PlayStation 5 Disc Drive Shortage Frustrating Fans

Summary

• The PS5 disc drive shortage persists since the PS5 Pro launch, with scalpers driving up prices.
• Both the US and UK PS Direct storefronts remain out of stock, with new inventory quickly disappearing.
• Sony has not yet addressed the shortage.

The ongoing shortage of separate PlayStation 5 disc drives continues to frustrate fans eager to enhance their PS5 Pro experience. Sony introduced an attachable PS5 disc drive in 2023 as an accessory for its digital-only PlayStation 5 models. This accessory gained significant importance following the launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro in 2024, which notably lacks a built-in disc drive. As a result, the PS5 disc drive has become essential for gamers wanting to enjoy physical media with their upgraded console.

Since the PS5 Pro's debut in November 2024, demand for the PS5 disc drive has surged, leading to a persistent shortage. PlayStation's own PS Direct website has struggled to keep up with the demand, with stock vanishing almost immediately upon restocking. In regions like the UK, scalpers have capitalized on this situation by purchasing drives and reselling them at significantly higher prices, reminiscent of the initial PS5 launch in 2020. This has made the already expensive PS5 Pro even more costly for consumers looking to complete their setup with a disc drive.

According to PlayStation Lifestyle, the PS5 disc drive shortage shows no signs of abating. Both the US and UK PS Direct storefronts continue to be sold out, with new stock quickly disappearing. While some third-party retailers such as Best Buy and Target have occasionally offered the drives, only a fortunate few have managed to secure one during these limited stock drops, leaving many gamers still waiting.

PS5 Disc Drive Shortage Continues

Scalpers have been quick to exploit the increased demand for the PS5 disc drive, focusing on hoarding the accessory rather than the console itself. Surprisingly, Sony has remained silent on the issue, which is notable given their proactive approach to managing PS5 production during the 2020 global health crisis.

The absence of a built-in disc drive in the PS5 Pro has sparked considerable debate since its announcement in September. Purchasing the standalone PS5 Slim Disc Drive adds approximately $80 to the console's already high cost when bought through Sony’s official channels. With scalpers inflating prices and stock remaining scarce, many PlayStation 5 enthusiasts are left with no option but to wait for increased supply and reduced demand—a scenario that currently seems unlikely.

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