Summary

• The PS5 disc drive shortage persists since the PS5 Pro launch, exacerbated by scalpers.
• US and UK PS Direct stores remain out of stock, with limited availability at third-party retailers.
• Sony has yet to address the ongoing shortage.

The shortage of standalone PlayStation 5 disc drives continues, frustrating PS5 Pro owners. Sony's attachable PS5 disc drive, initially a peripheral for the digital-only PS5, became essential after the November 2024 launch of the disc-less PS5 Pro. This created high demand, leading to shortages at PlayStation Direct in the US and UK. Scalpers capitalized, mirroring the PS5 launch in 2020, reselling drives at inflated prices, adding significant cost to the already expensive PS5 Pro.

The situation remains unresolved. PlayStation Lifestyle reports ongoing shortages at PS Direct, with stock disappearing rapidly. While some third-party retailers like Best Buy and Target occasionally stock drives, availability remains extremely limited.

PS5 Disc Drive Shortage Continues

Scalpers quickly exploited the demand for the PS5 disc drive, hoarding them instead of the PS5 Pro console. Sony's silence on the shortage is notable, contrasting with their efforts to maintain PS5 production during the 2020 pandemic.

The PS5 Pro's omission of a disc drive sparked controversy upon its September unveiling. The $80 added cost of the standalone drive from official sources, coupled with scalping, leaves many PlayStation fans with limited options beyond waiting for improved supply. This resolution, however, remains uncertain.

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