I watched my PS5 blink awake at 9:00 AM, the download icon teasing the start line. I felt that small, sharp FOMO when servers go live and you’re not ready. The preload is a loaded magazine.
I’ve chased betas, redeemed codes, and timed downloads so you don’t have to guess. I’ll tell you exactly when to hit download, where to redeem codes, and how to avoid the last-minute scramble — in plain steps you can follow on PS5, Xbox, PC, or Switch 2.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta Preload Start Date and Time
My calendar reminder popped up at 8:55 AM the morning preload went live.
Here’s the timeline you need to bookmark. Early Access and Open Beta have separate preload windows so you can have the client ready before servers fill up.
- Early Access (Beta Weekend 1) Preload: August 20, 2026 at 9:00 AM PT — Early Access play begins August 21 at 11:00 AM PT.
- Open Beta (Beta Weekend 2) Preload: August 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM PT — Open Beta starts August 28 at 10:00 AM PT.
What time does MW4 beta start?
Early Access: August 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM PT. Open Beta: August 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM PT.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta Download Size
My SSD space tracker flashed a warning two hours before preload opened.
Infinity Ward hasn’t posted an official beta size, but historical Open Betas suggest you should free up room. Plan for at least 30–40 GB of free SSD space so the client can download without hiccups.
The beta weekend is a pressure cooker of players, which means servers and file patches can change fast — having room for an extra patch saves time.
How to Preload Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta on PS5
The PS5 sat on my TV shelf with a controller in my hand when the preload went live.
- Open the PlayStation Store and search for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta.
- If you preordered digitally, the beta will appear in your library automatically on August 20 at 9:00 AM PT for early access.
- Hit Download to begin the preload. Let it run overnight if you can — updates sometimes queue before servers are open.
How to Preload Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta on Xbox
An Xbox Series X in standby started the download the second the Microsoft Store unlocked the file.
- Open the Microsoft Store and search for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta.
- Preorders will show the early access beta in My Games & Apps beginning August 20 at 9:00 AM PT.
- Select Download to preload the client ahead of the August beta windows.
How to Preload Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta on PC
My desktop fans spun faster than usual when Steam and Battle.net both offered the beta client.
PC players can choose between Steam, Battle.net, and the Xbox app. Pick the storefront where you own the game or where the beta appears in your library.
- Search the chosen storefront for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta.
- Preload opens August 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM PT for Open Beta; preorders grant early access and can preload on August 20 at 9:00 AM PT.
- Download from Steam, Battle.net, or the Xbox app and let the client install before the server go-live times.
Can you play Modern Warfare 4 beta?
Yes. If you preordered or received an early access code (Discord Nitro, promotions, or retailer codes), you can play during Early Access. Everyone else can join the Open Beta weekend without a code.
How can I get a Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 early access beta code?
Preorders grant codes automatically for digital purchases. Retail orders usually include a 13-character code that you redeem at callofduty.com/betaredeem. Discord Nitro, streamer drops, and giveaways are other common sources.
How to Preload Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Beta on Nintendo Switch 2
The Switch 2 was on a charger while I queued the eShop download.
- Open the Nintendo eShop on your Switch 2 and search for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 Open Beta.
- Download the beta client when it appears; Open Beta play begins August 28 at 10:00 AM PT.
Quick checklist: free 30–40 GB, redeem any retailer 13-character code at callofduty.com/betaredeem, choose the correct storefront (PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, Steam, Battle.net, Xbox app, or Nintendo eShop), and start your preload on the dates above.
Ready to be the one squadmate who shows up loaded and on time — or will you let the servers decide your fate?
