The PlayStation 5 disc drive has returned to stock at select U.S. retailers as of mid-January 2025. However, PS5 owners should act quickly as the device is likely to sell out fast, given recent trends.
Launched in 2020, the PS5 Digital Edition marked Sony's first console without an optical disc drive. This trend continued with the release of the PS5 Pro in 2024, which also does not include a disc drive. Both the mid-gen upgrade and the new Slim models offer modularity, allowing users to add a separately purchased disc drive. Many PS5 owners in the U.S. have opted to do so, contributing to a months-long shortage of Sony's official attachment.
Despite ongoing shortages, some national retailers have restocked the PS5 disc drive since the beginning of the year. As of January 15, it is available at Amazon U.S. and Sony's PlayStation Direct for the regular price of $79.99. Additionally, a third-party seller on Walmart offers the device at a 50% markup, listing it at $122 with only three units remaining. This option is more of a last resort for those eager to add disc-playing capabilities to their PS5.
| Store | Price |
|---|---|
| Amazon | $79.99 |
| PlayStation Direct | $79.99 |
| Walmart (reseller) | $122 |
Sony's PlayStation Direct limits orders of the PS5 disc drive to one per customer, a strategy to combat scalpers. This limitation is consistent with previous high-demand product launches, such as PlayStation Portal pre-orders and the 30th-anniversary consoles and accessories.
The shortage of the PS5 disc drive has been a persistent issue for U.S. owners, with similar shortages reported in the UK since late 2024. The timing of these shortages coincides with the launch of the PS5 Pro on November 7, which does not come with a disc drive. Therefore, those seeking the best gaming experience from Sony's ecosystem while still wanting to use physical media must purchase the disc drive separately.
With the attachment still unavailable at Walmart, GameStop, and Best Buy, it's evident that the shortage in the U.S. continues. The duration of this shortage remains uncertain.
$424 $500 Save $76 $424 at Amazon $425 at Best Buy $425 at Newegg $500 at Target $500 at Sony
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