchasing directly from Nintendo in the US currently requires an invitation system. This system prioritizes paid Nintendo Switch Online members who meet certain criteria (e.g., membership length, gameplay hours). You must register your interest and await an invite, which is valid for a limited time. This is a direct way to buy at MSRP but requires patience and meeting specific requirements.
Amazon (US)
Amazon US has been unusually quiet regarding Nintendo Switch 2 stock since launch, with only a brief, inactive listing appearing weeks ago. Reports suggest this scarcity might be linked to disagreements between Nintendo and Amazon over unauthorized third-party sales on the platform. Until this is resolved, consistent stock on Amazon US may remain unpredictable, though it’s still wise to check the product page periodically.
Newegg
Like Walmart, Newegg’s platform allows third-party sellers who are listing the Switch 2 at significantly inflated prices. It is strongly advised to avoid paying these exorbitant markups. While Newegg may eventually have direct restocks at MSRP, its current listings are often unreliable sources due to scalpers.
Where to Buy Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK
The stock situation for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the United Kingdom is notably better than in the US. Many major retailers have seen frequent restocks, with consoles, particularly bundles, more consistently available. While supply fluctuates, UK shoppers generally face an easier search.
Here’s a look at UK retailers and their recent stock trends:
Amazon (UK)
Amazon UK has been a reliable source, frequently listing the Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle (£429.99). While stock can still sell out, drops are more common here than on Amazon US. Prime members can often benefit from speedy delivery options. Always check the official listing to ensure you’re buying directly from Amazon or an authorized seller at MSRP.
ShopTo
ShopTo has regularly had both the standalone console (£395.85, sometimes on backorder) and the Mario Kart World bundle (£429.85) available. They are a consistent retailer to monitor, although availability shifts between immediate stock and backorders.
Currys
Currys often stocks the Mario Kart World bundle (£429.99). They also feature more comprehensive bundles including accessories like microSD cards, additional games, or cameras, though these come at a higher price point (e.g., £519 – £579 for packs). Currys is a solid option, especially if you’re looking to purchase multiple items together.
Argos
Argos has been stocking the Nintendo Switch 2, primarily offering the Mario Kart World bundle. Checking their website for local store stock or delivery options is recommended.
The Game Collection
The Game Collection offers bundles, sometimes including specific games like Cyberpunk 2777 or accessories, often at a slightly higher cost than the basic bundle but still representing MSRP value for the combined items. They are a good alternative source for package deals.
Ebuyer
Ebuyer has offered the standalone console (£395.98) and bundles, though availability can involve pre-orders with extended waiting times (e.g., stock arriving late July). While they list free next-day delivery, this applies once they receive the stock, not from the date of your order if pre-ordering.
GAME
GAME has frequently stocked the Mario Kart World bundle (£429.99), noting that stock can sell fast. They have also seen limited availability of the standalone console (£395.99). Checking their website regularly is advised.
Very
Very has been a consistent source for Nintendo Switch 2 bundles, packaging the console with games, accessories, or memory cards. While the standalone console is less common here, Very offers various bundles starting around £479, often with clear shipping timelines.
My Nintendo Store (UK)
The official Nintendo UK store sells the standalone console (£395.99) and the Mario Kart World bundle (£429.99). Unlike the US, it does not require an invitation system for paid Nintendo Switch Online members, but stock levels fluctuate and sell out quickly when available. It’s worth checking regularly for direct purchases.
EE
For existing EE mobile subscribers, there’s an option to purchase the Switch 2 through a contract deal (£20 upfront + £22/month for 2 years). This includes the console, Mario Kart World, NSO membership, and data passes. While convenient for EE customers, the overall cost is higher than buying the console outright.
John Lewis & Smyths Toys
Both John Lewis and Smyths Toys have had stock available, sometimes offering click-and-collect options at select physical stores. Checking their websites or visiting local branches can reveal availability.
Avoiding Scalpers and Inflated Prices
A major challenge in finding the Nintendo Switch 2 is the prevalence of scalpers and third-party sellers listing the console at exorbitant prices on marketplaces like Walmart and Newegg. The standard MSRP is $449.99 in the US and £395.99 in the UK for the standalone console, and $499.99/£429.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle. Never pay hundreds of dollars or pounds above MSRP. Restocks at official prices occur regularly. Paying inflated prices only fuels the scalping issue. Stick to reputable retailers and verify that you are buying directly from them or Nintendo at the correct price.
Essential Tips for Securing Your Switch 2
Drawing from experience tracking previous console launches, here are actionable steps to improve your chances:
Prepare Accounts: Create accounts and save your payment and shipping information on major retailer websites (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Currys, Argos, etc.) before a restock. This saves critical time during checkout.
Be Ready to Go: Follow stock trackers and community alerts. When a drop is rumored or confirmed, be ready with the relevant retailer pages open.
Act Instantly: Online restocks sell out in seconds. Add to cart and proceed to checkout immediately. Don’t hesitate or browse other items.
Check In-Store: For US buyers particularly, visiting physical stores like Best Buy, GameStop, and Target can be more fruitful than relying solely on online drops, especially when in-store restocks are announced.
Consider Bundles: If you struggle to find the standalone console, be open to purchasing a bundle. The Mario Kart World bundle offers good value and is significantly more common at retail. Other retailer-specific bundles might also be available at MSRP value for the package contents.
Leverage Memberships: Services like Walmart+ can offer early access to restocks, providing a crucial advantage in a competitive market. Nintendo Switch Online paid membership is required for the invite system in the US and offers direct purchase options in the UK.
- Be Persistent: Don’t get discouraged by missed drops. Stock continues to appear, and the situation is gradually easing, especially in the UK. Keep checking retailer websites and stock tracking resources.
- www.gamesradar.com
- www.tomsguide.com
- www.techradar.com
- www.cnet.com
- www.gamesradar.com
Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories and Games
While finding the console itself is difficult, most official accessories and games are readily available. Consider picking up essentials or desired launch titles while you wait for console stock. Key accessories include the updated Pro Controller ($84), Joy-Con 2 controllers ($94 per pair), the Switch 2 Camera ($54), and essential MicroSD Express cards for storage expansion (e.g., 256GB for $59).
Launch games and enhanced ports for the Switch 2 include Mario Kart World (often bundled), Street Fighter 6, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, and updated versions of popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild. These “Switch 2 Editions” often feature graphical or performance enhancements leveraging the new hardware. Anticipated titles like Donkey Kong Bananza are also on the horizon (July 17). Note that some new games have seen a slight price increase compared to previous Nintendo standards.
Public Reception and What to Expect
Initial public reaction to the Nintendo Switch 2 has been mixed. While many appreciate that it retains the successful hybrid formula of its predecessor, some feel the updates don’t fully justify the $150 price increase over the original Switch’s launch price. The console features a new monochrome design with subtle red and blue accents on the analog sticks, a departure from the original’s colored Joy-Cons. There are rumors of a potential OLED version in the future, although Nintendo has not officially announced this. Despite some debate on the value proposition and the slight increase in cost for some games, the console’s immense launch demand proves its strong appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official price of the Nintendo Switch 2 and its bundles?
The official retail price for the standalone Nintendo Switch 2 is $449.99 in the US and £395.99 in the UK. The popular Mario Kart World bundle, which includes a digital copy of the game, is priced at $499.99 in the US and £429.99 in the UK. These prices are the MSRPs you should aim for, avoiding inflated listings.
Which retailers are the best to check for Nintendo Switch 2 stock in the US and UK?
In the US, consistently check Best Buy (especially for in-store drops), GameStop (in-store), Target, Walmart, and Antonline (for bundles). For the UK, look at Amazon UK, ShopTo, Currys, Argos, Very, GAME, and the official My Nintendo Store. Stock is dynamic, so checking multiple retailers regularly is essential.
Why are some Nintendo Switch 2 consoles listed at inflated prices, and should I buy them?
Third-party sellers and scalpers are listing the Nintendo Switch 2 at significantly higher prices than the MSRP on marketplaces like Walmart and Newegg due to high demand. You should absolutely not buy at these inflated prices. Paying over retail fuels scalping and is unnecessary, as legitimate restocks occur regularly at standard prices. Be patient and purchase only from authorized retailers at MSRP.
Conclusion
The hunt for the Nintendo Switch 2 continues, driven by its popularity as one of the best new gaming handhelds available. While securing one can be challenging, especially in the US, persistence is key. Stock is consistently hitting retailer shelves, particularly in the UK, and bundles are becoming more common. Stay informed, prepare your accounts, avoid inflated prices, and utilize available resources like stock trackers. With a little patience and quick action, you’ll increase your chances of joining the growing number of Switch 2 owners and experiencing Nintendo’s latest console innovation.
