The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, which officially launched on June 5, 2025, has rapidly emerged as one of the most in-demand gaming consoles in recent years. Within days—honestly, probably hours in some cases—it was sold out nearly everywhere, including major retailers like Best Buy and Walmart. It’s not just the scarcity fueling the buzz; the device itself packs a compelling array of upgrades that fans had been hoping for. If you’re still trying to get your hands on one, staying in the loop on restock strategies and retailer behavior might make all the difference.
Key Takeaways:
- The Nintendo Switch 2 launched globally on June 5, 2025, and quickly sold out due to high demand.
- Best Buy has announced an in-store restock for the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 1, 2025, during regular store hours, with limited quantities.
- Walmart recently had an online restock on June 25, 2025, with early access for Walmart+ members, but stock quickly sold out.
- The console, priced at $449.99 (US), features a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with 120Hz refresh rates and 4K output when docked.
- Storage is 256 GB internal UFS, expandable with microSD Express cards up to 2 TB.
- Demand remains high, and acquiring the console requires diligence and checking multiple retail channels.
Nintendo Switch 2: A Closer Look at the New Hardware
This isn’t just a mild refresh of the original Switch—far from it. The Switch 2 is more of a reimagining of the hybrid console idea, with significant hardware and feature boosts.
Physically, it’s a touch larger than its predecessor, coming in at roughly 166mm x 272mm x 13.9mm when the updated Joy-Con 2 controllers are attached. Weight-wise, it lands around 401g solo, or 534g with the Joy-Cons clipped on. Inside, it runs on a custom Nvidia Tegra processor and sports a bold, wide color gamut 7.9-inch LCD touchscreen. With a resolution of 1920×1080, support for HDR10, and a refresh rate that flexes up to 120 Hz (thanks to VRR), the visuals in handheld or tabletop mode are striking—fluid and richly colored.
When docked, the console kicks it up further, outputting up to 3840×2160 (4K) at 60 fps. For smoother gameplay, it can also handle 120 fps at lower resolutions like 1080p and 1440p. That’s a leap forward for anyone gaming on larger screens.
Storage is another area where the Switch 2 sees a generous upgrade: 256 GB of UFS internal storage. That’s a big jump from the original’s 32 or 64 GB. And yes, it’s expandable—but only if you’re using one of the newer microSD Express cards (up to 2 TB). You can still use older microSDHC and microSDXC cards, though mostly for storing media like screenshots and videos.
The Joy-Con 2 controllers bring several noteworthy tweaks. They now attach magnetically and include a mouse sensor alongside the expected motion controls. There’s HD rumble 2 for more nuanced haptics and a newly added C button, which ties into a built-in GameChat feature. This enables cleaner voice communication through onboard noise and echo cancellation—handy, especially if you play multiplayer games regularly. Battery-wise, each Joy-Con offers about 20 hours of play and charges when attached to the console or the grip. The main unit holds a 5220 mAh battery, estimated to run between 2 and 6.5 hours, depending on what you’re playing.
For connectivity, you’re covered: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and a LAN port on the dock for those who prefer wired stability in TV mode. USB Type-C is still the primary charging and dock connection method, though there’s now an extra USB-C port up top for accessories. And yes, the 3.5mm headphone jack lives on.
Best Buy’s Approach to Nintendo Switch 2 Restocks
Best Buy has been a major seller since the Switch 2’s release, but online inventory has been spotty at best. In-store, though, there’s some promising news.
The retailer recently confirmed a new in-store restock set for July 1, 2025, during normal business hours. Quantities will be limited, and participation might vary from store to store. So, it’s smart to check the Best Buy app or website in advance. And if you know your local store tends to get crowded during big launches or restocks, maybe plan to get there early.
Best Buy’s online restocks, while exciting, are notoriously chaotic. They often drop without warning and sell out in minutes. Typically, you’ll need a My Best Buy account to buy online, confirm your ZIP code, and quickly add the item to your cart. After that, a 10-minute timer starts ticking, pressuring you to complete checkout. Even though this round is focused on in-store availability, it wouldn’t hurt to keep an eye on the online listings just in case.
Walmart’s Restock Strategy and Walmart+ Priority
Walmart’s restocking game mirrors Best Buy’s in a lot of ways—erratic and high-pressure—but with a twist: Walmart+ members often get first dibs.
The last confirmed restock was June 25, 2025. Walmart+ subscribers were granted a one-hour head start at 9 p.m. ET, with everyone else getting access at 10 p.m. Not surprisingly, the stock vanished quickly. This early access model has become pretty standard for high-demand products, giving subscribers an edge and adding another reason to consider the membership.
As of now—June 29, 2025—there’s no official word on the next restock. That said, if Walmart sticks to its usual pattern, the next drop might happen with little to no warning, possibly in the evening again.
Your best bet? Keep an eye on Walmart’s Switch 2 product page and maybe consider signing up for Walmart+ if you’re serious about securing one. There’s a chance for in-store availability too, but those shipments are unpredictable and often unannounced. Calling ahead wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Navigating the High Demand Landscape
So, why is this thing so hard to find? In short, demand wildly outpaces supply. Pre-orders opened in April—April 5 globally, April 24 for the U.S. and Canada—and they crashed sites and sold out almost instantly.
Even though Nintendo claims it prepped “hundreds of thousands” of units for U.S. launch stock, that didn’t seem to make much of a dent. The thirst for this console is real, and it’s not letting up.
The standard Switch 2 runs at $449.99, while a bundle with Mario Kart World goes for $499.99—about a $30 saving. But on resale sites, prices have been soaring. Tempting as it may be, it’s usually best to wait for official restocks unless you’re absolutely desperate.
Beyond Best Buy and Walmart, other retailers are worth watching too. GameStop occasionally gets restocks, usually directing customers to call their nearest location. Target also participates with intermittent drops, both online and in-store. Amazon’s been quiet—no pre-orders, no major drops—but that could change. Nintendo also offers a direct invite-based purchase system, mostly geared toward longtime Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.
Here are some tips for staying ahead:
- Enable stock alerts via social media accounts or browser extensions. Some X (formerly Twitter) accounts are surprisingly quick.
- Refresh retailer pages often. Sometimes stock appears without fanfare.
- Consider checking stores in person. It might feel old-fashioned, but it can work.
- Learn how each retailer operates. Walmart+ and other memberships sometimes provide critical early access.
The Switch 2 launch proves Nintendo’s still got it. Between the upgraded internals and strong initial game lineup, it’s no wonder the console’s flying off shelves. Until supply catches up, persistence (and a bit of luck) will be your best tools.
FAQ Section
Q1: When did the Nintendo Switch 2 launch?
A1: The Nintendo Switch 2 had a global release on June 5, 2025.
Q2: What are the key new features of the Nintendo Switch 2?
A2: The Nintendo Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with 120Hz VRR, a custom Nvidia Tegra processor, 256 GB of internal UFS storage (expandable with microSD Express), 4K output when docked, redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers with a mouse sensor and HD rumble 2, and a new GameChat feature.
Q3: How much does the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?
A3: The standalone Nintendo Switch 2 console is priced at $449.99 (US). A bundle with Mario Kart World is typically available for $499.99 (US).
Q4: Will Best Buy have the Nintendo Switch 2 in stock soon?
A4: Yes, Best Buy has announced an in-store restock for the Nintendo Switch 2 on July 1, 2025, during regular store hours. Quantities will be limited and vary by store.
Q5: When was the last time Walmart restocked the Nintendo Switch 2 online?
A5: Walmart’s most recent online restock for the Nintendo Switch 2 was on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, with early access for Walmart+ members.
Q6: What is the internal storage of the Nintendo Switch 2, and can it be expanded?
A6: The Nintendo Switch 2 comes with 256 GB of internal UFS storage. It can be expanded using microSD Express cards up to 2 TB.
Q7: Can I use my old Nintendo Switch microSD cards with the Nintendo Switch 2?
A7: You can insert older microSDHC and microSDXC cards into the Nintendo Switch 2, but they can only be used for transferring screenshots and videos. For storing and loading games, you need compatible microSD Express cards.
Q8: Why is the Nintendo Switch 2 so difficult to find in stock?
A8: The Nintendo Switch 2 is difficult to find due to extremely high consumer demand significantly outpacing Nintendo’s initial supply. Pre-orders sold out rapidly, and subsequent restocks have been quickly depleted.
Q9: Does the Nintendo Switch 2 support 4K resolution?
A9: Yes, when docked and connected to a compatible TV via HDMI, the Nintendo Switch 2 can output resolutions up to 3840×2160 (4K) at 60 frames per second. It also supports 120 fps at 1920×1080 and 2560×1440 resolutions.
Q10: Are there any specific tips for getting a Nintendo Switch 2 during a restock?
A10: To increase your chances, set up stock alerts from various retailers, frequently check official product pages, consider signing up for retailer membership programs (like Walmart+), and be prepared for both online and potential in-store opportunities. Arriving early for in-store drops is often helpful.
