Overview
- The PS5 disc drive has been replenished at PlayStation Direct and Amazon in the U.S.
- Despite this restock, the ongoing supply issues may result in limited availability.
- This shortage could be influenced by the release of the PS5 Pro, which does not offer a disc drive option.
The PlayStation 5 disc drive is now available at select U.S. retailers, including Amazon and Sony’s PlayStation Direct, as of January 2025. However, due to persistent demand, consumers should act quickly to secure this accessory, as supplies may not last long.
Originally launched in 2020, the PS5 Digital Edition was a pioneering release for Sony, offering a console without an optical disc drive. This trend continued with the PS5 Pro in 2024, which also lacks a disc drive option. Both models, along with the newer Slim variants, feature a modular design, allowing users to add a disc drive separately if desired. Many U.S. PS5 owners have opted to enhance their system with this component, particularly in light of the ongoing shortages of Sony’s official disc drive attachment.
While the scarcity of the PS5 disc drive continues across the United States, several retailers have successfully restocked the item at the beginning of the year. As of January 15, customers have the opportunity to purchase the drive for its standard retail price of $79.99 at Amazon and PlayStation Direct. However, one third-party seller on Walmart is capitalizing on the situation, offering the disc drive at a marked-up price of $122, with only a few units remaining, making it a less favorable option for consumers seeking to access physical game media.
Current Purchase Options for the PS5 Disc Drive
| Retailer | Price |
|---|---|
| Amazon | $79.99 |
| PlayStation Direct | $79.99 |
| Walmart (third-party seller) | $122 |
Order Limits Imposed by PlayStation Direct
On its official platform, PlayStation Direct restricts customers to one PS5 disc drive per order. This strategic limitation aims to deter scalpers who exploit high-demand products. Similar restrictions were observed during the pre-order phase for the PlayStation Portal and other limited-edition items from Sony.
The ongoing shortage of the PS5 disc drive has been a source of frustration for many users in the United States. Notably, a comparable situation has emerged in the United Kingdom since late 2024. These difficulties seem to be interconnected with the recent launch of the PS5 Pro on November 7, which, unlike the standard PS5, does not offer a disc drive option. This means that enthusiasts seeking to optimize their gaming experience with physical game options must purchase the disc drive separately.
Despite the recent restock by some retailers, others such as Walmart, GameStop, and Best Buy continue to experience shortages, leaving it uncertain when full availability will be restored.
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