PS5 Disc Drive Scarcity Rattles Enthusiasts

PS5 Disc Drive Shortage Persists, Frustrating PS5 Pro Owners

The ongoing shortage of standalone PlayStation 5 disc drives continues to plague gamers, particularly those who have purchased the disc-less PS5 Pro. Since the PS5 Pro's November 2024 launch, demand for the add-on drive has far outstripped supply.

Sony's own PS Direct online stores in both the US and UK remain consistently out of stock, with any available units rapidly disappearing. While some third-party retailers like Best Buy and Target occasionally receive shipments, these are quickly snapped up, leaving many empty-handed. This mirrors the challenges faced during the initial PS5 launch in 2020.

The situation is exacerbated by scalpers, who are acquiring drives in bulk and reselling them at significantly inflated prices. This adds considerable expense to the already high cost of the PS5 Pro console. The added cost of a resold drive, approximately $80 from official sources, significantly increases the overall investment for gamers.

Sony's silence on the matter is notable, given the company's previous efforts to address production challenges. The lack of a built-in disc drive in the PS5 Pro has been a contentious issue since its September unveiling.

The outlook remains bleak for those seeking a PS5 disc drive. Until supply increases and demand subsides – a scenario with no clear timeline – many PS5 Pro owners will likely continue to face difficulties acquiring this essential accessory.

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