While the PlayStation 5 is by no means perfect, it offers an impressive step forward for gaming hardware. A list of new benefits like the Control Center pair with a sizable launch game lineup to make this one of Sony's most promising starts to a generation yet.
With the success and anticipation surrounding the PlayStation 5 system, finding one can be quite the conundrum. As the consoles sell faster than they can be made, many are facing an uphill battle to grab the system before Christmas Day. There are several key practices that can make the hunt for the system a bit more bearable, and may even yield a bountiful reward.
10 Know Which Edition You Want
The first step to securing the illustrious PlayStation 5 for those still searching is to decide which model best fits consumer needs. The PS5 launched with two unique models: The standard PlayStation 5 and the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition, costing $499 and $399 respectively. Apart from the differing prices, the Digital Edition lacks a disc drive, removing the option for physical media such as Blu-ray discs and games. Those interested in disc-based content, including the ability to play physical past generation games, are better suited for the Standard PlayStation 5.
9 Have Payment Information Ready
No matter where would-be PlayStation 5 purchasers plan on going to secure their console, having payment information ready is essential. This is especially the case for the digital storefront, as stock for the system often sells out in minutes. A great way for shoppers to prepare for an unexpected stock is to ensure that they have accounts created on major retailer websites. After creating an account, it’s important to make sure that payment information is filled in to ensure a speedy checkout should site users have a chance of snagging the system.
8 Don't Waste Time In Stores
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sony has stated that the vast majority of PlayStation 5s will be released online. While stores are not entirely devoid of physical shipments, their stock is often minuscule, meaning only several people will be able to secure a system.
The better option for the release of this next-generation console would be to stay home, as online orders can often be shipped to the store of the buyer’s choosing for easy pickup if they prefer that method.
7 Prepare For Online Shopping
While online shopping is the simplest way to find a PlayStation 5 this holiday season, it is by no means easy. Digital purchases come with their own fair share of unique challenges. The most prominent problem reported by those seeking out this coveted console has been the use of bots, or automated systems, that immediately buy the PlayStation 5 once the time-sensitive lock is lifted on the stock. It’s important to keep this in mind, as it may take several attempts to beat these systems to the shipments.
6 Turn On Email Notifications From Retailers
Though there has been no definitive date that users can expect a supply of PlayStation 5s by, retailers will often send out emails to website subscribers containing information regarding the stock status of Sony’s latest gaming hardware. Hopeful hunters will make sure to sign up for related emails when creating an account on their website. Sites like Walmart release PlayStation 5 stock intermittently, offering the expected time these products will be available for purchase.
5 Follow Deal Hunting Pages
The biggest benefit of email notifications from retailers lets users know when they can expect purchases to be available again. While these informative messages are helpful, they are not always the first to notify of incoming shipments. Several pages on Twitter are dedicated to quickly relaying video-game deals, next-generation consoles included. Wario64 and IGN Deals are some of the most reliable and trustworthy options, often including a link to the consoles themselves. Turning post notifications on for these pages can be instrumental in finding the PlayStation 5.
4 Don't Be Picky About Bundles
One of the obstacles facing those who want a PlayStation 5 is the difficulty in finding a console for sale on its own. Retailers are using the sparse supply of consoles as a method of up-selling consumers, forcing the purchase of accessories and games they wouldn’t otherwise purchase. While these bundles can be less than ideal, they sell out far slower than the console by itself, due in part to user apprehension.
If those looking for the system stumble upon the bundle, buying it is recommended, as the unwanted items could always be sold to recoup losses. One such bundle from GameStop includes two launch titles for the console, Demon's Souls and Spider-Man: Miles Morales. Also included is a year of PlayStation Plus, the online service for the system. It can be used to gain access to additional free games that are given out as a benefit, which makes up for the price tag within the first few months.
3 Don't Give Up If Your Cart Won't Load
One hiccup many sites have experienced with the launch of the PlayStation 5 sees the site crash due to such an influx of traffic when system drops occur. The crashes can prevent users from successfully getting through checkout online, instead of leaving users with locked carts and indefinite buffering. Many believe this means their chances at grabbing the console has been lost, but for those that are persistent, there may yet be a chance. Simply refresh the page and add to the cart until the order goes through, as many have reported that relentless pressure on the site yields once parties of people give up.
2 Always Be Skeptical Of In-Person Retailer Information
While it is true that retailer emails can be some of the most reliable ways for consumers to stay updated on the situation of the PlayStation 5, in-person storefronts are a different matter. Workers may have been told to tell shoppers that they won't be getting any PlayStation 5 systems in stock until next year, despite the fact that there are often unexpected drops fairly regularly online. The retail workers are technically right to say that there will be no more expected shipments of the latest PlayStation this year, but at the rate that Sony is working to ensure that systems reach storefronts, it is highly likely that these stores have surprise stock at some point over the course of the next month.
1 Be Patient, Avoid Scalpers
Waiting for a PlayStation 5 can be frustrating, especially with so many people buying the consoles for the express purpose of reselling them at a higher price. These scalpers have secured thousands of PlayStation 5 consoles, selling them at times for over $1000 USD. While the temptation to buy from these opportunistic hoarders may be enticing as the holiday season fast approaches, these exorbitant rates are not worth the extra cash. Sony has stated that another 10 million PlayStation 5s are expected to hit store shelves by the end of Q1 2021 for those who are willing to wait, even if the system isn't an option this year.